Logan’s Roadhouse, a popular American casual dining steakhouse chain, faced one of the most dramatic disruptions in recent restaurant history during the COVID-19 pandemic. In April 2020, CraftWorks Holdings, the chain’s parent company, abruptly closed all 261 corporate-owned locations, laying off nearly 18,000 employees. The shutdown reflected the company’s broader financial struggles and bankruptcy, worsened by pandemic-related restrictions and falling revenues. The closures drew national attention, highlighting the vulnerability of restaurant chains during an unprecedented economic crisis.

Despite the sudden halt, Logan’s Roadhouse did not disappear permanently. In June 2020, SPB Hospitality, affiliated with Fortress Investment Group, acquired CraftWorks’ portfolio, including Logan’s Roadhouse. The acquisition provided financial stability and new leadership, enabling a strategic reopening of many restaurants. SPB Hospitality focused on streamlining operations, renegotiating leases, and improving efficiency while preserving the brand’s core identity: hand-cut steaks, mesquite-grilled flavors, and a family-friendly dining experience.

Under the new ownership, the chain gradually rebuilt its footprint. While not all former locations reopened, Logan’s Roadhouse re-established a strong regional presence. Today, the chain operates roughly 135 restaurants across 22 U.S. states, attracting loyal customers seeking affordable steakhouse dining and familiar menu favorites.

Post-bankruptcy, the company emphasized operational discipline, consistent food quality, and improved customer experience, helping it remain competitive in a crowded casual dining market. The careful approach allowed the brand to recover while maintaining its identity and loyal customer base.

Logan’s Roadhouse’s story illustrates the fragility of large restaurant chains in the face of external crises, while also showing the potential for revival through strategic restructuring.

The 2020 closures underscored how quickly financial and operational pressures can disrupt even established companies. At the same time, SPB Hospitality’s acquisition demonstrated how new ownership can stabilize and guide a brand through recovery.

Today, Logan’s Roadhouse continues serving guests across multiple states, maintaining its reputation for hearty American cuisine and relaxed dining.

The chain’s rebound provides a case study in resilience, showing that with strategic leadership, brand loyalty, and operational focus, restaurants can overcome even severe disruption and rebuild successfully.