TEMECULA, CA — Since its founding in 1927, the Swing Inn Cafe in Old Town Temecula has undergone many transformations, and another change is underway.
In 2022, actor Dean Norris, best known for his role in the iconic television hit series "Breaking Bad," took over the historic eatery at 28676 Old Town Front St. with his wife, Bridget. They turned the venue into a popular barbecue joint that also serves breakfast, aiming to invest in the city where they have lived for more than two decades.
However, on Sept. 25, Chapter 11 bankruptcy documents were filed in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Central District of California on behalf of Main Street Eeeatery LLC, doing business as the Swing Inn Cafe.
A call to the restaurant went unanswered late Monday afternoon after store hours. Chapter 11 bankruptcy is typically used by businesses to reorganize debt and remain operational rather than close permanently.
Fans are cheering on Swing Inn Cafe.
"I ate breakfast here this morning and heard the news… here's to hoping this Old Town staple has plenty of good years ahead," Temecula City Council member Brenden Kalfus wrote in a Sept. 29 social media post.
The restaurant dates back to 1927, when it was founded as Mother's Cafe. The moniker Swing Inn Cafe was adopted in the mid-20th century.
The restaurant remains a local favorite, and Dean continues to maintain a hands-on presence. Despite wet weather over the weekend, he was at the cafe greeting patrons waiting for tables.
"I truly hope he can successfully pull out of the BK," one commenter wrote on Kalfus' post. "I have known him for years and he is a hard worker! The restaurant business is one of the hardest businesses to be in and I commend him and hope he succeeds."
Another customer added, "We go at least once a month on a Saturday or Sunday morning for breakfast. The food is always great and so is the service."
Dean, 63, played DEA agent Hank Schrader on "Breaking Bad" from 2008 to 2013 and has amassed more than 150 screen credits throughout his career.
As the Norris family contends with the bankruptcy filing, tragic news was announced Monday about the death of former "Breaking Bad" co-star, RJ Mitte, 34.
"Oh my God! Was working just found out about RJ I am heartbroken," Dean wrote on social media. "Though RJ didn't play my TV son, I always looked out for him as a young kid on set. He was a sweetheart of a young man and will be greatly missed. This is so heartbreaking, I can't believe it. Thinking of him and his family."
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