Skip to content

Revitalized Desires for 7 Defunct Restaurant Chains That Previously Crumbled

Restaurant enthusiasts yearn for the return of Chi-Chi's and Farrell's, two classic eateries that left a lasting impression.

Returned Restaurant Chains Devotees Pine For Their Revival
Returned Restaurant Chains Devotees Pine For Their Revival

Revitalized Desires for 7 Defunct Restaurant Chains That Previously Crumbled

Many of us have fond memories of dining at restaurants that are no longer with us. Here, we take a trip down memory lane to reminisce about some defunct restaurant chains that still hold a special place in our hearts.

Woolworths

Though not strictly a restaurant, Woolworths was remembered for its food, particularly the turkey dinners and grilled cheese. One Redditor fondly recalls the pickle slices and frilly toothpicks that accompanied the grilled cheese sandwiches.

The Ground Round

The Ground Round was another restaurant chain that many customers still reminisce about. One Redditor has fond memories of watching cartoons, throwing peanut shells on the floor, and later drinking at the quasi-sports bar. Another Redditor recalls the excitement of their ice cream sundaes coming in a little baseball hat and their mother's preference for the taco salad in the tortilla bowl.

Farrell's Ice Cream

Farrell's Ice Cream was a beloved restaurant chain, and one that still brings a sense of nostalgia to many. One Redditor attended many birthday parties at Farrell's and recalls everyone eating out of the same giant bowl of ice cream. Another misses the excitement of the ice cream being brought out on a stretcher, complete with fire truck noises. Sadly, Farrell's Ice Cream closed down completely in 2019.

Chi-Chi's

Chi-Chi's, a defunct Mexican restaurant chain, holds a special place in the hearts of many, often associated with childhood memories. One Redditor has fond memories of the Fried Ice Cream and unlimited cola.

Steak & Ale

Steak & Ale, a former restaurant chain, is missed for its salad bar and faux-British decor. Another fan misses the chain's steak and mac and cheese, particularly the location near them that did a good business until the company went bankrupt.

Ponderosa

Ponderosa, a chain restaurant from the 90s, is fondly remembered for its mac and cheese and steak. One Redditor has fond memories of the good steak at Ponderosa and laments that it's been a long time since they've had a real good steak.

Friendly's

Friendly's is currently in decline, and fans are preemptively mourning its demise. One fan grew up in the home of Friendly's ice cream, and their favorite is still the peppermint stick ice cream, but they are bummed out that it's 'seasonal' now.

Swing Kitchen and Wienerwald

Seven closed restaurant chains that fans might still wish to return include notable examples such as the vegan burger chain Swing Kitchen and the chicken-focused Wienerwald. Both chains faced insolvency and closed multiple locations in Germany and Austria.

As we look back on these closed restaurant chains, it's clear that they hold a special place in our hearts and memories. Whether it's the food, the atmosphere, or the experiences we shared, these restaurants will always be remembered fondly.

Read also:

Latest