LACMA Sparks Backlash Over New Erewhon Cafe in Expansion

Critics argue the partnership with the luxury grocery chain clashes with the museum's public mission.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 2:03am

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An abstract, high-contrast close-up photograph of a glass filled with a vibrant, swirling smoothie, capturing the luxurious textures and glamour of the Erewhon brand.The partnership between LACMA and Erewhon has sparked debate over the museum's commitment to accessibility and serving the broader public.Los Angeles Today

LACMA's announcement that it will partner with high-end grocery store Erewhon to open a cafe in its new David Geffen Galleries expansion has sparked backlash online. Critics argue the collaboration goes against the museum's public purpose, with comments criticizing the move as elitist and inaccessible to the broader Los Angeles community.

Why it matters

The Erewhon partnership taps into a broader tension in Los Angeles around the growing overlap between elite wellness culture and public institutions. Some see the move as prioritizing wealthy, Instagram-driven consumers over the museum's core mission of serving the local community.

The details

LACMA revealed the new Erewhon cafe will be located on the ground level of the David Geffen Galleries expansion, offering the chain's signature organic smoothies and other high-priced menu items. The announcement has triggered a wave of criticism on social media, with commenters arguing the partnership clashes with the museum's public purpose and accessibility. Critics have described Erewhon as the "antithesis of accessible" and questioned whether the museum is truly for the residents of Los Angeles.

  • LACMA announced the Erewhon partnership on April 14, 2026.
  • The new David Geffen Galleries expansion and Erewhon cafe are set to open on May 4, 2026.

The players

LACMA

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art, a major art museum in Los Angeles that is currently undergoing a major expansion and renovation project.

Erewhon

A high-end, luxury grocery store chain known for its organic offerings, celebrity collaborations, and sky-high prices.

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What’s next

LACMA has not indicated any plans to reconsider the Erewhon partnership, though the backlash may prompt further discussion about the museum's role and accessibility within the Los Angeles community.

The takeaway

The LACMA-Erewhon partnership highlights the ongoing tension in Los Angeles between elite wellness culture and the public mission of cultural institutions. While the move may boost foot traffic, critics argue it prioritizes wealthy, Instagram-driven consumers over the museum's responsibility to serve the broader local community.