Letter: Reunion planned to bring back the magic of Burbank eatery

The Magic Apple Inn, which was at the corner of Riverside Drive and West Olive Avenue in Burbank, was operated by an interesting cast of characters from Feb. 1, 1973 until New Year’s Eve of 1978. Owners were Ralph DeMartinis, the genius behind the menu, Joe DeMartinis, sometimes bartender and always behind the scenes, and myself, Fred Koehler, whose job it was to make everyone feel welcome every night.

Mary DeMartinis ran the super busy lunch and supervised an eccentric and dedicated staff who kept things humming with joy and humor.

It was a wild time in history and the Magic Apple reflected that, attracting movie stars, musicians, health “nuts” and magicians and every Burbank resident that was looking for a little counterculture. They sometimes waited an hour for a table, but no one complained because it was such a unique dining experience.

That was all 40 years ago, but the tribe of owners, employees and devoted patrons will be gathering for a reunion on Oct 10. If you would like to join the festivities, or just want to know more about the reunion, you can make contact me at fredkoehler@comcast.net.

If you remember the Cheese and Walnut Loaf, stuffed mushrooms, Eggplant Granada or maybe the famous and intoxicating Nature’s Magic we’d love to hear from you and hope to see you!

Fred Koehler

Felton, Ca.