If you’re a regular at Earle’s on Crenshaw, co-owner Duane Earle, one of the Brooklyn-born brothers who is usually working behind the counter, will likely remember your name and greet you like you’re an old friend. They treat their customers like family and have longtime employees that have worked with them through several business pivots. That’s one of the many reasons that Earle’s on Crenshaw has been a go-to local spot for casual bites, community and vibes in the Crenshaw district for over three decades. Food-wise, the restaurant is a beloved institution for its diverse menu, inspired by New York classics with a healthier California twist.

It all began when brothers Cary and Duane started a hot-dog cart in 1984, which led, a few years later, to the restaurant that has been successful ever since. In 2008, they occupied a large dining room near Crenshaw and Exposition, then named Earle’s Grill, where TV screens played nonstop videos of Soul Train episodes, the infamous “playa’s punch” flowed, and the menu expanded to incorporate vegan and vegetarian items in response to customer demand. In 2017, the expansion of Metro’s Expo line led them to move to their current location at Crenshaw Square, where they continue to serve loyal locals and newcomers alike under the name Earle’s on Crenshaw. 

The Earle brothers pride themselves on the way they connect with and give back to the community. In 2020, they spearheaded the Earle’s Cares Incubation Program, which trains unhoused individuals in the hospitality industry and supports them with job placement. In recent years, Earle’s on Crenshaw has garnered national recognition from various food critics and television shows. The increased visibility has attracted visitors from far and wide to taste the restaurant’s delicious food. The Earle brothers welcome this attention, while remaining committed to the neighborhood they have served for over three decades.