Baton Rouge just lost a piece of its culinary heart! The iconic Plank Road Piccadilly cafeteria has closed after 65 years. From its humble beginnings to serving generations, this spot saw it all. What’s your fondest memory of dining there?
After serving the North Baton Rouge community for an impressive 65 years, the Piccadilly cafeteria located at 5179 Plank Road has permanently closed its doors, marking the end of an era for a cherished local dining institution. The closure, which officially took effect on August 26, 2025, leaves only three Piccadilly locations remaining in the Baton Rouge area, a significant reduction from its peak widespread presence.
The decision to cease operations at the Plank Road site was not taken lightly, as conveyed by Keith L. Brown, Piccadilly’s chief operating officer, from Youngsville. Brown stated via email that store closures are always a last resort, emphasizing the difficult nature of navigating the constantly evolving and challenging landscape of the restaurant industry.
On the day following the closure, Wednesday, August 27, 2025, the scene at the Plank Road location was one of quiet finality. A sign announcing the permanent closure hung prominently on the front door, while inside, uniformed employees could be seen meticulously cleaning out the building, wiping down windows and preparing the space for its next chapter.
The sign itself paid homage to the cafeteria’s long-standing legacy, stating, “After proudly serving the North Baton Rouge community for 65 years, we are sorry to announce we are closing our doors permanently on August 26th, 2025.” This message resonated deeply with long-time patrons who have fond memories of the establishment.
Piccadilly’s history in Baton Rouge dates back to 1944 when the very first location opened at 214 Third Street in downtown. This original eatery laid the groundwork for what would become a significant regional and national chain, deeply embedded in the local culinary fabric.
By the 1960s, Piccadilly cafeterias had become synonymous with a certain standard of dining, featuring amenities like cloth napkins, live music, commissioned murals, chandeliers, and, most importantly, home-cooked comfort food. The brand expanded dramatically, reaching 270 locations nationwide by 1998, a testament to its widespread appeal and successful business model.
Despite its past successes and national recognition, the company faced considerable financial turbulence in the 21st century. Piccadilly Cafeteria filed for bankruptcy in 2003 due to poor performance, a significant blow to its expansive operations. The company found itself in similar financial straits again in 2012, highlighting the persistent challenges in a highly competitive market.
The closing of the Plank Road Piccadilly is more than just a business decision; it represents the loss of a significant piece of Baton Rouge’s cultural and dining history. For generations, this cafeteria offered a consistent and comforting meal, and its departure leaves a void in the local restaurant industry, particularly for those who appreciated its unique approach to Southern comfort food.
