This Beloved Sandwich Chain Just Shut Down For Good–Here's Why

It feels as though 2024 was the year of restaurant closures. And while the new year always adds a hint of optimism to our collective world view, the writing is already on the wall for yet another popular restaurant experiencing financial hardship.

Known for its famous grilled cheese sandwiches, Melt Bar & Grilled took to social media recently to announce the permanent closure of its original and last standing location in Lakewood, Ohio. Owner Matt Fish’s decision comes nearly six months after filing Chapter 11 bankruptcy for Melt. Fish wrote online that efforts to save Melt began back in 2020, however, the chain continued to struggle financially ever since.

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“Hundreds of difficult decisions and countless efforts were made to put the company in a position to survive and thrive," Fish explained. "Unfortunately, these determined efforts were not enough to save the company."

As part of the initial business revival, Fish approved the closure of 12 of the chain’s 13 locations along with a decrease in staff and a reduction of expenses. Six of the 12 closures took place in 2024 alone, with the company officially filing for bankruptcy in June 2024 and ultimately putting all of its eggs in one basket with the final remaining Lakewood location.

Related: This Famed Breakfast Restaurant Is Closing 150 of Its Locations Soon—Here’s What That Means

Fish then went on to approve a huge restaurant renovation that saw a complete rebrand and reopening with an all-new menu. These attempts unfortunately still fell short, as the restaurant continuously struggled to make ends meet.

"All aspects of the relaunch succeeded according to plan except one… the projected robust business levels never happened," Fish said. "The financial burden of bankruptcy, combined with the lack of robust sales have proved to be completely devastating."

Related: This Legendary Restaurant Just Filed for Bankruptcy—Here's What's Going On

Melt Bar & Grilled isn’t a complete failure, however. The brand launched its first restaurant in 2006 and went on to be a popular gourmet sandwich spot for countless locals and out-of-towners for 18 years. Melt even found itself on several television shows, including Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and the Travel Channel’s Man Vs. Food.

Owner Matt Fish put a ribbon on his post online, sharing with his restaurant's dedicated customer base. “Thank you to the millions of guests who have supported us over the last 18 years. I feel we provided a very fun, unique, consistent, and delicious experience during our lifetime.”

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