15 Restaurant Chains We Miss From the ’80s
Many popular restaurant chains from the 1980s have closed, but they remain memorable to those who experienced them.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
The 1980s had many restaurant chains that offered unique food and dining experiences. These places were popular for family meals and social outings. Although most have shut down, their influence is still felt in today’s food culture. Remembering these chains helps us understand how dining out has changed over time.
1. Howard Johnson’s
Tichnor Bros on Wikimedia Commons
Howard Johnson’s was known for its orange rooftops and classic American menu. It served travelers on highways and families looking for a simple meal. Popular dishes included fried clams and ice cream. The rise of fast food caused many locations to close.
2. Chi-Chi’s
Nostaljack on Wikimedia Commons
Chi-Chi’s was a casual Mexican restaurant chain that introduced many to fajitas and margaritas. It became popular in the 1980s for its festive atmosphere. Financial troubles and legal issues led to its closure in the U.S. The chain helped Mexican food gain mainstream appeal.
3. Gino’s
John Phelan on Wikimedia Commons
Gino’s combined fried chicken and Italian food in one menu. It mainly served families in the Mid-Atlantic region. The casual setting made it a popular dining choice. Competition and changing tastes caused it to close.
4. Kenny Rogers Roasters
Larsdominic on Wikimedia Commons
Kenny Rogers Roasters focused on roasted chicken and healthier food choices. It was known for its Southern-style recipes and simple meals. The chain expanded quickly but later closed many U.S. locations. It still exists in some other countries.
5. Luby’s Cafeteria
Social Woodlands on Wikimedia Commons
Luby’s offered cafeteria-style dining with home-cooked meals. It was famous for comfort food like meatloaf and mashed potatoes. The chain had many locations in Texas. It has recently closed many restaurants but remains a Texas favorite.
6. Sambo’s
Antandrus on Wikimedia Commons
Sambo’s was a breakfast and dinner chain popular in the 1980s. It served pancakes, omelets, and other American classics. The brand faced criticism over its name and closed by the late 1980s. It is remembered for its family-friendly atmosphere.
7. Bennigan’s
Phillip Pessar on Wikimedia Commons
Bennigan’s was a casual dining chain known for its Irish-themed decor and American food. It was popular for lunch and dinner with menu items like burgers and sandwiches. The chain faced financial struggles and closed many locations in the 2000s. Bennigan’s remains a nostalgic brand for many.
8. Lum’s
Phillip Pessar on Wikimedia Commons
Lum’s was famous for its hot dogs and beer. It was a casual restaurant chain with a sports bar feel. The chain grew in the 1970s and 1980s but later faded. Its combination of simple food and casual atmosphere was a big draw.
9. Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour
Sydney.lorraine5 on Wikimedia Commons
Farrell’s was an ice cream chain known for large sundaes and fun, old-fashioned decor. It was popular with families and celebrations. The chain offered a nostalgic experience with its soda fountain style. Most locations have since closed.
10. Ponderosa Steakhouse
Ponderosa/Bonanza Steakhouse on Wikimedia Commons
Ponderosa was a buffet-style steakhouse popular in the ’80s and ’90s. It offered a variety of meats and sides in a casual setting. Many families enjoyed the all-you-can-eat format. The brand still exists but with far fewer locations.
11. Shakey’s Pizza
Zarate123 on Wikimedia Commons
Shakey’s was one of the first pizza chains to offer a family-friendly atmosphere and entertainment. It was known for its thin-crust pizza and live music. The chain was popular in the ’70s and ’80s. It has mostly disappeared, but still operates in a few locations.
12. Red Barn
Gary Rogers on Wikimedia Commons
Red Barn was a fast-food chain known for its hamburgers and farm-style design. It competed with other burger chains during the 1970s and 1980s. The chain was recognized for its barn-shaped buildings. Red Barn eventually closed as competition increased.
13. Big Boy
psyberartist on Wikimedia Commons
Big Boy was famous for its double-decker hamburgers and mascot statue. It was a family dining favorite in the ’80s with locations across the U.S. The chain offered classic diner food and friendly service. Although many restaurants closed, some still operate today.
14. Gatti’s Pizza
Spongefan on Wikimedia Commons
Gatti’s was a pizza buffet chain popular for family dining. It offered all-you-can-eat pizza with a casual atmosphere. The chain was mainly in the southern United States. It closed most of its locations by the 2010s.
15. Zantigo
TenPoundHammer on Wikimedia Commons
Zantigo was a Mexican fast-food chain that started in the Midwest. It served tacos, burritos, and other quick Mexican-style food. The brand was bought and mostly rebranded by a larger chain in the 1980s. Zantigo is remembered as a pioneer in fast Mexican food.