This is a chronological list of restaurants permanently closed in Tucson, Arizona—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.
Tucson, Arizona, with a population of around 550,000, is a vibrant culinary oasis nestled in the Sonoran Desert. Recognized as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, it boasts a rich tapestry of flavors reflecting its Indigenous, Mexican, and colonial Spanish influences. Local specialties like the iconic Sonoran hot dog and mole dishes celebrate this diverse heritage. The city is also famous for its prickly pear products and has a thriving food tradition centered around harvests from its unique desert environment. One standout is Café Poca Cosa, known for its creative daily specials that showcase fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Tucson’s dynamic food scene is further enriched by its stunning desert landscape and history, which have shaped the region’s agricultural practices and culinary innovations for centuries.
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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 Addresses, operating status, and other details may be outdated or incorrect.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.
Famous Closed-Down Restaurants in Tucson, Arizona
Tucson, Arizona, has a rich culinary history with many beloved restaurants that have closed their doors over the decades. Here’s a look back at some of the most iconic spots that are no longer part of the city’s dining scene:
1970s:
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Chelsea Street Pub (1975 – ?): Located at 5870 E Broadway Blvd, this pub was a popular gathering place known for its casual atmosphere and live music. It remained a staple for many years before closing.
- Howard Johnson Restaurant (Date Unknown): Located at 1025 E Benson Hwy, the connected hotel remains as a motel, but the restaurant itself is long gone. The spot was previously occupied by Yoly’s Mexico Grande Restaurant.
1990s:
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Kenny Rogers Roasters (1995 – ?): This popular chain, known for its rotisserie chicken, was located at 7189 E Speedway Blvd. It is now a First Watch breakfast restaurant.
2000s:
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Evangelo’s (Closed in 2007): A cozy and beloved local spot that shuttered during the mid-2000s.
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Metro Grill at Park Place (Closed in 2007): Known for its diverse menu and friendly service.
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Famous Sam’s on 29th Street (Closed in 2007): A well-known sports bar and grill that locals loved.
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Apple Farm & Bakery (Closed in 2007): Famous for its baked goods and homestyle meals.
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Bennigan’s (Closed in 2008): Located at 350 S Freeway, this was the last Bennigan’s in Arizona. It was converted into banquet space at an adjoining hotel, and a new hotel restaurant opened the same day.
2010s:
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Café Poca Cosa (Closed in 2017): Known for its upscale Mexican cuisine, this iconic downtown spot was beloved for its ever-changing menu.
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La Salsa (Closed in 2018): A fast-casual Mexican eatery that withdrew from Tucson.
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Hooters (Closed in 2016): Located at 6335 East Tanque Verde, the popular sports bar closed its doors after years of serving up wings and beer.
2020s:
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Souplantation/Sweet Tomatoes (Closed in 2020): Known for its buffet-style dining, the chain closed all locations, including Tucson, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill (Closed in 2014): Located at Tucson Mall, it closed suddenly after an eviction.
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Alejandro’s Serious Mexican, Mariscos & Fusion Food (Closed in 2024): A mix of traditional and fusion cuisine that lasted only two years.
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Barbizza’s (Closed in 2024): This barbecue and pizza spot opened in late 2023 but couldn’t survive more than three months.
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Blush Restaurant (Closed in 2024): A retro-themed nightclub and eatery on Fourth Avenue.
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Eegee’s (Closed in 2024): A local favorite known for its frozen fruit drinks, which filed for bankruptcy and abruptly closed multiple locations.
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Old Chicago (Closed in 2020): Located at 2960 N. Campbell Ave., this pizza and beer spot had been a popular hangout since 1998.
Why Did They Close?
The reasons behind these closures vary widely, from financial difficulties and changing tastes to unexpected disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic. Some spots simply couldn’t keep up with rising operational costs or shifts in customer preferences, while others faced sudden issues like eviction or corporate bankruptcy.
Despite their closures, these restaurants remain fondly remembered as cherished parts of Tucson’s vibrant food scene.
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