Groups | Search | Server Info | Login | Register

Groups > memphis.dining > #84

Tsunami announces permanent closure, leaving customers shocked

Cross-posted to 5 groups.

Show all headers | View raw

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A Memphis restaurant staple for decades is closing its 
doors for good, a decision that’s leaving many customers shocked and 
heartbroken. Tsunami has been part of the Cooper-Young neighborhood for 28 
years.  

WREG’s Katelyn Barker spoke to customers who say this a huge loss for the 
neighborhood.

“It’s an institution,” said Heugh Balthrop. “Just sad to see it go away.” 

That’s the sentiment for many as Tsunami on S. Cooper St. prepares to 
close its doors for good after several years in business.

“We think it’s the best restaurant in Memphis,” said a long-time customer. 

That may be true, but Ben Smith, the restaurant’s owner, says its just no 
longer sustainable.

Smith took to social media to announce the closure stating that the 
restaurant industry as a whole has been suffering since 2020 and this past 
year was extremely difficult due to the rise in costs and the decrease in 
business.  

“It’s unfortunate to see so many people come out,” said Balthrop. “I would 
have loved to see those people come out when it wasn’t a need.”

One customer says she’s been coming to Tsunami since it opened and she’s 
going to savor one of the restaurants most popular dishes before Tsunami 
is no more. 

“The sea bass. He’s known for that,” said a long-time customer. “It’s so 
popular and that’s what we’re all having tonight in honor of Ben. His 
signature dish.”

“After much deep introspection and consultation with my attorney and 
accountant, I’ve decided to close the restaurant permanently,” explained 
Smith. “While there were a 1,000 small reasons behind this decision, the 
overriding reason was just that I simply can’t afford to do this anymore.”

Tsunami will officially close its doors on February 21. Despite the 
announcement, the love for the restaurant is still there, reservations are 
completely filled as customers come out to enjoy one last meal at Tsunami.

According to its website, Tsunami opened on July 14, 1998.

https://wreg.com/news/tsunami-restaurant-owner-announces-permanent-
closure/

--
COVID, still killing businesses in 2026

Back to memphis.dining | Previous | Find similar

Thread

Tsunami announces permanent closure, leaving customers shocked Jack Ryan <noreply@remailer.cpunk.us> - 2026-02-09 09:36 +0100

csiph-web