Toowoomba fans say goodbye to Sizzler with restaurants to close for good on Sunday

Almost everyone has a memory of Sizzler, either as they were growing up in the 80s and 90s or in more recent times. But the nation’s nostalgia wasn’t enough to keep the enterprise running.

The heady, buttery smell of freshly fried cheese toast in a Sizzler restaurant will exist in memory only after Sunday, with the closing of Australia’s nine remaining eateries.

Almost everyone has a memory of Sizzler, either as they were growing up in the 80s and 90s or in more recent times.

But the nation’s nostalgia wasn’t enough to keep the enterprise running through the COVID-19 pandemic, with parent company Collins Foods announcing in October the final nine Sizzler restaurants would close as they were no longer sustainable.

Ironically, following news of the iconic restaurant’s closure, the Toowoomba outlet has experienced a surge in customer numbers as people book in for one final meal.

Sizzler head of operations Don Crilly said the company’s restaurants had been an icon for couples and families “for decades”.

“The restaurants have been a place to work for hundreds of local community members, either as a career or income support while at school or university,” he said.

“They have also been a place to celebrate and we are very mindful of the hundreds of first dates, anniversaries, birthdays and events that have been enjoyed at Sizzler.

“Those memories and experiences will live on forever.”

Mr Crilly said while the last day would be business as usual, it would no doubt be “extra busy and a little emotional”.

“The remaining Sizzler restaurants are open until November 15, but bookings are essential, and many are already fully booked,” he said, adding people should phone ahead to book.

For those who can’t get enough of Sizzler, Collins Foods is offering people the opportunity to own their very own piece of Sizzler history when it auctions furniture and items from its restaurants next week.

Up for grabs are chairs, tables, catering items, kitchen equipment, and more.

The auction is expected to go live on Friday, November 20 and will remain live for five days.

It can be accessed via www.graysonline.com.

Originally published as Toowoomba fans say goodbye to Sizzler with restaurants to close for good on Sunday