I remember when Fazoli’s first opened. As a kid, I was thrilled by the idea of a drive-thru Italian joint. And those breadsticks? So good!

Back in the day, it felt like Fazoli’s was everywhere. But after multiple recent closures, the number of Michigan locations has clearly dwindled.

97.9 WGRD logo
Get our free mobile app

A Look Back: Fazoli’s Origins and Menu Favorites

Founded in 1988 in Lexington, Kentucky, Fazoli’s built its name on affordable pasta favorites like spaghetti with meatballs, fettuccine alfredo, chicken parmesan, and lasagna. The menu also includes pizza, subs, salads, and plenty of those famous breadsticks.

Fazoli's via Facebook
Fazoli's via Facebook
loading...

At its peak in the early 2000s, the fast casual chain had around 400 restaurants nationwide. Now that number has dropped to 200 or less.

The first Michigan location opened in Jenison. That restaurant has since closed...

So what’s going on?

FAT Brands Bankruptcy: What It Means for Fazoli’s

Last month, parent company FAT Brands filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The company said it plans to restructure its debt while continuing to operate its 18 restaurant brands, including Fatburger, Johnny Rockets, and Round Table Pizza. FAT Brands also confirmed that its brands would continue operating during the bankruptcy process.

READ MORE: What Ever Happened to Boston Market? Are There Any Left in Michigan

West Michigan Fazoli's Closures

While that may be the plan, two more West Michigan Fazoli's restaurants appear to be done.

👇BELOW: MICHIGAN'S 10 UNHEALTHIEST FAST FOOD RESTAURANTS👇

The Fazoli’s in Walker, northwest of Grand Rapids, and  the Muskegon location are both listed as permanently closed on Google. According to WOOD TV 8, signs posted at both eateries confirm they are closed and direct customers to the other remaining locations.

That leaves a bigger question.

READ MORE: This Fast Food Chain Just Banned Microwaves

How many Fazoli’s are actually left in Michigan?

Remaining Fazoli’s Locations in Michigan

You might not want to trust the website. As of this writing, the official Fazoli’s site still lists Jenison and Kalamazoo as open, even though both closed last year.

Right now, the only Michigan locations still marked open on Google are in Battle Creek, Lansing, and Jackson.

From nearly 400 locations nationwide at its peak to just a handful left in Michigan, it's a big shift for the chain and for fans who grew up on unlimited breadsticks and drive-thru pasta nights.

The 10 Unhealthiest Fast Food Restaurants In Michigan

A list of the unhealthiest fast food restaurants in Michigan

Gallery Credit: Da'Jzon Hughes

More From 97.9 WGRD