Tallahassee's Hopdoddy Burger Bar Shuts Down After Just Two Years

3425 Thomasville Road, Tallahassee, Florida, USA - In a surprising turn of events, Hopdoddy Burger Bar has closed its doors in Tallahassee after just two years of operation. Located in the Trader Joe’s plaza at 3425 Thomasville Road, the restaurant shut down on June 10, 2025, leaving many loyal patrons reeling from the news. Hopdoddy took over the space that was previously home to Grub Burger Bar only in March 2023, making this closure even more disheartening for food lovers in the area.

The news of the closure was first shared by a former employee in the Tallahassee Foodies social media group, provoking immediate disappointment among customers. Fans of the burger joint praised its creative, sustainably sourced burgers and the extensive drink menu featuring specialty beverages and shakes. However, some customers did cite challenges with parking at the location, which may have contributed to the closure. As of now, the local Facebook page for Hopdoddy confirms that the Thomasville Road location is permanently closed, but representatives for the chain were unreachable for comment during this tumultuous time.

Hopdoddy’s Changing Landscape

Based in Austin, Texas, Hopdoddy Burger Bar has been navigating a challenging restaurant landscape, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. As they adapt to the changing tides of consumer preferences, the company has focused on enhancing off-premises sales and shifting its business model accordingly. CEO Jeff Chandler highlighted the critical role of efficiency and effective service during the pandemic, leading to significant changes in their operations, including redesigned kitchens and improved digital experiences. In fact, off-premises sales now account for 30% of their total sales, a significant jump from just 12% pre-pandemic. They’ve managed to bounce back with an impressive sales increase of 18% in 2021, reaching over $58 million in revenue, according to Nation’s Restaurant News.

Hopdoddy’s new growth strategy has also led to the introduction of smaller formats like Lil’ Doddy, which features a mobile-order pickup window—perfect for satisfying the growing preference for takeout. As part of its expansion plans, the company has even announced the acquisition of Grub Burger Bar to form HiBar Hospitality Group, which will allow for faster growth through integrating Grub’s locations into the Hopdoddy brand.

The Rise of Off-Premises Dining

The shift towards off-premises dining has been a broader trend in the restaurant industry, with nearly 75% of restaurant traffic now coming from takeout, delivery, or drive-thru services. Modern Restaurant Management emphasizes that 58% of limited-service and 41% of full-service operators have reported increased sales since 2019, driven in large part by Gen Z and millennials, who find takeout essential. In fact, 66% of younger customers prioritize takeout options when choosing where to dine.

Speed and quality are paramount for today’s diners, with 94% valuing speedy service and 90% indicating they would order more if food quality could be maintained during delivery. The evolving landscape means that restaurants must innovate continually or risk falling behind. With many traditional dining establishments adapting to these trends, Hopdoddy’s abrupt closure serves as a pivotal lesson for restaurant owners everywhere—a reminder that no matter how beloved a brand may be, adapting to consumer demands is key.

For those who enjoyed Hopdoddy’s offerings in Tallahassee, this closure feels like a loss, but the shifts in business models may pave the way for new and exciting dining experiences in the future. As the restaurant scene continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the majority of diners now seek convenience, a trend that will shape how restaurants operate in the months and years to come.

Stay tuned for more updates on the changing dynamics of edible offerings in our vibrant community.