Zeno’s Motel and Steakhouse soon will close

Zeno’s Motel and Steakhouse, a Route 66 fixture in Rolla, Mo., since 1956, will close its doors after its final day of business on Oct. 21, according to a longtime employee.

Joyce Topolski, who says she’s worked at Zeno’s for 26 years, said in an email that “with competition and the economy, we can’t go on. We will all be out of a job on Oct. 22nd.”

There’s little to doubt Topolski’s contention that increased competition played a role in Zeno’s demise. The western end of Rolla has seen more restaurants and motels spring up in the past decade.

You can find vintage images of Zeno’s here, here, and here. Recent photos of the motel and restaurant can be seen at Ace Jackalope’s blog here.

Zeno’s was put up for sale in April for $2.2 million with Heyle Realtors.  The complex includes 50 guest rooms, an indoor and outdoor pool, banquet facilities, lounge, and the restaurant. A longtime Zeno’s worker at the time said business had suffered during the economic downturn, and that the complex needs a new roof and other repairs.

UPDATE 10/22/2011: I found out that the building and land will be auctioned on Nov. 14.

(Hat tip: Ace Jackalope)

3 thoughts on “Zeno’s Motel and Steakhouse soon will close

  1. I’m so sorry to hear this. I liked to stay at Zeno’s on our last night of vacation. We would have dinner there, which was always enjoyable. It will be missed.

  2. I stayed at this hotel in August 2006, my first night in US. Still have wonderful memories, and they made yummy French toast

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