RIP Franchises of our youths

[Drunk Monk]

Central Coast landmark Giant Artichoke Restaurant to close


a giant artichoke sculpture welcomes guests at the giant artichoke restaurant in castroville, calif.
SOURCE: Susana Guerrero/ SFGATE

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Updated: 10:27 AM PDT Sep 28, 2026

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Ricardo Tova

CASTROVILLE, Calif. —
The Giant Artichoke Restaurant in Castroville will close Wednesday, Sept. 30, after 25 years under its current operators.
In a Facebook post Monday, the operators said it had been an honor to serve the community and its customers, but “it’s time to move on.” They said the building’s owners are selling the property.
The operators also said they are willing to sell the restaurant’s recipes, but no one has stepped forward. Fried artichokes will be available until they run out, according to the post.
The announcement follows an April post by the property owner, who said the building was available for sale or lease. 
At the time, owner Daniel Boudreault told KSBW 8 he was looking for either a long-term tenant or a buyer.
Boudreault said the property had been leased to the restaurant’s operators, who were also looking to retire from the restaurant business.
The restaurant is known for its artichoke-themed menu, with dishes including samplers, dips, nachos, salads, burgers and pasta.

They made good fried artichokes. Greasy as hell but satisfying with a ranch dip.