This is a chronological list of restaurants permanently closed in Orlando, Florida—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.
Orlando, Florida, with a vibrant population of over 290,000, is nestled in the heart of Central Florida and is known for its dynamic food scene that mirrors its diverse culture. A melting pot of flavors, the city boasts notable local dishes such as the Cuban sandwich, often enjoyed in nearby neighborhoods with rich Hispanic heritage. One must-visit restaurant is Zona Fresca, famed for its fresh, authentic burritos and tacos, reflecting Florida’s coastal influences. The region’s history as a former citrus hub adds a unique twist to its culinary offerings, with locally sourced ingredients often finding their way into innovative dishes. Coupled with Orlando’s proximity to lush farmland and the picturesque lakes that dot its landscape, the city serves up a delightful blend of tradition and modern gastronomy.
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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 Addresses, operating status, and other details may be outdated or incorrect.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 Orlando, Florida
A Nostalgic Look at the Places That Fed the City Beautiful
From bustling chains on Colonial Drive to one-of-a-kind sandwich shops in Winter Park, Orlando’s food scene has always been diverse and dynamic. Over the decades, restaurants have come and gone—each leaving behind a trail of memories, flavors, and sometimes, questions. Here’s a chronological look back at some of Orlando’s most memorable restaurant closures.
2020s
Red Lobster (Multiple Locations)
Closed: May 2024
As part of a nationwide closure wave, three Orlando Red Lobsters shut their doors:
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3552 East Colonial Drive
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7373 W Colonial Drive
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8003 Golden Sky Lane
2010s
Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria
Closed: October 4, 2024
A Milk District staple, known for creative sandwiches and community vibes.
Ethos Vegan Kitchen
Closed: September 2024
A trailblazer for vegan dining in Central Florida, Ethos operated for 17 years in Winter Park.
Kappy’s Subs
Closed: September 2024 (Maitland)
After 57 years, the iconic sub shop closed due to leasing issues.
Alex’s Fresh Kitchen (Casselberry)
Closed: September 8, 2024
A local favorite known for scratch-made breakfasts and fresh lunches.
DaJen Eats
Closed: 2024
Famous for Caribbean vegan comfort food, this Eatonville-based concept left a unique flavor legacy.
Garden Bistro (Thornton Park)
Closed: 2024
A weekend brunch hotspot, known for its lively drag shows and patio seating.
Financier Cafe & Bistro (Winter Park)
Closed: 2024
A French-inspired New York transplant, Financier brought elegant charm to Park Avenue.
Farm & Haus
Closed: 2024
Once a popular healthy lunch and breakfast provider at East End Market and Mills 50.
Graffiti Junktion (Multiple Locations)
Closed: 2024
Known for burgers, beer, and loud decor, several locations shut down amid industry shifts.
Valkyrie Doughnuts
Closed: 2024
Beloved for its vegan doughnuts and cult following, especially in the UCF area.
Hamburger Mary’s (Downtown Orlando)
Closed: 2024
A go-to spot for drag shows and burgers, Mary’s was a vibrant part of downtown nightlife.
Linda’s Winter Park Diner
Closed: 2024
This cozy diner was a community favorite until rising rents pushed it out.
1990s
Chi-Chi’s
Location: 7423 S Orange Blossom Trail
Open: 1989 | Closed: 1995
A once-popular national Mexican chain, known for its colorful atmosphere and sizzling fajitas.
1980s
The Fresher Cooker (Multiple Locations)
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6000 South Orange Blvd – Closed: 1984
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4225 E Colonial Dr – Closed: 1984 (Now a Taco Bell)
Part of a small Central Florida chain that emphasized fresh, casual American fare.
1970s
Arthur Treacher’s Fish & Chips
All opened in 1977:
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2107 W Colonial Dr – Now a Peruvian restaurant
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4007 E Colonial Dr – Now a car wash
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7145 S Orange Blossom Trail – Now a Wheel store
Dunkin’ Donuts
Opened: 1977
Location: 200 S Orange Ave
Kilroy’s
Opened: 1977
Location: 5101 E Colonial Dr
Trailway Lounge
Opened: 1977
Location: 1108 S Orange Blossom Trail
Howard Johnson’s Restaurant Locations (Closed Dates Vary)
The orange-roofed legend had a strong presence throughout Orlando, especially during the 1970s–1990s. Known for fried clams and 28 ice cream flavors, most locations are now repurposed or demolished.
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603 Lee Rd – Hotel now closed
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Florida Turnpike at Exit 85 – No data available
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5933 Caravan Ct – Now a TGI Fridays
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8020 International Dr – Occupancy unknown
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I-4 & W Colonial Dr – No details available
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2014 W Colonial Dr – Now Taste of Chengdu
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201 S Orange Blossom Trail – Location unclear
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8820 S Orange Blossom Trail – No follow-up tenants known
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2415 N Orange Ave – No data available
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2901 E Colonial Dr – Now a strip mall
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Unspecified Locations – Records mention multiple other HoJo’s that rotated through businesses after closing.
Bennigan’s (2 Locations)
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7630 S Orange Blossom Trail – Now Auto Zone
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7055 S Semoran Blvd – Now Sonny’s BBQ
G.D. Ritzy’s (2 Locations)
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1125 S Semoran Blvd – Now Oh! Que Bueno Restaurant
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1600 S Orange Ave – Now the Orlando Health Pulse Memorial Paver Garden
Other Notable Closures (No Dates Provided)
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Scotch ’N Sirloin (W Flagler St & NW 47th Ct) – Now home to other businesses
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Tony’s Fish Market – Location unclear
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Yumbrella (6600 S Red Rd, Coral Gables) – Closed
Final Thoughts
Orlando’s restaurant history is as eclectic as its theme parks and neighborhoods. From Chi-Chi’s and Arthur Treacher’s to Pom Pom’s and Ethos, each place left its mark—not just on plates, but on hearts.
To explore more local restaurant memories or share your own, visit ClosedDownRestaurants.com.
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