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Vintage Cafe Caliente Olvera Street Los Angeles CA Matchbook Cover c.1952–1954
Offered is an original vintage Cafe Caliente matchbook cover from historic Olvera Street in downtown Los Angeles, California.
Believed to date to approximately 1952–1954, this matchbook features colorful artwork of a traditional Mexican dancer and advertises Cafe Caliente, located at 20 Olvera Street, directly opposite Union Station. The use of the classic "MA 6-5161" telephone exchange and manufacture by Universal Match Corp., Los Angeles place this piece firmly in the early 1950s.
Features
- Original Cafe Caliente matchbook cover
- Approximate date: c.1952–1954
- 20 Olvera Street, Los Angeles, California
- Across from historic Union Station
- Colorful Mexican dancer artwork
- Advertises a cocktail lounge, genuine Mexican dishes, and American food
- Manufactured by Universal Match Corp., Los Angeles
- Wonderful piece of Southern California and Los Angeles history
Historical Background
Olvera Street is considered the birthplace of Los Angeles and has been one of Southern California's most famous historic and cultural destinations since its restoration in 1930. During the postwar tourism boom of the 1950s, visitors from around the country came to Olvera Street to experience authentic Mexican cuisine, shopping, music, and entertainment.
Cafe Caliente was one of the street's well-known restaurants, serving both Mexican and American cuisine while entertaining guests with live music and performances. Today, the location remains part of the historic Olvera Street district, making this matchbook a wonderful piece of early Los Angeles memorabilia.
Condition
Please examine all photos carefully, as they are part of the description. This original vintage matchbook cover shows expected wear from age and use, including creasing, edge wear, and the absence of the original matches. The colorful graphics remain attractive and display very well for their age.
Perfect for collectors of:
- Olvera Street memorabilia
- Los Angeles history
- Southern California collectibles
- Historic restaurants
- Mexican restaurant memorabilia
- Vintage matchbooks (phillumeny)
- Travel advertising
- Paper ephemera
This is an original vintage matchbook cover and not a reproduction.
Your item will be carefully packaged and shipped to help ensure safe arrival.
