This is a chronological list of restaurants permanently closed in Colorado Springs, Colorado—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, offered sustenance for a hungry traveler, or simply became a part of the community. So please join us and remember this part of our town.
Nestled at the foot of the stunning Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs boasts a vibrant food scene reflective of its diverse population of over 480,000 residents. The region’s rich agricultural heritage shines through in dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients, such as bison burgers and green chili, a spicy staple that warms both body and soul. Notable dining establishments like the acclaimed *The Broadmoor* offer a taste of luxury with their gourmet interpretations of traditional Colorado fare. The city’s unique geography not only lends itself to breathtaking views but also provides fresh produce and game that inspire its culinary landscape, making Colorado Springs a hidden gem for food lovers and adventurers alike.
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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 Addresses, operating status, and other details may be outdated or incorrect.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 Colorado Springs, Colorado
A Look Back at the Restaurants That Fed the Front Range
Colorado Springs has seen decades of growth—and with that, a continually evolving restaurant scene. From local favorites to big-name chains, many establishments that once helped define the city’s flavor have since closed their doors. Here’s a chronological look at the most memorable closures.
2020s
Mountain Shadows Restaurant
Location: Old Colorado City
Closure Date: December 2024
A breakfast institution, Mountain Shadows closed after decades of comfort food and community memories.
FH Beerworks & Neat Whiskey House
Location: Colorado Springs, CO
Closure Date: End of 2024
Husband-wife duo Travis and Nikki Fields bid farewell to both venues in 2024, ending a notable chapter in local craft beer and spirits.
Drifter’s Hamburgers
Closure Date: Late 2024
A cult-favorite burger spot closed quietly. Locals found the drive-thru blocked and the business shuttered.
Havana Grill (Formerly Chi-Chi’s)
Location: 2165 Academy Pl
Opened: 2019 | Closed: 2024
After several iterations—from Chi-Chi’s to Crystal Rose—Havana Grill opened in 2019 and closed in 2024. The building is now home to BC’s Barbecue.
Munchies 719
Closure Date: December 31, 2024
This restaurant closed with a farewell New Year’s Eve party, leaving behind flavorful memories.
Momma Pearl’s Cajun Kitchen
Closure Date: 2024
A local favorite bringing Louisiana-style cuisine to the Rockies, Momma Pearl’s served its last gumbo in 2024.
Wild Goose Meeting House
Closure Date: 2024
An artistic hub known for coffee, beer, and community gatherings, Wild Goose Meeting House shut down to much local heartbreak.
The Perk Downtown
Closure Date: 2024
Downtown’s oldest coffeehouse served its final espresso in 2024, closing after years as a community staple.
Cy’s Drive-In
Closure Date: 2024
A nostalgic 1950s-style diner experience faded out in 2024.
Springs Orleans
Closure Date: 2024
This New Orleans-inspired eatery closed its doors, ending its French Quarter-style chapter downtown.
Wing Zone, 3E’s Comedy Club, Nova Nightclub, and The Well all also closed in 2024, marking a year of major transitions in the local dining and entertainment scene.
2010s
Old Chicago (Downtown)
Location: 118 N Tejon St
Opened: 1998 | Closed: 2016
This beer-and-pizza joint was a popular pregame or late-night stop until its 2016 closure.
Denny’s (Multiple Locations)
Closure Date: June 2017
Eight Denny’s locations across Colorado—including Colorado Springs—closed abruptly when the franchisee failed to pay back taxes.
2000s and Earlier (Including 1970s)
Burger Chef
Location: 511 S Nevada Ave
Opened: April 12, 1969
Status: Now a convenience store
Burger Chef was once the second-largest fast-food chain in the U.S. Known for innovations like the “Works Bar,” it closed its local chapter decades ago.
Chi-Chi’s (Original)
Location: 2165 Academy Pl
Closure Date: 2012
The last Chi-Chi’s in Colorado closed in 2012. It became the Crystal Rose event venue before transforming into Havana Grill and, now, BC’s Barbecue.
Howard Johnson’s (4608 Rusina Rd)
Status: Now Arceo’s Mexican Restaurant
One of several Howard Johnson’s locations that dotted the city in the 1970s and ’80s.
Howard Johnson’s (900 E Fillmore St)
Opened: 1975
Status: Now Omelette Parlor
This location once seated 120 in the dining room and 62 in the lounge. Today, it serves hearty breakfasts under a different name.
Bennigan’s
Location: 2540 Tenderfoot Hill St
Status: Now a different American-style restaurant
Famous for its Monte Cristo sandwiches and Irish pub ambiance, this Bennigan’s disappeared along with many others across the U.S.
Final Thoughts
From neon-lit burger joints to white-tablecloth steakhouses, Colorado Springs’ dining history reflects the city’s personality and pace of change. Though these places may be gone, they remain a part of the city’s culinary memory.
For more stories, historical photos, and to share your own restaurant memories, visit Closed Down Restaurants.com.
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