Eatery Known For Drag Queen Shows, Hamburger Mary's, Closing Longtime Orlando Spot: "Less Traffic"

Photo byGtj82, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

There are some eateries in Florida that offer live entertainment as part of your meal - such as the Columbia's flamenco dancers. However, the entertainment at a few Florida restaurants has been as controversial as the entertainment at Hamburger Mary's. And now, it will be shutting its doors at its current Orlando location citing a changing situation.

About Hamburger Mary's: This is a chain restaurant that, as the name implies, serves hamburgers but is also known for its brunch. There's nothing controversial about that, but what did put the eatery in the spotlight was its entertainment - which sometimes features shows like “Dining with the Divas." ABC Action News has called the chain "iconic." Fox 13 has written that the chain is known for its hamburgers and drag shows.

In May of 2023, the eatery sued the state of Florida over SB 1438, which is a law that penalizes businesses that allegedly allow children to view an "adult live performance."

Hamburger Mary's argued that the language of the bill was too vague. (In June of 2023, a federal judge would agree that the law was "vague and overbroad.")

None of this seems to bother patrons, who give Orlando Hamburger Mary's 4.5 out of 5 stars and many mention a welcoming environment. A reviewer named Madison wrote:

"Loved every moment in here from the moment we sat down! Came for Sunday brunch, and we could not have been happier with our experience. The show was awesome, and our waitress Angelica was so nice and attentive. We really felt welcomed. Will absolutely be returning soon!"

The Closure: In late May of 2024, the eatery announced it would be shutting the doors of its Orlando location as of June 2nd. It has been in this location for 16 years. An Instagram post indicated that times have changed and that downtown Orlando:

"has given way to a sleepy city with few people working downtown and opting for remote, and less traffic in the evenings."

The post says that the company is in negotiations for a new venue that will be a better fit for the brand.

Hamburger Mary's has an additional Florida location in Jacksonville as well as locations in states like California, Texas, Colorado, and Nevada.