Buca di Beppo is making big headlines in 2025. From exciting menu updates to comeback plans, this Italian favorite is ready for a fresh start. After years of silence and store closures, Buca is stepping back into the spotlight with enhanced service, family-friendly deals, and new locations set to open in 2026. With digital upgrades, healthy options, and a strong social media push, #BucaIsBack isn’t just a slogan—it’s real.

Over the years, Buca di Beppo has seen it all—rapid growth, financial troubles, and loyal customer love. Once famous for its bold Italian flavors and festive vibe, the brand struggled with outdated service and rising costs. But now, with new ownership, a trained staff, and a sharper focus on customer experience, Buca is rebuilding smartly and boldly.

Now, let’s explore the latest updates, featured news, city spotlights, and what the future holds for this comeback story.

Buca di Beppo has had a very colorful past. From bold beginnings to big success… and then some hard times.
Let’s explore Buca’s journey in different phases.

• Buca di Beppo was started in 1993 by Phil Roberts.
• The first location was a basement in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
• The name means “Joe’s Basement” in Italian slang.
• It had a fun, wild interior.
• The goal was to serve huge platesofItalian-Americanfood.
• Families and groups loved the party vibe.

🟢 Highlight: The “Pope Table” became a famous centerpiece in many restaurants.

🚀 Phase 2: Fast Growth and Popularity (1996–2000)

• In the late 1990s, Buca exploded in popularity.
• They opened dozens of new restaurants.
• The company had a unique style:
  • Quirky decor
  • Loud music
  • Giant family-style portions
  • Bold flavors
• People came for birthdays, team dinners, and fun outings.

📈 Fun Fact: By 1999, they had over 30 locations across the U.S.

💰 Phase 3: Public Trading and Expansion (2000–2005)

• Buca Inc. went public and listed on NASDAQ.
• Investors believed in the chain’s bold concept.
• The company began opening even more restaurants.
• It tried new ideas like “Buca Café Italiano”—a lunch-focused model.
• But some ideas failed.
• Too much spending, too fast.

⚠️ Trouble Begins: Debt started to grow. Some locations didn’t do well.

🔻 Phase 4: Financial Trouble and Investigation (2005–2008)

• Buca struggled with money.
• Sales dropped. Expenses were too high.
• They closed underperforming restaurants.
• In 2005, the SEC investigated Buca over improper spending by executives.
• In 2006, their CEO resigned.

🔍 Fact: By 2007, Buca was no longer on NASDAQ. Losses were too high.

🔁 Phase 5: Acquisition by Planet Hollywood (2008–2015)

• In 2008, Planet Hollywood bought Buca di Beppo.
• This gave Buca a second chance.
• Robert Earl, CEO of Planet Hollywood, promised a comeback.
• He kept the wild decor and big portions.
• They improved marketing and tried to boost the brand.

💡 Fun Move: Buca became part of Earl Enterprises, which owns other restaurants too.

📊 Phase 6: Stability but No Major Growth (2016–2019)

• Buca had some stability but didn’t grow like before.
• Newer restaurants like Olive Garden and Maggiano’s took the spotlight.
• Buca kept loyal fans, but had fewer new customers.
• Critics said it needed modern updates.

⏳ Note: Some locations started showing signs of aging. Few updates were made.

🦠 Phase 7: COVID Impact (2020–2022)

• The pandemic hit the restaurant industry hard.
• Many locations closed temporarily.
• Sales dropped sharply.
• Some fans moved to food delivery apps, but Buca wasn’t fast to adapt.

📉 Low Point: 2021 saw the slowest growth in years.

💼 Phase 8: Restructuring & Bankruptcy (2023–2024)

• Buca’s parent company began planning for changes.
• In 2024, they filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
• Around 13 locations closed suddenly.
• Some fans found out via notes taped to doors.
• Main Street Capital agreed to buy the company for $27 million.

📦 Goal: Shrink the business and rebuild with fewer, better restaurants.

✨ Phase 9: The Rebuild Plan (2025–Present)

• In April 2025, another restructuring was announced.
• Buca still runs 44 U.S. locations and 1 international site.
• They are focusing on:
  • Better service
  • Strong locations
  • Updated menus
  • Brand loyalty
• Kansas City and other top locations stayed open.

Buca di Beppo filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on August 5, 2024. It closed many underperforming restaurants.

Its leaders say bankruptcy is strategic. They want to rebuild for a stronger future. They call it “a reinvigoration plan” under lender support.

They cited the same reasons others did:
sales drop, high food costs, rising labor bills.

They owe between $50M and $100M in liabilities and have between $10M and $50M in assets.
Gift cards worth about $1.36M are still valid.

Buca di Beppo closed 12–13 underperforming restaurants just before filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Despite this, 44 U.S. locations remain open, and one new restaurant is planned.

📋 Closed Locations & States Affected

Note: This list includes 17 locations—some reports list 12, others 13, and Fast Company noted 18 across 14 states. Sources agree on the closures in CA, AZ, CO, FL, HI, IN, MD, MI, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, and UT.

In November 2024, Main Street Capital Corp. agreed to buy Buca for $ 27 M.
They were a lender before. They gave a $47M loan in 2015 and later $36.3M DIP financing.

Good news for pasta lovers in Missouri—Buca di Beppo Kansas City is thriving in 2025!
Located at 310 W 47th St, Kansas City, MO 64112, this branch sits right in the heart of the Country Club Plaza district—a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. It’s surrounded by shopping, hotels, and parking, making it easy to visit for family dinners, celebrations, or weekend lunches.

This location remained open even during the tough 2023 closures. It quickly became one of the top-performing branches nationwide thanks to loyal customers and large group reservations. Catering orders have doubled since mid-2024, and local schools and businesses continue to host events here.

In 2025, minor interior upgrades started: brighter lighting, updated checkered flooring, and refreshed vintage wall art. The service staff has completed updated training to provide guests with a smoother, faster experience.

Expect more Kansas City promos, family events, and even special menu days by fall 2025. If you’re in the area, stop by and see how Buca is leading the comeback—right here in KC! 🍝

• Despite closure, Buca still runs 44 U.S. locations and one abroad.
• They still run classic Italian‑American dishes.
• They keep gift cards, reservations, and promos active.
• Decor is still quirky.
• You can see vintage photos and the “Pope Table.”
• They promise no more closings soon.
• They remain “open for business” during restructuring.  

Here’s a quick round-up of everything Buca has done this year—straight from the company’s playbook:

• March 2025: New Family Bundles launched—feeds 4 for under $30.
• April 2025: Nationwide staff retraining completed.
• May 2025: 2026 expansion plans confirmed: mini-Buca units in airports and malls.
• June 2025: Digital app update released with better ordering and rewards.
• July 2025 (planned): Summer-themed limited-time menu including chilled pasta salads.

Buca is moving fast and rebuilding smart. These small wins are part of a bigger revival strategy.

Buca di Beppo has always been a place to celebrate—and 2025 brings even more party-friendly updates:

• 🎂 Birthday Packages: Get free dessert, decorations, and a group photo for parties of 6+.
• 🎈 Group Reservations: Book a room for 10–50 guests with pre-fixed menus and add-ons.
• 💌 Fundraiser Nights: Buca gives back—15% of sales from community nights go to schools or charities.
• 🍝 Catering Services: New bulk delivery options for weddings, office parties, and holidays.

Whether you’re planning a surprise party, graduation, or fundraiser, Buca is back to being a celebration hotspot!

Why choose Buca?
It’s loud, fun, full of flavor, and ideal for family sharing. Plus, their new “Mini Buca” concept adds a fresh twist for busy diners on the go.

Real diners are speaking up—and most of them are loving Buca’s new vibe! Here’s a glimpse of what people are saying in 2025:

⭐ “Glad Buca is back! The service felt warm and fast again.”
— Andrea, California

⭐ “Portions still huge. Menu feels fresher now.”
— James, Florida

⭐ “Ordered online, pickup was quick and easy.”
— Monica, Arizona

⚠️ “Wish they updated decor a bit more.”
— Sarah, Missouri

⚠️ “Tried the vegan pasta—good, but still needs more flavor.”
— Liam, Texas

Most customers appreciate the speed and friendliness of the new staff, cleaner layouts, and slightly healthier choices, but there’s still room for more décor upgrades and flavor innovation.

Finding your local Buca is easier than ever!
Here’s how to quickly locate a restaurant near you:

• 🔍 Use the official store locator on Buca di Beppo’s website.
• 🗺️ Search on Google: “Buca di Beppo near me open now” for real-time hours.
• 📱 Download the app for directions, deals, and digital reservations.
• 📞 Call ahead to confirm hours and special events, especially for large groups.

Buca di Beppo is making headlines again in 2025.
After some tough years, the restaurant is back with big plans.
New strategies, new energy, and a fresh approach!

Here’s what’s happening now and what’s coming next 👇

🧾 Bankruptcy Exit

• In early 2025, Buca officially came out of financial distress.
• Legal and financial restructuring is now complete.
• Debt has been reduced, and new funding has come in.

🏢 New Ownership and Leadership

• A private hospitality group has taken over operations.
• New CEO and leadership team in place.
• Focus on long-term sustainability and innovation.

💼 Staff Training Revamp

• Nationwide staff retraining in March–April 2025.
• Focus: guest experience, menu consistency, and hospitality.
• Better pay and benefits were introduced to retain employees.

✨ Modern Menu Twist

• Classic dishes still available: Lasagna, Chicken Parmigiana, Meatballs.
• New healthy Italian items added:
  • Zucchini Noodles Alfredo
  • Cauliflower-Crust Pizza
  • Vegan Bolognese

🥗 Value Combos & Family Meals

• New $25–$35 family bundles rolled out.
• Perfect for takeout and delivery orders.
• “Family Style, Budget Friendly” is the 2025 promo tagline.

🧁 Dessert Revival

• Tiramisu and Chocolate Chip Cannoli are now back by demand.
• New mini dessert sampler added to regular and catering menus.

🗺️ New Locations (Planned)

Buca aims to open 10 new locations in 2026.
Target cities include:

🛠️ Smaller Format Restaurants

• New “Mini Buca” concept for food courts and airports.
• Focus: fast-casual with core menu items.
• Launch pilot in 2 airports (TBD) by late 2026.

iv.🧑‍🍳 Customer Service Goals for 2026

⭐ “Table First” Promise

• A new service standard:
  • Water and bread are served within 2 minutes.
  • Appetizers out in 8 minutes or less.
• More staff per shift for faster response.

💬 Feedback Tech

• Digital table feedback tablets are being tested.
• Live response to concerns while dining.
• Goal: 95% customer satisfaction score chain-wide.

v. 📦 Delivery & Takeout Upgrades

🚗 Streamlined App and Website (2025 Q4)

• New ordering system to launch by year-end.
• Better tracking, customizations, and loyalty rewards.

🧊 Heat-at-Home Kits

• Available in 2026: Lasagna kits, pasta trays, and dessert boxes.
• Ideal for parties and holidays.
• Nationwide shipping to begin mid-2026.

vi. 🧑‍💻 Buca Brand & Digital Marketing

📸 2025–2026 Social Media Campaigns

• Focused on real family gatherings, food reels, and chef videos.
• TikTok and Instagram are leading platforms.
• Branded hashtag: #BucaIsBack

🧠 Nostalgia Meets Now

• Campaigns celebrating “20+ years of togetherness.”
• Push to reconnect with past customers using retro-style offers.

vii. 🌱 Sustainability Promises

♻️ Green Buca Goals 2026

• Reduce food waste by 40% in all locations.
• Switch to recyclable packaging and no plastic straws.
• Source 60% of vegetables from local farms.

1. Revival after challenges – Buca is bouncing back strong.
2. Fresh but familiar – Keeping classics while embracing trends.
3. Nationwide expansion – Targeting high-growth cities.
4. Community feel – More charity dinners and fundraising events planned.
5. Digital meets traditional – Blending tech and that old-school Italian spirit.

Here’s what people are searching globally:

From refreshed menus to smarter service and new city plans, 2025 has been a turning point for Buca di Beppo. The brand is embracing its roots while boldly stepping into a modern dining future. Whether it’s Kansas City or Las Vegas, fans everywhere are watching this comeback with hope and excitement.

After facing challenges, closures, and changing times, Buca has chosen revival over retreat. With real improvements and bold 2026 expansion plans, it’s clear that this is more than just a relaunch—it’s a reinvention. So if you thought Buca di Beppo was a thing of the past, get ready—because the table is being set for something even bigger. 🍝🔥