Gulliver’s Restaurant, a well-known steakhouse in Irvine, California, is set to close after 56 years of service. The closure was confirmed last week by management. Gulliver’s was recognized for its prime rib and vintage English decor, drawing regulars from across Orange County.
The restaurant’s proximity to John Wayne Airport and its reported connection to the actor himself gave it a degree of Hollywood nostalgia. John Wayne, whose home was nearby, was said to be a frequent guest.
Staff at the restaurant learned of the closure just before the Memorial Day weekend. Regulars filled the dining room for what many knew would be their last meal at the establishment.
The space, just off MacArthur Boulevard, will likely be redeveloped. Details about the future of the site have not been announced.
While the closure is not in New York City, the news has prompted discussion among local industry figures about the fate of longstanding chophouses in changing markets. The situation echoes recent shutterings in Manhattan, where rising costs and shifting demographics have put pressure on legacy restaurants.