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NewsLos Angeles Times — LifestyleNovember 6, 2026Los Angeles County

Historic Clifton's building in downtown Los Angeles reopens under the name Sanctuary with immersive theater and gaming plans

Photo: Los Angeles Times — Lifestyle

New operators Neil Biondich and Alex McCullough have quietly reopened the historic five-story building formerly known as Clifton's in downtown Los Angeles to host events, though they currently lack access to the Clifton's name and are operating under the banner Sanctuary. The operators plan to transform the venue into a Meow Wolf-inspired immersive entertainment space featuring live-action role-playing games, magic shows, and karaoke, with the first of two planned restaurants aiming to open in early 2027.

NightlifeEntertainmentReal EstateDowntown Revitalization
Read the full story at Los Angeles Times — Lifestyle

Why It Matters

The reopening marks a significant test for downtown Los Angeles' post-pandemic nightlife recovery, utilizing a landmark building that former owner Andrew Meieran previously renovated with a $14 million investment.

Key Facts

  • New operators Neil Biondich and Alex McCullough have quietly started operating the five-story building at Broadway in downtown Los Angeles.
  • The venue is currently being operated under the name Sanctuary (Sanctuarydtla.com) because the new operators do not possess rights to the Clifton's name and intellectual property.
  • Former owner Andrew Meieran sold the building to real estate investment firm Robhana Group but retained the Clifton's name and IP.
  • Meieran previously invested more than $14 million in renovating the building after purchasing it in 2010.
  • Current programming includes events such as Halloween-themed immersive theater, magic shows in the basement, karaoke in a tiki bar, and gaming tournaments.
  • Operators plan to open the first of two restaurants in the building in early 2027, with a second upscale restaurant planned for late 2027.
  • The long-term vision includes a daily live-action role-playing (LARP) game inspired by 'Dungeons & Dragons' and augmented reality features.
  • Downtown Los Angeles has experienced struggles with vacant office space and closed businesses following the pandemic.

Who's Mentioned

OrganizationMeow Wolf“Experiential art collective serving as an inspiration for the venue”PersonAndrew Meieran“Prior owner who retained the Clifton's name and IP”OrganizationCole's“Downtown establishment set to reopen”OrganizationOriginal Pantry“Downtown business expected to return soon”OrganizationRobhana Group“Real estate investment firm that purchased the building”PersonNeil Biondich“New operator of the building and entrepreneur”locationLos Angeles“City where the venue is located”locationNorthridge“Neighborhood where Neil Biondich resides”PersonAlex McCullough“New operator of the building”