Iconic Elmo and 4 Other Beloved NYC Restaurants Closed in March 2026

From Tito’s Burritos & Wings to The Roost Outpost, March 2026 brought closures for several NYC restaurants.

Written By Riya Singh
Five restaurants have closed this month in New York (Image credit: Facebook @Jing Fong Restaurant)

March 2026 saw several beloved New York restaurants close their doors, marking changes in the city’s dining scene. From Chinese spots to neighborhood favorites, here’s what will be missing from the NYC-area’s food scene.

5 New York Restaurants That Closed This Month

Diners in New York said goodbye to some of their favorite eateries this month. Known for its culinary diversity and neighborhood favorites, these closures were not easy for locals.

Tito’s Burritos & Wings

Restaurants That Closed in New York in March 2026.
Storefront image of a Tito’s Burritos and Wings location (Image Credit: Yelp by Sam F.)

After 21 years in business, Tito’s Burritos & Wings closed all locations, ending its run in the community. A favorite in New Jersey, it announced the closure of all its locations on February 17, 2026. Known for its laid-back, California-style beach vibe, its closure left many saddened.

Diners would stop by Tito’s for its extensive selection of wing sauces and the intense “Wings of Death.” Other popular menu items included the “Fat Amy” taco, made-to-order burritos, and other items. Read more about the closure here.

  • Closing Date: March 1

Jing Fong Restaurant

Restaurants That Closed in New York in March 2026.
Outside Jing Fong’s Upper West Side location (Image Credit: Yelp by Toby S.)

After eight long years in New York’s Upper West Side, Jing Fong announced its closure. Known for its Cantonese cuisine, the restaurant was one of the few spots where servers push carts. Jing Fong has been the go-to for Chinese weddings, birthday parties, and banquets.

Jing Fong was especially popular for its high-quality dim sum, barbeque roast pork buns, shrimp rice noodles, and lava buns. Although the Upper West Side location has closed, Jing Fong remains open at other New York City sites. Read more about the closure here.

  • Closing Date: March 8

Elmo Restaurant

Restaurants That Closed in New York in March 2026.
Outside Elmo in New York (Image Credit: Yelp by Matthew P.)

For 25 years, Elmo has been a beloved restaurant among New Yorkers and visitors. It served its final customers in March 2026, closing after 25 years in business. Known for its dining and nightlife, Elmo’s comfortable atmosphere and classic American offerings made it a go-to spot.

The restaurant’s closure was a result of its lease expiration and the building’s sale. Elmo was also considered the unofficial clubhouse for queer New Yorkers. It served as a hub for drag shows, Pride celebrations, and gatherings. Read more about the closure here.

  • Closing Date: March 13

The Roost Outpost

Restaurants That Closed in New York in March 2026.
Outside The Roost Outpost (Image Credit: Yelp by Hsin-yi W.)

A popular coffee shop near the Hoboken train station suddenly closed its doors in March. After 10 years of serving the community, The Roost Outpost closed. The closure came after the coffee shop was unable to renew its lease.

The coffee shop was well known for its cozy, casual, and trendy space, which was welcoming to all. Some of the popular menu items recognized by patrons are the flaky pastries, cold brews, and other items. Read more about the closure here.

  • Closing Date: March 20

Oso Felipe

Restaurants That Closed in New York in March 2026.
Outside Oso Felipe (Image Credit: Yelp by Nicole G.)

After just over a year in Montclair, the Mexican dining spot Oso Felipe closed its doors. Famed for its upscale, authentic cuisine, it became beloved by many. Patrons loved its distinctive flatiron-shaped building and its trendy atmosphere.

The space spanned over three floors, with two bar areas, outdoor dining, and a fireplace. Some popular menu items included the tacos al carbon, enchiladas, and wood-fired seafood. Read more about the closure here.

  • Closing Date: March 28

March 2026 marked a period of change in New York’s dining scene. Though these closures affect loyal patrons, New York’s food scene continues to evolve, making way for new concepts and experiences.

Love our content?
Add WhatNow as a preferred source on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search.

Be the First to Know

From new restaurant openings to exciting retail launches and real estate insights, be the first to know what’s happening in New York

Share This Article
Follow:
Riya Singh is a writer, editor, and poet with a background in literature and journalism. She has the passion and knowledge to create content tailored to this niche, with a strong interest in the intersections of psychology, storytelling, and human behavior.
Leave a Comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *