One of America’s ‘most legendary steakhouses’ abruptly shuts after 30 years

After recently being named one of the best steakhouses in the South, a beloved East Memphis steakhouse has now closed for good.

Buckley’s, located at 5355 Poplar Avenue, served its last customers on Sunday.

The owners of the 30-year-old restaurant did not give a specific reason for the closing.

But partner Jeff Fioranelli said: ‘It’s been a great run and now I have the opportunity to pursue other passions.

“And last but not least, spending more nights at home with my wife and son. I hope they are ready for it! Thank you, Memphis!”

Owner Jeff Fioranelli said of Buckley’s closing, “It’s been a great experience.”

Buckley’s first opened in 1994 and was recently recognized by Southern Living magazine as one of the “South’s Most Legendary Steakhouses.”

The glowing review read: ‘Don’t be fooled by the white brick facade and neon signage. The atmospherically lit dining room at Buckley’s Grill is the perfect place for a night out.

“Your date will be even more impressed with the fantastic food, and your wallet will be happy too.”

‘Steak options are kept simple. Order a signature 6-ounce filet (comes with a prime or signature side) for just $49.’

A staff member who has worked there since 1996 provided some insight in a Reddit post.

One factor was that the restaurant did not offer takeout.

“The reason for this was that the owners believed they could not guarantee their steaks,” they wrote.

‘A medium rare steak would quickly become medium if it was in a to-go box. They died on this mountain despite the to-go trend.’

The employee, who was complimentary about the restaurant, also pointed out the restaurant’s rising costs, a common problem for eateries across America.

He pointed out that the restaurant was not for profit.

“When I first started working at Buckley’s, a filet was literally $10. Last week, a 6-ounce filet was $49. And believe it or not, there was no extortionate pricing.

“Their 16-ounce ribeye was $21. It sold for $57, which is about right. Most restaurants charge three times the cost to cover labor and operational costs.

Crime also played a role, most notably the break-ins of customers’ cars outside the restaurant.

Buckley’s – a steakhouse in East Memphis – closed last week

“You can have the best experience at the restaurant, but if you see a broken car window and stolen items next door, would you think twice before going back?” they wrote.

‘Multiply that by the number of times and you see that a lot of people don’t come back.’

Small chains and independent restaurants like Buckley’s have been closing at a rapid pace over the past year.

Many struggle with the aftershocks of the pandemic, which caused labor problems, inflation and a change in the way Americans eat out.