This is a chronological list of restaurants permanently closed in Abilene, Texas—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 were open, on a daily basis they paid someone’s rent, provided sustenance for a hungry traveler, or were just part of the community. So please join us and do not forget this part of our town.

Abilene, Texas, nestled in the heart of the West Central region, boasts a vibrant food scene that reflects its rich cultural heritage and local agriculture. With a population of around 125,000, the city features a delightful array of culinary options, including classic Texas barbecue and hearty chicken-fried steak. One notable local dish is the “Abilene Steak,” a tender cut often sourced from nearby ranches. A must-visit eatery is the acclaimed “Perini Ranch Steakhouse,” known for its rustic charm and mouthwatering steaks that celebrate the region’s ranching history. Surrounded by rolling plains and close to the scenic Texas Hill Country, Abilene’s geography lends itself well to the farming traditions that influence its delicious food scene.

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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 Addresses, operating status, and other details may be outdated or incorrect.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 Abilene, Texas

Abilene has long been home to comfort food classics, family-run diners, and cherished gathering spots. Over the years, some of the city’s most beloved restaurants have closed their doors—some after decades of service, others more recently. This post celebrates those now-gone favorites that once brought the community together.

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🕯️ Recent Closures (2023–2025)

Gloria’s Grill

📍 228 Chestnut St.
Closed: March 2024
A downtown gem across from the Taylor County Courthouse, Gloria’s was known for its warm hospitality and down-home dishes. It earned a 4.7-star rating before closing.

Blip Diner

📍 121 Main Street
Closed: February 2024
Famous for its cornbread, Blip Diner was a simple favorite. The building was previously a Walmart and now sits empty again.

TaMolly’s of Abilene

📍 4400 Ridgemont Dr. #2716
Closed: 2023
A longtime Tex-Mex staple loved for its enchiladas and margaritas.

La Stazione Abilene

📍 901 N 1st St. (Inside the T&P Event Center)
Closed: February 2023
Known for its Italian fare and unique train-station vibe. It struggled with consistency and closed with a modest 3.4-star rating.

Don Luis Cafe

📍 Multiple Locations
Closed: January 2025
A staple for Mexican food in the city, Don Luis shuttered both locations, possibly including the former Gardski’s Loft location.

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🐟 Seafood Tavern Timeline – One Address, Many Lives

📍 1882 S Clack St.

• Steak and Ale (1980–1989) – The original restaurant at this address.

• Oxford Street Restaurant and Pub (1989–2003) – Closed in June 2003.

• Bedford Street Restaurant Pub (2003–2005) – A brief run.

• Abilene Seafood Tavern (2008–2017) – The last tenant, which closed after nearly a decade of seafood service.

The building was ultimately demolished in late 2024.

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🍔 Classic Closures & Chain Locations

Burger Chef

📍 934 N Mockingbird Ln
Once a fast-food favorite, this location is now a Domino’s Pizza.

Chelsea Street Pub

📍 4310 Buffalo Gap Rd
Opened: 1978
Closed: 2016
A bar and grill mainstay for nearly four decades.

K-Bob’s Steakhouse

📍 1149 E N 10th St
Opened: 1977
A Texas-born chain known for steaks and a casual, Western-style atmosphere.

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📜 Notable Past Closures

Gardski’s Loft

📍 3370 N 1st St
Opened: 1980
A popular hangout for Abilene locals in the ’80s and ’90s. It may have later become a Don Luis Cafe.

Mack Eplen’s Drivateria

A slice of Abilene history, this drive-in style eatery was a symbol of midcentury roadside dining.

Harold’s Bar-B-Q

Renowned for its smoky barbecue and casual vibe. A longtime local favorite.

Spaghetti Warehouse

Part of a national chain, this Italian-American restaurant once served family-style pasta in a nostalgic atmosphere.

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Abilene’s restaurant scene continues to evolve, but the spirit of these establishments lives on in memories, photos, and the stories told over home-cooked meals. If you have memories or mementos from any of these places, we’d love to hear from you.