This is a chronological list of restaurants permanently closed in Ames, Iowa—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.
Ames, Iowa, home to approximately 66,000 residents, is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of the Midwest, specifically in Story County. The local food scene is a delightful mix of farm-to-table freshness and hearty Midwestern comfort, with notable dishes like Maid-Rites and a strong emphasis on corn-based cuisine, reflecting the region’s rich agricultural heritage. The historic Iowa State University influences a student-driven culinary culture, fostering an array of eclectic eateries. One standout is the iconic Þai’s Kitchen, known for its authentic Thai flavors and use of locally sourced ingredients. The flat, fertile landscape not only supports diverse crops but also enhances the community’s commitment to sustainability, making Ames a fascinating place for food lovers to explore.
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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 Addresses, operating status, and other details may be outdated or incorrect.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.
Love old restaurant stories, local history, and keeping up with the places that quietly disappear? Our free weekday emails follow restaurant closures across the entire United States—one region at a time— with short stories, links, and context you won’t see in a headline. Sign up once, and you’ll get a quick tour of what closed this week, Monday through Friday.
- 🌵 Southwest Stories — Monday
Texas · New Mexico · Arizona · Oklahoma - 🌾 Midwest Farewell — Tuesday
Iowa · Illinois · Indiana · Ohio · Michigan · Minnesota · Wisconsin · Missouri · Kansas · Nebraska · North Dakota · South Dakota - 🌤 Southern Last Call — Wednesday
Louisiana · Mississippi · Alabama · Georgia · Florida · South Carolina · North Carolina · Tennessee · Kentucky · West Virginia · Arkansas - 🌊 Coastline Closings — Thursday
California · Oregon · Washington · Alaska · Hawaii - 🏔 Mountain West Report — Friday
Idaho · Montana · Wyoming · Colorado · Utah · Nevada - 🍁 New England Notes — Saturday
Maine · Vermont · New Hampshire · Massachusetts · Rhode Island · Connecticut - 🏙 Mid-Atlantic Memo — Sunday Morning
New York · New Jersey · Pennsylvania · Delaware · Maryland · Washington, D.C.
Old Chicago, located at 1610 S. Kellogg Ave., Ames, IA 50010, opened in 1998 and closed.
