The restaurant, which first began operations back in June 1994, published the unhappy announcement on its social media pages on the evening of March 10.
Its post reads as follows: “It’s been an awesome 27 years for Chili’s at Bangsar Shopping Centre. We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our guests at Chili’s Bangsar Shopping Centre for your support over the years.
“We’re sadly saying goodbye to our very first flagship store. Drop by for one last time before March 31 to say goodbye as we will be permanently closing Chili’s Bangsar Shopping Centre outlet soon.”
While the reason behind its closure was not given, the restaurant industry has been taking a hit as of late due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Aside from the outlet in Bangsar, Chili’s also has several other branches located primarily within the Klang Valley, such as in Mid Valley Megamall, 1 Utama, Empire Shopping Gallery and Suria KLCC.
The Tex-Mex restaurant chain has long been a favourite of Malaysians, with its sizzling personality and the good times it offered guests through delicious food and thirst-quenching drinks.
On the post announcing the imminent closure, Malaysians have been expressing their dismay, with many recounting their fond memories of dining at the Chili’s outlet in BSC.
Facebook user, Sarvindheran Chelvarajah, wrote, “My dad used to bring us here when we were kids, especially during times when he was able to give us a fancy meal. There were so many memories in this place for me and my family. Sad to see this restaurant shut down.”
Facebook user, Harvinder Kaur Dhaliwal, chimed in with praise for the outlet: “Why? Oh, my gosh, I’ve been going to Bangsar outlet for almost two decades. It’s the best outlet with great and warm hospitality.”
On Instagram, Nikola Hassan called the outlet “an institution” and added, “that corner will always belong to Chili’s.”
Needless to say, while nothing can be done to keep the beloved Chili’s outlet open, it will most certainly be dearly missed by Malaysian foodies of all stripes.
Stay current - Follow FMT on WhatsApp, Google news and Telegram