"Mexico" Restaurant
8512 Santa Monica Boulevard, Hollywood

It was just three years ago that Benvenuto Caffé closed for major renovations which included expanding the ground level outside dining patio, as well as an addition to the upstairs level for more floor space.

When these latest renovations are completed, the building will re-open approximately the 3rd week of April as "Mexico".  This building that once housed The Doors rehearsal space and office, and for the last 17 years the Italian restaurant Benvenuto Caffé, will continue to honor the legacy of The Doors.  The downstairs bathroom will be a tribute to them, and the wrought iron gates out front will be replaced with very ornate doors from Mexico which will also honor the band.

The following photos were taken on Wednesday, February 25, 2009.
Click on thumbnails to enlarge.

     new color scheme for restaurant, formerly Benvenuto

     the doorway to "the bathroom"

    inside "the bathroom"

     what remains of the original staircase;  will be used as service staircase

     the plaque honoring the building's history remains

     from west side, taken from KooKooRoo Chicken parking lot

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