A popular pizzeria with restaurants in 22 states will close for good in December.
Old Chicago Pizza and Taproom alerted its customers to the sad news via a Facebook post.
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Founded in 1976, Old Chicago serves its world-famous pizza, pasta and beer at more than 60 locations across the United States.
The chain plans to close its location in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina — 13 miles south of Myrtle Beach — by the end of the year.
After serving guests since 2017, the Garden City location's last day will be December 1.
Neighboring restaurant Flapjack's Pancake Cabin will also close its doors on December 1, Old Chicago Pizza manager Ryan McDonald told local CBS affiliate WBTW.
The Bohemian Bull Tavern and Beer Garden will replace the old Chicago, the manager said.
The owners of the new restaurant hope to open as soon as February or March, according to Derek Renkert, co-owner of the Bohemian Bull franchise.
He also noted that the new owners have interviewed several Old Chicago employees.
“Part of the Bohemian Bull culture is creating a safe, family-like work environment for all employees,” Renkert said.
“We welcome any and all employees to stay and work for Bohemian Bull.”
Renkert said he heard the Flapjack's Pancake Cabin location would be converted into a rental property or real estate office.
Goodbye Facebook
Fans of Old Chicago Pizza and Taproom were informed of the impending closure through a sad Facebook post.
The “Last Call in Garden City” post began on November 7.
“After many nights of football, trivia and great beer tours, our Garden City location will close its doors on December 1. This was not an easy decision, and we are so grateful for the support over the years during our time on the Grand Strand.
“Whether you join us a few times a week or on that annual trip to the coast, we want you to know that we appreciate you so much! The Foam Hall and hanging WBT Steins showcase all the friendships and stories we've shared!”
Old Chicago Pizza and Taproom locations
Old Chicago has more than 60 locations in 22 states.
- Arizona – 2
- Arkansas – 1
- Colorado – 16
- Georgia – 2
- Idaho – 1
- Illinois – 1
- Indiana – 1
- Iowa – 2
- Kansas – 9
- Kentucky – 1
- Minnesota – 2
- Missouri – 5
- Montana – 3
- Nebraska – 1
- North Carolina – 2
- Oregon State – 1
- South Carolina – 2
- South Dakota – 1
- Tennessee – 2
- Texas – 2
- Wisconsin – 1
- Wyoming – 3
Source: Old Chicago Pizza and Taproom
“There's still time to visit, and we'd love to welcome you to share some memories and pepperoni rolls before the month is out. We loved every turn of the bar stool at Old Chicago Pizza and Taproom! We hope to see you soon!”
Many pizza fans left heartfelt messages for Old Chicago in the comments section.
“Omg I really hate to see you so soon,” one fan wrote. “We absolutely loved your pizza!!!”
Another said: “It breaks my heart but makes me a bit angry. I will definitely miss all the staff.”
Delicious conflicts
Old Chicago isn't the only casual restaurant suffering.
Many restaurant chains have closed their underperforming locations due to financial problems and changing consumer trends.
This year alone, popular restaurants like Red Lobster, Tijuana Flats, Pizza Hut, and TGI Friday's have closed multiple locations.
As inflation continues to rise, rising operating costs make it difficult for restaurants to stay afloat.
These higher costs, in turn, make dining out more expensive for consumers, resulting in less traffic.
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Outback Steakhouse is on a long list of restaurants affected by the challenging landscape of the restaurant industry.
The CEO of the Australian-themed chain has revealed plans to simplify the menu after closing 41 sites.
Papa Johns is also upgrading its loyalty perks to help reverse its declining sales.
