A BELOVED steakhouse has set its sights on permanently shutting down after over five decades to the dismay of diners.
As the award-winning restaurant prepares to close for good, it is pleading with customers to be patient during its last few days of operation.
A beloved steakhouse is closing its doors for good after over 50 years[/caption]
The popular steakhouse’s impending closure sparked much disappointment among loyal fans[/caption]
The restaurant industry has been hit hard by macroeconomic pressures, including high inflation, rising operational costs, labor shortages, and shifting consumer habits.
Closures and bankruptcies have swept the food industry as a result, hitting longstanding national chains from Applebee’s and On the Border to Bahama Breeze, Jack In the Box, and Denny’s.
The industry-wide challenges are likewise impacting local spots, pushing the closure of a popular steakhouse after 51 years in operation.
Colonial Steak House, an award-winning restaurant in Pine Bluff, Arkansas – roughly 40 miles southeast of Little Rock – will shut off its lights for good later this month.
Restaurant owner Allison Hall shared news of the impending closure on the steakhouse’s Facebook page on Sunday.
“For 51 years you guys have shared your lives with Colonial Steakhouse,” began the heartfelt post.
“We have watched graduation celebrations, wedding rehearsals, anniversaries and job promotions. We have bounced babies on our hips so Mom and Dad could have a few moments to enjoy each other’s company and their dinner.
“We have cried with families when God called their loved ones home. We have laughed at the jokes and pranks played out by regulars and we will cherish every memory made.
“But all things have a beginning and an end. Unfortunately time has come to permanently close Colonial Steakhouse.”
HIT HARD
A significant portion of the restaurant’s customers have left the Pine Bluff area, contributing to Hall’s decision to close shop, she told a local outlet.
Exacerbated by rising costs, the restaurant owner admitted that it was “nearly impossible to survive in this economic climate.”
Hall shared on Facebook that Colonial’s last day would be July 15, noting that the restaurant is still taking reservations of tables of five or more.
Diners without a reservation will be accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis, she said.
As Colonial winds down operations, Hall asked that diners be “patient with us.”
Restaurant closures in 2025
Denny’s – Denny’s has confirmed that up to 150 locations are set to close in the US by the end of the year as many of them are no longer profitable.
Red Lobster – The chain has said that it plans to close over 100 stores across the country this year as new CEO Damola Adamolekun takes over.
TGI Friday’s – TGI Friday’s is still being forced to shutter locations thanks to a bankruptcy filing, including 30 in April alone.
Applebee’s – This chain is projecting a loss of 20 to 35 Applebee’s spots in 2025 but is teaming up with IHOP to introduce dual-branded locations with a curated menu of the two’s best items.
Noodles & Company – This emporium is set to close between 17 and 21 locations in 2025 following a difficult 2024.
“This will be a very emotional week and most likely a busy one. There will be things we run out of as the week goes by,” she said.
Diners were quick to express their disappointment over the impending closure.
“Ohhh I hate to hear this! Our family has enjoyed many dinners with you all. Thank you all for always showing us love and amazing service! We love y’all,” wrote one Facebook user.
“You all are so loved and you will be missed! We have loved coming to your restaurant for many years. Thank you for the amazing service, friendship, and food!!!” commented another.
“By far the best steakhouse and service around!” said a third.
COLONIAL’S FUTURE
Colonial Steak House began at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Beech Street in 1974, moving to West Eighth Avenue roughly 13 years later.
The beloved small business is well-known for its steaks, bacon-wrapped pork filets, seafood, and other tasty entrees.
Hall runs Colonial inside a former schoolhouse owned by her business partner Scott Mouser.
The future of the building will be Mouser’s decision to make, Hall told the local outlet.
“I know he is open to keeping the building useful since it has such a rich history in the town,” she said.
Another popular steakhouse chain left fans in despair as it set out to close nine locations – a sign in the window spelled out its ominous fate.
Meanwhile, customers of a popular BBQ restaurant and Dickey’s rival made an unusual request after the owner shared a “heartbreaking” closure post.
Colonial Steak House in Pine Bluff operated inside a former schoolhouse[/caption]
