Sportsmen's Lodge could close after 60 yrs

STUDIO CITY, Calif. (KABC) -- For more than 60 years, the Sportsmen's Lodge has staked its iconic claim in the Valley. It has been a place where diners used to be able to catch a fish at one of the Sportsmen's ponds and have it served to them inside. However, the Sportsmen's director, Linda Scott, is now convinced the Sportsmen's Lodge is destined for the wrecking ball.

"It looks like we're probably going to be leaving December 31st of this year. It's very sad for us. Very sad," said Scott.

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The 11-acre property, including a hotel, was sold last year for $51 million. The new owner, developer Richard Weintraub, is not renewing the restaurant and banquet hall's lease. Scott says the current operator will take the Sportsmen's Lodge name and move out at the end of this year.

Despite announcements that the Sportsmen's Lodge will close, a spokesperson for the property owner said nothing will be torn down. The spokesperson said they only plan to change the catering company.

Weintraub's spokesperson said the restaurant and banquet hall will be named "The Sportsmen's Lodge Hotel," which is currently run by Weintraub's new operator.

Scott said there is no way the current facilities can support the property's $51-million price tag. Scott also believes that the developer is trying to hide the fact that the Sportsmen's days are numbered.

"It really has a lot of tradition. That's the thing that everyone hates to see go," said Scott.

 

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