February 2026 saw several longtime New York restaurants close their doors for good. From diners with a 120-year history to vegan spots that became cult favorites, a range of food spots have already shuttered.
Five New York Restaurants Saying Goodbye in February 2026
New York has been a haven for food lovers, with several neighborhoods home to legacy food spots over the years. This February, many of these celebrated eateries have, however, bid their adieu.
Achilles Heel
One of the popular concepts by New York restaurateur Andrew Tarlow, Achilles Heel, served diners for one last time in early February. The bar and cafe were Greenpoint patrons’ preferred dining options throughout its over 13-year history.
Patrons stopped by the New York favorite for gastropub-style small plates, house cocktails, and a range of brews. The intimate tavern also hosted pop-ups, residencies, community events, and served a light breakfast. Its farewell post on Instagram cited financial hardships as the reason for the sudden closure. Complete details regarding the closure are available here.
- When: February 8, 2026
The Leopard at Des Artistes
The Leopard at Des Artistes closed its food operations permanently in mid-Feb. The Italian establishment served New York diners for roughly 15 years and emerged as a Michelin-recognized spot and Upper West Side favorite.
Elegant menu offerings and live jazz brunches took center stage at The Leopard through the years. Beyond these, the place was adored for its captivating ambience. Its interior was decorated with early-1990s murals by Howard Chandler Christy. More information on the closure can be found here.
- When: February 15, 2026
Tin Building by Jean-Georges
A popular food market and hall in the city’s South Street Seaport has shut amid plans to rebrand it as a Balloon Museum. The Tin Building by Jean-Georges closed this week following Seaport Entertainment Group’s announcement of establishing a flagship destination in the building this summer.
In its three years of service, the New York-based food hall offered a mix of restaurants, bars, and fast-service counters. Locals also stopped by the concept by chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, which features a central market with seafood, pantry staples, and more. Detailed closure information can be found here.
- When: February 23, 2026
Barbetta
This upscale Italian restaurant in the Theater District closed its doors for good after serving patrons at the New York location for 120 years. Barbetta’s impending closure this February is prompted by the passing of its owner, Laura Maiogolo.
The family-owned restaurant has served Piemonte’s traditional dishes since 1906, when Sebastiano Maioglio established it. As Barbetta now prepares for its final meal, the team has invited guests through the final month for food and wine (to be served from its wine cellar priced at $200 and above at half price). More details on the closure are available here.
- When: February 27, 2026
Red Bamboo
This New York food spot has announced closure after serving vegan favorites for nearly 24 years. Red Bamboo is just days away from wrapping up its services. The situation arises after its failed attempts to save the 2002-launched restaurant due to financial strain. Jade Wong, the restaurant owner confirmed the permanent closure through Instagram.
Red Bamboo became a preferred choice for vegetarian and vegan diners for its barbecue-style seitan dishes, loaded wraps, and fried sandwiches made with plant-based chicken, among several other highlights. More details regarding the closure can be found here.
- When: February 28, 2026
As February nears its end and financial struggles continue to affect New York restaurants. Patrons are sure to miss several cherished favorites, including classic Italian diners and food halls.
