The Nastiest Place in California, Part Two

One of Vernon’s bright spots is the flamboyant 1960s signage for La Villa Basque, which at one time was the city’s only restaurant. 

It was built in 1960 by now-disgraced former Vernon Mayor Leonis Marlburg, who's the grandson of rancher and one of Vernon’s founders, John B. Leonis. 
For a city so steeped in corruption that nepotism appears to be the least of its sins, La Villa Basque originated as an astonishingly democratic hybrid. Featuring a coffee shop, a lounge, a dining room and a banquet hall, it was uniquely qualified to serve a wide public, including hungry truckers, businessmen, bridal parties and, ultimately, film crews—an episode of Mad Men, “The Suitcase,” was filmed in the Rat Pack-era bar.   

The Los Angeles Conservancy has attempted to preserve its historic character. According to the Los Angeles Times, a decorating company took over La Villa Basque’s operations and refurbishing. Discordant elements, including a faded red carpet and large banners with images of food now mar the exterior. The new name, Vivere, seems a little high falutin’ given that the nearest food alternative is probably the ampm up the street. Of course, the name “La Villa Basque,” might also be over the top, but it has has the honor of referring to a family heritage, and it sounds nothing like a fragrance marketed to tweenage girls.

For now, the cool signage is intact. It’s worth a drive-by, just to see it. 


La Villa Basque, 2801 Leonis Boulevard, Vernon, CA 90058
Los Angeles Times, “Years Catch Up with the Restaurant that Time Forgot’
LA is My Beat: “La Villa Basque”
Los Angeles Conservancy, Preservation Alerts & Issues: La Villa Basque