Something is happening in Atlanta’s West Midtown, and it’s not good news for food lovers. In just a few weeks, 11 restaurants have closed, from pizza joints to beloved breakfast spots. The sudden wave of shutdowns has left residents and business owners wondering what’s behind the trend.

Locals have been caught off guard, noticing their favorite eateries boarded up without warning. The uncertainty has many worried about the area’s future, especially with more bars and restaurants rumored on the chopping block.

Some fear that the closures could impact the neighborhood’s appeal, especially in mixed-use developments where retail spaces are meant to complement residential living. Business owners are feeling the impact, too.

Longtime establishments that have weathered ups and downs say the recent closures hit differently—like watching a domino effect unfold in real-time. Rising costs appear to be a major factor, with rent hikes, skyrocketing insurance rates, and inflated food prices putting immense pressure on restaurant operators.