If you grew up in New Jersey, chances are you have fond memories of dining at some of these iconic restaurant chains. Once bustling with patrons, these eateries have since closed their doors, leaving only nostalgic memories behind. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit seven restaurant chains that were once popular in New Jersey but are no longer operating.
Bennigan’s
Ah, Bennigan’s! This Irish-themed casual dining restaurant was a favorite spot for many Jersey families. Known for its Monte Cristo sandwich and festive St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, Bennigan’s offered a cozy pub atmosphere. Sadly, the chain faced financial difficulties and filed for bankruptcy in 2008, leading to the closure of many locations, including those in New Jersey.
Chi-Chi’s
Chi-Chi’s brought a taste of Mexico to New Jersey with its vibrant atmosphere and delicious Tex-Mex cuisine. From sizzling fajitas to chimichangas, it was a go-to spot for celebrating birthdays and special occasions. However, a severe hepatitis outbreak linked to green onions in 2003 severely damaged the chain’s reputation, leading to its eventual closure in the United States.
Steak and Ale
For a classic steakhouse experience, many New Jersey residents turned to Steak and Ale. Known for its salad bar and reasonably priced steaks, this chain provided a charming, Tudor-style dining environment. Financial troubles and changing dining trends led to its demise, with the last Steak and Ale location closing in 2008.
Ground Round
Who could forget Ground Round? This family-friendly restaurant chain was famous for its popcorn and peanuts that diners could toss on the floor. With a menu full of American classics and a relaxed atmosphere, it was a hit with kids and adults alike. Unfortunately, the chain faced financial challenges, and many locations closed by the early 2000s.
Roy Rogers
Roy Rogers offered a unique fast-food experience with its roast beef sandwiches, fried chicken, and Fixin’s Bar, where you could customize your burger. Despite its popularity, the chain struggled to compete with larger fast-food giants. Although some Roy Rogers locations still exist, many in New Jersey have closed over the years.
Howard Johnson’s
A true American icon, Howard Johnson’s was more than just a restaurant—it was a brand synonymous with mid-20th-century Americana. Known for its 28 flavors of ice cream and clam strips, it was a roadside staple. The rise of fast-food chains and changing consumer preferences led to the gradual decline of Howard Johnson’s, with the last restaurant closing in 2017.
Friendly’s
While some Friendly’s locations still operate, many in New Jersey have closed their doors. Famous for its ice cream and family-friendly atmosphere, Friendly’s was a beloved spot for casual dining. The company faced financial difficulties and filed for bankruptcy multiple times, resulting in the closure of many locations.
Honorable Mentions
- Sam Goody’s: Not exactly a restaurant, but this chain’s in-store cafes were a hit for a quick bite while shopping for the latest music.
- Sizzler: Known for its all-you-can-eat salad bar, Sizzler had a presence in New Jersey but couldn’t sustain its popularity.
These restaurant chains may be gone, but the memories of dining there remain. Do you have any favorite memories from these eateries? Share your stories in the comments below! And if you’re feeling nostalgic, why not recreate some of their famous dishes at home? Happy reminiscing!