13 Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives That Closed After Guy Fieri’s Visit

While Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” has helped countless restaurants thrive with the famous “Triple D Effect,” not every featured establishment has been able to keep their doors open. According to tracking websites, approximately 224-280 restaurants out of over 1,500 featured on the show have closed—roughly 15-17% of all Triple D locations. Despite the boost in publicity and customers that typically follows a visit from the Mayor of Flavortown, these 13 restaurants faced challenges that ultimately led to their closure.

Zazu Kitchen+Farm

In the heart of Sebastopol, Zazu Kitchen+Farm stood vibrant with farm-fresh delights. Tragically, in February 2019, the Barlow shopping district faced devastating floods, submerging the beloved eatery in 22 inches of contaminated waters. Owners Duskie Estes and John Stewart, pioneers in sustainable dining since 2001, witnessed their dream succumb to nature’s wrath. Despite raising $70,000 through crowdfunding, the financial burden was insurmountable. Zazu was not merely a restaurant—it was a testament to local ingredients and creativity. The closure left a noticeable void in the community, where farm-to-table dining once flourished.

The Red Door

Seattle’s cherished pub, The Red Door, served locals with craft beers and hearty meals for 33 years. Renowned for its fish and chips, it delighted visitors, including Guy Fieri in 2018. However, 2020 marked its farewell due to lease-related financial struggles. The establishment was more than a dining spot; it was a community hub where memories were crafted over prime rib beef dip sandwiches. As patrons reminisced about the good times, the city felt the absence of its iconic corner, a testament to timeless flavors and camaraderie.

Dad’s Kitchen

Sacramento’s Dad’s Kitchen was a haven for comfort food enthusiasts. Famous for the “Hot Blonde” sandwich, it captured hearts when Fieri deemed the Dad’s Burger “righteous.” After 14 years, the Freeport Boulevard location closed in July 2024. While Fair Oaks continues the legacy, the original venue’s closure marks the end of an era. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, it was a local favorite where culinary traditions were cherished. The closure leaves loyal patrons with memories of juicy bites and shared laughter, resonating in the city’s culinary history.

YJ’s Snack Bar

Kansas City’s YJ’s Snack Bar, an eclectic gem since 1927, was known for its global culinary adventures. Chef David Ford’s creations, from North African lamb kebabs to Turkish stuffed figs, intrigued diners. Featured on Triple D, Fieri lauded its international flair. Sadly, in 2018, the storied eatery closed its doors. The rotating menu kept locals guessing and returning for more, making each visit an adventure. Its closure marked the end of a unique cultural culinary journey, leaving behind a legacy of diverse flavors and community spirit.

Lake Effect Diner

Buffalo’s Lake Effect Diner, a classic staple since its 2009 Triple D feature, delighted patrons with homestyle meals and over 20 milkshake flavors. The pandemic dealt a heavy blow, leading to its closure in 2021. Known for its fresh-baked bread, it was a slice of Americana amidst the bustling city. Although its neon lights dimmed, the diner’s legacy remains in cherished memories of hearty breakfasts and lunch gatherings. It was a place where the community found solace in comfort food, now a nostalgic whisper in Buffalo’s dining narrative.

Earl’s Diner

Earl’s Diner in Western New York epitomized the essence of a family-run establishment. The sudden passing of owner Earl Northrup in 2017 resulted in its closure, highlighting the delicate balance between business and personal life. Fieri’s visit celebrated its homely appeal and comforting dishes, creating a bond with its patrons. It wasn’t just a place to eat; it was a gathering spot where family ties and friendships strengthened over hearty meals. The diner’s closure is a poignant reminder of the personal connections at the heart of every dish served.

Calafia Cafe & Market A Go-Go

Palo Alto’s Calafia Cafe was a pioneer in organic, farm-to-table dining. Despite Fieri’s praises for the Citrus Carnitas, it closed in August 2018. The escalating operational costs overshadowed the cafe’s culinary achievements. Known for its innovative menu, it brought fresh, local ingredients to the fore. The restaurant was a gathering place for healthy food aficionados, setting trends in sustainable dining. Its closure not only marked the end of a beloved eatery but also a significant chapter in Palo Alto’s culinary innovation, remembered for its dedication to eco-friendly practices.

Fat One’s Hot Dogs & Italian Ice

Joey Fatone’s venture at Florida Mall, Fat One’s, was a whimsical nod to inventive fast food. Known for the “Gone Hollywood” hot dog, it brought playful twists to classic bites. Featured on Triple D, it thrived with a brick-and-mortar presence before shifting to a food truck model. Many savored its creative offerings until its mall location closure, a shift reflecting changing consumer trends. The kiosk remains a fond memory for its cheeky name and delightful menu, an embodiment of culinary fun and innovation in the heart of Orlando.

Eight Noodle Shop

Napa’s Eight Noodle Shop was the epicenter of culinary craftsmanship, offering an intimate setting for noodle enthusiasts. Yet, despite a promising feature on Triple D in 2018, its doors closed in 2019. The rapid closure underscores the unpredictable nature of the restaurant industry. Known for its fresh, Asian-inspired dishes, the shop was a haven for those seeking authenticity in every bite. As patrons reminisce about its savory bowls, the shop’s brief yet impactful presence adds a unique note to Napa’s diverse food scene, remembered for its flavorful artistry.

Belly & Snout

Belly & Snout, nestled in Los Angeles, explored nose-to-tail dining with zest. From its 2016 Triple D feature, the restaurant attracted adventurous gourmets. Despite its innovative approach, it eventually closed. Known for its whole-animal cooking, it was a playground for culinary creativity. Each dish told a story of sustainability and flavor exploration. Although its journey ended, the restaurant’s spirit lives on in the city’s food culture, where it inspired a new generation of chefs to think beyond convention and embrace bold culinary frontiers.

Sage General Store

Long Island City’s Sage General Store combined rustic charm with culinary delight. After its Triple D appearance, it struggled to stay afloat, eventually closing. Known for its comfort food, the store was a community cornerstone where patrons found solace in its warm ambiance and hearty dishes. Each meal was a trip down memory lane, reminiscent of simpler times. While its doors are no longer open, the store’s spirit continues to inspire those who seek the comfort of familiar flavors lovingly prepared, marking its place in local dining lore.

Savarino’s Cucina

Nashville’s Savarino’s Cucina was a celebration of Italian culinary traditions. Although Fieri spotlighted its exquisite offerings, it couldn’t withstand the competitive pressures of Music City’s dining scene. Known for its rich pasta and welcoming vibe, it was a slice of Italy in Tennessee. With each dish, patrons savored the warmth of family recipes and the joy of dining seasoned with love. Its closure reflects the dynamic nature of the restaurant world, but its legacy continues to inspire Italian cuisine lovers who remember the authentic flavors it brought to Nashville.

Harvey’s Hot Dogs

Portsmouth’s Harvey’s Hot Dogs was more than just a stand; it was a hot dog haven cherished by the community. Following its feature on Triple D, it faced challenges that led to its closure. Known for its variety of toppings and nostalgic charm, it was a gathering spot for families and friends. Each visit promised a taste of tradition wrapped in bun and relish. Although it no longer serves its iconic dogs, the spirit of Harvey’s lives on in the memories of those who relished its simple yet delightful offerings, a true local gem.

Many factors contribute to these closures beyond the control of the restaurants or the show:
Natural disasters (flooding, fires)
Pandemic-related challenges
Rising costs and rent increases
Personal circumstances (owner death or illness)
Lease disputes
Changing neighborhoods and demographics