“Big Tex Bold Mex.” is what Don Pablo’s described itself as. The company that owned Don Pablo’s – Avado Brands – went bankrupt twice in the last 10 years, first in 2004 and again in 2007.
The chain was sold to a restaurant group started by Avado’s bankruptcy lender, in 2008. Don Pablo’s struggled as a fast-casual restaurant, just like the Chipotle Mexican Grill.
Tony Roma's
Here’s a familiar chain that you can breathe a sigh of relief over because it is still alive to this day! Tony Roma was founded in 1972 and has claimed to be one of “the largest casual theme restaurant chains specializing in ribs in the world.”
Tony Roma’s domestic sales fell by over 70%, while its total number of U.S. restaurants declined from 162 to 46 between 2001 and 2011. The restaurant’s parent company, Romacorp Inc., filed for bankruptcy in 2005.
Tony Roma's
While it took a definite hit, Tony Roma’s is still active internationally, with restaurants in over 30 countries.
Even though it disappeared from the United States, you can still visit the other restaurants... you’ll just have to leave the United States to do so! Any excuse to travel, right?
Don Pablo's
Despite their struggle though, they have still managed to become America’s preferred choice for Mexican cuisine.
As we mentioned in previous slides, Don Pablo’s is one place you can rely on for top-of-the-line Mexican food!
Blimpie Subs & Salads
Here’s a name that you have probably heard before. In 1964, the first ever Blimpie opened in Hoboken, New Jersey. They are famous for being the first sub sandwich chain.
Of course, nothing is going to beat Subway, but this one was America’s first favorite. In fact, at its peak, it was the third largest sub sandwich chain. Despite its success, Blimpie Subs & Salads has been struggling over the last decade.