Santa Monica Landmark Will Become Private Club
The Victorian will shift from a public restaurant to a members-only club following a new lease agreement.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Starting in late 2026, The Victorian at 2460 Main Street will begin renovations to transform from a long-standing bar and restaurant into a private family membership club. The Santa Monica City Council unanimously approved the lease transition on March 24, 2026.
Why it matters
The transition reflects a strategic pivot in response to evolving nightlife demand in Santa Monica, forcing a shift from a public-access model to a membership-based revenue stream. This conversion secures the future of the historic property by diversifying on-site amenities.
The Victorian operated as a public bar and restaurant for 20 years prior to this lease change. The new model will reserve 20% of its total membership capacity for scholarships provided to local families, educators, and small business owners.
The players
Garner Gerson
An operator who initiated the business model transition for the historic site.
Adir Tal
An operator managing the strategic shift from a public venue to a membership club.
Santa Monica City Council
The local governing body that maintains authority over the city's Realignment Plan and commercial lease agreements.
The details
Operators Garner Gerson and Adir Tal are executing a full facility redevelopment as part of the city's Realignment Plan. The renovated space is slated to replace standard dining operations with a multi-use complex featuring a fitness center, spa, pool, restaurant, coffee bistro, and youth facilities. The conversion requires a physical overhaul of the property to accommodate exclusive amenities for members.
Timeline
Late 2025: Operators initiated the business model change.
March 24, 2026: The Santa Monica City Council approved the new lease.
October 2026: The establishment will host its final Halloween party.
Late 2026: Renovations are expected to commence.
Mid-2028: The new membership club is targeted to open.
Market Landscape
The project serves as a specific execution of the city's broader commercial Realignment Plan, which mandates updates to properties that no longer align with current local market needs. This shift underscores a trend of repurposing legacy nightlife venues into private, amenity-rich lifestyle hubs.
Local small business owners should monitor forthcoming membership eligibility criteria to see if they qualify for the reserved scholarship slots. Operators should track the project's mid-2028 reopening as a bellwether for how the city balances private amenities with public access requirements.
The takeaway
Legacy operators facing shifts in nightlife demand should evaluate if their real estate can support higher-margin, amenity-driven membership models. Keep an eye on local council meeting minutes regarding property zoning and Realignment Plan updates to understand future development opportunities.
Further reading
For context on how other venues are managing changing lease terms, visit Openings & Closings.
More information
For official details on city lease approvals, visit the city government information portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Canyon News.
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