OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Several businesses around the 352 permanently closed their doors during May 2026, including a longtime family-owned gas station, a popular Gainesville nightclub, local restaurants and two fast-food locations. Here’s a look at businesses that ceased operations during the month.
Big Man’s Cafe
Big Man’s Cafe closed its original location at 1011 NE 14th St. in Ocala over Memorial Day weekend. The restaurant had served customers from the Northeast Ocala location for years and became known for its Southern-style comfort food and homemade desserts.
Owners announced the closure in May, citing rising operational costs and ongoing issues with the aging building. While the original location has closed, Big Man’s Cafe continues to operate its locations at 9425 SE Maricamp Rd. and 11655 NW Gainesville Rd.
Chiappini’s Gulf Station
After more than nine decades in business, Chiappini’s Gulf Station in Melrose officially closed its doors in May. The business first opened in 1934 and became a landmark in the small Putnam County community. Owner Charlie Chiappini announced he was retiring, bringing an end to one of the oldest family-operated businesses in the region.
Over the years, the station became known as more than just a place to purchase fuel and convenience items. Residents often gathered there to catch up on local news and community happenings, making it a staple of Melrose life for generations.
Downtown Fats
Downtown Fats, a longtime nightlife venue in Gainesville, closed after years of serving patrons in the city’s downtown district. The nightclub was a popular destination for University of Florida students and local residents, hosting live entertainment and nightlife events throughout its run.
The property’s owners cited redevelopment plans and changing business conditions as factors leading to the venue’s closure.
Wendy’s (Gainesville)
The Wendy’s restaurant located at 655 Reitz Union Drive on the University of Florida campus permanently closed.
The closure was part of broader changes to dining options available at the Reitz Union. University officials indicated the space would eventually be used for future dining concepts and updated food service offerings.
Wendy’s (Wildwood)
Another Wendy’s location, situated at 921 E State Rd. 44 in Wildwood, also permanently closed during May.
The Wildwood restaurant was among multiple Wendy’s locations across Florida identified for closure. Company representatives said the affected restaurants no longer aligned with the chain’s long-term operational strategy, with resources expected to be focused on newer and higher-performing locations.
Business openings continue to outpace closures across much of North Central Florida, but the loss of these establishments marks the end of chapters for several businesses that served their communities for years–and in one case, for more than nine decades.
