Still No Takers: Phil's Diner Closed 1 Year Ago

With the patio chairs still in place and ketchup bottles atop the counter, it looks like Phil's Diner has closed shop for the night just like any other NoHo Arts District business.

But it's actually been nearly a year since the "closed" sign was last hung. In December, the eatery shuttered after only eight months in operation.

Patch reported that a number of issues plagued former owners Malissa and Casey Hallenbeck, who were left with a substantial debt when they went out of business.

About 12 months later, Phil's appears to remain in turn-key condition while property owner JH Snyder Company searches for a restaurater heir.

"We continue to entertain any interested parties," said Executive Vice President Kacy Keys.

A deal was almost inked with one buyer who later backed out when they felt JH Snyder's lenders were taking too long to approve the sale, she said.

Keys said she couldn't talk pricing, but did note that restoration work to initially open Phil's in 2011 cost about $1 million.

Phil's is believed to be California's oldest dining car and prior to remodeling was moved from the construction patch of the Metro Red Line to the NoHo Commons.

Keys she she would prefer to sell Phil's than to agree to a lease.

"We're not closed to the idea, but most of the parties that come to us are interested in buying," she said.

Keys would not comment on who's been a potential buyer so far.