Demonstrators protest in front of LAPD officers after a series of immigration raids on June 08, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. Tensions in the city remain high after the Trump administration called in the National Guard against the wishes of city leaders. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)
Since Friday, thousands of Los Angeles residents have taken to the streets to protest U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) immigration sweeps throughout Southern California. On Saturday, June 7, President Donald Trump dispatched the National Guard to minimize protests without the consent of California Governor Gavin Newsom. As of June 10, the Pentagon deployed 700 Marines to protect federal agents and buildings. It’s a contentious time for Los Angeles County as LA Mayor Karen Bass and Gov. Newsom claim the Trump Administration has intentionally provoked the unrest. Through it all, fruit vendors and restaurants have been assisting not only protestors but also law enforcement.
The Los Angeles Times reports that a street food vendor who sells aguas frescas and bacon-wrapped hot dogs assisted protesters over the weekend. As protesters found themselves battling tear gas, vendors Cinthia Soriao, Edgar Hernandez, and Sesarin Hernandez poured milk into their eyes. The Los Angeles Times report also states that the vendors fed protesters, as did other hot dog vendors.
Across town at Compton’s Pupuseria La Ceiba, workers aided deputies who were hit with tear gas. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department emailed Newsweek the following statement: “Without hesitation, the restaurant employees stepped in to assist the deputies, helping them decontaminate from the effects of the tear gas.”
Restaurants temporarily close during protests
Citing safety concerns during nearby protests, ICE roundups, and police activity, Mermaid bar closed its doors temporarily on Monday, June 9. Other Downtown restaurants followed suit, including Chinatown’s Lasita and Redbird.
The Ranch House at Calamigos Guest Ranch reopens
After closing during the Palisades Fire, one of Malibu’s restaurants reopened in early June. Calamigos Guest Ranch’s on-site restaurant, the Ranch Club, is located 12 miles away from Pacific Palisades, which was devastated by January wildfires. Until late May, access to portions of Pacific Coast Highway was closed except to residents, construction and cleanup crews, and emergency responders, leaving Malibu somewhat isolated. The Ranch Club team took the time to revamp the restaurant’s interior and adjust its menu. The family-owned restaurant is typically open to members only, but is now available to the public on specific nights. Reservations are available on Resy.
Din Tai Fung’s new shaved ice
Those obsessed with Din Tai Fung can taste a new dessert starting in July: shaved snow with fresh mango. The condensed milk-based dessert has a fluffy consistency, gets drizzled with mango sauce, and is topped with fresh mango.
RYLA’s ramen night anniversary
RYLA chef Ray Hayashi will celebrate his third year by hosting a Ramen Party on June 11 from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. He’ll feature ramen chefs from Zoku and Mogu Mogu with special ramen bowls for the evening. It’s safe to recommend making a reservation.
