Applebee's Calexico Location Closure Announced, Leaving Community Without Dining Option
CALEXICO, CA — Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar has permanently closed its sole location in Calexico, California, as confirmed by corporate representatives on Wednesday. The restaurant, situated at 2201 Imperial Avenue, ceased operations on March 9, 2024, following a standard business evaluation.
The closure eliminates the only full-service casual dining chain in the city of approximately 40,000 residents. Corporate spokesperson Melanie Gonzalez stated the decision was based on "routine performance assessments" and that all affected employees would receive "transition support packages and priority consideration for positions at nearby locations." No specific details regarding layoff numbers were provided.
Founded in 1980, the Calexico branch opened in 2005 and served as a key gathering spot for families and local workers. The site is currently listed for sublease, with no confirmed prospective tenants.
El Centro, located 15 miles north, now houses the nearest Applebee's. Authorities have not announced any timeline for a potential new location within Calexico.