This is a chronological list of restaurants permanently closed in Indianapolis, Indiana—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.
Indianapolis, with a population of over 800,000, is situated in the heart of the Midwest, where it boasts a vibrant food scene that reflects its rich history and diverse culture. Known for its love of comfort food, notable local dishes include the iconic pork tenderloin sandwich and the creamy, corn-rich Indianapolis-style chowder. The city’s culinary landscape is further enriched by its proximity to local farms and an array of artisanal producers. A standout in the dining realm is St. Elmo Steak House, famous for its shrimp cocktail and Butcher’s cut steak, which has been a beloved staple since 1902, embodying the city’s tradition of hearty fare. The geography of Indianapolis, bordered by fertile farmland and the White River, has historically shaped its access to fresh ingredients, making farm-to-table dining a significant part of the local ethos.
Are you looking for a restaurant job in Indianapolis, Indiana?
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 Addresses, operating status, and other details may be outdated or incorrect.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 Indianapolis, Indiana
From Broad Ripple to Shadeland Ave — a table of memories set and cleared.
Indianapolis has seen countless restaurants come and go, each leaving its own flavor on the city’s culinary history. From steakhouse chains and fast-casual favorites to quirky local haunts and iconic diners, these places made Indy feel like home.
Here’s a curated list of notable closed-down restaurants in Indianapolis, organized by decade for easy exploring.
2020s
Red Lobster (1752 Shadeland Ave)
Closed: May 2024
One of several nationwide closures from the seafood chain. A longtime staple on Indy’s east side.
Applebee’s (6110 E 82nd St)
Closed: 2024
This location took over the former Chi-Chi’s but ended its run in 2024. The space is currently vacant.
Joella’s Hot Chicken (Broad Ripple)
Closed: January 2025
This spicy fried chicken joint shuttered after serving the neighborhood since 2018.
Gallery Pastry Shop (North College Avenue)
Closed: January 2025
Known for European-style brunch and sweets. This was the brand’s final Indy location.
Buca di Beppo (Castleton Square)
Closed: Late 2024
Part of a larger wave of closings for the Italian-American chain.
Mimi Blue (Mass Ave)
Closed: 2024
Famous for meatballs and sliders, the closure followed the 2023 shuttering of its Keystone location.
Blupoint Coastal Kitchen
Closed: 2024
Meridian-Kessler’s local seafood favorite closed after five years.
9 Irish Brothers (Mass Ave)
Closed: 2024
This lively Irish pub was a go-to for beer, music, and fish & chips.
2010s
Scotty’s Brewhouse
Closed: 2018–2019
Multiple locations shuttered following the chain’s bankruptcy filing. Once a local favorite for beer and burgers.
Don Pablo’s (3824 E 82nd St)
Closed: 2013
Replaced by Panera Bread. One of two Don Pablo’s that once operated in Indy.
Don Pablo’s (8150 US 31 S)
Closed: 2014
Now home to Portillo’s.
Hooters (6426 E 82nd St)
Closed: Date unknown
This northside location has since closed, marking the end of a recognizable chain in the area.
2000s
Chi-Chi’s (Multiple Locations)
Closed in early 2000s or earlier:
-
6110 E 82nd St – Later became Applebee’s (now vacant)
-
7720 Old Trails Rd – Now a fireworks stand
-
8920 Wesleyan Rd – Now a Mexican restaurant
-
6102 W 38th St – Now a buffet
Ground Round (729 W County Line Rd)
Closed: February 2004
Now a Jared Jewelers.
1990s and Earlier
Ground Round (2816 E 38th St)
Opened: 1973
Later replaced by Body Gear, now closed.
Ground Round (6000 National Rd E, Richmond, IN)
Operated as: Ground Round in 1997, later renamed “The Underground” and located inside the Holiday Inn.
Max & Erma’s (8930 Wesleyan Rd)
Closed: 1977
The site is now a hotel.
Howard Johnson’s Restaurants (Multiple Locations)
A former roadside staple, Howard Johnson’s had several Indy locations, most now repurposed or demolished:
-
2141 N Post Rd – Status unknown
-
2602 N High School Rd – Open in 1974; now El Rodeo 5
-
501 W Washington St – Open in 1974; now TGI Fridays
-
South I-465 & Harding St – Info unavailable
-
7000 W Washington St – Now Dish Latino and Bakery Riode La Plata
-
Unspecified address – Replaced by various unnamed businesses
Miscellaneous
Big Bite (2101 E 62nd St)
Closed: Date unknown
No successor listed.
The Glass Chimney (Carmel)
Closed: Early 2000s
A fine dining staple for 32 years, beloved for its European cuisine.
Loon Lake Lodge (Castleton)
Closed: 2010
Known for rustic decor and exotic meats, this closure ended a 122-year run of Laughner family restaurants in Indiana.
Final Thoughts
Whether you remember sharing pizzas at Don Pablo’s or meatballs at Mimi Blue, these places were more than restaurants—they were where memories were made. Indianapolis continues to grow, but part of what makes the present rich is remembering what came before.
Have photos, menus, or memories of any of these spots?
Visit ClosedDownRestaurants.com and share your story!
Comments