Frisch’s Big Boy Restaurants in Kentucky Face Eviction Amid Financial Troubles

Lexington, Kentucky – At least a dozen Frisch’s Big Boy restaurants across Kentucky have received eviction notices, including the two locations in Lexington. According to a letter received from their landlord, NNN REIT, the restaurants have been ordered to vacate the premises due to defaulting on rent payments.

The letter, dated November 25, instructs the Lexington establishments situated at 1849 Alysheba Way and 1927 Harrodsburg Road, along with ten other locations in the state, to leave within seven days. If they fail to comply, NNN REIT indicated they would pursue legal action, including eviction and possible bankruptcy proceedings.

As of December 4, both Lexington restaurants remain operational, but no official eviction notice has been filed in Fayette County courts, and no court date is set. The closures signify another setback for the Cincinnati-based restaurant chain, as numerous locations in Ohio are already undergoing similar eviction processes.

Recent lawsuits filed by vendors for Frisch’s cite unpaid bills, which have compounded financial issues for the chain. Statements from managers at the Lexington franchises have not provided further insights, directing inquiries to the corporate office in Cincinnati. However, requests for comments from both corporate representatives and the landlord have gone unanswered.

Employees at the two Lexington locations remain uncertain about their job security. The letter from NNN REIT includes other Kentucky locations marked for closure, such as establishments in Winchester, Burlington, Florence, Shepherdsville, and more.

Interestingly, the Frisch’s locations in Georgetown and Frankfort are not included in the eviction notice, suggesting they may have been acquired through a management-led buyout. This adds further ambiguity to the future of other corporate-owned Frisch’s restaurants in cities like London and Louisville.

A prior press release on Frisch’s website in November noted that a management group had acquired multiple locations in an effort to save the brand, indicating some venues would have to shut down as part of restructuring. The company is attempting to keep operational as many of its restaurants as possible, especially through the holiday season.

The real estate investment trust NNN REIT acquired the Frisch’s properties in 2015 and has since alleged the restaurant chain owes over $4.5 million in rent. The ongoing financial distress has resulted in the closure of approximately ten locations in Ohio in recent weeks alone, with more potential closures anticipated as eviction notices continue to be filed.

Frisch’s Big Boy, known for its iconic double-decker hamburger and character in checkered overalls, has been a staple since its founding in 1947. Its enduring presence is now faced with uncertainty as the company confronts its financial challenges and rental obligations.