News Summary
In Central Florida, eight restaurants have been ordered to close due to serious health violations and financial challenges. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation reported that closures occurred amid operational cost increases. Notable affected restaurants include Keke’s Breakfast Cafe and Farm and Haus, which faced health infractions and financial difficulties. While some establishments are shutting down completely, community interest in dining out remains strong, prompting restaurants to adapt with social media and curbside pickup to navigate tough times.
Florida – In recent weeks, eight restaurants in Central Florida have been ordered to close due to health violations and ongoing financial challenges. The enforcement actions, reported by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), occurred between July 7 and July 13, 2025, amid a backdrop of increasing operational costs and difficulties in the hospitality industry.
The closures were prompted by serious health infractions at various establishments, including the presence of live roaches, rodent droppings, and improperly stored food items. Notable cities affected by these orders include Daytona Beach, Lakeland, Ocala, Orlando, Ormond Beach, and Winter Park.
Among the restaurants closing permanently are two locations of Keke’s Breakfast Cafe in Orlando, specifically at 2433 S. Hiawassee Road and 431 S. Chickasaw Trail. This closure was precipitated by the termination of the franchise agreement following violations by the previous owner. Staff members were informed of this decision on December 30, 2024, when they arrived for work.
Another significant establishment, Farm and Haus in Winter Park, has also announced its closure after operating successfully for ten years. Additionally, Kappy’s Subs in Maitland is shutting its doors after 57 years of business due to complications with leasing agreements.
Notably, The Hammered Lamb in Orlando is currently navigating financial difficulties linked to a substantial drainage project on N. Orange Avenue, further illustrating the strain that infrastructural challenges can place on local businesses. Meanwhile, the popular Valkyrie Donuts and Pom Pom’s Teahouse and Sandwicheria plan to close their Orlando locations ahead of Halloween 2025, reflecting ongoing uncertainty in the market.
Financial pressures have been exacerbated in the restaurant industry as operational costs have skyrocketed, increasing by more than 20% compared to four years ago. Many restaurant owners struggle to pass these rising costs on to consumers, creating a challenging economic environment. Compounding these issues, establishments dependent on tourism often experience wild fluctuations in customer traffic during peak and off-peak seasons.
Despite the wave of closures, community interest in dining out remains robust. Restaurants continue to leverage social media platforms and curbside pickup options as possible lifelines. These tools have kept patrons engaged and encouraged continued support of local eateries during tough times.
As Central Florida continues to grapple with these challenges, the importance of staying informed about local news and updates remains paramount. Community support and awareness can play a vital role in aiding struggling businesses as they navigate these turbulent waters.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Click Orlando: 8 Central Florida Restaurants Closed
- Orlando Weekly: 17 Orlando Restaurants Closed
- WFTV: Latest Restaurant Closures
- Fox 35 Orlando: Orlando Eateries Closing
- Orlando Sentinel: 8 Restaurants Shut Down
- Wikipedia: Hospitality Industry
- Google Search: Restaurant Closures Orlando
- Google Scholar: Restaurant Industry Challenges
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hospitality Industry
- Google News: Restaurant Closures Florida
