HATTIESBURG — Topher’s on Hardy Street will close Feb. 7 after more than nine years in business. The building will be demolished to make way for a Chipotle Mexican Grill. 

The closure is part of a strategic shift for Topher’s, which will continue operating its Broadway Drive and Oak Grove locations. Marketing director Damon Harrison said there are no current plans to open a third restaurant. 

“This move allows for more focused investment in staffing, operations and guest experience at both locations,” Harrison said. “The Broadway location is only 2.8 miles away, so we hope everyone realizes it’s open for business.” 

Harrison said the decision was based on long-term performance trends and was not a reflection on the Hardy Street staff, all of whom were offered roles at other locations. 

“To our employees: Your work mattered, and it continues to matter as you move forward with us,” he said. 

The Chipotle replacing Topher’s is part of the company’s ongoing expansion. In 2025, Chipotle opened 334 company-owned restaurants, including 257 with drive-thru pickup lanes and 11 international partner-operated locations. 

Harrison said the shift reflects market changes in Hattiesburg, including increased competition and rising costs. 

“National chains entering the market change traffic patterns and consumer behavior,” he said. 

To customers, Harrison expressed thanks for years of support. 

“Hardy Street played an important role in our story. We hope you’ll continue to visit us at our other locations.”