Chains, neighborhood favorites, and newer concepts disappear
The landscape of the Mountain West shifts significantly this week as Hardee’s officially exits Wyoming, shuttering its final locations in Buffalo and Gillette. In Idaho, the quiet closure of Nara Teriyaki & Wok and a pause at Koco Bell Express mark a tough week for Boise. The wave of departures extends to Missoula, where Elote Mexican Grille and 406 Frozen Yogurt have closed, while Boulder says goodbye to Bellota and Orem, Utah, prepares to lose La Brioche Argentine Bakery due to financial headwinds. This email edition was originally sent out on Jan 30th, 2026.
Our Friday edition, Mountain West Report, documents restaurant closures across the rugged landscapes of Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, and Nevada. Published every Friday, this edition reflects on how booming interior cities and quiet mountain towns alike are navigating shifting tourism cycles and changing demographics. It serves as a weekly record of the places that fed locals, travelers, and entire communities tucked between the peaks and the open road. Read more here.
