The restaurant world is no stranger to change, but 2025 looks particularly rough for some of America’s most iconic chains. Beloved dining spots are closing locations or potentially disappearing entirely. Let’s take a look at the chains that won’t be as easy to find next year.
1. Denny’s
The 24-hour diner known for its Grand Slams and Moons Over My Hammy is shuttering 150 locations. Many of these closures are focused on underperforming branches too outdated to remodel. Post-pandemic dining habits have also led Denny’s to rethink its once-signature 24/7 hours, putting the chain on unstable footing for the future.
2. Red Lobster
The home of cheddar bay biscuits plans to close nearly 100 locations. With rising seafood costs and increasing competition, Red Lobster is struggling to keep up. These closures are part of broader efforts to streamline the brand’s operations.
3. Pizza Hut
Several Pizza Hut locations in the Midwest are shutting down as the chain continues to face pressure from fast-casual competitors and delivery-focused startups. This once-dominant chain has been gradually scaling back its dine-in presence.
4. Applebee’s
Applebee’s, the quintessential casual dining chain, continues its trend of strategic closures in underperforming markets. Rising costs and a shift toward takeout have made it harder for some locations to stay viable.
5. Ruby Tuesday
Ruby Tuesday has been in a gradual decline for years. 2025 will see further closures as the chain struggles to compete with modernized competitors and changing dining trends.
6. TGI Friday’s
While it’s still hanging on, TGI Friday’s has been forced to downsize its footprint in recent years. It’s struggling to maintain relevance in an era where traditional sit-down dining is less popular.
7. Friendly’s
Famous for its ice cream and classic diner food, Friendly’s has been closing locations for years. With younger generations less drawn to its nostalgic appeal, the chain’s future remains uncertain.
8. Perkins
Perkins is a breakfast favorite, but with financial challenges and an aging customer base, the chain has struggled to stay relevant. Several locations are expected to close by the end of next year.
9. Boston Market
Known for its rotisserie chicken, Boston Market’s footprint has been shrinking steadily. High operating costs and competition from fast-casual chains like Chipotle have made survival difficult.
10. Old Country Buffet
Once a staple for all-you-can-eat dining, Old Country Buffet’s remaining locations are dwindling fast. The buffet concept has struggled to recover in the post-pandemic world.
11. Golden Corral
Golden Corral’s buffet-style dining is facing similar challenges to Old Country Buffet. Several underperforming locations are expected to close in 2025 as the chain attempts to adapt.
12. Subway
Though still a giant in the fast-food industry, Subway is closing hundreds of locations as part of a restructuring effort. Franchise struggles and competition from rivals like Jimmy John’s and Firehouse Subs have taken a toll.
13. Steak ‘n Shake
Steak ‘n Shake’s hybrid fast-food and sit-down dining model has been difficult to sustain, leading to widespread closures in recent years that are set to continue.
14. Joe’s Crab Shack
Joe’s Crab Shack’s casual seafood dining experience hasn’t resonated as well with modern diners, leading to the closure of several locations in 2025.
15. Del Taco
Despite a strong regional following, Del Taco is scaling back its locations in certain markets. Competition from larger Mexican fast-food chains like Taco Bell has made growth difficult.
16. Fuddruckers
Known for its customizable burgers, Fuddruckers has been gradually disappearing from the map. Financial troubles and limited market presence have forced the chain to shutter more locations.
17. Quiznos
Quiznos was once a major player in the sandwich game, but years of declining sales and stiff competition have led to further closures. By 2025, its presence will be nearly nonexistent.
18. Souplantation/Sweet Tomatoes
While these buffet-style salad bars have tried to make a comeback, several locations are still slated to close due to the lingering effects of the pandemic and shifting customer preferences.
