Heart’s Coffee Shop in Van Nuys to close for good Sunday after nearly 50 years

After nearly 50 years of serving American comfort food from an old-school spot in the San Fernando Valley, Heart’s Coffee Shop will serve its last meal this Sunday.

“We had a great run and created a great legacy in the San Fernando Valley that we’re very proud of. But I feel very very sad, my heart is broken,” said Susan Wong, daughter of Yuk and Sue Wong, who opened Hearts in 1979 at 16918 Saticoy St. near the intersection of Balboa Avenue. Wong said the permanent closure on Sunday, Aug. 9 is a result of rising food costs, inflation, labor shortages and the economy.

“We made the very heartbreaking decision to put it on the market,” she said.

The restaurant, which is open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., had been a diner under different names for decades before the Wong’s purchased and turned it into a beloved community staple. With its bar area, red vinyl seats and a towering heart-shaped sign it attracted generations of locals who came here not just for its vintage atmosphere but for hearty meals like chicken fried pork chops and eggs, waffles, pancakes, and more.

“When you think of The Valley, a piece of that Valley is Heart’s. It’s the place you go to for early morning breakfast, the place you stop by and see Sue, my mom, who will always remember your name and your order by heart,” she said.

Wong noted that a developer has bought the property and hasn’t disclosed any future plans.

She just knows it will be a tough day when the last plate of food is served on Sunday afternoon just before the restaurant closes for the final time at 2 p.m.

“The final day will be a very emotional day for our family,” Wong said.