I Knew TGI Fridays Was Struggling, but Illinois’ Remaining Locations Surprised Me

The restaurant industry, including TGI Fridays, has faced significant challenges in recent years, largely due to changing consumer preferences, rising costs, and increased competition.

Closures Impact Wisconsin Locations

Last month, I told you they were forced to close several locations, including a few in Wisconsin.

After the closures, there are only two left in The Badger State.

Illinois Faces Similar Downsizing

Knowing that, I thought the same could be said about Illinois.

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I know we lost the TGI Fridays years ago in Rockford, and even then, I thought, "If Fridays can't make it out here, it's in big trouble."

Granite City and Sonic Restaurants’ Struggles

I stand by that because the same thing happened to Granite City. They had a place in Rockford, which closed, and then were significantly downsized after that.

If you're keeping score, only two Granite City restaurants are left in Illinois.

Keep Reading: Popular Dining Spot in Wisconsin Shuts Down Amid Nationwide Restaurant...

It's hard not to feel for the Sonic restaurants, which have had to downsize severely too.

Their struggle in Rockford is a stark reminder of many restaurants' challenges.

All that's to say, (again) if it can't make it here, it's in trouble everywhere else.

Then again, TGI Fridays, while recently announcing its bankruptcy, still has plenty of locations left in Illinois.

TGI Fridays Still Present in Illinois

How many? There are 14 different TGI Fridays as of today:

• Aurora
• Bedford Park
• Bourbonnais
• Chicago
• Darien
• Effingham
• Fairview Heights
• Gurnee
• Joliet
• Oswego
• Oak Lawn
• Oak Park
• Oswego
• Rosemont
• Tinley Park

The Future of TGI Fridays in Illinois

As TGI Fridays navigate its way out of bankruptcy, we can't ignore the potential for more restaurant closures in Illinois.

The impact on our local dining scene could be significant.

As the situation with TGI Fridays unfolds, we'll be here to keep you updated.

The future of these beloved restaurants is uncertain, and we'll follow closely.