Favorite Florida Burger Place Closed Because Wages and Costs Went Up

Photo byGoogle reviews

If you’ve been enjoying the vibrant food scene in Thornton Park, you might have heard some bittersweet news—Graffiti Junktion, the spot known for its top-notch burgers and laid-back vibe, has officially closed. After 16 years of serving up some of the best burgers in Orlando, the eatery has said its goodbyes. Here’s a closer look at why this cherished spot is shutting down and what it means for the community.

For those who might not be familiar, Graffiti Junktion was a favorite hangout in Thornton Park, renowned for its hormone-free Angus beef burgers, milkshakes, nachos, wings, wraps, and zucchini fries. With a solid 4.3-star rating on Google reviews, it was clear that this place had a lot of fans.

Owner Greg Peters didn’t shy away from explaining why Graffiti Junktion had to close its doors on July 28th. According to Peters, the challenges were multi-faceted: “The costs of upgrading the facility, combined with the high costs of labor and the overall economy, made it an untenable situation. The increase in minimum wage, inflation, high gas prices, and soaring rent all add up.” Peters highlighted that while one of these factors might be manageable, the combination made it extremely difficult to keep the business afloat.

It’s a tough reality that many independent restaurants are facing these days. Even large chains are feeling the pinch, making it even tougher for smaller, locally-owned spots like Graffiti Junktion.

For those who are heartbroken about the closure, there’s a silver lining. Graffiti Junktion isn’t completely disappearing—there are still two other locations you can visit: one on Curry Ford Road in Orlando and another on 5th Avenue North in Jacksonville Beach. So, if you’re craving that famous burger or those delicious wings, you’ve got a couple of alternatives to check out.

The closure of Graffiti Junktion is a reminder of the challenges many local businesses are facing today. While it’s sad to see a beloved spot go, the remaining locations give us a chance to continue enjoying what made this place so special. If you’ve got any memories or favorite dishes from Graffiti Junktion, feel free to share them below. And remember, supporting local businesses is more important now than ever!