As the story goes…
The legendary Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace
has been an iconic gathering place since 1982, drawing music lovers, travelers, and artists alike with its incredible live performances, open-fire barbecue, unmistakable charm and unmatched vibe.. But its story stretches back even further, rooted in the golden age of Hollywood’s Western obsession.
A CINEMATIC BEGINNING
Pioneertown was founded in 1946 by a group of Hollywood investors who envisioned a living movie set. An Old West frontier town built for filming; stables, saloons, and jails lined the streets, while inside, ice cream parlors, bowling alleys, and motels kept crew members and visitors entertained. Among the original visionaries were Roy Rogers, Gene Autry, Russell Hayden, and the Sons of the Pioneers (for whom the town was named). More than 50 films and television shows were shot here throughout the 1940s and 1950s.
One of those sets, a cantina featured in numerous Westerns, would eventually become Pappy & Harriet’s. In 1972, Harriet’s mother, Francis Aleba, and her husband, John, purchased the building and transformed it into “The Cantina”, an outlaw biker burrito bar that thrived for a decade. When it closed, they ensured it remained in the family, setting the stage for something new.
the birth of pappy & harriet’s
In 1982, Harriet and her husband, Claude “Pappy” Allen, opened “Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace”, blending live music, homestyle cooking, and an unpretentious, welcoming atmosphere. The couple’s presence, whether performing on stage, preparing food, pouring drinks or greeting guests, defined the soul of the venue. Pappy’s passing in 1994 marked the end of an era, but the legend only grew. Fans and friends from around the world came to celebrate his life, inspiring Victoria Williams’ song ‘Happy To Have Known Pappy’.
KEEPING THE MUSIC ALIVE
After Pappy’s passing, the venue changed hands a few times before landing with New York duo: Robyn Celia and Linda Krantz in 2003. Longtime patrons and passionate music lovers, they revitalized the space and elevated its reputation as a premier destination for live music. Under their 18 year stewardship, the stage welcomed an eclectic mix of world-renowned artists – from Paul McCartney and Robert Plant to Vampire Weekend, The Dandy Warhols and Queens Of The Stone Age, all while still embracing up-and-coming acts and underground legends alike.
THE MODERN ERA
In 2021, after almost two decades of ownership, Robyn and Linda handed off the torch to Morgan Margolis & Partners, iconic music curators Knitting Factory Ent. & Bravo presents, their booking arm.
As Pappy & Harriet’s enters an exciting new chapter under its current owners, the commitment to music, art, culture, food and drink, and the unshakable spirit of the Pioneertown community remains stronger than ever.
TO THIS DAY, PAPPY & HARRIET’S REMAINS A CULTURAL INSTITUTION BOTH LOCALLY AND GLOBALLY. Whether you’re here for the music, food, drinks, the atmosphere, or just to be a part of something special, you’ve found your way to a place where new history is made every day, continuing its legacy as one of the most unique and respected venues in the world.
