An Ipswich business leader says the closure of more restaurants represent "another blow" to the town.

Frankie & Benny's in Nacton Road shut down on July 29, while Mexican restaurant Chiquito, also on the Ravenswood estate, closed on August 26.

Signage has been removed from both eateries, which are owned by The Restaurant Group, and black tape has gone up to cover the company logos.

In 2020, it was announced that the site of the restaurants was up for sale.

Wagamama, another Restaurant Group brand, retains a unit at the Buttermarket shopping centre.

Ipswich Star: The site of the now-closed eateriesThe site of the now-closed eateries (Image: Tom Cann)

The news of the closures comes after American-inspired burger place, Byron Burger in the Buttermarket centre, shut down its premises for good on July 21. 

Sophie Alexander‑Parker, Ipswich Central chief executive, said of the closures: "Chiquito and Frankie & Benny's are owned by the same company, The Restaurant Group, and in March 2023 they announced closures.  

Ipswich Star: Sophie Alexander-Parker,Simply C PhotographySophie Alexander-Parker,Simply C Photography (Image: Simply C Photography)

"They are not just pulling out of Ipswich. However, for Ipswich it is another blow for our high streets. 

READ MORE: Frankie and Benny's announce plans to shut 35 stores

"As for Byron Burger, it has long been reported that the chain has struggled during Covid mainly.    

"All three of these restaurants have been in financial difficulties in recent years, so it is no surprise.  

"Our attention must remain on the future offering within Ipswich, and we must have a strong inward investment plan to attract suitable companies for Ipswich. 

READ MORE: Ipswich Byron Burger closed down in Buttermarket centre

"All closures present challenges, but we must continue to take these as opportunities to bring in other brands for our town." 

Despite the closures being confirmed, burger chain Five Guys has said a new restaurant could be open in Ipswich as early as the end of this year. 

A new burger restaurant is expected to open in Cardinal Park after a number of job adverts appeared on Indeed. 

Cardinal Park itself had a Frankie & Benny's, although that restaurant closed several years ago.