Getting a visit from Guy Fieri is a dream come true for many small restaurants. Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives shines a spotlight on local gems and can bring a wave of hungry fans.
But even with a boost from the Mayor of Flavortown, not every spot can survive the ups and downs of the food world.
These 15 once-beloved eateries welcomed the spiky-haired star but have since closed their doors.
1. Zayde’s Market – Natick, MA
This beloved Jewish deli was famous for brisket, bagels, and matzo ball soup that warmed the soul. Guy stopped by for the pastrami.
After nearly 30 years, the family-run market closed in 2022, leaving fans craving its comforting flavors and traditional East Coast charm.
2. Mama Cozza’s – Anaheim, CA
Old-school Italian with red sauce galore, this spot served pizza, pasta, and pride since 1965. Guy loved their stuffed shells.
Despite its loyal base and retro charm, Mama Cozza’s closed in 2022 after decades of hearty meals and family memories.
3. The Farmer’s Shed – Lexington, SC
This rustic Southern cafe and produce stand dished up fresh veggies and homemade casseroles that tasted like Sunday dinner.
The owners eventually retired, and the Shed shut down, taking its fried green tomatoes and peach cobbler with it.
4. Cafe Rolle – Sacramento, CA
Known for its French sandwiches and warm hospitality, this café brought Parisian flair to California. Guy raved about the smoked salmon.
After years of delighting locals, Cafe Rolle quietly closed, but its baguette sandwiches still live in foodie memory.
5. Bayway Diner – Linden, NJ
One of the show’s very first stops, this tiny New Jersey diner had just eight seats and loads of personality.
Famous for burgers and attitude, Bayway shuttered despite its cult following, becoming one of Triple D’s earliest farewells.
6. Ben’s Family Restaurant – Charlotte, NC
A soul food institution in the Queen City, Ben’s served up oxtails, fried chicken, and mac ‘n cheese that hit every note.
Despite Guy’s glowing praise, the restaurant closed a few years after its TV debut, leaving a fried chicken-sized hole in town.
7. The General Store – Stone Ridge, NY
Tucked in a quiet Hudson Valley town, this spot blended cozy vibes with bold dishes like grilled quail and duck confit salad.
It drew crowds after Guy’s visit but eventually closed, proving even culinary creativity can’t always beat small-town economics.
8. Lynora’s – West Palm Beach, FL
Guy sampled the scratch-made Italian fare at this Florida staple, where recipes passed down generations stole the show.
Though the original closed, the family kept the name alive with new locations—just not the one that made it on camera.
9. Joe Squared – Baltimore, MD
Known for its square pizzas and live music scene, Joe Squared mixed art, flavor, and flair. Guy praised the risotto.
After years of ups and downs, including relocation, the original site closed, but locals still remember its downtown energy.
10. Grover’s Bar & Grill – East Amherst, NY
Buffalo’s burger scene was never the same after Grover’s hit the screen. Their towering burgers were the real deal.
Despite the buzz, Grover’s closed permanently, and fans still mourn the jalapeño-stuffed patties and casual charm.
11. Pat’s BBQ – Salt Lake City, UT
This smoky spot drew crowds for its pulled pork, ribs, and homemade sides. Guy went wild for the brisket.
Even with Triple D fame, Pat’s struggled during the pandemic and shut its doors, taking its hickory-scented legacy with it.
12. Brownstone Diner – Jersey City, NJ
A breakfast favorite, Brownstone was all about pancakes, omelets, and comfort food done right. Guy was all in on the banana pancakes.
After changing hands and facing new challenges, the original diner location eventually closed, leaving longtime fans nostalgic.
13. The Penguin – Charlotte, NC
This rock-and-roll diner was famous for fried pickles and pimento cheeseburgers, and Guy loved the energy.
A fierce legal dispute led to its closure, and despite efforts to revive it, The Penguin never fully returned to its former glory.
14. Dixie Quicks – Council Bluffs, IA
Blending Tex-Mex and Southern cooking with art gallery vibes, this place had a cult following. Guy couldn’t get enough.
After the owner’s passing and mounting pressures, Dixie Quicks closed, ending its run as a community favorite and cultural hub.
15. Big Mama’s Kitchen – Omaha, NE
Guy met Big Mama herself and marveled at her fried catfish and sweet potato pie. The kitchen became a local legend.
Years later, Big Mama passed away, and the restaurant closed in 2023, leaving behind a powerful legacy of flavor and family.