Popular New York Dining Spots Shut Down as Industry Faces Challenges

Restaurant Closures Sweep Across New York Amid Nationwide Downsizing

Photo byEvan WiseonUnsplash

TGI Fridays is closing a dozen more locations as part of its ongoing effort to streamline operations. This move follows the abrupt closure of seven restaurants in May and an additional 36 locations in January. Three of the most recent closures occurred in New York, affecting Clifton Park, Middletown, and Poughkeepsie.

"We've identified opportunities to optimize and streamline our operations to ensure we are best positioned to meet — and exceed — on that brand promise," said Ray Risley, Chief Operating Officer at TGI Fridays.

TGI Fridays, which first opened in New York City in 1965, currently operates 215 locations across the U.S., but is facing challenges along with other dining chains as inflation and changing consumer spending patterns take a toll. Red Lobster has also seen a wave of closures, and in September, one of the largest Pizza Hut franchises, EMY Pizza L.P., announced it was selling 127 stores across five states after struggling with bankruptcy.

This round of closures reflects broader industry trends as major chains grapple with economic pressure and declining customer foot traffic.

Your thoughts

Are you disappointed these locations are closing? Are you concerned about the number of restaurants closing across the nation?

Please leave your thoughts in the comments section below and share this article with others so more people can join the discussion.

To keep up with all the latest business and retail news in New York and across the United States, please click on the follow button!