RESTAURANT CLOSING AT GOLF COURSE AFTER 36 YEARS.

Byline: Rick Orlov Staff Writer

VAN NUYS - For 36 years, Drew Billingsley has offered low-cost meals to San Fernando Valley golfers and other loyal patrons, but he'll serve up his last steak today.

Saying increasing red tape has made it too difficult to stay open, the veteran restaurateur will close his landmark Billingsley's Restaurant at 6220 Odessa Ave., next to the Van Nuys Golf Course.

``It's hard for an individual restaurant to compete in Los Angeles today with all the fees and permits and licenses that are required,'' he said. ``That's why there are so many chain restaurants these days.''

Billingsley, whose lease expires today, said it was a difficult decision to close, leaving 20 workers and a legion of loyal customers who have been coming to the steakhouse for years.

``They're more than customers and staff,'' Billingsley said, adding nothing special is planned for the final day.

``We'll be open like normal, and then, no more.''

Customers said Thursday they would miss the restaurant, known for its good food and friendly service.

``We'd drop by after we'd play golf and have a sandwich and a beer, maybe catch a game (on television,)'' said Michael Delgado, 28, of Valencia.

Kathy Fallon of Van Nuys, a waitress at the restaurant for more than six years, said she'll miss working there.

``The customers are fantastic. That's what makes this place,'' said Fallon, 49. ``It's definitely a family atmosphere.''

Billingsley leases the city-owned property from the golf course operator. Three years ago, he warned he might have to close because of the city's ``living-wage'' ordinance, which required him to increase salaries for his workers because he operated on city-owned property.

The city's Van Nuys Airport owns the golf course property and awards the concession for the golf course, which sublets its restaurant space.

Airport officials said they were unaware the restaurant is closing. Spokesman Richard French said the airport has a proposal to review the golf course operation, including the restaurant.

Aides to Councilman Tony Cardenas were also unaware of the closure.

Whatever happens, Billingsley says he's proud of the way he has run his place.

``The way I look at it, ... 36 years is a pretty good run for any restaurant in a city like this.''

Staff writer Lisa Sodders contributed to this story.

Rick Orlov, [phone]

rick.orlov(at)dailynews.com

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Photo:

After 36 years of running his restaurant in the Valley, Drew Billingsley will close it at the end of business today.

Hans Gutknecht/Staff Photographer