Readers of this column know we keep a monthly tally of locally owned restaurant openings, closings, and “coming soons” across the metro area. That makes the end of the year a natural moment to step back and assess the overall patterns in 2025—a year that delivered both encouraging signs but also new challenges.
While there was chatter that December 2025 would bring a tidal wave of closures, the numbers tell a different story: 14 restaurants closed this December, the same number as a year ago. Even more unexpected, 23 restaurants opened in December, up from about 12 last year.
January openings and closures in 2024 and 2025 were nearly identical. Still, most industry insiders agree the outlook remains uncertain, and what 2026 holds is anyone’s guess.
Follow dining editor George Mahe on Twitter and Instagram, or send him an “Ask George” email at [email protected]. For more from St. Louis Magazine, subscribe or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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