Out with Olde, in with the new
DOWNTOWN — It’s the end of an era for a landmark Santa Monica eatery and watering hole, as its founders prepare to sail off into the sunset.
Phil and Ruth Elwell, who have owned the Ye Olde King’s Head for more than 30 years, handed over the keys on Tuesday to their famous restaurant, bar and gift shop so they can retire. Located at 132 Santa Monica Blvd., the King’s Head is known as a hub to tourists and locals alike its for traditional British fare and good conversation.
The new owners, Paul Bettcher and Donald Tavey, also own Busby’s, a nightclub located on Santa Monica Boulevard.
Ruth and Phil Elwell will be kicking off their retirement with a European cruise in September. While looking forward to their travels, the couple admits there is some sadness in leaving their old business behind.
“It is a very sad day,” Ruth Elwell said. “At the same time, we’re happy we’re entering a totally different part of our life.”
“It is a very sad day. At the same time, we’re happy we’re entering a totally different part of our life.” — — RUTH ELWELL Former owner, Ye Olde King’s Head
Bettcher and Tavey plan on leaving the King’s Head as is, including the current staff. Nicola Coleman, who handles the gift shop, and Lisa Powers, office manager, are both nieces of Phil Elwell who will stay on board.
“The people who bought the King’s Head are super nice guys,” Ruth Elwell said. “They love the concept and don’t want to change anything.”
Starting a British-themed bar and restaurant was the brainchild of Phil Elwell, who hails from the United Kingdom.
“It’s always been my husband’s dream,” Ruth Elwell said. “When we met in ’66, he was always talking about ‘when we open our pub, this will look great on our wall.’”
The dream came true eight years later, when the Ye Olde King’s Head opened for business in 1974. Ruth Elwell, who for years has been a diplomatic champion of merchant issues, said downtown Santa Monica is the economic engine that drives the city, and it’s important that it continues to flourish.
Ruth Elwell also retired this month from the Bayside District Corp., a group that regulates downtown in conjunction with City Hall. She had been a Bayside board member for seven years.
Patricia Hoffman, a Bayside board member, said the Elwells have contributed much to life in Santa Monica.
“They have been a valuable part of our community and literally brought a taste of England to the area,” Hoffman said. “I enjoyed serving with Ruth on the board.”
When asked her thoughts on issues such as homelessness, parking and traffic, Ruth Elwell said she had only one bit of advice for City Hall.
“Santa Monica is a beautiful city, and we need to keep it that way.”
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on June 30, 2005. Read the original PDF.