Sqirl's Redemption: From Mold Scandal to Dinner Menu

Jessica Koslow's Los Angeles restaurant Sqirl, once a millennial fairy tale, faced a major scandal in 2020 when a photo of moldy jam went viral, leading to accusations of poor working conditions and credit theft. After a five-year low profile, Koslow reopened for dinner in 2025, emphasizing resilience and learning from mistakes. The restaurant now has new jam-storage protocols and a revamped menu, though critics question the lack of employee ownership. Koslow, a self-described 'student of restaurants,' continues to focus on atmosphere and character, employing full-time designers and maintaining a loyal customer base.