This is a chronological list of restaurants permanently closed in Midland, Texas—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 daily paid someone’s rent, provided sustenance for a hungry traveler, or were simply part of the community. So please join us and do not forget this part of our town.
Midland, Texas, a vibrant city with a population of around 140,000 nestled in the heart of the Permian Basin, offers a distinctive food scene that reflects the region’s rich oil history and diverse cultural influences. Known for its hearty Tex-Mex cuisine, locals savor dishes like enchiladas and street tacos, while the iconic chili con carne showcases the fusion of flavors that characterize West Texas. A notable dining gem is **The Barbecue Place**, where residents flock for mouthwatering brisket and smoked ribs that pay homage to the area’s cowboy heritage. Midland’s geographic position on the Southern Plains not only shapes its agricultural output but also enriches its culinary traditions, making it a destination for those eager to experience the heart of Texas comfort food.
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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 Addresses, operating status, and other details may be outdated or incorrect.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.
Recent Closures (2023–2025)
Cattle Baron – Closed in 2023. It is being remodeled and will become a Mexican fusion place sometime in the future.
El Burrito Restaurant (Closed May 2024)
Located at the corner of Andrews Highway and Cuthbert, this Midland staple served the community for 45 years. Famous for its enchiladas and friendly service, the owners thanked the public for decades of loyalty before closing the doors.
On The Border (Closed January 2024)
Situated at 4306 W Loop 250 N, this Tex-Mex chain closed unexpectedly. Twin Peaks is rumored to be opening in its place.
Johnny Carino’s (Closed 2023)
Once a go-to spot for Italian fare, Johnny Carino’s at 4711 Loop 250 Frontage Rd closed in 2023. As of May 2024, the location is still vacant but is expected to reopen as Rudy’s BBQ.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit (Closed 2023)
The Dickey’s at 600 W Wadley Ave closed in 2023. The space remains unoccupied as of May 2024.
Garlic Press (Closed 2023)
Located at 2200 W Wadley Ave #6, Garlic Press was a higher-end dining spot known for its upscale American menu. A new concept, The Palms Steakhouse, is expected to open in its place.
Librado (Closed March 2025)
Located at 4610 N Garfield, Librado offered a vibrant setting with a creative menu. Despite popularity, it closed quietly in early 2025.
Classic Midland Restaurants No Longer With Us
Mario’s Spanish Inn (Closed June 2022)
A Midland institution for over 50 years, Mario’s was a favorite for generations. The closure followed a cancer diagnosis for the owner, and the community showed overwhelming support and gratitude for the decades of service.
Sambo’s
Once located at 3211 Andrews Hwy, Sambo’s was part of a national chain known for comfort breakfasts before closing as the brand faded out.
Gardski’s Restaurant & Bar
Opened in 1984 at 4610 N Garfield St, this popular restaurant later became Jason’s Deli, which still operates at that location today.
Bennigan’s (Midkiff Location)
Bennigan’s at 4517 N Midkiff Rd was once a popular gathering place, later replaced by Genghis Grill, which has also since closed.
Longtime Favorites from the Past
Cattlemans Steakhouse – Closed in the 1990s. It is now a Kent Kwik C-Store
El Chico (Closed 1990s)
A Tex-Mex favorite known for its smothered burritos, El Chico once operated on Wadley Ave but closed in the ’90s.
Western Sizzlin’ (Closed circa 2010)
A local favorite for steaks and potatoes, it was located near Andrews Hwy and Louisiana Ave. Is now a Mexican food restaurant named Hacienda Vieja.
Golden Corral
Previously on North Midkiff, this buffet restaurant was known for its family-style dining and rolls. It was later demolished, and a Kent Kwik now occupies the site.
Grandy’s
Another chain once popular in Midland, Grandy’s served Southern homestyle dishes before quietly closing.
These closures reflect the ever-changing nature of Midland’s restaurant scene, shaped by economic challenges, changing consumer habits, and the passing of time. While these restaurants may be gone, they live on in the memories of generations of Midlanders who dined, celebrated, and gathered there.
