This is a chronological list of restaurants permanently closed in Lawrence, Kansas—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, 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.
Lawrence, Kansas, with a vibrant population of around 100,000, is nestled in the heart of the Midwest, flanked by the scenic Kansas River and the rolling hills of the Flint Hills. Known for its eclectic food scene, the city delights in local favorites like burnt ends, a barbecue staple reflecting Kansas City’s culinary influence, and the renowned “Bison Burger.” The famous Free State Brewing Company, established in Lawrence, offers craft brews that pair perfectly with the region’s hearty fare. This area’s rich history, from its founding as a center for abolitionist activism to its current artistic renaissance, creates a unique backdrop for its culinary traditions, blending the heritage of the past with innovative, contemporary dining experiences.
Are you looking for a restaurant job in Lawrence, Kansas?
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 Addresses, operating status, and other details may be outdated or incorrect.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.
Howard Johnson’s Restaurant occupied the location at 70 Travel Plaza, Kansas Tpke, Lawrence, KS 66046. It is now a McDonald’s.
