Louisiana’s famed culinary landscape has seen a wave of notable restaurant closures in recent months, as local dining institutions and national chains alike shutter operations amid shifting market pressures. From long-standing local favorites to well-known chains, these closures spotlight overall ongoing struggles within the hospitality industry nationwide.
Southern Pearl Oyster House closes its doors
Southern Pearl Oyster House on Perkins Road in Baton Rouge officially closed permanently, ending nearly seven years of service to seafood lovers in the capital region. Known for its chargrilled oysters, steak, pasta and classic southern fare, the restaurant ceased operations January 1, 2026, according to an automated message left on its phone line as well as a sign left on the door. No immediate reason was provided by ownership.
Historic Piccadilly location shutters after 65 years
One of Baton Rouge’s most enduring dining names closed its doors in August 2025. The Piccadilly restaurant on Plank Road in Delmont Village permanently closed after 65 years in business, marking the end of a beloved local cafeteria-style location. Two other Piccadilly locations in Louisiana remain open, as well as locations in other states.
Chain Closures: Outback Steakhouse & Joe’s Crab Shack hit Louisiana
National chain closures have also impacted the Louisiana market. In late October 2025, an Outback Steakhouse on Jones Creek Boulevard in Baton Rouge shut its doors, as part of a wider downsizing by parent company Bloomin’ Brands focused on underperforming sites.
Meanwhile, Joe’s Crab Shack at the Louisiana Boardwalk in Bossier City closed on June 1, 2025, ending two decades of seafood dining at the riverfront outlet and reflecting the shrinking footprint of the once-ubiquitous casual chain.
Broader trends and local impacts
Restaurant closures in New Orleans and other cities have also been recorded throughout 2025, affecting both independent eateries and neighborhood staples. Local reporting and dining columns showed closures of spots like MoPho and Maypop earlier in 2025, as well as neighborhood bars and small cafes…