Beloved Creole-style eatery in Southern California repeatedly hit by thieves

An iconic Creole-style restaurant in business for 55 years in Los Angeles’ “New Orleans” corridor is hoping the public may recognize thieves who got away with thousands of dollars in liquor and equipment during two separate break-ins this month.  

Harold & Belle’s opened at 2920 W. Jefferson Blvd. in L.A.’s Jefferson Park neighborhood in 1969 and has been a beloved community eatery since.  

Third generation owner Ryan Legaux said the restaurant, which is between 9^th and 10^th avenues on West Jefferson Boulevard, was first hit by burglars on Dec. 21.  

“You feel like someone’s actually watching,” the restaurant owner said of the two burglaries.  

Surveillance video captured at least three suspects using a crowbar to pry open the doors, where once inside they targeted the restaurant’s liquor supplies.  

“We literally had Santa Claus coming here the next day to give out toys to some kids,” Legaux explained.  

After footing the cost to have the backdoor replaced, thieves broke into the restaurant again, this time stealing expensive kitchen equipment.  

Community members and regular customers, like Hughie Barnes, told KTLA why the creole-style restaurant is so important and popular.  

“My husband used to bring us here when the kids were small. It’s celebrating our culture,” 
 she explained. “I’m glad they’re resilient. That’s why they’ve been here so many years, they’re resilient.”  

As for Legaux, he’s hoping that by releasing the surveillance video someone may recognize the crooks, and they may ultimately get caught. In the meantime, a GoFundMe has been organized to help the restaurant repair the damage, replace stolen items and strengthen its security.

“We just wanted people to be aware, to be careful, make sure they lock up their homes and businesses,” he told KTLA’s Angeli Kakade.  

While Legaux admits that the break-ins have been a setback, he said Harold & Belle’s was able to get back to business Monday morning.