There are ebbs and flows to operating a restaurant in or around the Maine Mall. It's no secret that shopping habits have changed in America, and yet, Maine's largest mall continues to be a hub of activity.

Many chain restaurants that surround the mall have been there for a very long time, from Olive Garden to Longhorn Steakhouse to Uno Pizzeria. Others haven't fared quite as well, from Tilted Kilt to Bugaboo Creek as well as Macaroni Grill.

Another longtime chain restaurant around the Maine Mall is about to join the likes of Bugaboo Creek and Macaroni Grill, as the Chili's Grill and Bar restaurant next to the Days Inn has announced they will be permanently closing.

Google Maps
Google Maps
loading...

According to WMTW, a manager at the Chili's location confirmed the restaurant would be closing. It's unclear the exact circumstances around the closing and whether it's staffing, increased competition, or a combination of things that led to the closure. This leaves the state with only one remaining Chili's location in Bangor.

Google Maps
Google Maps
loading...

The Maine Mall area is undergoing some turnover. Just down the road, the Christmas Tree Shops is set to be replaced by Maine's first location of Floor & Decor, a purveyor of home improvement supplies. Construction is ongoing.

In the former Toys 'R' Us plaza that now houses Bernie & Phyl's, a new store is set to open next month. It will be Maine's first location of Boot Barn, a retail giant that specializes in cowboy and western attire.

Chili's final day of operation in South Portland will be May 7.


9 Major Brands That Could Close Maine Stores in 2024

Changing retail habits and backlogged debt could cause several stores closures across Maine for these 9 major brands.

Gallery Credit: Joey

Try These 50 Maine Restaurants with the Best Outdoor Seating

Thanks to our great listeners we were able to compile a list of many of Maine's restaurants with the best outdoor dining.

These great spots can be found across the state and waiting for you to give them a try.

How many have you been to? How many would you like to try for the first time?

Gallery Credit: Chris Sedenka

More From Q97.9