Silver Dollar Pancake House Restored to Preserve Local History
The iconic Silver Dollar Pancake House in Corona, California, is set to continue its legacy after a recent sale, ensuring that the beloved eatery remains a staple for local residents. New owners Mark and Paula Fogel plan to restore the restaurant’s historic neon sign and preserve its nostalgic charm.
Leaders in Riverside County’s third-largest city have expressed excitement over the future of the restaurant. Bobby Spiegel, president and CEO of the Corona Chamber of Commerce, likened the establishment to the fictional bar from the television show “Cheers,” noting its role as a community hub. “Everybody goes in there. It’s a place people can call home,” Spiegel stated.
The restaurant’s future was uncertain following the death of previous owner Charmayne Killingsworth in September 2024. After receiving several offers, including one exceeding $1 million from a coffee company, the Killingsworth family chose to sell to the Fogels for a price between $800,000 and $900,000.
Plans for Restoration and Community Support
Mark Fogel emphasized the importance of preserving the restaurant’s heritage, stating, “It’s kind of my idea to bring back the nostalgia of it.” He confirmed that the establishment would not be replaced by a coffeehouse, a sentiment echoed by Killingsworth.
The Corona Historic Preservation Society is actively working to restore the restaurant’s iconic neon sign, which has been dark for over three decades. Wes Speake, a Corona City Council member and president of the society, is leading efforts to raise funds, with over $10,000 already pledged from private donations and county funds.
Fogel has invested more than $100,000 in improvements to the restaurant, including repaving the parking lot and painting the interior and exterior. Plans are underway to illuminate the rooftop sign by mid-October, with Fogel aiming for a powder blue finish for the letters.
A Rich History and a Bright Future
The Silver Dollar Pancake House, located at 710 E. Sixth St., has been a part of Corona’s landscape since it opened as The Copper Kettle in September 1936. Over the years, it has operated under various names, including Lindy’s, before adopting its current name in 1962.
Longtime operator Robert Hernandez has been with the restaurant for nearly 50 years, having started as a dishwasher at just 13 years old. He later purchased the business in 1991 and has maintained the traditional menu, which offers 18 varieties of pancakes. Hernandez has faced significant challenges, including two major fires and health issues, yet he continues to drive the restaurant’s daily operations.
Hernandez expressed gratitude for the Fogels, stating, “He is a great landlord, let me tell you. I promised Mark I’d stick around. I ain’t letting him down.”
Looking ahead, Fogel hopes to capitalize on the upcoming renovation of nearby City Park, which is projected to cost over $100 million. Plans include a community center, pool, and recreational facilities, with construction set to begin in 2026. The Fogels envision reopening for dinner services, hoping to attract more patrons to the area.
The community’s commitment to preserving the Silver Dollar Pancake House reflects a broader appreciation for local history and cherished traditions. The ongoing restoration efforts serve as a reminder of the restaurant’s enduring role in the lives of its patrons. Donations to help with the neon sign restoration can be made through the Corona Historic Preservation Society’s campaign.
