Unsung Hero: The Queen of Comfort Food

Ruth Cortez – Server at The Fountain Coffee Room, The Beverly Hills Hotel, Los Angeles

The legendary Fountain Coffee Room at the “Pink Palace” is one of Beverly Hills most beloved dining establishments. Opened in 1949, the charming old-school luncheonette-style eatery is reflective of a 1950’s style diner and features 19 bar stools framing a soda fountain counter. Diners enjoy the ultimate in comfort food selections, including silver dollar pancakes, cheeseburgers and fries, and banana split sundaes, all served up in nostalgic surroundings. It is also home to some of the best people-watching in Tinsel Town.

For nearly three decades, Ruth has been welcoming guests since 1995 and she is a favorite of regulars and new visitors alike.

"The Fountain Coffee Room is famous, but I don’t think it’s because of the food, it’s because of the people. I’m a good listener, and I’m always myself, so they open up to me and feel comfortable. It’s like Cheers without the alcohol!"

One of Ruth’s fondest memories is about a couple she had been serving for several years, who brought along a notable companion to join them in ‘The Fountain’ one day.

“This couple would come every Saturday, and I didn’t know much about them other than the fact that they were there every weekend. It doesn’t ever matter to me who my guests are or what they do – I provide everyone with the same level of warm and caring service. One Saturday, they brought a friend they wanted me to meet. Next thing I knew, I saw the Secret Service, and behind them was Nancy Reagan! I was shaking as Nancy said, ‘I heard so many good things about you, Ruth.’ 'I don't even know what I said in response to this, but this memory will stay with me forever."