Applebee's Calexico Location Closure Marks End of an Era for Border City Dining
CALEXICO, CA – A long-standing dining establishment in Calexico has permanently closed its doors, as the Applebee's Grill + Bar location on Imperial Avenue ceased operations as of Sunday, January 14, 2024. The closure leaves the border city without a single location of the national casual dining chain, ending a tenure of over two decades at the site.
What prompted the decision remains officially unconfirmed by parent company Dine Brands Global, though local real estate sources indicate the property is now listed for lease. Who is affected includes dozens of former employees who have been laid off, as well as residents who relied on the venue for family gatherings and game-day events. When the closure took effect was this past weekend, with the restaurant failing to open for Sunday brunch service. Where the closure occurred is at 1810 South Imperial Avenue, a prominent commercial corridor near the U.S.-Mexico border crossing. Why the closure happened is speculated to stem from declining foot traffic and rising operational costs, a trend impacting similar franchise locations in smaller markets across California.
The Calexico Applebee's closure, which became final amid quiet signage removal, represents a notable shift in the region's dining landscape, as the city now faces a reduced selection of national chain restaurants. Authorities have not issued further statements regarding potential redevelopment of the parcel.