Jaxson's closing stunned the Sun City, but local restaurant owners tell KFOX14, it's not all that surprising because the industry has taken a big hit.

Sai Pituk, Owner of TaraThai, a Thai food restaurant on the West Side, told KFOX14 local food spots are seeing a drastic decline in hungry guests and the closing of Jaxson's is a sign of the times.

"You know it's really kind of scary. I'm not going to lie. It's scary, it's sad, but it really brings to the forefront that local El Pasoans need to be a little bit more aware and a little bit more choosy on how they (spend) their money," said Pituk.

Pituk, who competed on the Bravo Channel's reality cooking show, "Around the World in 80 Plates," believes many are choosing to spend their money at big chains instead of putting dollars back to local dining spots.

"You support local restaurants the money stays within the city -- you support big chains the money leaves the city to wherever their corporate office is," said Pituk.

Pituk said there is a lot of talent in local kitchens.

"We do have extremely talented chefs here but it's a dying breed because they are getting kicked out of this city. They are accomplishing big things outside the city, but why can't we accomplish big things inside the city," said Pituk.

Pituk said in some cases it may be cheaper to eat at a chain, because local eateries have higher operating costs.

"With local restaurants, local chefs, talented chefs, you get the freshest food, cut in the morning, made that day as opposed to something coming out of a bag," said Pituk.

Pituk added if the Sun City can't support its local business it will hurt the local economy.