Despite restaurant closures due to the pandemic, the US industry is beginning to recover, with exciting new spots opening up across the country. Examples include sushi spot The Lobster Club in New York, poke bar chain Hibachi-san in Los Angeles, and indulgent eatery Pizza Fried Chicken Ice Cream in Chicago. However, not all restaurants have been able to survive the financial struggles of recent times, with closures including San Francisco’s Zuni Cafe, Washington DC’s Clyde’s of Gallery Place, and New Orleans’ Emeril’s Delmonico.
Restaurant News Roundup: Exciting Openings and Closures Across the US
Openings
As the restaurant industry continues to recover from the pandemic, several exciting new spots have opened up across the US, offering everything from classic comfort food to innovative fusion dishes. Here are just a few highlights:
New York: The Lobster Club
This luxurious, high-end sushi spot in the heart of Midtown Manhattan is a collaboration between Major Food Group and world-renowned sushi chef Masayoshi Takayama. Expect impeccably crafted rolls and an extensive sake selection in a sleek, art-filled space.
Los Angeles: Hibachi-san
Part of the rapidly expanding Poke Bar chain, this new fast-casual spot in Westwood offers build-your-own poke bowls and hibachi grill plates, all made with fresh and sustainable ingredients. It’s already a hit with UCLA students and local workers.
Chicago: Pizza Fried Chicken Ice Cream
As the name suggests, this new Lincoln Park eatery offers a trifecta of indulgent favorites – crispy fried chicken, piping hot pizza, and creamy, homemade ice cream. It’s perfect for a cheat day splurge.
Closures
Unfortunately, not all restaurants have been able to weather the challenges of the past year and a half. Here are a few notable closures:
San Francisco: Zuni Cafe
This beloved San Francisco institution, known for its roast chicken and wood-fired oven fare, has permanently closed its doors after over 40 years in business. Owner Gilbert Pilgram cited continuing financial struggles and staffing shortages as factors.
Washington DC: Clyde’s of Gallery Place
After nearly a quarter-century as a mainstay of the downtown DC dining scene, this upscale American restaurant has closed due to pandemic-related losses. The Clyde’s Restaurant Group still operates several other locations in the area.
New Orleans: Emeril’s Delmonico
Celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse’s upscale Creole steakhouse, located in the Lower Garden District, has closed after over 20 years in business. Owner Emeril’s Homebase cited a lack of business during the pandemic as the main reason for the closure.