10 Popular Things That Don’t Exist in New York State Anymore

NEW YORK STATE  - New York is a state of constant reinvention, but even the most resilient institutions eventually yield to time and the "retail apocalypse." From legendary Times Square bistros to a statewide pharmacy exit, here are 10 popular things that no longer exist in the Empire State as of 2026.

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1. Rite Aid (The Entire State)

In one of the most significant retail departures in New York history, Rite Aid officially completed its exit from the state in 2025 and early 2026. Following a series of bankruptcy filings, the chain shuttered all 178 New York locations, including dozens in the five boroughs and across Upstate. For many communities, from Buffalo to Binghamton, this marked the end of a 60-year era of neighborhood pharmacy service.

2. Café Un Deux Trois (Times Square)

A fixture of the Theater District for nearly 50 years, this iconic French brasserie served its final steak frites in early January 2026. Known as a favorite haunt for legends like David Bowie and Robert De Niro, the cafe succumbed to the "triple threat" of rising rent, ingredient costs, and post-pandemic dining shifts. Its closure leaves a significant cultural void in the heart of Midtown Manhattan.

3. Smartphones in Classrooms (Statewide Ban)

As of the 2025-2026 school year, the "unrestricted smartphone era" is officially over in New York schools. Under a landmark statewide policy, K-12 students are now subject to "bell-to-bell" restrictions on smartphones and other internet-enabled devices. While the devices still exist, their presence as a constant classroom companion has been legislated out of existence to improve student focus and well-being.

4. GameStop (Dozens of Locations)

The "retail apocalypse" hit the gaming community hard this year. By early 2026, GameStop shuttered over 30 locations across New York as part of a massive national downsizing. From the Hudson Valley to the Capital Region, many of the physical shops where New Yorkers once lined up for midnight releases have been replaced by digital storefronts.

5. Mekelburg’s (Brooklyn)

Brooklyn lost a beloved community pillar when Mekelburg’s closed its doors on January 1, 2026. A unique hybrid of a craft beer bar, specialty grocer, and sandwich shop, "Mek’s" had been a Clinton Hill and Williamsburg staple for over a decade. It was famous for its babka, hot chicken, and serving as a "third place" for neighborhood gatherings.

6. Shuko (Union Square)

High-end omakase fans were shocked when Shuko, the critically acclaimed sushi destination, shuttered in early 2026. Founded by alumni of the world-renowned Masa, Shuko provided a minimalist, elite dining experience for 13 years. Its departure reflects the tightening belt of the New York luxury dining market.

7. Big Box Anchors: Bed Bath & Beyond and Sam Ash

While the decline began years ago, 2026 marks the total absence of these former giants from the New York landscape. The musical instrument legend Sam Ash and the domestic staple Bed Bath & Beyond have completed their final liquidations, leaving behind massive, empty storefronts in shopping centers from Long Island to Rochester.

8. Macy’s at the Poughkeepsie Galleria (and more)

The "Bold New Chapter" for Macy’s resulted in the shuttering of several New York anchors through early 2026. Notable closures included the Poughkeepsie Galleria and several Long Island locations. For many suburban New Yorkers, the loss of these anchor stores has fundamentally changed the "mall-going" experience.

9. Dallas BBQ (Fordham Road)

The Bronx lost a 20-year institution when the Dallas BBQ on Fordham Road officially shut down this year. Known for its massive frozen drinks and rotisserie chicken, it was a go-to spot for local families and students. Landlord redevelopment plans and post-pandemic hurdles finally forced the team to close the grills for good.

10. REI (SoHo Flagship)

Outdoor enthusiasts in Manhattan received disappointing news as REI confirmed plans to shutter its high-profile SoHo location in late 2026. While the brand maintains other New York presence, the exit from its massive flagship in one of the city’s most iconic shopping districts marks a significant shift in the brand's physical footprint.

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