It’s been a rough few weeks for Butler County restaurants. Here’s why.

Two abrupt closings and a massive fire have highlighted a tough few weeks for Butler County restaurants.

Here’s a look at what has happened:

Fairfield Bob Evans closes its doors

Bob Evans at 4646 Dixie Highway closed in mid-September without warning. 

The restaurant’s former phone number now tells customers the number has been changed to 614-491-2225, the number for Bob Evans’ corporate headquarters in New Albany.

As of Sept. 15, the company had removed all signage posted on and in front of the building.

MORE: Ol’ Lefthander’s chair safe after Bob Evans closes in Fairfield

Middletown Lone Star Steakhouse abruptly closes

Lone Star Steakhouse, 6780 Roosevelt Ave. in Middletown, closed Sunday night.

A sign taped today to the restaurant’s front door thanked “valued guests” for their support.

MORE: Have a Lone Star gift card? Here’s how to get a refund

Credit: Staff photo by Gary Stelzer

Credit: Staff photo by Gary Stelzer

Skyline Chili in Fairfield destroyed by massive fire

A massive fire destroyed a Skyline Chili in Fairfield early Wednesday morning.

It took firefighters more than two hours to extinguish the blaze at 7105 Dixie Highway. No one was injured, and the owner has vowed to rebuild.

Hamilton restaurant featured in movie closes — but it's only temporary

A downtown Hamilton mainstay with plenty of history is closed, but thankfully for the regulars of Kostas Restaurant, it appears to only be temporary.

The restaurant on Court Street that serves breakfast and lunch closed Tuesday, according to a sign on the door that states “Look for our Return.”

(Owner Young Kim) “has told us she will be closed for three weeks,” local attorney and regular Kostas customer Chris Pagan, who said he is a friend of Kim’s, told the Journal-News.

MORE: Learn more about Kostas and its movie appearance

But there is bright news in the local dining world

Greater Cincinnati Restaurant Week enters its final days before ending Sunday, Sept. 30, and there are plenty of Butler County and Warren County restaurants offering deals.

Click here for a list of places you can dine at locally during Greater Cincinnati Restaurant Week.

Also, several new eateries and food businesses recently  announced plans to open in Butler County, including:

• Food truck will serve up its popular wings at new Hamilton restaurant

• Chick-fil-A closer to opening first Fairfield location

• New distillery opening in downtown Middletown

• Indoor farming company coming to Hamilton

• More alcohol options, entertainment districts could be coming to Hamilton

• Sonder Brewing will offer more than just craft beer in Mason

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