Buffalo Wild Wings Is Closing Locations: Updated List of Shutdown Restaurants for 2026

The chain still operates more than 1,400 locations nationwide, even as it sheds underperforming restaurants.

Depending on where you live, your wing options may have just become a little more limited.

Buffalo Wild Wings is closing restaurants across the country in 2026, raising questions about the chain’s footprint and long-term strategy.

Founded in 1982 in Columbus, Ohio, Buffalo Wild Wings has grown into the largest sports bar chain in the U.S. by systemwide sales, ranking No. 1 in Nation’s Restaurant News’ annual “Top 500” report, which was produced with Datassential.

Inspire Brands, the same company behind Dunkin’

Inspire Brands, the same company behind Dunkin’ and Arby’s, acquired the chain in 2018 for roughly $2.9 billion. Currently, Buffalo Wild Wings operates more than 1,400 locations nationwide—a footprint that remains substantial even amid the recent closures.

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Despite the shuttered locations, there’s no indication Buffalo Wild Wings is retreating from these markets entirely. Instead, the pattern suggests a broader recalibration: The company shedding underperforming restaurants while leaning further into takeout-friendly formats and franchising as it repositions its footprint for the long term.

In Ann Arbor, Michigan, the chain’s downtown location on South State Street closed on May 3 after more than 20 year. Manager Paul Creely pointed to the state of the restaurant industry overall as one of the reasons behind the decision. “We understand that people don’t have as much money to come out and eat, and it’s just the nature of the beast,” he told MLive.

Other locations have faced a different set of hurdles. For example, in Hicksville, New York, the Buffalo Wild Wings location in late January closed as part of a mall redevelopment project that is expected to exceed $100 million.

Source: www.inc.com