New lake-inspired restaurant to replace The Purple Place in El Dorado Hills

The Purple Place in El Dorado Hills stood as a cherished landmark for 67 years, a local breakfast favorite and community cornerstone since 1955.

When the restaurant closed its doors in 2022, the space left more than just a vacant building on Green Valley Road; it left a void in the town’s spirit.

But Eric Rushing, a longtime El Dorado Hills resident and veteran of Sacramento’s nightlife and dining scene, hopes to change that.

Rushing is setting his sights on something new: a lake-inspired restaurant.

“I’ve raised my boys here. I’ve been in the community for 15 years,” Rushing said. “This is the first time in my own community. It might be one of the single most important projects of my life.”

Although he's keeping the official name and branding secret, it's set to be unveiled on the building in the coming weeks, if not sooner. Rushing confirms the new concept will ‘go hand in hand with being on the lake.’

“Whether it was brunch before heading to the lake or a happy hour drink with friends, The Purple Place always will welcome all ages,” Rushing said. “We want to bring that back — just with our twist on it.”

While the iconic purple exterior will be phased out, Rushing says the legacy of the building isn’t going anywhere. The storied history will be noticeable inside the space and the community-focused spirit will remain intact.

“We aren’t turning this into an office, a doctor’s office or a retail shop,” Rushing said. “Any of those things could’ve ended up in there and I’m happy to be giving my community something special after almost 30 years in the business.”

The new restaurant will be family-friendly with plans for live entertainment, celebratory events and a relaxed atmosphere.

“It’s a restaurant first and foremost,” Rushing said. “But whether it’s birthday parties, watching the Super Bowl, or catching a local music act, we want it to feel like the kind of place where memories are made.”

Rushing says the small size of the venue opens the door for intimate, high-energy experiences, including performances from rising musicians.

“I had Morgan Wallen in one of my small venues before anyone knew his name,” Rushing said. “I had Lainey Wilson before anyone knew who she was and the list goes on and on.”