As Florida’s dining scene evolves, the rhythm of change doesn’t come without its share of goodbyes.
In the Volusia-Flagler region, we’ve seen longtime staples and newer ventures alike close their doors, leaving behind memories of meals well shared in spaces that once buzzed with life.
In May, while some kitchens fired up for the first time, others served their final plates. Curious about what’s no longer on the menu? Here’s a look at the latest restaurant and café closures across the Daytona Beach, Flagler area.
Volusia-Flagler restaurants that closed in May
Mr. Dunderbak’s
After 50 years, Mr. Dunderbak’s recently closed the doors to its Volusia Mall restaurant — but it won’t be the last we see of the Bavarian restaurant, deli and pub.
May 30 marked the iconic location’s final day, according to co-owner Matt Martin, who purchased the business with his father Doug in 2023 from previous longtime owners Ted and Linda Teschner. The historic mall restaurant, originally part of a chain, opened its doors in Daytona in 1975.
In the second week of June, the duo plans to welcome guests to the restaurant’s new 116 N. Beach St. location — a nearly 100-year-old, 4,000-square-foot establishment with seating for 90 guests.
The decision to relocate came down to visibility and flexibility for the brand, Martin explained, noting the mall’s set hours had limited when the restaurant could serve guests, while a downtown storefront would allow it to operate on its own schedule.
Mr. Dunderbak’s Volusia Mall restaurant was located at 1700 W. International Speedway Blvd. in Daytona Beach.
Pacific Asian Bistro
After 16 years, Pacific Asian Bistro announced its final day in business on May 28.
The Ormond Beach eatery announced its closure in a printed statement that reads, “We thank all our wonderful and loyal customers for your patronage over the last 16-plus years. You are the best ever.” The statement goes on to note that the restaurant was sold and will no longer remain in business under its current owners.
Pacific Asian Bistro served a Thai-, Japanese- and Chinese-inspired menu and was located at 222 N. Nova Road in Ormond Beach. The restaurant is now listed as temporarily closed online.
Surfin’ Scoops
Following four-and-a-half years serving sweet scoops to the community, Ormond-by-the-Sea ice cream shop Surfin’ Scoops announced its closure last month under owner Josh Scammell.
“While I am extremely excited to step into a new chapter, it is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to a place that has brought me so much joy and connection. I feel blessed and honored to have been able to serve this community and build so many amazing relationships and memories along the way,” the shop’s recent Instagram post reads.
Surfin’ Scoops opened in October 2021 and closed its doors for good on May 16.
“Thank you to everyone who helped make this time and place special,” the post continues. “… I wish the best of luck to the new owners of 1760 Ocean Shore Blvd. Thank you again for all the tasty memories!”
Surfin’ Scoops was located at 1760 Ocean Shore Blvd. in Ormond-by-the-Sea and is now listed as permanently closed online.
Takeya Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar
After opening in 1997, Takeya Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar took to social media last month to announce its immediate closure under husband-and-wife owners Chris and Bichnga Bui of Ormond Beach.
The Vietnamese Couple, both in their 60s, decided to retire following a career that spanned more than 40 years in the industry, including nearly 30 years operating the beloved restaurant for hibachi birthday celebrations, anniversaries and family dinners.
“We just want to step back, and we’re offering other entrepreneurs the opportunity to use our building —which we put a lot of time and effort into creating. So, maybe they can use it for something else that is going to serve the community just as well and just as long,” Bichnga previously told The News-Journal.
“My husband, he’s just exhausted, you know? … But we’re just so thankful that we have made so many friends through the business,” she continued. “Our customers are really our friends … So, it’s really hard. We feel relieved at the same time that we are sad we have to say goodbye.”
Takeya Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar was located at 220 N. Williamson Blvd. in Ormond Beach. The restaurant held a 4.2-star rating online, with nearly 1,500 reviews.
Did we miss any? Email hperray@usatodayco.com to be added to the list.
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Which restaurants closed in Daytona Beach area in May?
Reporting by Helena Perray, Daytona Beach News-Journal / The Daytona Beach News-Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
