In 1931, CLIFTONS CAFETERIA at 618 South Olive Street in Los Angeles was founded by what customers referred to as “The Cafeteria of the Golden Rule”. Patrons were obliged to pay only what they felt was fair, according to a neon sign that flashed “PAY WHAT YOU WISH.”
They made a point to never turn anyone away, even if they had no money. During one 90-day period, 10,000 people ate free.
Ate there many times as a kid with my family.