Bryan-College Station Local Businesses Struggle Amid Recent Closures and COVID-19 Challenges

Bryan-College Station Businesses Face Tough Times

In the heart of Bryan, Texas, the community is facing a bittersweet moment as several beloved local businesses have recently announced their permanent closures. It’s a challenging situation that is felt deeply by both the business owners and their loyal customers.

Recent Closures

Among the most recently affected businesses are All The Kings Men in Downtown Bryan and Piasano’s Italian Pizzaria in College Station, both stating that their last day of operations will be next Sunday. This news comes on the heels of other closures in the area, including Dirty Dough, Bubbie’s Kolache Kitchen, BCS Axe House, Fat Burger, and the Bahama Buck’s Tower Point location. It seems every week, there is another heartbreaking announcement from one of our local favorites.

The Reality of COVID-19’s Impact

Aaron Curs, the owner of multiple local restaurants including All The Kings Men, has been transparent about the difficulties he’s faced during this tumultuous period. He opened his Downtown barbecue spot back in 2017 and it quickly became a favorite among locals. However, everything changed when the COVID-19 pandemic hit in early 2020. “What happened in early 2020 kind of just threw a wrench in everything,” Curs expressed. “Since then, it’s just been kind of scrambling to get back, and some things have worked, some things we tried were major errors.”

Adapting but Struggling

In an effort to keep the restaurant afloat, Curs made significant changes, such as adding fried chicken and sandwiches to the menu. Sadly, even with these adjustments, he realized it was too late for the barbecue scene in Bryan-College Station. “We kind of realized this just was not working, whether it be new barbecue places open. It seemed like in a five-year period the barbecue places in town doubled or tripled,” he explained, highlighting the growing competition.

A New Direction on the Horizon

This decision to close All The Kings Men comes with a mix of sadness and hope for the future. Curs believes that this “clean break” is necessary, not just for himself but for the community as well. “We really view this as one step back to get two steps forward,” he said. By taking time off to regroup and assess their next move, Curs hopes to return with a stronger concept in the future.

Looking Forward

As the doors close at All The Kings Men this Sunday at 4 p.m., community members are left wondering what will become of the space that was once filled with delicious barbecue and good times. Curs is uncertain whether the location will reopen or if he will focus his efforts elsewhere. One thing is for sure—he is committed to finding the best path forward.

Community Support is Key

Local businesses have always played a vital role in the Bryan-College Station area, serving as gathering spots for friends and families. The recent wave of closures serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles that many small businesses are facing, especially as they navigate the lasting impacts of the pandemic. As this chapter closes for several establishments, a new business is anticipated to take over Bahama Buck’s former location, expected to open in early 2025. This brings a glimmer of hope, gently reminding the community that while it may be tough now, change and new beginnings are always just around the corner.

In Conclusion

The atmosphere in Bryan-College Station is undoubtedly heavy, as we bid farewell to businesses that have become part of our community fabric. Let’s continue to support our local establishments as they navigate these challenging waters, and give a nod of appreciation to the hard work and dedication they have shown over the years.