At least a dozen Frisch’s Big Boy restaurants in Kentucky, including both Lexington locations, have been ordered to close due to unpaid rent, according to a letter obtained by the Herald-Leader. The closures come as part of an ongoing financial crisis for the Cincinnati-based chain, which is also seeing evictions and shutdowns in Ohio.
The two Lexington locations—at 1849 Alysheba Way and 1927 Harrodsburg Road—were ordered to vacate their buildings by Nov. 25. However, as of Dec. 4, both remain open. The order was issued by NNN REIT, Frisch’s landlord, who warned that failure to comply within seven days could result in eviction, lawsuits for damages, and a petition for involuntary bankruptcy.
Despite the ultimatum, no eviction notices have been filed in Fayette County courts, and no court dates have been scheduled.
Managers at the Lexington locations declined to comment, referring media inquiries to the company’s corporate office in Cincinnati, which has not responded. NNN REIT has also remained silent on the matter.
The financial troubles extend beyond Kentucky. Multiple vendors in Ohio have recently filed lawsuits against Frisch’s over unpaid bills for coffee and IT services. Additionally, several of the chain’s Ohio locations have already closed or are in the process of being evicted.
The impact on employees remains unclear, as there has been no official statement regarding layoffs. However, the ordered closures affect numerous locations across Kentucky, including:
- Winchester: 843 Bypass Rd.
- Burlington: 1731 Patrick Dr.
- Florence: 6808 Burlington Pike and 7908 Dream St.
- Shepherdsville: 157 Keystone Crossroad Dr.
- Cold Spring: 5010 Alexandria Pike
Once a thriving chain, Frisch’s Big Boy is now facing significant financial and legal hurdles, leaving the fate of its Kentucky locations uncertain.