05/06/2026
The photograph shows Andersen’s Electrical Cafe, the original name of the world-famous Pea Soup Andersen’s.
Location
The cafe was located in Buellton, California, at what is now 376 Avenue of Flags. At the time it opened, Buellton was a tiny stop along the main highway between Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Owners
It was founded and owned by Anton Andersen (a Danish immigrant) and his wife, Juliette Andersen (originally from France).
The Name: They named it "Electrical Cafe" because it was one of the first establishments in the Santa Ynez Valley to use a prized all-electric stove and other modern electric appliances.
The Legacy: Juliette is credited with creating the signature split pea soup recipe that eventually made the restaurant famous.
Opening and Closing Dates
Opened: The cafe officially opened in June 1924.
Evolution: As the popularity of Juliette's soup grew, the business expanded. By 1928, they added a hotel and dining room (briefly known as "The Bueltmore"). In 1947, their son, Robert "Pea Soup" Andersen, officially changed the name to Pea Soup Andersen's.
Closed: After nearly a century of operation, the original Buellton location closed its doors on January 1, 2024, for redevelopment. (The sister location in Santa Nella remains open).
Historical Note: You can see the text "Soda - Ci**rs - Candy." Before the pea soup became a global icon, the Andersens focused on serving simple fare to weary travelers, including sandwiches, pancakes, and traditional café treats. - Sourced from the internet. - Richard Schuyler
