New Whittier Food Hall Rodeo 72 Gives Life to a Former Youth Correctional Facility | Eater LA
"Debuted on Saturday, May 3 in an expansive, stunningly redesigned 20,000-square-foot space that was formerly the Fred C. Nelles Youth Correctional Facility complex, a California State Historical Landmark. The food hall houses 15 food vendors plus a full bar and includes Capo Public House, where diners can find a wine selection solely from California, craft beer, and cocktails with televisions that will be programmed for Southern California sports teams. The project comes from Almquist (the developer behind San Juan Capistrano’s Heritage Barbecue and Whittier’s retail complex, the Groves) with consulting development partner Jasmin Gonzalez; Almquist relocated some of the buildings, took great care to restore the property, and brought on local artists (some of whom are former Nelles residents) to assist with its design. Gonzalez filled the space with bright murals by local artists and the Grailed Gallery tattoo studio, and the venue also exhibits photography by Whittier‑native filmmaker and photographer Estevan Oriol, who “helped bring Los Angeles’s lowrider and Chicano culture to the forefront.” Gonzalez adds a personal connection: “I grew up cruising up and down Whittier Boulevard. I wanted to bring something different to the neighborhood but also represent the Whittier community and its diversity.” The full list of vendors can be found on the venue’s website; the development shares similarities with nearby BLVD MRKT—ample outdoor patios and seating areas, new and established vendors expanding their presence, and accessible community spaces for events. While some see food halls as a relic, the arrival of this project and forthcoming spots (Round 1 Delicious debuting in West Hollywood in 2025 and Local Kitchens opening in Studio City this June) may signal a changing tide. Open at 7012 Walnut Grove Drive, Whittier, CA, 90606 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; EggBred opens at 7 a.m." - Mona Holmes
