This is a chronological list of restaurants permanently closed in Memphis, Tennessee—a nostalgic look back and a helpful resource for those seeking available restaurant spaces. These are the places that we miss. This is our restaurant history. A forgotten piece of our heritage. No matter how long each of these eateries was open, they consistently contributed to someone’s rent, provided sustenance for a hungry traveler, or were an integral part of the community. So please join us and do not forget this part of our town.
Memphis, Tennessee, with a population of around 650,000, is a vibrant city located in the heart of the American South. Renowned for its rich culinary traditions, Memphis is famous for its mouthwatering barbecue, particularly the iconic Memphis-style ribs and pulled pork, often served with a tangy tomato-based sauce. The city’s food scene thrives in neighborhoods like Beale Street, which not only boasts iconic blues music but also houses popular eateries like Central BBQ, where locals and tourists alike flock for smoky, tender meats. Memphis’s unique geography, sitting near the confluence of the Mississippi River and the Arkansas border, has historically fostered diverse influences, making its cuisine a rich tapestry of Southern heritage with a dash of river town flair.
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Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided as a resource, but it may not always be 100% accurate. While we strive to research and verify details, errors can occur, and businesses frequently change names, locations, or reopen after closing. Addresses, operating status, and other details may be outdated or incorrect. Use this information at your own risk. If you spot an error, please contact us here, and we will do our best to update it promptly.
Closed Down Restaurants in Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis has long been a city of soul food, barbecue, and culinary character. Over the years, numerous iconic restaurants have closed their doors—some quietly, others with public tributes and fond farewells. This list celebrates the eateries that helped shape Memphis’s food culture before becoming part of its flavorful past.
🕯️ Recent Closures (2023–2025)
Houston’s Restaurant
📍 5000 Poplar Ave.
Closed suddenly in December 2024. The upscale steakhouse cited safety concerns as a contributing factor.
Kooky Canuck
📍 1250 N Germantown Pkwy #123, Cordova
Closed in early 2024. Known for massive burgers and Canadian comfort food.
Muggin Coffeehouse
📍 606 N Main Street
Closed in October 2024. A cozy community gathering spot known for its laid-back vibe and locally roasted coffee.
Cafe Keough
📍 Downtown Memphis
Closed December 21, 2024. A favorite café for locals and downtown professionals alike.
Knifebird
📍 Midtown
Closed in 2024. A hip wine bar and neighborhood hangout that first opened in 2019.
Zopita’s on the Square
📍 114 N Main Street, Collierville
Closed in October 2024. A charming spot for Italian fare.
Staks Kitchen
📍 3660 S Houston Levee Rd, Suite 104, Collierville
Closed in 2024. Known for scratch-made breakfast and brunch.
Bishop
📍 Central Station Hotel
Closed in 2024. A French-inspired restaurant with a modern Southern twist.
Frank Grisanti’s
📍 East Memphis
Closed in 2024. A long-running family-owned Italian institution.
Dory
📍 East Memphis
Closed in 2024. Lauded for its farm-to-table tasting menus.
Maximo’s on Broad
📍 Broad Avenue Arts District
Closed in 2024. Eclectic American cuisine with rotating dishes.
SupperClub on Second
📍 Downtown
Closed in 2024. A lounge-style dining spot known for elevated comfort food.
117 Prime
📍 Downtown
Closed in 2024. One of the city’s few traditional steakhouses.
Bounty on Broad
📍 Broad Avenue
Closed in 2024. Famous for upscale Southern cooking and its gluten-free menu.
Hooters
📍 7535 Winchester Rd
Closed in 2024. Another national chain departure from the Memphis area.
🕰️ Notable Past Closures
Spaghetti Warehouse
📍 Downtown
Closed in November 2017 after 30 years. Known for massive portions and brick-walled charm.
Jillian’s
📍 Peabody Place
Closed in 2009. A nightlife and arcade venue popular in the 2000s.
Anderton’s Restaurant
📍 Midtown
Closed in 2005. Famous for its seafood and mid-century neon signage.
Britling Cafeteria
📍 Various Locations
Closed by the early 1980s. Once a Memphis tradition for hearty, cafeteria-style meals.
Rizzo’s Diner
📍 Downtown
Now closed. Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives for its innovative Southern fare.
Three Angels Diner
📍 Broad Avenue
Closed after national TV fame. Once a go-to for homey meals and brunch.
The Elegant Farmer
📍 Highland Strip
Also featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Now permanently closed.
Top of the 100
📍 100 North Main
Once a revolving restaurant with skyline views. Closed decades ago but remembered fondly.
🍔 Classic Chain and Local Favorites
G.D. Ritzy’s
📍 2520 Mt. Moriah
Now a Jack Pirtle’s Chicken. Once a retro-themed burger and custard joint.
Burger Chef (Multiple Locations)
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📍 153 Cleveland Blvd – Closed April 6, 1979
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📍 2500 Central – Closed March 1, 1979
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📍 3701 Lamar – Closed March 1, 1979
Part of a once-thriving fast-food chain that left Memphis decades ago.
Chelsea Street Pub
📍 4430 American Way
Closed in the early 1990s. Became Emerson’s Restaurant & Bar before the mall was demolished in 2004.
Hooters (Multiple Locations)
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📍 2653 Mt. Moriah – Closed in 2007
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📍 7535 Winchester Rd – Closed in 2024
The national chain once had several outposts across Memphis.
Whether it was fried ravioli from Grisanti’s, massive mugs at Spaghetti Warehouse, or late-night coffee at Cafe Keough, these restaurants were more than businesses—they were part of the Memphis experience. If you have memories or photos from these spots, we’d love to hear from you.
