2023 Strikes Again: Lubbock Loses Another Restaurant Favorite

2023: the year that killed 1000 Lubbock restaurants. Or, at least, it certainly feels that way. Now, a personal favorite of mine has abruptly called it quits. Burger Fi (4210 82nd St in Kingsgate Center North) announced its closure by putting a sign up on the door. It reads:

Burger Fi is CLOSED! Thank you for your patronage over the last 6 years, we enjoyed serving you!

This one hurts me for a few reasons- for one, I have a gift card that I will now have to travel many miles to use. In fact, according to their location map, there aren't any left in Texas (assuming the location map is functioning properly). Burger Fi took a huge tumble in 2022, closing a total of 15 stores due to the aftereffects of the pandemic, such as labor shortages and high supply costs.

I clearly remember when the Lubbock location opened up, as it was a stone's throw from our studios. The food was creative, high-quality, and delicious. Of course, they had amazing burgers, but they also had other great offerings. I was remiss when their grilled chicken fell off the menu a couple of years back- it was such a healthy option, especially if you opted to forgo the bun. I also really liked their vegetarian quinoa burger, even though I am not vegetarian. It was a nice alternative on days when I didn't feel so "beefy."

Just because this photo is dear to me, this is myself, my father, and our very missed friend Kelly at the opening of our Burger Fi:

The only thing constant in life is change, I suppose. I guess I'll use this gift card to pick my teeth.