Lima, a beloved family-run restaurant in downtown Concord, is set to close its doors permanently on December 31, 2024, following a costly settlement of a discrimination lawsuit related to its “Ladies Night” promotion. The lawsuit, combined with the ongoing challenges of high inflation, has left the restaurant unable to recover financially.
Owner and chef John Marquez expressed his frustration, calling the lawsuit “frivolous,” but acknowledged the severe financial strain it has placed on the restaurant. “It was just ambulance-chasing lawyers,” Marquez told ABC7 News. “We’re just a small business, and this hit us hard.”
The lawsuit stems from Lima’s popular “Ladies Night,” where women received discounted drinks. According to California’s civil rights law, gender-based promotions like these are considered discriminatory, which led to the legal action. This mirrors several similar lawsuits filed across the country targeting “Ladies Night” events, including one this year involving a minor league baseball team in Fresno.
“Ladies Night” promotions, though common in many establishments, have increasingly become a target for legal challenges, with claims that they violate state laws against gender-based discrimination. Marquez, who has operated Lima for nearly nine years, said he was surprised by the legal action. “I see Ladies Night everywhere, even out of state. So yes, I was shocked,” he said.
For Lima, the financial impact of the lawsuit, coupled with the rising costs of running a restaurant amid inflation, proved too much to overcome. “Restaurants have razor-thin profit margins,” said Marquez. “With things like this, it’s hard to stay afloat.”
The closure marks the end of an era for the restaurant and the community. Regular patrons, who have become like family to the staff, are saddened by the loss. “It’s very sad to see family-run places in downtown Concord disappearing,” said Phil Quinlen, a long-time customer. “Corporate chains can afford the high rent, but it’s just not the same.”
The closure also means the loss of jobs for the restaurant’s dedicated staff. “I’m really, really disappointed,” said Butch Madayag, a server at Lima. “I was getting really accustomed to the community. So many regulars came today to say goodbye before they head out for the holidays.”
Lima’s story is one of many small businesses in California grappling with rising costs, legal challenges, and changing regulations. Marquez hopes that local and state governments will take a closer look at the burden these businesses face. “Maybe the city or state could help small businesses with some changes to the rules,” he said.
As Lima’s final days approach, its customers are making the most of their time left at the restaurant. “I don’t know all the laws, but it’s just sad to see this place go,” said John Wright, a regular. “So many people love coming here, and now this is the end of it.”
Lima’s closure is a reminder of the challenges facing small businesses in a changing legal and economic landscape, and it will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the local community.
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