Recommended Restaurants
Recommended
“Bold Bites Co. is a bright, cheery and unpretentious eatery on Richmond Street in downtown Toronto, close to George Brown College. The environment is super friendly and welcoming. The food is fantastic, amazing, absolutely delicious and perfectly prepared. Specific meals mentioned include an open face fried egg sandwich with avocado, a side of deep-fried grated potato croquettes with superb house mayo sauce, the proud Canadian, an avocado sandwich, the beef bowl, and chocolate brownies. The kimchi is fantastic and the spicy options are actually spicy. The owner is incredibly attentive and gracious, and the staff are lovely, warm, engaging, friendly, and super nice. Service is even better than the fantastic food, with staff being very attentive and often offering a free coffee. They are also accommodating, such as for a gluten allergy. The establishment is always clean. It is a terrific spot for a fun dining experience and should definitely be on your A-list. Toronto needs more spots like this.”
“Desi Tadka, an Ottawa-based restaurant, offers a fantastic array of Indian cuisine with a wide variety of dishes. The amritsari kulcha and samosas are particularly impressive, while the complimentary aloo sabzi adds to the dining experience. The restaurant boasts a clean and attractive ambiance, and the staff is friendly and accommodating, ensuring an enjoyable experience for customers. The menu features a diverse range of vegetarian options, catering to various dietary preferences. Customers have praised the quality of the food, with special mentions for the Chef's Special Madras Chicken Curry and the $10 "Dal of the day with rice special," which offers a creamy and delicious lentil dish. Their Chana Kulcha and Mango Lassi are also favorites, with the kulcha always fresh, fluffy, and flavorful, and the chana perfectly spiced to be comforting. Paired with a creamy, refreshing mango lassi, it’s an unbeatable combination for those craving authentic taste with a homely touch. The restaurant also offers a convenient Tiffin service, which has received praise for its amazing taste. Visitors have enjoyed the warm and welcoming service, with the owner and staff making every visit special. With ample parking and a casual atmosphere, Desi Tadka remains a highly recommended spot for delicious and healthy Indian cuisine.”
“Java Hutt is a comfortable and quiet spot to relax and unwind, perfect for any age group. They offer delicious food, including the popular turkey pesto panini and lemon poppyseed pound cake, all served fresh and warm. The friendly staff caters to dietary restrictions and provides a welcoming atmosphere, complete with comfy seating and actual mugs for a cozy experience. Customers appreciate the attentive service, especially when it comes to preparing tea at the correct temperature, which is rare elsewhere. The menu is extensive, featuring a variety of coffees and teas, such as the honey ginger chai, which many find delightful. The space is filled with plenty of couches and tables, making it easy to sit back and enjoy the visit. Parking includes paid street parking on weekdays and free parking on Sundays, adding convenience for visitors. Overall, Java Hutt remains a favorite for its chill vibe, comfortable seating, and tasty treats.”
“Finn's Seafood Chops Cocktails offers a memorable dining experience with its beautiful waterfront views and delicious food. The restaurant features an impressive menu that includes seafood linguini, fresh steelhead, and seared ahi tuna. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes such as soup with fresh seafood, salads, tacos, clam chowder, and tender pork, all served with attentive and warm service. The lively and welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by a beautifully decorated interior and outdoor seating options. Many guests appreciate the views from the patio, although some note that the patio wall might block part of the harbor view. The service team is knowledgeable and attentive, making sure every detail is handled smoothly. Finn’s is a popular choice for seafood lovers, romantic dinners, or fun nights out with friends. The restaurant is also known for its great service and enjoyable happy hour. Guests can try the Martini Cocktail or share a lemon meringue tart for a sweet ending. The venue is perfect for group celebrations, with many praising the staff for their warmth and attention, making events truly special. Overall, Finn’s Seafood Chops Cocktails combines good food, great views, and friendly service for an excellent dining experience.”
“Chef Collins and his team are known for providing unique and memorable dining experiences. The dinners are delicious and beautifully presented, as well as customizable for special occasions. Diners have praised the team's incredible, timely, organized and professional service. Chef Collins' passion for food and unique cuisine shines through in every serving he creates. Guests have raved about the total culinary experience, noting the high quality of the food and the fantastic service. With a fascinating background and high gastronomic quality, Chef Collins is highly recommended for those looking for a special and enjoyable alternative to a traditional restaurant meal. Whether for a small gathering or a larger event, Chef Collins ensures a delightful experience that leaves guests wanting more and excited to have him cook again.”
“Bastien's Restaurant is a well-known Denver restaurant that many travel to visit. It is famous for its delicious menu, tasty cocktails, and classic atmosphere. This old school steakhouse has been run by the same family for over 80 years and is popular among both locals and visitors. Guests especially enjoy the sugar rub steak, which is cooked to perfection, and the wide variety of sauces, including the outstanding chimichurri coffee rub. Making reservations ahead of time is recommended because the restaurant is often busy. The friendly service, especially from knowledgeable staff, and the cozy environment make it a top choice for both special occasions and casual dinners. The restaurant has a private booth section for a comfortable dining experience. Whether sitting at the bar or in a booth, guests often leave happy and satisfied. Bastien's offers excellent cocktails and a clean, inviting setting that makes every meal enjoyable. The interior is quite unique, adding to the overall dining experience.”
“Squarerigger Pub is a hidden gem in Ambleside, tucked away off Marine drive. The friendly staff, reasonable prices, and live entertainment like THE SINGLES band create a vibrant atmosphere. With a dog-friendly patio and free parking, it's a local favorite for good beer and excellent scotch. The Saturday-night karaoke is a must, even for non-singers, and the pub's unique St Andrew’s Cross adds character. While they don't have a kitchen, they have partnerships with nearby restaurants for convenient ordering.”
“Napoli Pizzeria is a popular spot for delicious pizza, known for its authentic NY-style pizza that exceeds expectations. The large pepperoni pizza remains a favorite among customers, while their white pizza has been praised as the best. Many reviews mention the pizza's great taste, with one customer saying it's the best they've had in Pittsburgh, especially highlighting the crispy crust with good sauce and cheese. Their Sicilian pizza is also highly recommended, and the cheesesteak hoagie is a popular choice. The staff is friendly and willing to fix any issues, and the restaurant offers quick delivery through DoorDash, making it a convenient option. Although the dining area is small, many customers enjoy grabbing pizza to go and returning for more slices. The crust is flavorful, crispy, and soft inside, pleasing many with its perfect texture. Napoli Pizzeria also offers a kids menu, making it a good spot for families. With fresh ingredients and tasty dishes, Napoli Pizzeria continues to impress both new and returning customers.”
“Ditto's Grill offers a great buffet selection with amazing desserts, including waffles and pecan rolls. The menu features delicious salads, sandwiches, Chinese burritos, and savory meatloaf. The staff is accommodating, although some guests have mentioned service issues, like long wait times and incorrect orders. Despite this, many agree that the food is delicious, with perfectly cooked steaks, intriguing pizzas with Gouda, and the best sweet potato fries. The medallions of beef in a delicious sauce over mashed potatoes topped with tobacco onions and the cheesecake remain favorites. The ambiance is cozy and relaxed, with large round booths and original artwork, though some guests experienced seating challenges. It is a must-visit restaurant with great value for the price, and many say they will return for the excellent food.”
“Grill'd is a highly recommended restaurant that serves delicious, freshly made food and provides excellent customer service. The restaurant's smashed hamburger patties are praised for their flavorful and crispy caramelized coating, making them a standout choice for burgers. Customers have also raved about the Grilled Chicken Sandwich, calling it one of the best they've had. Recently, the BBQ Ribs were highlighted for being tender and packed with flavor, with generous portions and amazing sides. The restaurant offers a variety of other menu items, including a rice bowl with Mediterranean-style vegetables, falafel, and tzatziki sauce, which customers have enjoyed. Grill'd is clean, with many tables available and a drive-through option. The staff is friendly and manages to take good care of all the customers, both dine-in and to-go, even when short-handed during busy periods. Customers have praised the owner for their dedication to ensuring each guest's experience is excellent, with special accommodations made for dietary needs. Overall, Grill'd is considered a great choice for a tasty and satisfying meal, with a welcoming atmosphere.”
“Caffe Di Fiore offers a broadened menu featuring Mexican regional dishes and unique cocktails in a quiet and intimate atmosphere. The restaurant serves great food with generous portions, including delicious home chicharrones and wonderful breakfast options like omelets and tacos. The staff is incredibly nice and knowledgeable, always providing helpful suggestions. The cocktails, including the margarita made with fresh ingredients, are spot-on, while the mole enchiladas are considered some of the best. The beef quesadilla and tres leches were so good. With easy wheelchair access and plenty of free parking, it’s a hidden gem for brunch or a meal out, and it's always very clean. Reasonable prices add to the appeal, making it a place worth discovering. The house margarita was the best ever, very fresh. It got so much better with the new administration. The mole enchiladas are perfect.”
“Protein Chefs - North York Healthy Meal Delivery is a well-known meal delivery service that has been providing quality meals for the past 9 years. The restaurant offers a diverse range of meal plans, including Gourmet, Keto, Paleo, Weight loss, Athlete, Vegan, Gluten-free, and Dairy-free options, allowing customers to mix and match for a varied dining experience. Customers have praised the consistent quality of the meals, the quick responses from the customer service team, and the ability of the meals to support a healthy lifestyle year-round. The meals are described as having a home-cooked feel, featuring fresh ingredients and thoughtful presentation. Many customers particularly enjoy the Grilled Flank Steak with Sweet Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables, appreciating the use of local Ontario produce. While some find the variety of meals could be improved and express a desire for more protein options, the overall feedback remains positive. Many customers recommend Protein Chefs as a top choice for healthy meal delivery in the Toronto area, noting the reliability of the service and the ease of ordering.”
“Nina's Taqueria is a cozy restaurant that offers a diverse menu, featuring their signature Supreme Bowls with tender steak and Birria. Customers appreciate the large portions, fresh ingredients, and tasty house-style chips. The refried beans and corn dish are also highlights, with some praising the cut-off-the-cob corn. The restaurant prioritizes cleanliness and friendliness, making online ordering straightforward. While the seasoning can be on the lighter side and some details might be overlooked, the authentic Mexican taste is commendable. Recent feedback showcases a mix of experiences. Many enjoy the flavorful burrito in a bowl, with one customer noting the killer fresh burritos and great sauce. The veggie burrito supreme with added salsa and hot sauce is also mentioned as a good size and fresh. Customers have enjoyed the 2 Taco American with Chorizo and Al Pastor, appreciating the generous servings on small tortillas. While some have encountered issues like undercooked tortillas and thick tamale shells, the quick service and clean environment have been positively highlighted. Despite some concerns about food quality and service, Nina's remains a solid choice for takeout or dining in.”
“Pomperdale Famous New York Deli offers the best New Yorker Deli sandwich ever, a game-changer according to reviews. This authentic deli from Oceanside, Long Island serves huge sandwiches, smoked fish platters, and Mazto ball soup. The family-oriented service is excellent, with friendly staff who create a welcoming vibe among locals and tourists. Guests can even grab a Cel Ray soda from the refrigerated case. The food is fresh, and the prices are reasonable, providing good value for large portions that can be enjoyed as multiple meals. However, breakfast might not be their strong suit, as one reviewer found watery eggs and cardboard-like bread. Despite this, the deli is worth a visit for their renowned sandwiches, including the popular brisket, and the warm, attentive service that makes everyone feel at home.”
Recently Added Restaurants
“Diwan Coffee House is a great place to visit. The staff is welcoming and nice. They serve great specialty coffees, including LATTES AND MATCHAS, and delicious pastries like the Garlic/Thyme knot and kunefe. The atmosphere is peaceful and traditional, and the service is perfect. The coffee shop is close to Meta Bellevue office, making it a great spot to take a stroll and enjoy good coffee. The staff is helpful, and the environment is super comfortable. Diwan Coffee House is highly recommended for its great coffee, nice staff, and welcoming atmosphere.”
“I will definitely go back to try other items. They offer oatmilk and almond milk options which is a plus for me.”
“Manny's Mexican Kitchen is a restaurant that serves Mexican food. The staff is extremely friendly and attentive, making the experience better. The patio is a great place to sit on a beautiful day. The soft serve margarita is a popular item, and it has no dairy. Some people love the soft serve margarita, while others think it tastes like a frozen fruit drink and is overpriced at $16. The brisket nachos and cheesecake are also popular, and the nachos are super filling. The Los Benis, a Mexican spin on Eggs Benedict, is delicious. The restaurant has a beautiful inside and outside, with a great atmosphere. The service is usually excellent, but some people have felt rushed by the staff. The food is ok, with some dishes like chicken fajitas being cooked but not seasoned, while others like salmon are good. The restaurant is a great place to bring clients and friends, and it has a unique ambiance with tropical plants. Overall, Manny's Mexican Kitchen is a great spot for Mexican food and drinks, with a fun atmosphere and excellent service. The soft serve margarita is a must-try, and the restaurant is a great place to relax and enjoy a meal. The mix of tropical plants and beautiful decor makes it feel like a vacation.”
“Lakeland Diner is an interesting place with a diner atmosphere but a larger space and plenty of parking. The service was outstanding, the staff were kind, welcoming, and seemed to care about customers. The portions were good sized and reasonably priced. The menu is varied, so one visit isn’t enough. Food highlights include the huge and delicious Philly cheese steak, the really good ruben, and the spanikopita that many reviewers say is perfect, with a good ratio of cheese to spinach. Greek salad was described as a chopped Greek salad, different from a regular Greek salad, but still delicious. Chicken souvlaki was called freaking amazing, and the class gyro platter was also praised. Fries were crispy outside with a perfect crunch and a soft inside. Breakfast options were praised, especially the blueberry pancakes which were described as fantastic and cooked perfectly. Pancakes were also called absolutely perfect, fluffy and delicious. The atmosphere was warm, cozy, and has a great vibe that makes people want to stay longer. Overall, reviewers recommend this place for great food, friendly environment, and fast, well‑cooked meals.”
“My nieces birthday cake was so cute! It was moist and delicious and the icing was even so good! Definitely hope to have a cake from there again!”
“Nice spot for OTB with a couple slot machines and a small bar. I stopped in to place a bet on the Derby, it was easy enough. The place was clean, they people were nice. I didn't order any food or drink but I might the next time.”
“Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza Buckhead is a fantastic, sophisticated, and upscale find, different from an average pizza joint. The pizza is really good, tasty, and a must-visit. The Star Pizza is a total standout and an absolute must-try, with a unique shape and flavor profile. The Beckam pizza is also a go-to. Love it in star version or regular. The Burrata with truffle is a must-try and you can’t go wrong with any of the pizzas. Everything is very good, from the presentation to the quality. The service is spectacular, amazing, attentive, patient, and suggestive. It is highly recommended. Many plan to go back again soon, some even twice, and recommend saving room for dessert.”
“Villa Perk Coffee Co. is a popular local spot known for its great coffee and cozy atmosphere. Visitors love the relaxing vibe, pets being allowed, and the chance to enjoy seasonal and holiday drinks. The menu features specialty drinks like the Smores Latte, cereal-inspired lattes, and the Ovaltine hot chocolate, which is highly recommended. Pastries, coffee cake, and chips are also popular, with some reviews praising the delicious and unique snacks. The staff provides friendly service, making it a welcoming place to study or relax, especially during cold weather. Though food options can be limited at times, the quality of drinks and treats remains high. The location next to the prairie path makes it a favorite for locals looking for a nice place to enjoy good coffee and treats. Overall, Villa Perk Coffee Co. offers a warm, inviting environment with excellent drinks and a relaxing vibe.”
“Mount Carol's Frozen Treats has cool down-to-earth energy from the moment. The owner’s cares about what she serving and effort into every detail. Everything tried was solid: Vanilla Valley smooth with real flavor, Mount-ology really good, Apple Pie Alamo surprised me with flavor and richness, Peanut Butter Cookies soft and fresh, Chocolate Cake did its job, Italian Ice never favorite, Peach Bellini in hand. chicken sub sandwich and Vegan homemade DELICIOUS. Presentation clean and thoughtful, genuine kindness and fresh ingredients. they left genuinely impressed and locked in for the next season.”
“Coffee Counter by Vegan Pizza Land is a popular spot for a quick and delicious meal. The Breakfast Bulgogi sandwich is a customer favorite, described as the "best breakfast sandwich EVER." The Miso scone with strawberry jam is another standout item, though some customers wish the vegan ingredients were more clearly labeled. Regardless, the hand pies, pastries, and sandwiches are consistently praised, and the hot coffee is the perfect accompaniment.”
“Di Kitchen P.A is a Jamaican restaurant that exceeds expectations. The atmosphere is welcoming, clean, and well decorated. The service is friendly, excellent, and polite, with staff described as extremely nice and patient. The food is amazing, so good, and does not disappoint, made with care and authentic Jamaican flavor. Dishes are flavored well, perfectly seasoned, rich, and full of flavor without relying on salt. Specific praised meals include the oxtail with rice and peas, which is fall off the bone tender with a perfectly seasoned gravy. The stew chicken with cabbage and macaroni and cheese is absolutely perfect in taste. The brown stew fish is noted as a standout, large and worth the price. The fried plantains are sweet, soft, and caramelized just right. The sorrel drink tastes authentic. Portion sizes are generous, fair, and the food looks as good as it tastes. The restaurant also offers a Sunday brunch.”
“Encanto Cantina is a modern, cozy Mexican restaurant with a festive atmosphere, featuring cool murals on the walls. The establishment is celebrated for its homemade, genuine Mexican cuisine, with a particular focus on incredible seafood dishes. Guests describe the food as thoughtfully prepared, beautifully presented, and tasting fresh with bold, curated flavors. Standout dishes mentioned include the phenomenal ribeye and octopus tacos, described as tender and smoky, and fajitas de carnitas, called the best in Eau Claire. The Mahi Mahi tacos and fish tacos were also highly enjoyed. Drinks are equally praised, with a mojito noted for its fresh mint and perfect sweetness, and a jalapeño margarita hailed as one of the best. The drinks are described as pretty, with a great mix of flavor and alcohol. Service at Encanto Cantina is consistently highlighted as excellent and fast, even when the restaurant is busy. The wait staff are attentive, ensuring guests have everything they want. The modern and festive ambiance, coupled with the delicious, scratch-made food and great service, makes for a special dining experience. Many reviewers express a strong desire to return, especially for summer outdoor seating and mocktail raspberry margaritas.”
“The Backyard in Taylorville, IL, is a relaxed and welcoming restaurant known for its great food and friendly atmosphere. The menu is simple, featuring classic bar fare, with a focus on pizza, wings, and jalapeno poppers. The Vicki's supreme pizza is especially praised for being fantastic and perfect for any thin crust lover. The wings, including bone-in buffalo wings, and jalapeno poppers are also highly recommended. Guests often highlight the pizza as the star of the show, noting it is fresh, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. The restaurant offers good portions at a reasonable price. The spacious interior and large back patio make it a great place to spend time, especially when the weather is warm. The atmosphere is cozy and relaxed, filled with interesting kitsch items that honor the building’s history as a former body shop. Excellent service is a common theme, with staff being super friendly and attentive. The venue also features a pool table and a welcoming vibe that feels like visiting a friend’s house. Overall, The Backyard is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike, offering good food, great service, and a fun, laid-back environment.”
“Spice Mantra serves varied menu options with generous portions. The food is fresh and delicious, especially for those who appreciate spicy flavors. Dishes like Gobi Manchurian, Chicken 65 Biryani, Lamb Biryani, and cashew chicken fry are notable. The restaurant has a good ambience and service. The staff is professional, friendly, and attentive. Spice Mantra also offers catering services with authentic South Indian food, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian biryanis, entrees, and sambar. The food has a true taste of Indian masala, with rich flavors and spices. Overall, Spice Mantra provides a great experience with amazing food and outstanding service.”
“Wendy’s offers a mix of experiences. Some days, the food is fresh, with good fries and correct orders, making it a great choice for fast food. The staff can be friendly and helpful, and rewards are often accepted without issue. Many customers appreciate that it is affordable and provides satisfying meals like the Frosty. However, consistency is an issue, as some days the food can be old, cold, and the fries terrible. Service can vary, with some employees being rude or arguing about rewards, and wait times for cups or food can be longer during busy times. Despite these ups and downs, Wendy’s remains a popular option for quick, inexpensive meals when everything goes smoothly.”
Latest Reviews
“My granddaughter and I had a very nice dinner here tonight. She is 32 and I am 80, so we have very different tastes in food. It satisfied both of our pallets. Thank you for a wonderful experience.”
“Might not look like much but now that they got rid of some disgruntles employees. This place has the best food in Bonham TX!! Gotta love it!!”
“My family enjoys Stricker's regularly! We are never disappointed! The portions are generous besides being tasty! I always have enough for another meal, too! Always greeted with smiles.”
“Today was the first time I tried this restaurant very clean and bright. I sat at the counter. Food was good and came out quickly. Trying to pay was another thing. I had my money and the check at the edge of the counter. The older lady looked at it several times and walked away to do other things or talk to a customer. 15 minutes later I finally said could you please take my money I’d like to pay. I will give it a second chance maybe she was just not having a good day.”
“When we lived in Rochester, NY, we used to take our kids to the Abbotts out by Lake Ontario. When we learned there was an Abbotts in Greer, we were so excited. They have absolutely the BEST custard ever. We also enjoy the pictures of the original Rochester location when we go.”
“Pizza was good sized, Ordered through Slice, owner was super friendly, sauce was not too acidic. topping good, Crust good. on the thinner side but not too thin. Tiramisu was tasty but a bit small. will get another pie at some point. thanks”
“WE HAVE ORDERED HERE FOR DECADES AND LOVE THE FOOD AND PAST SERVICE. I WENT THERE YESTERDAY, AND WE ALL WAITED AT LEAST 18 MINUTES FOR ANYTHING, INCLUDING JUST FRIES AND GRAVY. EVEN THEN I BOUT AN EXTRA GRAVY AND HAD TO GO BACK DUE TO IT NOT BEING IN MY TAKEOUT ORDER. THE POOR SERVER HAD TO DEAL WITH THE STAFF IN THE BACK WHO SEEM NOT TO KNOW WHAT TO DO!”
“Once again Amy was a outstanding server. She she lots of fun always attentive and helpful”
“Great chicken, fries and rice. Really good new sauce.”
“Great food and excellent service”
“Absolutely amazing! I can’t stop thinking about the food over a month after I’ve had it!! It will be my first stop as soon as I’m back in Montreal :D”
“I had such an amazing experience at Ramen Milk! The atmosphere is cozy and modern, perfect for a casual but elevated dining vibe. The ramen was absolutely delicious — rich, flavorful broth, perfectly cooked noodles, and super fresh toppings. You can really tell they care about quality and detail. The service was just as good — friendly, attentive, and welcoming from start to finish. Everything came out quickly, and the staff made great recommendations. Honestly, one of the best ramen spots I’ve tried. I’ll definitely be coming back and bringing friends. Highly recommend if you’re craving something comforting but high quality!”
“I love going to 7 Brew in Huntington they have the best workers there always happy to see you I love everyone of them they are the best”
Latest Blog Updates
On April 14, 2026, Sikhs and Punjabi communities across the United States celebrate Vaisakhi - the Sikh New Year and the traditional harvest festival of Punjab. The day is marked by prayers at gurdwaras, bhangra dancing, community gatherings, and langar - free meals served to anyone who comes. For those who want to experience the spirit of the holiday at a restaurant table, here is a guide to the best Punjabi and North Indian spots across the country.
From April 10 to 19, 2026, San Francisco Restaurant Week returns for its annual ten-day run. Organized by the Golden Gate Restaurant Association - a nonprofit that has been supporting San Francisco's independent restaurant community for decades - the event brings together hundreds of restaurants under one format: prix-fixe menus at fixed prices, available for brunch, lunch, and dinner across every neighborhood in the city.
From April 9 to 12, 2026, Pebble Beach Resorts in California hosts the 15th edition of Pebble Beach Food & Wine - one of the most established culinary festivals on the West Coast. Over the years it has grown into a four-day event that draws over 150 chefs and 150 winemakers to the 17-Mile Drive, with the Monterey Peninsula as the setting. The 15th anniversary edition is shaping up to be the largest yet. The lineup spans household names from the American restaurant scene alongside a younger generation of chefs who have been reshaping how the country eats over the last decade.
Restaurant Brands International has outlined an aggressive expansion strategy. The Miami-based parent of Burger King, Tim Hortons, Popeyes and Firehouse Subs is targeting around 1,800 net new restaurants per year by 2028. The company currently operates more than 33,000 locations across 120-plus countries. In North America, RBI plans to open between 300 and 400 net new restaurants per year in the U.S. and Canada by 2028. Firehouse Subs is expected to lead that growth, contributing roughly half - about 150 to 200 new units annually. Tim Hortons and Popeyes will split the remainder.
The delivery- and pickup-focused restaurant company founded by former Walmart executive Marc Lore announced it will open for business in Texas in 2027, marking its first expansion beyond the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. The move will bring Wonder to the Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Austin and San Antonio metropolitan areas, with Dallas-Fort Worth serving as the initial entry point.
Bubble tea is about to get a lot faster. Gong Cha, the Taiwan-based chain with 2,200 stores in 33 countries, is introducing a major redesign that puts automation front and center. The company calls it "Gong Cha 2.0" - a new store model that combines drink-making robots, self-service kiosks, and a modern look. After testing the setup in Asia and the Middle East for two years, the brand is ready to bring it to its 240 U.S. locations.
Nothing Bundt Cakes, the Dallas-based bakery chain with nearly 800 locations across North America has claimed the No. 1 spot in America's Favorite Chains for the second year in a row. The chain didn't just win overall - it swept multiple categories. Nothing Bundt Cakes topped service and hospitality, unit appearance and ambiance, food and beverage, and convenience and takeout. It was also the No. 1 favorite limited-service chain among millennial consumers.
Dutch Bros is making a strategic move in the Carolinas by acquiring Clutch Coffee Bar, a 20-unit regional chain based in North Carolina, for an undisclosed price. Clutch Coffee locations closed on January 16th. After renovations, the shops will reopen as Dutch Bros locations, giving the Arizona-based chain a much larger footprint in a region where it currently operates just two stores.
Zaxby's is having the kind of year most restaurant chains can only dream about. The chicken chain started 2025 aiming to sell 100 franchise commitments - a big jump from the roughly 70 sold in 2024. Instead, it's on track to close out the year with 120 commitments. "We're up about 2x, so it's been a good year," said Mike Mettler, chief development officer, during an interview at the recent Restaurant Finance & Development Conference in Las Vegas.
KFC is opening three new Saucy concept locations in the Orlando area between early December and mid-January, roughly a year after launching its first unit. The expansion includes restaurants in Waterford Lakes (opened December 6), Winter Park (opening January 10), and Hunters Creek (opening January 17). Each location will celebrate with grand opening events featuring live DJs, games, and prizes.
Showcase of Excellence
“Canteen Delicatessen and Cafe is a welcoming establishment with wonderful food and a friendly owner. The deli offers fresh, quality meals at reasonable prices, making it a great value. Located in NYC, it’s an excellent option for those seeking a reliable and affordable dining experience. Customers can choose from a large variety of options, including delicious bagel sandwiches for breakfast. Regular customers appreciate the consistently fresh and reasonably priced offerings, noting that the food has a very homey taste. The owner is known for being super friendly and helpful, enhancing the overall experience. With great service, this cafe is also convenient for travelers, as it provides luggage storage options. Highly recommended for anyone in the area looking for good food at great prices.”
“The Hideout Cafe offers a welcoming atmosphere and delicious food, including generous portions of their breakfast plate. The cafe features peaceful music, including worship music, and a relaxing environment. The place is also dog friendly, making it ideal for weekend brunch with friends and family. The food is fresh, and the hot drinks are delicious. The outdoor and indoor seating options, along with helpful and accommodating servers, add to the pleasant experience. The cafe is known for its friendly service and has received positive reviews for its savory breakfast options, panini sandwiches, and fresh juices.”
“Sunset Mexican Ice Cream offers a delightful Mexican-inspired ice cream experience, with creamy and sweet flavors that customers enjoy. The esquites are a particular favorite among visitors. The restaurant is known for its authenticity and popularity, as shown by the steady stream of customers. It also provides wheelchair-accessible entrances that meet ADA standards. Customers praise the excellent customer service, friendly staff, and the variety of treats, including unique ice cream flavors, ices, and hot foods made to order. Popular options like the Mangonada offer a fun mix of sweet, tart, and spicy flavors. Many visitors appreciate the affordable prices and delicious aguas frescas. The small, cozy place is often busy, but staff are helpful and keep the line moving, offering samples and answering questions. This spot is a favorite for those seeking a fun and tasty ice cream experience. Customers often enjoy specialty flavors like Gansito, which is like birthday cake with raspberry and tastes much better. The ice cream creations are interesting, unique, and delicious. The staff speak both English and Spanish, and service is usually fast, with only rare moments of attitude from a server. Overall, the restaurant offers a friendly environment with great customer service and a variety of tasty treats.”
“Global Cuisine by Blesame Int'l Catering is a welcoming restaurant serving authentic Filipino cuisine. The owner, Chef Kris, is kind and accommodating, making guests feel right at home. The menu offers a range of classic Filipino dishes, including Pork Adobo Ribs, Pancit with Pork, and Halo-Halo dessert. The bento box special, featuring chicken or pork adobo with steamed rice, spring roll, pancit, and dessert, is a popular choice. The locally-owned restaurant has a homey and casual atmosphere, traditionally decorated and very clean. The Kare Kare Oxtail was filling and had a rich peanut flavor, while the adobo was tender and flavorful, cooked to perfection. The pancit was a symphony of textures and tastes. Guests have noted that the food is delicious and authentic, and there are also Korean options and great pastas available. The real highlight is the owner's warm hospitality, as she genuinely cares about her guests. Overall, Global Cuisine is a great spot for a taste of homegrown Filipino cuisine and a welcoming dining experience, sure to leave visitors eager to return.”
“Pokebola provides a convenient and quality dining experience with a focus on fresh ingredients and an exciting menu featuring unique options. The restaurant serves a variety of poke bowls, including the popular medium bowl, which is a good size for a satisfying meal. Customers can enjoy a selection of sauces and toppings of good quality, allowing for meal customization. The staff is friendly and helpful, ensuring quick service and a welcoming atmosphere. While the fish quality may sometimes be inconsistent, with occasional instances of freezer-burned fish, most visits offer fresh-tasting fish that enhances the overall experience. The ambiance is simple, clean, and well-lit, making it a suitable spot for a quick lunch or casual meal. However, the neighborhood can be unpredictable, and the restaurant sometimes closes early, so planning ahead is advised. Despite occasional issues like a hair on edamame or rising prices, Pokebola remains a reliable choice for poke lovers seeking a quick and tasty meal.”