Tom Sandoval announced he and his partners are closing Schwartz & Sandy’s.
The “Vanderpump Rules” star posted a statement on social media on November 25, 2024, to announce his Franklin Village bar won’t see 2025.
In an Instagram post, Sandoval wrote, “With a heavy heart we’ve made the difficult decision to close Schwartz & Sandy’s at the end of December. This hasn’t been an easy choice for my partners or me, but other priorities and commitments have taken hold. While this business venture has been an incredible stepping stone in my life one I will always cherish I look forward to exciting new endeavors.”
Sandoval also gave a shout-out to his “incredible staff” whom he said deserves the “true recognition.” The Bravo star teased a series of special events leading up to the bar’s closure and added. “The allure of being associated with reality TV has hidden what is an amazing spot and location for LA locals as well.”
Sandoval opened the Franklin Village bar with his best friend, Tom Schwartz, and another partner in November 2022. The bar opening was a major storyline on ‘Vanderpump Rules.”
Tom Schwartz Also Posted About the Bar Closure
Schwartz also shared the news to Instagram. “No easy way to say this but after careful consideration, Greg, Tom and I made the decision to close Schwartz and Sandy’s by the end of the year. This was not an easy conclusion, so this is our farewell tour,” he wrote.
“There’s some peace in knowing I gave my absolute all into S&S fully committed with every fiber in my being,” Schwartz added. “To all the patrons who came in and supported us, showed us love every single night I was in there you kept me going through some of the harder times.”
Schwartz also thanked the staff and urged patrons to end the year on a high note by booking a party at the bar.
Schwartz & Sandy’s Struggled After Sandoval’s Cheating Scandal
In March 2023, Sandoval was embroiled in a cheating scandal with his then co-star, Raquel Leviss. Sandoval’s infidelity resulted in the end of his 10-year relationship with Ariana Madix. Backlash ensued, and the bar business suffered.
In a now-deleted statement shared on the official Schwartz & Sandy’s Instagram, the owners asked for consideration for the employees who were not involved in the scandal. “Those of us who are not famous have dedicated our time hearts and money to make this restaurant a reality,” read the statement. “We too are disappointed by the current situation as Ariana has always been a good friend and a great supporter of the restaurant.”
“We appreciate that you may feel a certain way but please understand that the livelihoods of others also depend on this business. There are far more people involved in this venture than just Tom Sandoval and Tom Schwartz,” the message continued.
Schwartz often held court as Sandoval weathered his scandal. After announcing the bar was closing, he told People magazine he put everything he had into the endeavor. “As someone who came to L.A. with barely a cent to my name, it’s special to know we created jobs and opportunities for people to pursue their dreams,” he said. “We put our hearts and souls into this place, and I’m leaving knowing I gave it my all.”