1. Subway: The End of an Era for the Sandwich Giant
After decades of dominating the fast-food sandwich game, Subway is set to close many of its locations in 2025. While the chain has struggled to keep up with changing consumer tastes and fierce competition from smaller, gourmet sandwich shops, it’s still surprising to see its footprint shrinking so drastically. Loyal customers have cited a decline in freshness and a lack of innovation as reasons for the chain’s decline. Despite efforts like a revamped menu and modernized stores, it seems Subway couldn’t fully regain its footing. The closures are a poignant reminder that even industry titans aren’t immune to shifting market dynamics. If you’re a fan, this might be your last chance to snag your favorite footlong.
2. TGI Fridays: Goodbye to Endless Appetizers
TGI Fridays, a staple of casual dining since the ’60s, is dialing back its presence in 2025. Once the go-to spot for after-work drinks and endless appetizers, Fridays has faced stiff competition from new dining concepts and a general decline in sit-down restaurant visits. Many locations struggled to maintain the festive atmosphere the brand was once known for, leading to declining sales. While the company plans to focus on smaller, more profitable markets, the closures will leave a void for those craving a nostalgic Jack Daniel’s burger or mozzarella sticks. It’s a bittersweet farewell for a chain that once defined casual American dining.
3. Pizza Hut: Scaling Down the Iconic Red Roofs
Pizza Hut, a name synonymous with childhood pizza parties and family dinners, will be closing hundreds of dine-in locations. The shift to delivery-focused models and competition from faster, cheaper options have hurt the brand’s traditional sit-down restaurants. For many, Pizza Hut’s red-roofed buildings were a nostalgic landmark, but times have changed. The chain has tried to pivot with modern apps and faster service, but it wasn’t enough to maintain its sprawling presence. Fans may still enjoy delivery and carryout options, but the iconic dine-in experience will largely become a thing of the past.
4. Ruby Tuesday: Saying Goodbye to the Salad Bar
Ruby Tuesday, once known for its vibrant salad bars and approachable dining, is shuttering more locations in 2025. The pandemic dealt a huge blow to the brand, and recovery efforts haven’t been enough to stabilize its future. Despite a loyal customer base, the chain has struggled to compete with trendier restaurants and fast-casual spots offering fresher options. Many customers lament the loss of its relaxed vibe and family-friendly menu. If you have a favorite Ruby Tuesday nearby, now’s the time to pay it a visit before it’s gone for good.
5. Applebee’s: The Neighborhood Grill Fades Away
The so-called “Neighborhood Grill & Bar” is scaling back as Applebee’s faces growing challenges in the casual dining sector. Once beloved for its affordable menu and friendly vibe, the chain has struggled to resonate with younger diners. Despite successful marketing campaigns like the “Fancy Like” ad series, the brand couldn’t sustain its large network of restaurants. As smaller, more localized dining options thrive, Applebee’s finds itself unable to compete. If you’re nostalgic for those half-price appetizers, now might be the time to savor one more visit.
6. Carl’s Jr.: A Bite of History Disappearing
Carl’s Jr. will be closing multiple locations in 2025, marking a decline for this long-standing burger chain. Known for its indulgent burgers and edgy marketing campaigns, the brand has struggled to maintain its relevance in an era of health-conscious eating. While Carl’s Jr. has made some efforts to adapt, including plant-based menu options, these changes haven’t been enough to stave off declining sales. For fans of the chain, it’s a tough pill to swallow, as fewer locations mean fewer chances to grab a Western Bacon Cheeseburger.
7. Sbarro: The Mall Staple Shrinks Further
Sbarro, the pizza chain best known for its presence in shopping mall food courts, continues to shrink its footprint in 2025. Malls themselves have been in decline, and with fewer customers walking by, the chain has faced mounting challenges. Efforts to expand beyond the mall setting haven’t gained enough traction to save many of its locations. For those who remember grabbing a slice of greasy, oversized pizza between shopping trips, it’s a sad reminder of changing times. Sbarro’s remaining locations are pivoting to non-traditional spots like gas stations, but the iconic food court days may soon be history.
8. Red Lobster: Rough Waters Ahead
Red Lobster, famous for its Cheddar Bay Biscuits and seafood feasts, is set to close numerous locations in 2025. Rising food costs and shifting dining preferences have made it hard for the chain to stay afloat. While promotions like Lobsterfest remain popular, they haven’t been enough to offset the challenges of maintaining a seafood-focused menu in an increasingly competitive market. The closures will hit hard for fans who’ve made Red Lobster a go-to for special occasions. It’s a stark reminder of how even beloved brands can struggle in turbulent times.
9. Steak ‘n Shake: No Longer on the Menu
Steak ‘n Shake, the hybrid fast-food and diner chain, is set to close more locations in 2025 after years of financial troubles. Known for its steakburgers and hand-dipped milkshakes, the chain has struggled to modernize its business model. The pandemic worsened its woes, and recovery has been slow and uneven. For longtime fans, the closures represent the loss of an affordable, nostalgic dining experience. While some locations may remain as franchise operations, the chain’s widespread availability will soon be a thing of the past.
10. Friendly’s: Fading Family-Friendly Dining
Friendly’s, beloved for its ice cream and comfort food, will be closing more doors in 2025. Once a favorite for family outings and post-little-league celebrations, the chain has struggled to stay relevant in today’s competitive dining landscape. The shift away from sit-down dining has particularly hurt the brand, which relied heavily on its nostalgic charm. For longtime fans, it’s the end of an era filled with happy memories and indulgent sundaes. The chain’s dwindling presence serves as a reminder of how much the dining world has evolved.
11. Quiznos: A Final Toast
Quiznos, a pioneer in toasted subs, is continuing its slow fade from the dining scene with more closures in 2025. Once a serious competitor to Subway, Quiznos failed to maintain its early momentum due to high franchise fees and growing competition. Despite efforts to rebrand and simplify its menu, the chain has struggled to bring customers back. Many fans still reminisce about its signature toasty subs, which offered a unique flavor compared to other sandwich shops. Unfortunately, these closures may mean fewer opportunities to experience that signature Quiznos crunch.
12. Bojangles: Scaling Back Its Southern Comfort
Bojangles, famous for its chicken and biscuits, is pulling out of select markets in 2025. Despite its loyal following in the South, the chain has struggled to expand beyond its core regions. Increased competition from both fast-food and fast-casual brands has taken a toll, as has rising food costs. For Bojangles fans, the closures may mean longer drives to find their favorite comfort food. It’s a tough loss for those who consider their sweet tea and Cajun fries a Southern staple.
13. Hooters: The End of an Iconic Hangout
Hooters, once a go-to spot for wings, cold beer, and a lively atmosphere, is closing several of its locations in 2025. The chain, famous for its “Hooters Girls” and casual vibe, has faced significant challenges in recent years, including the rise of healthier eating trends and evolving social attitudes. While the brand has attempted to reinvent itself with new menu items and a shift to more modern, stylish locations, it hasn’t been enough to stop the closures. Longtime fans will surely miss the nostalgic mix of sports bar energy and comfort food.
14. Denny’s: 24-Hour Diner, Closing Early
Denny’s, the quintessential American diner, is pulling back its reach in 2025, closing many locations across the country. Known for its all-day breakfast and 24-hour service, Denny’s has struggled with a decline in demand for traditional diner fare. With a focus on older, more nostalgic customers, the chain hasn’t been able to attract younger diners or adapt to current food trends. For those who enjoyed late-night pancakes and Grand Slam breakfasts, these closures signal the end of an era.
15. The Cheesecake Factory: Scaling Back the Portions
The Cheesecake Factory, famous for its oversized portions and signature cheesecakes, is set to close multiple locations in 2025. Despite its reputation for indulgent meals and a diverse menu, the chain has faced increasing pressure from more health-conscious dining trends and the rise of smaller, more specialized eateries. As the restaurant industry continues to evolve, The Cheesecake Factory finds itself struggling to keep up. Fans of its decadent desserts will be disappointed as fewer locations remain.
16. P.F. Chang’s: Asian Fusion Fare Faces Decline
P.F. Chang’s, the beloved Asian fusion chain, will close some of its locations in 2025. Once a staple for a chic dining experience with flavorful dishes, P.F. Chang’s has struggled to maintain its position in the highly competitive restaurant landscape. Increased competition from fast-casual eateries and new Asian dining concepts has chipped away at its market share. Although the brand has tried to modernize and update its menu, it hasn’t been enough to stop the closures.
17. J.C. Penney’s Restaurant: Closing the Last Bite
J.C. Penney, once a retail giant known for its department stores and in-store diners, is pulling the plug on its restaurant operations. These small, classic eateries were a mainstay for shoppers looking for a quick bite, often offering comfort foods like burgers and fries. However, with the decline of in-store shopping and changing consumer habits, the need for J.C. Penney’s dining experience has waned. The chain is transitioning into a more streamlined retail experience, leaving behind the nostalgic dining spots for good.
18. Golden Corral: All-You-Can-Eat Buffets on the Decline
Golden Corral, a mainstay of all-you-can-eat buffet dining, will shutter many of its locations in 2025. The buffet model, once incredibly popular, has faced serious challenges in recent years due to rising food costs, labor shortages, and shifting consumer preferences towards healthier, more convenient dining options. Despite efforts to adapt with new menu items and better quality food, the buffet-style dining format no longer holds the same appeal it once did. Fans of its massive salad bars and dessert spreads will be disappointed by these closures.
Updated Dec 12, 2024
