A familiar dining destination at Orlando International Airport will disappear from the travel landscape as 2025 draws to a close. The announcement affects countless passengers traveling to Central Florida attractions, including Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort. Travelers have just days remaining to visit the establishment before its permanent closure.
New Year's Eve Marks Final Day at Orlando International Airport
Orlando International Airport took to its X (formerly Twitter) account on December 26 to inform travelers about the impending closure of Chili's restaurant. The Table Service dining establishment, located on the second floor of the atrium, before security checkpoints, will serve its final guests on December 31, 2025.
Chili's has been a longtime favorite for so many travelers who have taken the “stairway to heaven.” Over the years, you've shared plenty of queso & memories. On Dec. 31, 2025, @Chilis will permanently close. Visit one last time, raise a glass & toast this wonderful partnership.🥂
Chili's has been a longtime favorite for so many travelers who have taken the "stairway to heaven." Over the years, you've shared plenty of queso & memories. On Dec. 31, 2025, @Chilis will permanently close. Visit one last time, raise a glass & toast this wonderful partnership.🥂 pic.twitter.com/UW6OzjrzCb
— Orlando International Airport (@MCO) December 26, 2025
The announcement gives arriving and departing passengers less than a week to experience the restaurant.
Replacement Possibilities Ruled Out
When Orlando International Airport announced the closure, speculation immediately emerged about whether Chili's might continue operating in modified form. The restaurant chain operates “Chili's Too” locations—smaller airport-specific formats designed for constrained spaces and quick-service needs.
However, MCO quickly dispelled hopes for any continuation of the Chili's brand at the airport:
We sincerely apologize for any disappointment, but the space will not be replaced with a Chili's Too.
We sincerely apologize for any disappointment, but the space will not be replaced with a Chili’s Too.
— Orlando International Airport (@MCO) December 26, 2025
This statement confirms the complete termination of the relationship between Orlando International Airport and Chili's. The restaurant chain will have zero presence at MCO once the current location closes New Year's Eve.
It's unclear what business or concept will occupy the second-floor atrium space after Chili's closes. The airport has provided no hints about replacement plans.
Broader Airport Development Projects
Orlando International Airport is undergoing significant expansion beyond the Chili's situation. The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority granted approval earlier this month for the second phase of a $26 million development initiative designed to modernize and expand airport facilities.
Approved elements include multiple new dining establishments, retail market concepts, two additional aircraft hangar structures, a rebuilt Fixed Base Operator terminal facility, and replacement systems for the Gate Link tram network, which connects terminal areas.
Whether any portion of the $26 million investment will apply to the soon-to-be-empty Chili's space hasn't been clarified by airport authorities. The expansion funding might target completely different airport zones, leaving the second-floor atrium location subject to independent planning processes and timelines.
Stay connected with Disney Fanatic for continuing coverage of Orlando International Airport changes and developments at Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and other Central Florida attractions.
What restaurant should replace the Chili's at the Orlando International Airport? Share your ideas with Disney Fanatic in the comments!
