Wednesday, May 21, 2025
55.7 F
Atlantic City

These Once Popular Chain Restaurants That Dotted New Jersey Are Now Gone

End of an Era: Remembering Iconic Chain Restaurants That Once Thrived in New Jersey

Over the years, New Jersey has seen the rise and fall of several popular chain restaurants. These establishments, once bustling with activity and beloved for their unique offerings, have since closed their doors, leaving behind memories of flavors and experiences.

One such chain was Howard Johnson’s, known affectionately as “HoJo.” With its iconic orange roof, Howard Johnson’s was a fixture along highways, offering American classics like fried clams and 28 flavors of ice cream. Founded in the 1920s, it was a family-friendly destination, but by the 2000s, most of its locations had disappeared.

Another notable closure was Bennigan’s, an Irish pub-themed casual dining restaurant. Known for its Monte Cristo sandwich and festive atmosphere, Bennigan’s was a go-to spot for many in the 80s and 90s. Financial troubles in the late 2000s led to the closure of many of its locations, including those in New Jersey.

Chi-Chi’s, a popular Mexican restaurant chain, also saw its demise in the Garden State. Famous for its Mexican dishes, festive decor, and signature fried ice cream, Chi-Chi’s was a favorite for family dinners and celebrations. However, health-related incidents and declining sales led to its closure in the early 2000s.

Lastly, the Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouses, known for their budget-friendly steaks and expansive salad bars, gradually faded from the New Jersey dining scene. These restaurants were part of a larger chain that struggled to keep up with changing dining preferences and economic challenges.

While these chains have closed, they remain part of New Jersey’s rich culinary history, evoking nostalgia for a bygone era of dining.

Hot this week

Boston police join community walk from Charlestown to North End in weekly outreach program

BOSTON, MA — Officers from the Boston Police Department’s...

Dashcam captures moment dump truck slams into South Jersey home

WOODBURY HEIGHTS, N.J. — Emergency crews responded to a...

Man in custody after police standoff in Holiday City Berkeley senior community

BERKELEY, N.J. — A man was taken into custody...

Ocean County College moves graduation ceremony indoors, families not allowed

TOMS RIVER, N.J. — Ocean County College’s 58th Commencement...

Police standoff at senior community captured on camera

BERKELEY, N.J. — A tense standoff unfolded overnight in...

Topics

Dashcam captures moment dump truck slams into South Jersey home

WOODBURY HEIGHTS, N.J. — Emergency crews responded to a...

Ocean County College moves graduation ceremony indoors, families not allowed

TOMS RIVER, N.J. — Ocean County College’s 58th Commencement...

Police standoff at senior community captured on camera

BERKELEY, N.J. — A tense standoff unfolded overnight in...

Steelers fan wins $200K on Ravens Lottery ticket in enemy territory

HAGERSTOWN, Md. — A Pittsburgh Steelers fan is now...

12-year-old girl reported missing in Essex area after last being seen Tuesday morning

ESSEX, Md. — Authorities are searching for a 12-year-old...

Baltimore teen dies after multiple gunshot wounds

BALTIMORE, Md. — A teenager was killed Monday evening...
spot_img

Related Articles

Popular Categories

spot_imgspot_img