This is a chronological list of restaurants permanently closed in San Antonio, 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, 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.
San Antonio, Texas, with a vibrant population of about 1.5 million, is a cultural melting pot renowned for its rich Tex-Mex cuisine. Nestled in the south-central region of the state, the city’s culinary scene reflects its Spanish colonial history, featuring local staples like puffy tacos, enchiladas, and barbacoa. The historic Market Square is a bustling hub for food lovers, while the famous restaurant, Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia, has been serving up traditional Mexican fare since 1941, adorned with colorful decorations and a lively atmosphere. Surrounded by the haunting beauty of the Hill Country, San Antonio’s geography offers a bounty of fresh ingredients, making the food scene both diverse and deeply rooted in its rich cultural heritage.
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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 Addresses, operating status, and other details may be outdated or incorrect.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 San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio’s restaurant scene is known for its rich culinary diversity—from Tex-Mex staples and international fusion to beloved Southern comfort food. Over the decades, the city has said farewell to a number of iconic eateries. Whether due to changing tastes, economic challenges, or the passage of time, these closed down restaurants remain etched in the memories of locals and visitors alike.
Closed Down Restaurants in the 2020s
Stixs & Stone (Closed March 2025)
A standout for its fusion of Mexican, Chinese, and Korean cuisines, this culinary gem by Chef Leo Davila closed in 2025. Davila has since become the executive chef at the historic St. Anthony Hotel, continuing his creative culinary journey.
Poppy’s Pizza (Closed March 2025)
After 11 years of slinging award-winning New York-style pies, this fan-favorite pizza joint shut its doors with heartfelt thanks to its loyal customers and staff.
Gibby’s Grill & Bar (Closed March 2025)
Started by the team behind Tia’s Taco Hut, this casual bar and grill lasted three years before closing due to financial pressures.
Pig Stand (Closed March 2025)
The last remaining location of this legendary drive-in chain closed after nearly a century in operation, marking the end of an era. The land has been sold to developers.
Thai Taste (Closed May 2024)
Located at 5520 Evers Rd, Thai Taste served authentic Thai cuisine before closing in mid-2024.
Beifang (Closed April 2024)
This Northern Chinese restaurant at 11040 I-10 ceased operations in April 2024 after years of serving unique regional dishes.
Botika (Closed August 2024)
Located at the Pearl, Botika wowed diners with its Japanese-Peruvian fusion dishes before closing in late summer 2024.
Acadiana Café (Closed 2024)
A San Antonio staple for 38 years, known for Cajun and Southern comfort food, this beloved café served its last meal in 2024.
Blue Box Bar (Closed August 2024)
Also located at the Pearl, this trendy cocktail spot closed after 12 years of business, leaving a void in the local nightlife scene.
The Rustic (Closed May 2024)
This live music venue and bar shocked patrons when it abruptly closed its doors in May.
Rio Rio Cantina (Closed January 2024)
A mainstay on the River Walk for 35 years, this vibrant Mexican restaurant closed at the beginning of 2024.
Closed Down Restaurants in the 2010s & 2000s
Spaghetti Warehouse (Closed 2020)
A long-running favorite on East Houston Street, this spacious Italian restaurant closed during the COVID-19 pandemic after over three decades of operation.
Earl Abel’s (Original Location) (Closed 2006)
Originally established in 1933, this iconic San Antonio institution was famous for its chicken-fried steak and pies. Its flagship location at Broadway and Hildebrand closed in 2006, though the brand lives on in other spots.
Kirby’s Pig Stand (Closed 2006)
As the first drive-in restaurant chain in the U.S., its final closure in 2006 marked the end of a groundbreaking legacy in American dining.
Closed Down Restaurants in the 1990s and Earlier
Furr’s Cafeteria (Closed 2021)
Known for its all-you-can-eat cafeteria-style setup, Furr’s closed all locations in 2021 following a bankruptcy filing.
Burger Chef (Multiple Locations)
Once a thriving fast-food chain, Burger Chef had several San Antonio locations, including:
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5130 S.W. Military Drive
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2415 Jamar
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6807 Military Drive
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434 S.W. Military Drive
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4319 S. New Braunfels (No specific closing date available)
These locations were eventually replaced by other businesses, but Burger Chef remains a nostalgic memory for many San Antonians.
Howard Johnson’s Restaurant (Multiple Locations)
Once a familiar stop for travelers, San Antonio had at least two Howard Johnson’s restaurant locations:
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9603 I-35
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W Clower St and San Pedro Ave
Chelsea Street Pub (Opened 1975)
Located at 2310 SW Military Dr, this pub brought a neighborhood feel and casual fare to the South Side for years.
Sambo’s Restaurant
Located at Military Drive West and West US Highway 90, this controversial restaurant chain eventually disappeared nationwide, including in San Antonio.
Hooters (Closed Date Unspecified)
The downtown Hooters at 849 East Commerce Street, Suite 105, closed its doors, leaving fans of wings and sports without one of their go-to spots.
Remembering San Antonio’s Restaurant History
San Antonio’s closed down restaurants tell a story of evolving tastes, cultural shifts, and changing neighborhoods. While these spots are no longer open, they continue to hold a special place in the hearts of locals. If you have a memory or photo from any of these places, share it—help us preserve the culinary history of San Antonio.
Want to see more stories like this? Visit ClosedDownRestaurants.com to explore restaurant histories from around the country.
