CityWalk at Universal Studios Hollywood has seen many concepts come and go over the past three decades. The sprawling entertainment district has long functioned as both a gateway to the theme park and a destination in its own right, with dining and retail spaces constantly in flux. Recent years have brought a wave of closures, additions, and construction — reshaping the promenade in ways that highlight Universal’s broader ambitions.
Guests have watched long-established eateries vanish, from Johnny Rockets to Popcornopolis, with newer names sliding in to fill the gaps. Raising Cane’s brought fast-food fans a fried chicken favorite, while Slice House by Tony Gemignani introduced artisanal pizza. In 2024, a Hello Kitty Café and Sanrio Smile Shop added a dose of themed retail charm, drawing steady foot traffic with character-inspired desserts and merchandise.
Even more change lies ahead. Universal has confirmed that Mr. BBQ, an all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue spot, will take over the former Johnny Rockets space in 2026.
At the same time, construction continues on a new hotel at the property’s entrance, and work on a redesigned security perimeter is set to integrate CityWalk more fully into the overall resort footprint. Universal executives have made clear that CityWalk is not just a retail promenade but an extension of the Universal Studios Hollywood experience.
A Quiet Disappearance
Against that backdrop, one highly anticipated newcomer has quietly vanished before ever serving its first plate. After months of anticipation, signage for The Halal Guys has been removed from its prime CityWalk location, erasing nearly all evidence of the brand’s planned arrival. No official statement has been issued, but the disappearance strongly suggests the project is no longer moving forward.
The fast-casual chain, famous for its gyro and chicken platters topped with signature white and hot sauces, was announced as the replacement for the long-running Crêpe Café. Fans expected it to bring a fresh, flavorful option to the dining mix. Instead, the space now sits vacant, its future uncertain.
For followers of The Halal Guys — a brand that began as a modest New York City food cart before growing into an international franchise — the turn of events is disappointing. It is not the first time CityWalk has teased a new tenant only for the concept to evaporate before opening day.
A District in Transition
The disappearance underscores the unpredictability of Universal’s redevelopment strategy. CityWalk has been reimagining itself for several years, shedding older brands and embracing trend-driven concepts. The Hello Kitty Café, for instance, tapped into pop-culture nostalgia while raising CityWalk’s profile on social media. The introduction of Raising Cane’s reflected the national surge of interest in chicken-focused fast-casual dining.
Looks like The Halal Guys won’t be coming to CityWalk after all, as signage has now been removed.
@UniStudios
Looks like The Halal Guys won’t be coming to CityWalk after all, as signage has now been removed. @UniStudios pic.twitter.com/TxRMytoQDI
— Inside Universal (@insideuniversal) September 27, 2025
Meanwhile, the physical transformation of the promenade is accelerating. The security perimeter overhaul will connect CityWalk more directly with the theme park, while new infrastructure projects — including the long-awaited Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift coaster debuting in 2026 — position the area as a cohesive part of Universal’s resort expansion.
Still, each closure and disappearance leaves guests speculating. With The Halal Guys gone, attention now turns to what Universal will choose as the next occupant for the high-profile space. Will it be another recognizable franchise, a themed dining experience, or something entirely new designed to keep CityWalk competitive with dining and shopping districts at rival destinations like Downtown Disney?
For now, the sudden removal of branding for The Halal Guys is a reminder that not every promise makes it to reality. CityWalk remains a district in motion — its identity reshaped with each new opening and each sudden departure.
What would you like to see at Universal CityWalk?
