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Jimmy Buffet's famous Margaritaville restaurant on the Las Vegas Strip has shut down after 20 years. Known for its laid-back, tropical atmosphere and popular "cheeseburgers in paradise," the venue was a favorite among tourists and locals alike.
The beloved singer, who passed away, first opened Margaritaville in Key West, Florida, in 1985. Over the years, the brand expanded, opening hotels and resorts worldwide.
Margaritaville Closes Doors After Two Decades
The Margaritaville restaurant, located inside the Flamingo Las Vegas hotel, has permanently closed its doors. Spanning 12,000 square feet, this three-level beach-themed establishment featured six bars and offered a vibrant escape right on the Las Vegas Strip.
Guests at Margaritaville could enjoy a meal, sip on a drink, and shop for unique souvenirs, including the iconic 45-ounce blender cups emblazoned with the Margaritaville logo. The venue was not just a restaurant; it was an experience, often hosting live concerts by Jimmy Buffet himself.
According to Eater Las Vegas, the restaurant served its last customer on April 15, marking the end of an era for many fans and patrons.
As Margaritaville closes its doors at the Flamingo Las Vegas, the hotel is gearing up to welcome new establishments, including a restaurant by celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay and Lisa Vanderpump's Pinky's Vanderpump.
Both dining spots are set to launch this summer.
However, the arrival of these new venues does little to soften the disappointment felt by loyal patrons of Margaritaville.
For two decades, it was a beloved part of the Las Vegas Strip experience. "We've been coming here for 20 years since it opened, so we had to get one last drink," a longtime customer shared with KTNV, a local ABC affiliate.
Another diner expressed regret over the closure, saying, "It's really unfortunate, 'cause it's a really fun place to stop in and get a drink or a bite to eat." The sentiment underscores the unique place Margaritaville held in the hearts of its visitors, making its closure a significant loss for the community.
Margaritaville Closure Marks New Beginning
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The popular spot known for its vibrant atmosphere and beach-themed dining will cease operations due to an expiring lease. The doors will close for the final time on or before June 1, 2024.
The restaurant's website indicates that no reservations can be made past April 18, 2024.
A restaurant spokesperson confirmed to Channel 13 that although the current location is shutting down, the search is on for a new spot in Las Vegas to continue the Margaritaville legacy.
"After an incredibly successful 20 years in business serving locals and travelers alike, we are saddened by the closure," the spokesperson said. "But the team is actively exploring new opportunities for the brand within the city, and we look forward to our future in Las Vegas."
The closure has touched many who have made Margaritaville a part of their Las Vegas experience. "We've been coming here for 20 years since it opened, so we had to get one last drink," a long-time customer told KTNV. Cassandra Chambers, another diner, added, "It's really unfortunate, 'cause it's a really fun place to stop in and get a drink or a bite to eat."
Located at the corner of Las Vegas Boulevard and Caesars Palace Drive, Margaritaville has been a non-stop party spot, drawing both tourists and locals since 2003. The upcoming closure marks the end of an era, but also the beginning of a new chapter for the beloved brand as it looks to relocate within the vibrant city.
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