Winston-Salem, NC, December 2, 2025
K&W Cafeterias has permanently closed all its locations after 88 years of serving homestyle Southern cuisine. The announcement was made on December 1, 2025, with the company expressing deep gratitude to its customers. Founded in Winston-Salem, NC in 1937, K&W became a local staple before it faced bankruptcy in 2020. The sudden closure marks a significant loss for the community that cherished the restaurant as a family gathering spot.
Winston-Salem, NC: K&W Cafeterias Closes All Locations After 88 Years in Business
Winston-Salem, NC – K&W Cafeterias, a beloved Southern restaurant chain, has permanently closed all its locations after 88 years of service. The company announced the immediate shutdown on December 1, 2025, via a Facebook post, expressing deep gratitude to its customers for their support over nearly nine decades.
Immediate Closure Announcement
K&W Cafeterias conveyed heartfelt thanks to its patrons, stating it was truly sorry to bring this chapter to an end but profoundly thankful for the love shown over the years. The company did not provide specific reasons for the closure.
Historical Background
Founded in 1937 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, K&W Cafeterias became a staple in the region, known for its homestyle Southern cuisine. The chain expanded over the years, operating multiple locations across North Carolina and Virginia. In 2020, K&W filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy due to challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic but emerged from bankruptcy in September 2021, reducing its number of locations.
Community Impact
The closure marks the end of an era for many longtime customers who cherished the restaurant as a gathering place for family traditions and Sunday meals. The community has expressed deep appreciation for the memories and experiences shared at K&W Cafeterias over the years.
Industry Context
K&W Cafeterias joins a list of notable restaurant closures in recent times, including Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant and Rite Aid pharmacy, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the hospitality industry. This trend underscores the importance of innovation and adaptability for small businesses in a changing economic landscape.
Conclusion
The permanent closure of K&W Cafeterias signifies the end of a cherished chapter in Southern dining history. The company expressed profound gratitude to its customers for their loyalty and support throughout the years. As the community reflects on the rich history associated with K&W, the focus remains on supporting local businesses and fostering a robust economic environment in North Carolina.
FAQ
Why did K&W Cafeterias close all its locations?
K&W Cafeterias did not provide a specific reason for the closure in its announcement. The company simply stated that all locations were “CLOSED PERMANENTLY” effective December 1, 2025.
When did K&W Cafeterias announce the permanent closure?
The company announced the closure on its official Facebook page on Monday, stating that all locations closed effective December 1, 2025.
How many K&W Cafeteria locations were operating before the shutdown?
Before closing, K&W operated eight locations across North Carolina and one in Virginia.
Who owned K&W Cafeterias at the time of closure?
At the time of closure, K&W Cafeterias was owned by Piccadilly Restaurants, a Louisiana-based company that acquired K&W in August 2022.
Key Features of K&W Cafeterias
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1937 |
| Headquarters | Winston-Salem, North Carolina |
| Number of Locations at Closure | 9 (8 in North Carolina, 1 in Virginia) |
| Type of Cuisine | Southern homestyle food |
| Bankruptcy Filing | September 2020 |
| Acquisition | Acquired by Piccadilly Restaurants in August 2022 |
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