The rising cost of living is putting pressure on businesses around the world, and California is no exception. From longtime neighborhood spots to major chains, the state’s food scene has seen its share of closures as operating costs continue to climb. Now, sadly, another familiar name is joining the list: Mimi’s Cafe.
Mimi’s Cafe has lost more than 100 locations
The Anaheim-born restaurant chain has been steadily shrinking for more than a decade, and its footprint has now become a fraction of what it once was. As of late August, just 38 Mimi’s Cafe restaurants remained across nine states, compared with 145 locations existing back in 2013.
The latest closure came in Folsom, where the Mimi’s Cafe at Broadstone Plaza permanently shut its doors on August 16 after 25 years in business. The closure leaves just one Mimi’s location serving the Sacramento area, in Elk Grove, the Folsom Times reports.
Across California, the chain has also lost locations in communities including Arden Arcade, Roseville and South Natomas, while a longtime Belmont Shore restaurant that had remained vacant for years was recently demolished.
The closures have accelerated in recent years, although the company has not publicly provided a specific reason for the latest round of shutdowns. Its official website currently lists Mimi’s locations in California and several other states, including Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee and Texas.
It all started in Anaheim nearly five decades ago
Mimi’s Cafe began in 1978, when father-and-son restaurateurs Arthur and Thomas Simms opened the first location in Anaheim. The concept drew inspiration from French and New Orleans-style dining, with a cozy bistro atmosphere and dishes designed for casual family meals.
Arthur Simms had previously worked as the commissary manager at MGM Studios, while his time stationed in France during World War II helped inspire the restaurant’s French influence. The name itself was reportedly inspired by a woman named Mimi whom he met during his time overseas.
From that single Anaheim restaurant, Mimi’s grew into a recognizable California chain with more than 140 locations at its peak.