Mark Wahlberg's Wahlburgers restaurant chain has closed four of its six Australian locations, including its flagship venue in Sydney's Circular Quay. The restaurants in Manly, Byron Bay, and Warriewood have also ceased operations as part of a business restructuring. A note at the Circular Quay location stated, "After four remarkable years, Wahlburgers will officially close its doors from Monday, July 20." It added, "We're incredibly proud of what we've created here, and (are) deeply grateful for the loyalty and support of our wonderful guests and neighbours."
The burger chain confirmed that its two remaining restaurants in Bringelly, located about 55 kilometers from Sydney's central business district, and Surfers Paradise are still open. The closures come four years after Wahlburgers launched in Australia with its first location opening at Sydney's Circular Quay in October 2021. At the time, the chain planned to open 20 restaurants across Australia and New Zealand within five years, investing $50 million and aiming to employ 500 workers.
Customers have expressed disappointment over the closures, with some citing fondness for the burgers and atmosphere. "We liked the burgers and are sad to see it go," one customer shared. Another recalled, "I shall miss the one at Circular Quay. Their salmon and salad was very nice and the atmosphere in the restaurant was very pleasant."
However, not all feedback was positive. Some diners found the food and service to be average, with one customer noting, "We went there once. Very average food and service was slow even though we were the only ones in there." Others mentioned issues such as difficult parking at the Surfers Paradise location.
Discussions among customers and observers have pointed to rising rents, food costs, utility expenses, and insurance premiums as potential factors contributing to the restaurant closures within Australia's hospitality sector. Some individuals also expressed surprise, stating they were unaware the chain had a presence in Australia.
The Wahlburgers chain, founded by actors Mark Wahlberg and his brothers Donnie and Paul, currently has approximately 30 locations globally. Sam Mustaca, chief executive of United Cinemas Australia and New Zealand, oversees the Wahlburgers partnership in the region. The chain's Auckland location, which opened in March 2023, remains operational, while its Queenstown restaurant closed in May 2025.