20 Fancy Restaurants From The 1980s, That No Longer Exist!

20 Fancy Restaurants From The 1980s, That No Longer Exist!

Discover “20 Fancy Restaurants From The 1980s, That No Longer Exist!” and take a nostalgic look at upscale dining in 1980s USA. This video explores 20 once-famous restaurant chains that have either closed down completely or drastically scaled down their operations. Relive the era’s elegance with these lost culinary gems.

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hi we want you to come to Bonanza so here’s what we’re going to do a kind of food that leaves the everyday far behind how about those Savory sauted shrimp the 1980s USA had many fancy restaurants but today these culinary icons have shuttered the doors for good or drastically downsized their operations due to Fierce competition from fast food chains from the iconic Victoria Station to The Elegant Ambiance of the velvet Turtle each establishment had its own charm and culinary Delights benan with its hearty Irish flare and the Magic Pan famed for its delectable Crepes were beloved spots for food Enthusiast chason’s exuded old Hollywood glamour while Trader vix transported diners to a Tropical Paradise with its Polynesian inspired dishes however these restaurants May no longer Grace The Culinary landscape but their legacy lives on so today join us on a nostalgic Journey as we reminisce about these 20 fancy restaurant of the 1980s that no longer exist number one Victoria Station Victoria Station a railroad themed Steakhouse chain emerged in April of 1969 founded by Bob Freeman Peter Lee and Dick Bradley all graduates of Cornell University School of Hotel Administration ounce for ounce and dollar for dollar it’s hard to match Victoria Station Victoria Station It’s Just A Cut Above its innovative concept converted authentic Railway cars into dining spaces with the inaugural San Francisco location crafted from five box cars and two Caboose surrounding a central Lobby by 1970 monthly Revenue reached an impressive $90,000 at its peak in the 70s Victoria Station expanded to 100 locations nationwide featuring antique English Railway decor and a menu centered on prime rib in shrimp Victoria despine initial success Financial woses led to bankruptcy in 1986 with 97 restaurants closing by 1978 although Beloved the chain gradually downsized culminating in the abrupt closure of the Salem Massachusetts branch in December of 2017 however the Legacy persists in Malaysia where the brand remains vibrant Victoria station’s pioneering approach employee programs and unique dining experience impacted American culinary history the final bites at Victoria Station evoke memories of railroad themed dining but did The Velvet turtle with its upscale elegance and refined Cuisine face a fate similar to Victoria station’s rise and fall number two the Velvet Turtle The Velvet turtle an upscale dining chain founded in California by Wally batell in 1965 embodied refined Elegance symbolized by its Dapper Turtle logo introduced to California by early Portuguese Sailors this Fisherman’s Feast comes to you steamy hot and overflowing with seafood Delicacies it’s a taste of the good life with 20 locations spanning Los Angeles Torrance Rodondo Beach Fresno and Meno Park it became a favorite among business Elites and celebrants of special occasions its menu featured classic American dishes with a touch of sophistication starred steaks Seafood and Prime Rib complemented by enticing sides however as the 1990s approached the rise of casual dining posed challenges despite its popularity The Velvet Turtle succumb to the evolving culinary landscape by the early 1990s its once glistening Allure faded leading to closure today diners fondly recall its plush Ambiance Flawless service and memorable Cuisine while the elegant Turtle remains a symbol of culinary Nostalgia number three Benin Benin an Irish Pub themed casual dining chain pioneered America’s casual dining scene founded in 1976 in Atlanta by Norman e Brinker The Mastermind behind Steak and Ale its Premier location open in Tyson’s Corner Virginia 1977 blending casual dining was sophistication attracted business Elites and celebrants alike with its classic American menu featuring steaks Seafood and Prime Rib expanding rapidly across the US and internationally benan fac challenges when its parent company Pillsbury Corporation was acquired by Grand Metropolitan in 1989 forcing a spin-off due to liquor distribution regulations despite a leverage buyout in 1991 backed by metr media benan struggled with sales and quality leading to its corporate closure nowadays diners fondly recall its plush Ambiance exceptional service and memorable Cuisine cherishing its place in culinary history number four the Magic Pan the Magic Pan founded in 19 71 transported diners to a realm of delicate flavors and Whimsical charm Hungarian immigrants llo and Paul at phono conjured this enchanting experience birthing the restaurant on Filmore Street in San Francisco with an unwavering Devotion to Crepes the fos expended their magical venture to giradelli square what distinguished the Magic Pan was its singular focus on Crepes spun with Besse by lesie fono while using the eponymous invention the Magic Pan this gadget a large Iron Wheel with eight crpe pans danced over gas Flames producing etheral Creations brimming with sweet and savory Delights during the 1970s the Magic Pan flourished pioneering sitdown dining in malls Nationwide with over 100 locations however the casual dining wave of the 1990s dimmed the Allure of Crepes leading to the restaurant’s closure as the aroma of golden Crepes from the Magic Pan wafts through memories did Chason with its star studded Allure and legendary Chile face a fate akin to the magic Pan’s rise and eventual closure number five Chason chason’s a Hollywood institution graced West Hollywood streets from 1936 courtesy of comedian Dave Jason it quickly became a Hotpot for film stars politicians and dignitaries it’s Beverly Boulevard Andress hosting countless glamorous Gatherings chason’s once a famed Hollywood Hotpot was renowned for its celebrity patrons and legendary Chile which was so beloved that Elizabeth Taylor had it flown into to her film sets the restaurant enhanced its lure with personalized booths for icons such as Frank Sinatra and Alfred Hitchcock adding to its storied history it was also where Ronald Reagan famously proposed to Nancy Davis cementing its place in Hollywood lore originally a modest Chase in southern pit the eery chili propelled it to fame even inspiring creative collaborations like Disney’s Fantasia despite loyal patrons like Reagan and Sinatra shifting dining Trends led to its closure in 1995 marking the end of an era memories linger of chason’s Chile Silver Screen magic and Hollywood’s Golden Age preserving its Legacy and culinary and cinematic history number six Bonanza Bonanza Steakhouse an icon of 1980s American dining offered hearty steaks and an all all you can eat buffet experience founded in 1963 by Dan Blocker known for his role as hos cartright on Bonanza the chain debuted in Westport Connecticut the menu featured sizzling sirloin steaks Juicy Burgers and tender chicken alongside a bountiful Buffet featuring golden fried shrimp and creamy mashed potatoes families Embrace The Rustic Western Ambiance enjoying endless servings in a casual yet upscale setting by 1989 Bonanza boasted 600 locations nationwide thriving on its blend of comfort and quality however a merger with Ponderosa Steakhouse inspired by the TV show Bonanza marked a turning point as the 80s waned so did the demand for family-friendly steakhouses facing Financial challenges many locations closed by the late ’90s the last Canadian Outpost shuttered in 2010 marking the end of an era bonanza’s Legacy lives on in memories of Hardy meals and shared moments from a bygone era number seven Scandia Scandia a culinary Jewel of 1980s Los Angeles transported diners to scandinavia’s Heart founded in 1957 by Ken Hansen it swiftly became a Haven for the city’s Elite Ken and his wife Tova curated an experienced blending Scandinavian and French cuisine with refined decor and impeccable service the Ambiance was opulent with crystal chandeliers and plush velvet drapes setting the stage for a symphony of flavors smoked salmon Swedish meatballs and gravlax celebrities and dignitaries frequented welcomed by Teddy Ken’s sister-in-law in the 80s Scandia epitomized sophistication on Sunset Boulevard attracting stars and Power Players however as the decade progressed the landscape shifted the Roxy and Rainbow Bar drew a younger crowd while police activities nearby deterred scandy as affluent patrons by 1989 the once vibrant establishment dimmed its lights succumbing to Changing Times when the curtain fell on the elegant era of Scandia Scandinavian Delights did Trader vix with its exotic charm and tropical livations face a parallel decline amid the shifting tides of 1980s dining number eight Trader vix Trader vix an icon of 1980s dining evoked Tropical Paradise and exotic drinks Victor Jules berser on Jr known as Trader Vic founded this Polynesian themed chain in 1934 transforming a modest bar into an island oasis with bamboo walls carved tiis and torches Trader vix offered pure escapism its menu a blend of Chinese Polynesian and French influences featured succulent dishes like smoked salmon and the famous My Thai cocktail the Chain’s popularity sword expanding globally with franchise locations in Hilton Hotels Hollywood stars and Jet Setters reveled in its Allure yet as the 80s waned so did the tiki culture trainer Vic faced challenges had led to closures including the original Beverly Hilton location in 2017 the era of grass skirts faded but Trader Vick’s Legacy endur a vibrant chapter in culinary history recalling Distant Shores and eternal sunsets number nine Lars Lars a 1980 Southern United stat culinary icon elevated Seafood to an art form under the Visionary Warren laruth founded in 1966 in Greta Louisiana near New Orleans it became synonymous with fine dining Warren laruth inspired by his mother Estelle’s baking refined his culinary skulls in top New Orleans kitchens as a personal chef during the Korean War he catered to dignitaries and develop famous salad dressings like seven C’s and Green Goddess lar ruths was more than restaurant and a piran sanctuary earning mobile five-star and travel holiday fine dining Awards the laruth family Warren Tova Larry and Lee crafted An Elegant Ambiance the menu showcased Treasures from the sea lobster crab and Snapper each dish a symphony of flavors in 1982 Warren passed the torch to Larry and Lee but remained active founding lar Ruth’s extract company and supporting charitable causes lar Ruth’s Legacy is a tale of culinary Excellence family devotion and New Orleans Magic Number 10 qutis qutis an esteem fixture in 1980s London’s culinary landscape offering modern British Cuisine founded in 1926 by Italian Visionary Pino Leon it became a gastronomic sanctuary in SoHo situated on historic Dean Street qutis occupied number 27 and neighboring landmarks like the birthplace of sculptor Joseph n and Carl Marx’s residents are commemorated with a blue plaque Leone Drew inspiration from the film quentis adorning the restaurant with cinematic charm in 1996 renowned Chef Marco Pierre White and artist Damen Hurst revamp coetus infusing it with artistic flare however a rift led to White replacing Hurst Works despite this the restaurant thrived until White sold it in 2007 prompting closure under new ownership qutis experienced a remarkable Revival in 2008 under the guidance of head chef jeene Philip petruno the restaurant’s Rejuvenation was quickly recognized when it won tatler’s restaurant of the year in 2009 Additionally the heart brother stewardship of the restaurant earned High Praise from celebrated Chef Gordon Ramsey number 11 tiberios tiberios an Italian culinary gem in Washington DC has served Italian cuisine since 1975 it offers more than dining an experience crafted by brothers giulio and Michelle Santio located elegantly at 1915 K Street northwest it attracts patrons seeking refined flavors and top-notch service what distinguished taros was its French Mater D an unexpected touch reflecting Elegance uncommon in Italian restaurants the menu entirely Italian further elevated the dining experience adding sophistication with dishes like risotto milanes and agnani popular among politicians diplomats and locals tibero Ambiance adorned with red roses and romantic gestures from the Mater D exuded charm however tibero closed its doors in 1994 after nearly two decades of culinary Excellence the reasons may include shifting taste or economic factors but for those who experienced it tiberios remains a treasured memory of Exquisite dining after the elegant memories of tibero Italian culinary Mastery linger one can’t help but compare it to the Registries refined American gastronomic Artistry will tibero French sophistication and exquisite flavors be remembered as fondly as the registry’s opulent Ambiance and Gourmet offerings number 12 the registry the registry Grace the American dining scene with its refined Ambiance and Gourmet offerings founded by chef Martin levenson in 1982 it was more than a restaurant it was an Ode to gastronomic Artistry the registry’s heart lay in its commitment to Gourmet Cuisine with Chef levenson orchestrating Symphonies of flavors each meticulously crafted dish showcase quality ingredients and culinary techniques from truffle infused risotto to butter poach Lobster crystal chandeliers adorned High ceilings casting a warm glow on linen clad tables while patrons saved champagne amid soft piano melodies the Ambiance spoke of power lunches romantic dinners and celebratory Gatherings the registry attract politicians business tycoons and food enthusiasts Nationwide the French Mater D and a tuxedo greeted regulars by name enhancing the luxury with a Personal Touch by the mid 1990s dining Trend shifted favoring Fusion in minimalist Styles the registry’s elaborate presentation and classic French techniques seemed outdated leading to its closure in 1996 number 13 Casa Lupa kasala transported diners to the vibrant heart of oaka Mexico founded by chef Martin levenson in 1982 this upscale restaurant was more than a dining destination it was an homage to gastronomic Artistry Kasa Lupita’s menu celebrated oo’s Rich culinary Heritage offering a Symphony of flavors imagine savoring Tuda a handmade delicacy unique to the region featuring a large thin crunchy tortilla topped with refried beans asiento lettuce avocado and a choice of meat each bite told stories of oaxaca’s diverse geography and indigenous cultures the restaurant’s Ambiance reflected its dedication to Excellence with crystal chandeliers casting a warm glow over linen clad tables patrons indulged in Oak Mexican hot chocolate traditional tamales cheso oxico and Sakina enchilada while Mescal flowed and conversations flourished by the mid 1990s culinary Trends shifted towards minimalism and fusion leaving Cup’s elaborate presentations and classic techniques behind in 1996 Chef levenson sadly closed its doors marking the end of an era number 14 The Rusty Scupper the rusty Scupper situated on Baltimore’s Waterfront was more than a seafood restaurant it was a maritime Symphony founded in 1982 by chef Martin levenson this three-level Haven offered panoramic Harbor views from every table the rusty scuppers menu paid homage to the oceans Bounty featuring Maryland crab cakes and oysters Rockefeller the Sunday live jazz brunch was smoked salmon Benedict and clinking mimosas against sailboat backdrops became legendary crystal chandeliers illuminated linen clad tables while the impeccably attired French Mater D greeted guest the bar stocked age scotch and Fine Wines evoking Maritime Tales by the mid 1990s culinary Trend shifted leaving the rusty scuppers classic Elegance a drift in 1996 Chef levenson sadly closed its doors marking the end of an era the chandeliers dimmed the Jazz notes faded and the Rusty Scupper sailed into memory the curtain fall on the rusty scuppers Maritime Symphony however did the American Cafe with its Culinary Artistry and modern Twist on American flavors face a fate akin to the Rusty Scupper classic Elegance of drift number 15 the American Cafe the American Cafe a culinary icon of the 1980s graced upscale shopping malls and urban centers across the United States founded in 1981 by restaurant tour Bill Harris it celebrated American flavors with the modern twist the American Cafe elevated classic dishes to an art form imagine savoring lobster bisque infused with cherry or indulging in perfectly seared fet Manan with truffle mashed potatoes the menu offered a blend of regional favorites and inventive Creations appealing to Discerning Foodies and Casual diners crystal chandeliers illuminated Lin draped tables setting the stage for an elegant dining experience patrons clinked wine glasses amid soft jazz notes while the impeccably dressed French Mater D warmly greeted guest the American Cafe became a hub for business lunches romantic dinners and family celebrations offering beloved dishes like Maryland CB cakes and New York style cheesecake it was a cultural Touchstone embodying the essence of its era by the mid1 1990s culinary Trend shifted leaving the American Cafe’s elaborate presentations behind in 1997 with a bitter sweet farewell it closed its doors becoming a cherished memory number 16 the Hawaiian the Hawaiian whis Mainland diners to Hawaii’s Tropical Paradise founded by John Weaver in 1975 it wasn’t just a restaurant it was an exotic Escape in Vision enters a lush Oasis adorned with tropical blooms bamboo and flickering tiki torches promising an adventure the menu celebrated Hawaii’s vibrant flavors with poke kaloa Pig and Lamy Lamy salmon the Hawaiian plate lunch featuring rice macaroni salad and a choice of protein like teriyaki chicken or laow delighted guest with its authenticity the Hawaiian became a sensation among locals and tourists alike drawing crowds seeking a taste of paradise celebrities also frequented drawn not only by the food but also by the Aloha Spirit whether marking a milestone or relishing a leisurely meal patrons embraced its relaxed Elegance sadly the Hawaiian Splendor dimmed as dining Trend shifted and economic challenges arose in the late 1990s scaling down operations proved futile leading to closure number 17 her ratios Horatio a Bastion of culinary Excellence since 1979 graced the San Leandro Marina with its Maritime Allure throughout the 1980s it wasn’t merely a dining destination but a tribute to seafaring El imagine Bing a 200-year-old royal Navy vessel enveloped by handcraft beams and authentic nautical relics with the Bay’s expanse unfolding before you Horatio excelled in classic seafood and premium steaks their menu was a symphony of flavors AI tuna prawn and lobster steam scallops and almond crusted sea scallops danced alongside comforting Delights like the French dip sandwich and oven roasted chicken Deon each dish honored the sea meticulously crafted and beautifully presented both locals and tourists were drawn to Horatio where whispered celebrity orders mingled with the maritime Ambiance the bay views captivated and the service was a graceful ballet whether marking Milestones or enjoying quiet evenings patrons reveled in the restaurant sophistication Horatio’s luminance dimmed as the 80s introduced new culinary Trends and economic shifts scaling down operations couldn’t stay off off closure with the maritime Elegance of Horatio Fading Into memory did The Old Spaghetti Factory with its nostalgic charm and comforting Italian-American Fair faced a similar fade of closure as dining Trend shifted in the late 80s well The Echoes of laughter and the aroma of miter chees linger reminding patrons of cherish family traditions amidst changing culinary Landscapes number 18 The Old Spaghetti Factory The Old Spaghetti Factory an enduring symbol of nostalgia from the 1980s spread its pasta enchantment across the US founded in 1969 by Gus and Sally Dusen this family-owned treasure transcended mere dining it was a cherished Time Capsule its inaugural location in Portland Oregon’s historic carriage and baggage building welcomed its first guest on January the 10th of 1969 The Old Spaghetti Factory celebrated comfort food with a touch of sophistication their home Mark dish spaghetti with mysta cheese and brown butter almost didn’t make the menu Gus dusen’s quest for a business license necessitated one more item leading to the creation of the Beloved mysta cheese recipe guests also delighted in Classics like V parmesana New York steak and breast of chicken each plate an homage to Hardy Italian-American Cuisine the restaurant’s trolley car dining area salvaged from a field near Reed College added Whimsy to the experience patrons rebeled in cozy booths savoring tea or coffee and indulging in spani ice cream The Old Spaghetti Factory became a cherish family tradition attracting locals and tourists from Honolulu to Louisville its over 40 locations across 13 states echoed with laughter and the clinking of forks as the 80s Drew to a close some of its upscale locations followed suit changing dining Trends and economic shifts prompted closures in Rebrand number 19 mson blanch restaurants mson blanch graced New Orleans with its Timeless Elegance founded in 1897 by Isidor Newman a German immigrant it transcended mere dining it was a sanctuary clad in white the very name White House in French evokes sophistication they offered patrons a sophisticated dining experience serving classic French dishes such as kov Vin and beef bouron the these restaurants were trendy among the American public during the mid 20th century attracting affluent clientele seeking refined dining experiences the flagship store on Canal Street became a local Legend Meson blanch introduced the Whimsical Mr bengle Christmas mascot captivating Hearts during the festive season as the 80s faded some upscale locations followed due to economic shifts in 1991 eight Florida stores were sold to Dillards and number 20 Gullivers Gullivers Grace New Orleans with its enduring Elegance founded in 1897 by Isidor Newman a German immigrant it transcended mere dining it was a sanctuary adorned in white visualized stepping into a historic tower on Canal Street embellished with iron and Brass offering a distinctive dining experience it became a popular destination across the United States gliers quickly gained a claim for its tender prime rib cooked to perect section served in generous portions alongside classic sides like baked potatoes and cream spinach celebrities discreetly placed orders amidst the maritime Ambiance it became a cherish family tradition attracting locals and tourists alike as the 80s declined economic shifts led to the closure of some upscale locations in 1991 eight Florida stores were sold to Dillards nonetheless Gulliver’s Legacy endures a taste of French Allure forever in raved into New Orleans storied past