Santa Monica locals are reeling after learning a beloved British pub will soon give way to a Taco Bell Cantina — prompting outrage online and fears the beachside city is losing yet another piece of its identity.
The Britannia Pub, a fixture at 318 Santa Monica Blvd. for three decades, confirmed its lease will expire July 31, though the exact closing date remains unclear as the business continues operating month-to-month while the fast-food chain finalizes plans to move in.
“While change is coming to this corner, the Britannia spirit isn’t going anywhere,” management said in a statement announcing plans for a future “Britannia 2.0.”
Permit filings show Taco Bell Cantina — the chain’s alcohol-serving, urban-focused spinoff concept — plans to transform the space into a moderized restaurant and bar, according to the Santa Monica Daily News.
The Cantina format differs from traditional Taco Bell locations by offering beer, wine and spiked frozen drinks alongside shareable menu items in a more upscale setting.
Still, news of the pub’s looming exit sparked a wave of frustration on social media, with one commenter writing “this f—king sucks!”
Others lamented what they see as a growing trend of independent businesses being pushed out by national chains.
“Losing a cultural icon for a taco bell cantina…the US empire is dying,” one commenter wrote, while another added: “I just can’t imagine Santa Monica without the Brit!!!”
A Change.org petition urging city leaders to protect local businesses had drawn dozens of signatures by Friday morning, with supporters arguing longtime establishments help define the city’s character.
The development comes as Santa Monica has loosened restrictions on chain restaurants in recent years in an effort to revitalize struggling retail corridors, according to the Daily News.
For now, regular still have time for one last pint before the Brit’s new chapter begins — somewhere else.
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