Food & Wine
Food Influencer Chaos Car Crash Shakes Up Popular LA Restaurant
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Published in Food and Wine on Monday, August 18th 2025 at 22:19 GMT by Phil Bruner🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
The Los Angeles food scene is reeling after a bizarre and shocking incident at the popular Korean BBQ restaurant, Park’s, in Fairfax. A car intentionally rammed through the front of the establishment on Sunday afternoon, leaving several people injured and sending shockwaves throughout the influencer community who frequently patronize the spot. While initial reports suggested only minor injuries, later updates revealed that two individuals were hospitalized with non-life-threatening wounds.
The incident unfolded around 3:30 PM PST when a dark-colored sedan reportedly accelerated onto the sidewalk and crashed through the restaurant’s facade. Witnesses described a chaotic scene of shattered glass, debris, and panicked diners scrambling for safety. The driver, identified as 39-year-old Andres Manzano, was immediately apprehended by Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers who were already in the area responding to an earlier disturbance at the same location.
Park’s has become a magnet for food influencers and content creators over the years, largely due to its reputation for high-quality Korean BBQ and vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant's popularity has been significantly amplified by consistent features on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, making it a prime destination for those seeking visually appealing dining experiences. This constant presence of influencers contributes to both Park’s success and, as this incident demonstrates, potential vulnerabilities.
The earlier disturbance that prompted the police presence was reportedly a verbal altercation between Manzano and Park's employees. According to LAPD officials, Manzano had been previously asked to leave the restaurant due to disruptive behavior. He then returned in his vehicle and intentionally drove through the front of the building. The motive behind Manzano’s actions remains under investigation, but authorities have confirmed he was not a former employee or someone with a known history with Park's beyond this recent interaction.
"We are deeply saddened by the incident that occurred at our restaurant," stated a representative for Park's in a statement released on social media. "Our thoughts and prayers are with those who were injured, and we are cooperating fully with law enforcement in their investigation. We appreciate the outpouring of support from our community." The restaurant has been temporarily closed while authorities assess the structural integrity of the building and clean up the damage.
The incident has sparked a wider conversation within the food influencer community about safety concerns surrounding popular restaurants. Many influencers, who often film content inside crowded establishments, are now re-evaluating their practices and considering additional precautions to ensure personal safety. The constant pressure to create engaging content can sometimes lead to overlooking potential risks, and this event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of situational awareness.
"It's terrifying," commented popular food blogger @LAEatsWithMe on Instagram. "Park’s is a staple for so many of us. This just shows that you never know what can happen, even in seemingly safe spaces." Other influencers echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for increased security measures at high-profile restaurants and a greater awareness among content creators about potential risks associated with filming in public places.
The investigation into Manzano’s actions is ongoing, and he faces charges including assault with a vehicle and vandalism causing property damage. While the immediate focus remains on the victims' recovery and the restaurant's repair, this incident has undoubtedly cast a shadow over the Los Angeles food scene and prompted a critical examination of safety protocols within the industry. The popularity of restaurants like Park’s, fueled by social media exposure, brings both opportunity and risk, and this event underscores the need for vigilance and proactive measures to protect patrons and employees alike. The incident also highlights the complex relationship between online fame and real-world security. While influencers contribute significantly to a restaurant's visibility and success, their presence can inadvertently create targets for individuals seeking attention or acting out in unpredictable ways. The LAPD is increasing patrols in the Fairfax area and reviewing security measures at other popular establishments as a precautionary measure. The future of Park’s remains uncertain, but the community has rallied around the restaurant, expressing hope for its swift recovery and a return to normalcy.