The Birthplace Of The Apple Martini Is Closing (Sad Day)

It's official: the self-proclaimed "birthplace of the apple martini," Lola's restaurant and bar, is closing its doors after 17 years. 

Lola's, founded by Loren Dunsworth, is reported to have been on its last legs for a while; Eater reports that after a few restaurant deals fell through, the group behind Laurel Hardware is expected to move in. In an email from PR reps, Dunsworth is "keeping her options open." The email reads, "She's grateful for the success and loyalty of Lola's fans over these last years as Lola's moved from upstart to institution. And as she's said, when one door closes, another opens." Seems like just yesterday Lola's was handing out free apple martinis.

No word of a final party just yet for Lola's, with a scheduled closing day of Sept. 8. According to the reps, "The closing weekend schedule is Thursday Sept. 5: 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Friday and Saturday Sept. 6 and 7: 5:30 p.m.  to 2 a.m.; and Sunday Sept. 8: brunch only; from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m." 

Update: Dunsworth responded to the original story, and told The Daily Meal that contrary to Eater's reports, no restaurant deals with H. Wood or Shore Bar had been signed for a new restaurant to move into Lola's. Dunsworth assured The Daily Meal that she and Lola's are doing just fine. Her statement: "The December 2012 item in Eater LA was premature, incorrect and damaging.  It reported that a deal had been done that wasn't.  While we didn't pursue our options at the time — we try and be very respectful of all media — we tried to get that post removed since there was actually no agreement.  It's disappointing to see that reference perpetuated in the media since it served no purpose other than to upset my employees around the holidays.  Lola's is going strong. If and when there's any news on Lola's other than my retirement September 8, expect to hear it directly from me."