Demolition of Pea Soup Andersen’s Restaurant Cleared by Buellton City Council

BUELLTON, Calif. (KEYT) - The demolition of the iconic Pea Soup Andersen's restaurant has moved forward after a recent decision made by the Buellton City Council.

Last week, councilmembers removed a historical designation on the closed business that clears the way for the property owner to tear down a portion of the vacant building.

The famous restaurant first opened in Buellton in 1924 and for decades was a popular destination for both travelers and locals alike.

However, the restaurant closed in 2024 and since then the main building and adjacent structures have badly fallen into disrepair.

In a City Council staff report, the site was described as a place where trespassing, and unauthorized occupation has taken place, as well as illegal activities such as vandalism, drug use and drinking.

The City added that demolition of the entire site in not permissible, even with the loss of the historical designation must first have environmental review documentation pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

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