The dining landscape is ever-changing, and as we move through 2024, some of the restaurant chains that have been staples in our communities face the daunting prospect of disappearing.

Find out which beloved spots might vanish forever from our streets in 2024!


The fate of some of your favorite restaurants hangs in the balance. The reasons are as varied as the menus they serve—lingering pandemic effects, fierce competition, and skyrocketing costs for ingredients and labor.

For some, financial troubles have been brewing for years, and now they’re hitting a boiling point, forcing tough decisions like bankruptcy.


We know these places hold memories of family dinners and special celebrations, which is why it’s with a heavy heart we reveal 15 beloved restaurant chains that may disappear from our communities in 2024.

1. TGI Fridays​

This casual dining chain, once a go-to for American fare and cocktails, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

While the 39 company-owned locations are affected, franchised restaurants remain open. The chain hopes to restructure and find strategic alternatives to keep the brand alive.

2. Oath Pizza​

Known for its unique pizza offerings, Oath Pizza has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, leading to the liquidation of the company's assets.

A legal battle among investors and an executive has left only a few franchised locations standing.

3. BurgerFi​

The parent company of BurgerFi and Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza & Wings is seeking Chapter 11 protection. With assets and liabilities both ranging in the millions, the company aims to preserve the value of its brands.

4. Roti​

This Mediterranean chain has seen better days. With a Chapter 11 filing, Roti is looking for new investors or a buyer while trying to keep its remaining 19 locations afloat.

5. World of Beer​

Once thriving during the craft beer boom, World of Beer has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The chain has closed several locations and is now focusing on its profitable ones.

6. Buca di Beppo​

This Italian chain has closed 13 locations and filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. It plans to optimize operations and enhance the dining experience at its 44 core locations.

7. Gotham Restaurant​

An iconic New York City fine dining spot, Gotham Restaurant has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. While it has temporarily halted lunch and dinner services, it's working to reopen fully.

8. Tender Greens & Tocaya​

The parent company of these two chains, One Table Restaurant Brands, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Despite financial challenges, no closures are planned for the moment.

9. Melt Bar & Grilled​

Known for gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, this Ohio-based chain has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and is closing several locations.

10. Rubio's Coastal Grill​

After a previous bankruptcy during the pandemic, Rubio's has filed again due to rising costs and declining customer visits. The chain has been sold to a new owner for $40 million.

11. Red Lobster​

The seafood giant has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy after closing dozens of locations. Fortress Investment Group is set to give the chain a new lease on life.

12. Tijuana Flats​

This Tex-Mex chain has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and closed several locations. A new owner has acquired the chain, which is undergoing restructuring.

13. Boxer​

A small Portland-based Ramen chain, Boxer has announced the closure of all its restaurants following a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing.

14. Sticky's Finger Joint​

This New York-based chicken tender chain has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy after a series of legal troubles and declining sales.

15. Popeyes​

A franchisee of this popular fast-food chain has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, citing underperforming locations and financial burdens.

In a previous story, find out which retail giants are closing stores in 2024.


For our readers, these potential closures might mean saying goodbye to some of your favorite dining spots. It's a reminder of the fragility of the restaurant industry and the impact that economic shifts can have on even the most beloved chains.

As we navigate these changes, it's also an opportunity to support local eateries and explore new culinary horizons.

Remember, while the landscape may change, the joy of a good meal and the company of loved ones will always be a recipe for happiness.

Let's cherish the moments we've had and make new ones wherever we can!
What memories do you have of these beloved chains? How do you feel about the shifting restaurant scene? Share your memories and thoughts in the comments below!