This post was updated Oct. 30 at 11:17 p.m.

Fat Sal’s in Westwood temporarily closed Wednesday because of health code violations.

A notice posted on the storefront window said the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health had shut the location down, citing the presence of vermin. The restaurant – which serves sandwiches, burgers and other dishes from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. – was empty, and its lights were off as of Wednesday evening.

The LA County Department of Public Health said in an emailed statement that an active infestation of cockroaches was found during a routine inspection of the Fat Sal’s Westwood location. It added in the statement that it revoked the facility’s permit and immediately closed the restaurant for at least 48 hours.

Thomas Lam, a second-year cognitive science student, said he and his roommate were disappointed about the Fat Sal’s closure because they have been consistent customers for the past two years.

Lam added that he had not previously noticed any health code violations when dining at Fat Sal’s, but added that he had not been to the establishment in a couple weeks.

Alex Bay, a UCLA alumnus and Westwood resident, said the food joint has been a staple in Westwood for years. 

“It’s been around for over a decade,” Bay said. “I’ve been a regular here. Guys are great. Food is great. Obviously it’s not the healthiest option, but it’s really good and tasty.”

Fal Sal’s opened its Westwood location in September 2010. Co-founders Salvatore Capek and Josh Stone once collaborated with students through social media to create the Fat Bruin Sandwich. 

The location also adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic by creating a furnished patio seating area next to its order window. 

Drew Nance, a first-year graduate student in quantum science and technology, said he found the closure to be disappointing after living in Westwood for three years. He added that he typically goes to Fat Sal’s in Westwood once a month as a treat. 

Nance also said that, as a customer, he has not experienced any service issues related to the health code violations, adding that he was shocked by the news. 

Fat Sal’s did not respond in time to a request for comment. 

The restaurant must remain closed until a reinspection – which was scheduled for Thursday – confirms there is no longer evidence of active vermin, the LA County Department of Public Health said in its statement.

“Hopefully it reopens soon,” Lam said. “I might give it some time, but I think I’ll be back.”