The Palace Grill Hosts Lively Fat Tuesday Mardi Gras Party

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — The Palace Grill hosted a big Fat Tuesday celebration, complete with masks and beads for diners at every table.

Michael Gutin and friends encouraged guests to join in the Charleston and other dances, while participants took turns playing a washboard and leading people around the room.

The annual event has become a tradition for many Santa Barbara locals.

Palace Grill owners Sandy and Michael Derousse originally announced in July 2024 that the restaurant would close in September 2024, citing financial struggles, stating it had been "unprofitable since before the pandemic."

However, Noozhawk reported that The Bitar Group, which also owns Milk & Honey at 30 W. Anapamu St. and Via Maestra 42 at 3343 State St., has purchased the iconic restaurant.