Iconic bar brand closes one of its 3 historic locations

Another beloved establishment is closing its doors forever, an occurrence that's becoming too familiar as businesses continue to struggle with the effects of an unpredictable economy.

With consumers tightening their budgets and becoming more mindful of their spending habits, even well-established brands are finding it increasingly difficult to survive.

While some might assume that only newer businesses are at risk of suffering this unfortunate fate, longstanding restaurants and bars, some with decades of history, are also disappearing at an alarming rate, signaling that years of success no longer work against financial pressures.

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Data backs up this trend.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, around 17% of new restaurants close within their first year. The odds worsen over time, with around 50% closing within five years and only 34.6% of restaurants surviving past 10 years, according to Oysterlink.

Pat O'Brien's, a historic New Orleans-born bar, is the latest casualty of this misfortune. After more than 22 years of serving the community, it announced the permanent closure of its San Antonio location, ending an era of its signature hurricane drinks, dueling pianos, and outdoor live music at its Texas branch.

Pat O'Brien's bar to close its San Antonio location.

Image Source: Shutterstock

Pat O'Brien's owner reveals the reason behind the closure

San Antonio franchise owner Cory Neal revealed the reason behind the bar's closure, pointing to issues many business owners have been battling for years.

“The challenges of the post-COVID era, combined with the ongoing construction surrounding the Alamo, fluctuating tourism and conventions, as well as the rising costs of doing business, have proven too steep to overcome,” said Neal in a statement on the bar's website.

Pat O'Brien's began as a speakeasy in New Orleans' French Quarter during Prohibition. Following the repeal in 1933, the bar officially opened and quickly became a nightlife icon.

Due to its growing popularity, the bar became a full-service restaurant in 1996, and began franchising under new ownership only three years later. From that came an Orlando location in Universal CityWalk, followed by a San Antonio River Walk location in 2003.

While the San Antonio branch will soon permanently close, Pat O'Brien's will continue to operate in New Orleans and Orlando, keeping its legacy alive for years to come.

Fans react to Pat O'Brien's permanent shutdown

Pat O'Brien's shared the news on social media, posting about the closure. This prompted a wave of emotional comments from fans, former staff, and musicians.

A Louisiana native commented, “I don't live in San Antonio, but as someone born and raised in Louisiana, who had to move to TX, it was the closest I could get to the real deal…”

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Another loyal customer added, “I’m sad to see y’all will be closing soon. I enjoyed visiting y’all and taking many out-of-town friends to drink a hurricane…”

A musician who had played at Pat O'Brien's also wrote, “It's hard to believe this is actually happening! I’ll miss all of our adventures through the doors of Pat O'Brien's! Forever my favorite venue to have had the privilege of becoming family as a recurring musician for many years. Love to all the staff! My deepest condolences to those directly affected by these doors closing.”