This is a chronological list of restaurants permanently closed in Manhattan, New York—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 in operation, they daily contributed to someone’s rent, provided sustenance to a hungry traveler, or formed an integral part of the community. So please join us and remember this significant aspect of our city.
With a bustling population of over 1.6 million, Manhattan, New York, is a culinary mecca nestled at the heart of the Northeastern United States. Renowned for its diverse food scene, it boasts a delightful array of local dishes such as classic New York-style pizza, bagels, and the iconic pastrami on rye. A must-visit is Katz’s Delicatessen, a historic eatery that’s been serving its famous deli sandwiches since 1888, located in the Lower East Side—a neighborhood steeped in immigrant history that has greatly influenced the area’s gastronomic offerings. The island’s geography, bordered by the Hudson and East Rivers, has historically facilitated trade and cultural exchange, enriching its food traditions and making Manhattan a vibrant hub for flavors from around the world.
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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 Addresses, operating status, and other details may be outdated or incorrect.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.
Howard Johnson’s Restaurants in Manhattan
Howard Johnson’s, affectionately known as “HoJo’s,” was a staple in American dining, recognized for its orange roofs and extensive menu. Manhattan once boasted several of these establishments:
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1551 Broadway (Times Square): This iconic location was a familiar landmark in the heart of Times Square. Known for its bright orange roof and classic diner-style offerings, it closed in 2005.
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1546 Broadway: Details about this location’s operation are limited, but it was part of the Howard Johnson’s presence in Manhattan.
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1612 Broadway: Specific opening and closing dates are unavailable, but this site contributed to the chain’s footprint in the city.
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851 8th Ave: While exact dates are not provided, this location served patrons in the Midtown area.
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Broadway and W 61st St: Another branch that added to the Howard Johnson’s network across Manhattan.
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122 E 42nd St: Situated near Grand Central Terminal, this restaurant catered to commuters and tourists alike.
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741 Lexington Ave: This location was part of the chain’s expansion throughout the city.
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617 Lexington Ave: Another Lexington Avenue spot that offered the familiar Howard Johnson’s experience.
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W 34th St & 7th Ave: Located in a bustling area, this restaurant served shoppers and Madison Square Garden attendees.
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6th Ave & Greenwich Ave: This Greenwich Village location was known to be operational around 1955, offering affordable meals to the community.
Other Notable Closed Restaurants in Manhattan
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La Grenouille (3 East 52nd Street): Established in 1962, La Grenouille was a bastion of French haute cuisine, attracting celebrities and dignitaries. It closed permanently in September 2024, marking the end of an era for classic French dining in the city.
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Tribeca Grill (375 Greenwich Street): Co-owned by Robert De Niro, this iconic establishment opened in 1990 and became a hotspot for celebrities and locals alike. After 35 years of service, it closed its doors in early 2025.
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Sushi Ichimura (412 Greenwich Street): A 10-seat omakase restaurant led by esteemed chef Eiji Ichimura, it announced its closure for mid-August 2025 due to the chef’s retirement.
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Carnegie Deli (854 7th Avenue): Famous for its towering pastrami sandwiches, this iconic deli closed in 2016 after nearly 80 years of operation.
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Four Seasons Restaurant (99 East 52nd Street): A symbol of upscale dining and power lunches, the original location closed in 2016, with a brief reopening before closing permanently in 2019.
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Cup & Saucer (89 Canal Street): A classic luncheonette that served the community for decades before closing in 2017 due to rising rents.
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Langan’s Irish Pub (150 West 47th Street): After 25 years, this beloved pub closed its doors in 2017, succumbing to the pressures of increasing operational costs.
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Le Cirque (151 East 58th Street): An iconic French restaurant known for its celebrity clientele, Le Cirque closed in 2018 after more than four decades in business.
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Sushisamba (87 7th Avenue South): This fusion restaurant blending Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisines closed its doors in 2017.
These closures reflect the ever-evolving nature of Manhattan’s culinary scene, influenced by changing tastes, economic factors, and the relentless pace of the city. While these establishments are no longer serving, their legacies continue to flavor the memories of those who dined there.
If you have fond memories or stories about these or other closed Manhattan restaurants, feel free to share them in the comments below. Let’s keep the spirit of these beloved spots alive through our shared recollections.
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