Deep in the Santa Monica Mountains, where winding roads disappear into shadowy canyons and time moves slower, a legendary eatery continues to capture hearts with its authentic charm and wood-fired excellence.
The Old Place has been serving honest food cooked over fire since 1970, creating an unforgettable dining experience that transports visitors to a bygone era 🏔️.
How Old Place won local’s hearts
The journey to local stardom began when Tom Runyon discovered the abandoned Cornell post office and general store in 1969, envisioning its transformation into something magical.
Opening in 1970, the restaurant started with just two menu items – steak and clams – served by Tom and his wife Barbara in a smoky, intimate space that could barely seat forty people.
What truly won locals over was the authentic atmosphere Tom created using salvaged treasures from across the West.
The 30-foot antique bar came from a Virginia City saloon, booth backs were crafted from San Francisco hotel doors, and the bench was fashioned from an old diving board.
This wasn’t just a restaurant – it was a living piece of history that made everyone feel like family.
The magic intensified when Hollywood celebrities like Steve McQueen, Sam Peckinpah, and Bob Dylan became regulars, drawn to the unpretentious environment where tractor operators and movie stars shared the same bar 🎬.
Food Highlights
- Old Place Clams: Little Neck clams steamed in white wine herb butter broth – this signature dish has remained virtually unchanged since opening day, creating devoted fans who return specifically for these perfectly prepared bivalves
- Oak-Grilled Ribeye: 22-ounce bone-in ribeye grilled over local oak wood, delivering that signature smoky flavor that has made this steak legendary among locals and visitors alike
- House-Made Cinnamon Rolls: Served in cast iron skillets with vanilla cream cheese frosting, pecans, and almonds – these breakfast beauties have become so popular they’re often ordered as dessert
- Beef Stew: Short rib, carrots, and celery in rich broth served with mashed potatoes – a hearty comfort dish that showcases the kitchen’s ability to elevate simple ingredients
- Chicken Pot Pie: Oak-grilled chicken and chanterelles with cream sauce and mashed potatoes, demonstrating the restaurant’s commitment to rustic perfection
Atmosphere
The dimly lit interior feels like stepping into an Old West saloon, complete with kerosene lanterns, dark wood walls, and that signature smoky haze from the oak fire.
Five high-backed booths and a handful of tables create an intimate setting where conversations flow easily and the wood-fired aromas enhance every bite.
The original post office area remains intact as a private dining space, while the outdoor seating offers mountain views and starlit dinners that feel worlds away from city life 🌟.
Bottom Line
Visit for the legendary steaks grilled over oak, the historic atmosphere that celebrities have cherished for decades, genuine hospitality that makes everyone feel like family, unique dishes served in cast iron skillets, and the magical setting where time truly moves backward.
Address: 29983 Mulholland Highway, Cornell, CA 91301
📞 (818) 706-9001
🕔 Thu-Sat: 4:00 PM–9:00 PM, Sun: 9:00 AM–7:00 PM (Closed Mon-Wed)