Where did you get that O'Keefe & Merritt‽

Vintage appliances are still valued (and safe).

These 50's era cooking units are gorgeous works of art and are still appreciated by home cooks and chefs alike. The craftsmanship that went into their creation is really unparalleled and the craftsmanship of their restoration is equally admirable. So, do they work? Are they safe?

HECK, YEAH!

"This 6 burner/2 oven/2 broiler combo was exactly what I needed," says Karina, a Westside homeowner, "it cooks better than most commercial units I've worked with," (and she's worked with a few). "It is super-reliable and the workhorse of the house." So, where did she get it? "I was told that the original stove in the house was an O'Keefe & Merritt, so I did my research and found this one at Antique Stove Heaven in South Central." She's obviously a fan: "Go! They are fantastic!" 

The guys at Antique Stove Heaven are no joke. They have 31 years of experience working with antique stoves and can restore your old stove into the stove of your dreams.

Antique Stove Heaven owner Winsor Williams repairs old antique stoves like a mechanic restores classic cars.

“No stove is too neglected,” he says. For almost thirty years, Mr. Williams has been repairing, renovating and restoring antique stoves. He takes ovens that are broken-down, chipped, seemingly beyond repair, and turns them into gleaming works of cooking perfection. From Hollywood stars, to everyday cooks and homemakers, people are drawn to this South Central Los Angeles oven store to sometimes buy, sometimes just marvel, at the wonderful stoves from the early 1900's to the late 1950's.They take old stoves apart, clean and restore them, re-chroming and re-enameling when needed, and make sure they are in perfect working order when they deliver them to your home. "They are the ‘Stove Angels’,“ according to Karina.

As far as maintenance, these are not complicated machines. If you run into a problem you can probably tweak them yourself if needed, or just call the guys who sold it to you. They service what they sell, just like the guys in the 50's. (Crazy, right?)

If you want to get the look of vintage, but want modern appliances, we can't fault you. Check out SMEG, Big Chill, and Chambers. They have everything from refrigerators to toasters, and all the appliances in between. 

"But for real, if you support minority-owned businesses and own a 1950's ranch in Los Angeles, shouldn't you own the amazing stove that was originally installed and still bakes a great pound cake?" Karina is steadfast in her love of Antique Stove Heaven, her 1952 O'Keefe & Merritt, and her 1952 Mid-Century Modern ranch. She is a serious proponent of supporting small & local businesses, especially those dedicated to craftsmanship and service.