Remembering L.A. Councilman Tom LaBonge at Musso & Frank

Family Honors "Mister Los Angeles" with Commemorative Plaque and New Civic Initiative

The family of Tom LaBonge, affectionately known as "Mister Los Angeles," recently gathered to unveil a commemorative plaque in his honor at one of his favored downtown eateries, Musso & Frank Grill. LaBonge, who served as the councilman for Los Angeles’ 4th district, dedicated his life to improving the city’s streets, parks, and neighborhoods until his passing at the age of 67 in 2021.

Throughout his tenure, LaBonge was more than just an advocate for Los Angeles; he was a hands-on leader who actively sought solutions to community issues. Regularly traversing the city in his council-issued vehicle loaded with tools and pumpkin bread from the Monastery of the Angels, he left a significant mark on the lives of Angelenos. Described in a 2009 profile as a "cheerleader for the city," LaBonge contributed to the development of soccer fields and walking trails, designated city landmarks, and expanded the Sister City program. He notably added hundreds of acres to Griffith Park with the support of former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. In his own words, he noted, “I’m an absolute visionary, and the vision comes from people, and how people feel about their city and where they live.”

The recent plaque installation, presented by the Hollywood Historic Trust, celebrates LaBonge’s legacy with the inscription "Lifelong Angeleno – Friend to All," now visible to visitors at Musso & Frank Grill. His wife, Brigid LaBonge, remarked on the significance of the restaurant, stating, “Musso and Frank’s is one of the very few places in LA where Tom could loosen his tie, relax, and chill while enjoying a nice meal.”

In a move to continue her husband’s mission, Brigid LaBonge, along with their children Charles and Mary-Cate, announced the establishment of the Tom LaBonge Civic Project, a non-profit organization focused on enhancing the city and its environment.

Mark Echeverria, CEO of Musso & Frank, fondly remembered LaBonge’s connection to the establishment: “When he found out it was our bartender Ruben’s birthday, the whole restaurant wished Ruben a happy birthday. Suddenly a mariachi band came from the kitchen and at the tail end was Tom with shakers.”

The newly installed plaque replaces one that was previously mounted at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel but was stolen in 2022. LaBonge’s legacy extends beyond tangible symbols; he possessed a unique ability to navigate the complexities of municipal bureaucracy, often leveraging personal relationships with city departments to expedite solutions for the community’s issues.

Echeverria encapsulated LaBonge’s essence, stating, “You can’t think of Tom LaBonge without having a smile on your face.” As the community reflects on his impactful career, the commitment to continue his work ensures that his spirit will remain a guiding force in Los Angeles.