Post & Beam, a beloved fixture in the Baldwin Hills community for 13 years, will be shutting its doors for good at the end of February. Led by chef John Cleveland and his wife, Roni Cleveland, since 2019, the restaurant’s closure is a result of the ongoing construction at the Baldwin Hills-Crenshaw plaza. This redevelopment project will bring about new retail stores, restaurants, office buildings, hotel rooms, apartments, and homes to the area.
Reflecting on the impending closure, John shared that the restaurant had always been aware of the possibility of relocation due to the construction plans. Roni, a South L.A. native, expressed a mix of relief and sadness, noting the challenges of operating the restaurant during the pandemic and the impact of local fires on their service. Tears were shed as they broke the news to their staff and loyal customers, underscoring the emotional weight of this transition.
Despite the closure, the Clevelands are optimistic about the future. They plan to continue their catering operations through pop-ups and events and are working closely with Post & Beam co-founders Brad Johnson and Govind Armstrong on the restaurant’s next chapter. Roni emphasized that while the physical building may be gone, Post & Beam will live on in a new form.
Post & Beam has been a culinary gem in the community, garnering nominations and awards over the years. The restaurant was recognized as a James Beard Award nominee for “Restaurant of the Year” in 2020 and consistently made it onto restaurant critic Bill Addison’s list of the 101 Best Restaurants in L.A. since 2021. Johnson and Armstrong, the original founders, brought a wealth of experience to the table, creating a space that quickly became a pillar in the Baldwin Hills neighborhood.
The journey of Post & Beam is a testament to the power of community and the impact of representation in the culinary world. The restaurant was born out of a desire to fill a void in the community, providing a gathering place for locals while offering a menu that celebrated California soul food with a nod to the neighborhood’s history. It quickly became a hub for the community, drawing in diners from near and far.
The closure of Post & Beam marks the end of an era, but the legacy of the restaurant will undoubtedly live on. As they prepare to bid farewell to their loyal patrons, the Clevelands are planning a series of special events to celebrate the restaurant’s rich history. From President’s Day Black Pot Supper Club to the final Sunday brunch and dinner service, they are eager to give the community a chance to relive the memories and flavors that made Post & Beam a beloved institution.
As John gets ready to man the pizza station one last time, he invites guests to join them for a final meal filled with hugs and, of course, their famous catfish. The end of Post & Beam may mark the closing of a chapter, but its impact on the community and the culinary scene will endure for years to come.
