LAST CALL: Beloved pizza chain with restaurants in 22 states is closing location and customers found out through a Facebook post

According to The Sun , Old Chicago Pizza and Taproom, a beloved chain known for its pizza, pasta, and beer, has announced the closure of its Murrells Inlet, South Carolina location. The restaurant, which has been serving customers in the Garden City area since 2017, will close its doors for good on December 1, 2024. The closure was shared with fans via a heartfelt Facebook post.

Founded in 1976, Old Chicago operates over 60 locations across 22 states. Despite its popularity, the Garden City location will be shutting down due to shifting business conditions. In the same area, Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin will also close on the same date. A new restaurant, Bohemian Bull Tavern and Beer Garden, is slated to take its place, with plans to open by February or March 2025. The new owners, partners in the Bohemian Bull franchise, have expressed their commitment to hiring Old Chicago’s current staff and providing a supportive, family-like work environment.

The announcement of the closure was met with sadness from loyal customers. In the November 7 Facebook post, Old Chicago’s management expressed gratitude to its customers, saying, “After many nights of football, trivia, and those awesome beer tours, our Garden City location will be closing its doors on December 1st. This was not an easy decision, and we are so thankful for the support over the years during our time on the Grand Strand.”

Fans flooded the comments section, sharing their disappointment. One fan wrote, “We sure did love your pizzas!!!” while another shared, “Will certainly miss all the staff.”

Restaurant Industry Struggles Amid Financial Pressures

Old Chicago is far from the only restaurant chain to face closure struggles. Several casual dining establishments have been forced to shut underperforming locations due to increasing financial pressures and changing consumer behavior. Chains like Red Lobster, Pizza Hut, and TGI Fridays have all announced multiple closures this year alone.

The restaurant industry is grappling with rising inflation, higher operating costs, and shifting customer trends that have made it more difficult to maintain profitability. As the costs of doing business increase, consumers are feeling the pinch, leading to a decline in dining out and a drop in traffic at many eateries.

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Outback Steakhouse is another chain adjusting to these challenging conditions. The Australian-themed chain recently announced the closure of 41 locations and plans to simplify its menu as part of an effort to streamline operations. Similarly, Papa John’s is focusing on loyalty perks to reverse its declining sales and attract more customers.

As restaurant closures continue across the country, the industry remains under pressure to adapt to a rapidly changing economic environment. Despite these challenges, for now, Old Chicago’s loyal customers are saying their goodbyes to a cherished dining spot on the Grand Strand.