Winston-Salem, North Carolina, December 5, 2025
K&W Cafeterias, a beloved Southern comfort food chain, has announced the permanent closure of all its locations as of December 1, 2025. After facing significant financial challenges, including falling sales and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the chain, founded in 1937, has concluded its 88-year legacy. The sudden closure impacts employees and marks the end of a dining tradition for many families in the region. K&W expressed deep gratitude to customers and staff for their loyalty over the decades.
Winston-Salem, North Carolina – K&W Cafeterias Closes All Locations After 88 Years
Winston-Salem, North Carolina – K&W Cafeterias, a beloved Southern comfort food chain, has permanently closed all its locations as of December 1, 2025, ending an 88-year legacy.
Immediate Closure Announcement
The company announced the immediate closure of all nine locations across North Carolina and Virginia on December 1, 2025. The announcement expressed gratitude to customers for their support over the years.
Financial Challenges Leading to Closure
K&W Cafeterias faced significant financial difficulties, including falling sales and rising operating costs, which made continued operations unsustainable. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in September 2020, citing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on its business.
Historical Background
Founded in 1937 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, K&W Cafeterias became known for its homestyle Southern dishes, including fried chicken, turnip greens, and homemade desserts. The chain expanded to multiple locations over the decades, becoming a staple in the region.
Community Impact
The closure of K&W Cafeterias has left many employees unemployed and marks the end of a cherished dining tradition for numerous families in the region. The company expressed deep gratitude to its patrons and staff for their loyalty and support throughout the years.
Conclusion
The sudden closure of K&W Cafeterias signifies the end of a significant chapter in North Carolina’s culinary history, reflecting broader challenges faced by traditional dining establishments in adapting to changing economic conditions and consumer preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did K&W Cafeterias close all its locations?
K&W Cafeterias faced significant financial difficulties, including falling sales and rising operating costs, which made continued operations unsustainable. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in September 2020, citing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on its business.
When did K&W Cafeterias announce the closure?
The company announced the immediate closure of all nine locations across North Carolina and Virginia on December 1, 2025.
How long had K&W Cafeterias been in business?
K&W Cafeterias had been in business for 88 years, having been founded in 1937 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
What was the impact of the closure on employees?
The closure of K&W Cafeterias has left many employees unemployed and marks the end of a cherished dining tradition for numerous families in the region.
What was K&W Cafeterias known for?
K&W Cafeterias was known for its homestyle Southern dishes, including fried chicken, turnip greens, and homemade desserts.
Key Features of K&W Cafeterias’ Closure
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Closure Date | December 1, 2025 |
| Number of Locations | 9 (8 in North Carolina, 1 in Virginia) |
| Years in Business | 88 years (Founded in 1937) |
| Known For | Homestyle Southern dishes, including fried chicken, turnip greens, and homemade desserts |
| Financial Challenges | Falling sales and rising operating costs; filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in September 2020 |
| Impact on Employees | Many employees left unemployed; end of a cherished dining tradition for numerous families in the region |
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