Iva Lee’s Restaurant will close on Saturday, March 30, after 21 years in San Clemente, the restaurant announced in a Facebook post on Friday, March 22.
The Southern-themed eatery and lounge became a foothold in Downtown San Clemente over its lifespan, hosting countless live music events and winning many People’s Choice Golden Ole Awards as a live music venue in the San Clemente Times’ annual Best of San Clemente magazine.
Eric Wagoner, who runs Iva Lee’s Restaurant & Lounge with his wife, Lisa, focuses on bringing in popular local bands to contribute to a fun and comfortable environment. Photo: C. Jayden Smith
“We are immensely grateful to our patrons, whose unwavering loyalty has been the cornerstone of our success,” the Facebook post read. “It has been an honor to serve this community for over two decades and be a part of life's special moments.”
Iva Lee’s went on to attribute the decision to close to various factors, denying that rent increases were a factor.
The restaurant has been owned and operated by husband-wife duo Eric and Lisa Wagoner since its opening on El Camino Real in 2002. In 2022, San Clemente Times documented the owners’ excitement for a new mural that would add to the live entertainment experience and boost the restaurant past the struggles presented by the pandemic.
As the Facebook post continued, the restaurant expressed its appreciation for its staff and vendors and invited members of the community to enjoy one last night on March 30 with a performance from Family Style. On Sunday, March 31, customers can come in for another drink with 50% of proceeds going to Iva Lee’s staff.
“Iva Lee’s thanks the San Clemente community for 21 exceptional years of support and looks forward to the next chapter with gratitude and optimism,” the post finished.
Iva Lee’s representatives were not available for comment as of press time.