12 Diners, Drive‑Ins & Dives That Shut Down After Guy Fieri’s Visit

Delving into the world of culinary fame brought by Guy Fieri’s ‘Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives’, it’s clear that even the spotlight of Flavortown can’t guarantee success. Here, we explore 12 unique eateries that, despite their brief flirtation with stardom, eventually closed their doors.

1. Byways Café (Portland, OR)

Byways Café, a beloved Portland gem, was once the heart of comfort food aficionados. Its corned beef hash and blue corn pancakes were legendary. The walls adorned with Americana memorabilia whispered tales of the past. Visitors and locals alike cherished the warm, homey vibe. However, in late 2019, lease issues forced this beloved spot to close its doors. Even Guy Fieri’s visit in 2007, which brought an influx of curious diners, couldn’t keep it afloat. A fixture in Portland’s culinary scene, its closure left a nostalgic void, lingering in the hearts of many.

2. Blueplate Lunch Counter & Soda Fountain (Portland, OR)

In the heart of Portland, Blueplate Lunch Counter & Soda Fountain was the embodiment of nostalgia. Known for its retro milkshakes and grilled cheese, it offered a slice of Americana that was hard to resist. Opened in 2007, it quickly became a local favorite, bringing in crowds eager to relive simpler times. Guy Fieri’s 2009 visit added to its fame. However, despite its popularity, Blueplate couldn’t sustain itself, shuttering in 2016. Its closure marked the end of an era, leaving behind cherished memories of frothy shakes and gooey cheese.

3. Joe’s Cable Car Restaurant (San Francisco, CA)

Joe’s Cable Car Restaurant was more than just a place to grab a burger; it was a San Francisco institution. The cable car-themed diner, with its vibrant atmosphere, served towering burgers that became the stuff of legend. Since its 1965 opening, it had been a beloved staple in the Mission District. Guy Fieri’s 2008 visit added to its allure, but despite half a century of success, it closed in 2014. The city’s culinary scene felt the loss, as Joe’s was a unique blend of kitsch and culinary delight, now fondly remembered.

4. Eight Noodle Shop (Napa, CA)

Napa’s Eight Noodle Shop was an exciting blend of flavors and cultures. With its Asian-inspired decor, it quickly became a haven for noodle lovers. Featured on DDD in 2018, it was known for vibrant dishes that danced on the palate. Despite its culinary acclaim, the shop struggled to maintain its footing in a competitive market. By September 2019, Eight Noodle Shop had served its last bowl. The closure was a stark reminder of the challenges faced by small businesses, even with the boost of a Guy Fieri spotlight.

5. Arleta Library Bakery & Cafe (Portland, OR)

In Portland, Arleta Library Bakery & Cafe was a sanctuary of taste and creativity, famous for its Sicilian-style brunches that drew in the brunch-loving crowd. This quaint cafe, with its rustic charm, offered more than just a meal—it provided an experience. Guy Fieri’s visit highlighted its delightful offerings. However, the COVID-19 pandemic brought unforeseen challenges, leading to its closure in early 2020. Patrons mourned the loss of a beloved brunch spot that had been an integral part of the community’s culinary fabric.

6. Aviv (Portland, OR)

Aviv was a beacon for vegan Middle Eastern cuisine in Portland, offering a menu brimming with colorful, plant-based dishes. The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere and bold flavors quickly captured the attention of food lovers, earning it a spot on DDD in 2020. It was a place where flavors and health met harmoniously. Unfortunately, the pandemic’s grip proved too strong, leading to its closure in 2021. Aviv’s departure was a significant loss for Portland’s vegan community, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and flavor.

7. Brint’s Diner (Wichita, KS)

Brint’s Diner, a Wichita landmark, was a quintessential American diner experience. With its nostalgic charm and hearty breakfast plates, it became a gathering place for locals and travelers alike. Featured in the first season of DDD, it was a celebration of classic diner culture. However, despite its popularity, Brint’s faced challenges that led to its closure in August 2014. Its departure from Wichita’s dining scene left a gap that was felt by many who cherished its comforting fare and warm atmosphere.

8. Zazu Kitchen + Farm (Portland, OR)

Zazu Kitchen + Farm was a farm-to-table haven in Portland, celebrated for its dedication to fresh, local ingredients and rustic charm. Known for its innovative menu, it attracted food enthusiasts looking for authenticity. Featured in season 28 of DDD, Zazu captured the essence of sustainable dining. However, the restaurant faced adversity when flooding struck in early 2019, leading to its closure in April of that year. Zazu’s legacy lives on in the memories of those who valued its commitment to quality and community.

9. Mountain Shadows Restaurant (Colorado Springs, CO)

Nestled in Colorado Springs, Mountain Shadows Restaurant was a cherished breakfast spot offering hearty dishes and stunning mountain views. Its inviting atmosphere became a refuge for locals and tourists alike. Featured on DDD in 2015, it was known for its generous portions and welcoming vibe. However, the combined pressures of COVID-19 and other challenges led to its closure in late 2024. The loss of Mountain Shadows was felt deeply in the community, leaving a void in the local dining landscape.

10. Dignowity Meats (San Antonio, TX)

Dignowity Meats, a San Antonio treasure, was celebrated for its bold flavors and unpretentious vibe. Known for its Burnt End Melt, it drew meat lovers from far and wide. The rustic BBQ joint, featured on DDD in 2018, encapsulated the spirit of Texan cuisine. Despite its popularity and a decade-long run, the doors closed in December 2024. Its absence is a reminder of the challenges that even beloved establishments face, leaving a lasting impression on the city’s culinary scene.

11. Parkette Drive‑In (Lexington, KY)

In Lexington, Parkette Drive-In was an icon of mid-century Americana, with its vintage signage and classic American fare that evoked nostalgia. It was more than a restaurant; it was a piece of history. Guy Fieri’s visit brought nationwide attention, but lease issues led to its closure in 2015. The drive-in’s departure marked the end of a cherished era, leaving behind memories of carhop service and burgers enjoyed under the Kentucky sky.

12. Various Louisiana Spots

Louisiana’s culinary landscape was rich with history, featuring diners that had stood the test of time. Some, over a century old, drew in countless diners eager to taste traditional Southern flavors. Despite the long histories and rich cultural significance, several of these establishments, featured on DDD, closed in early 2019. The closures marked the end of an era for Louisiana’s dining heritage, leaving behind storied legacies that continue to be celebrated by those who remember the flavors and warmth they offered.