Recommended Restaurants
Recommended
“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.”
“Celestial Beerworks is a top-tier brewery in Texas, offering a variety of delicious beers. The Hazy IPAs and barrel program are exceptional, while the Mystery Box smoothie-style series is a must-try. The friendly staff and dog-friendly environment create a welcoming atmosphere, with a nice vibe that makes visitors want to return. The place is kid-friendly, and the variety and taste of beers are great, from pilsners to stouts. The cosmos-themed decor, including constellation paintings, adds to the cool ambience. Visitors can enjoy a quick bite from the Taco truck or bring their own food. With stellar service and excellent beer, it's a hidden gem in Dallas, making it a must-visit. The brewery is described as a top-tier destination, offering a wide range of delicious beers, including exceptional Hazy IPAs, barrel-aged offerings, and a popular smoothie-style series. The friendly staff and welcoming, dog-friendly environment contribute to a great atmosphere, while the cosmos-themed decor creates a cool ambiance. Visitors can enjoy a bite from the on-site Taco truck or bring their own food, making it a versatile and enjoyable experience. With top-notch service and exceptional beer, Celestial Beerworks is a hidden gem in Dallas that is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts.”
“Nanas Kitchen & Catering LLC is a beloved lunch spot in Narberth, known for its delicious food and generous portions. They offer creative catering options, accommodating various dietary needs with care and responsiveness. The restaurant provides a wide selection of vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan options, making it a popular choice for those with allergies or special diets. Customers have enjoyed meals such as the Mediterranean platter and the shakshuka, praising the flavorful dishes and friendly service, despite some moments of being busy with orders. The hummus bar is especially appreciated for large gatherings, and the empanadas are a standout, with many looking forward to trying more items from the menu. Whether for breakfast, soups, or Shabbat Dinners, Nanas is highly recommended for flavorful meals and excellent service.”
“Freddy's Cafe is a welcoming establishment known for its fresh food and friendly service. The salad, breakfast tacos, and grilled chicken sandwich have been praised for their delicious taste. Customers appreciate the quick service and the team's attentiveness, as they are never rushed. The salsas and curly fries are also popular menu items. Many visitors enjoy the burgers, which are considered some of the best around. The restaurant is conveniently located close to offices, making it a favorite spot for lunch and breakfast. It is easy to find in a small strip center, and guests often mention the excellent food, nice people, and clean bathrooms. This hidden gem is a local favorite, offering a casual and satisfying dining experience. Customers love the owner's personal service, the delicious tomato basil soup, and the perfectly cooked real fries. Whether it's for a good start to the day or a satisfying lunch, Freddy's Cafe is the place to go.”
“Old Town Crepes offers a delicious and friendly dining experience, with the crepes being a particular highlight. This restaurant is gluten-free friendly and can accommodate various dietary restrictions, with the chef demonstrating knowledge about preparing gluten-free options. The decor is cute and the atmosphere is relaxing and perfectly cozy, creating a lovely dining experience. Guests have found the food to be delicious, with beautiful presentation, and appreciate the many gluten-free options. The service is warm and welcoming, and the place is kid friendly. Many guests consider it one of the best breakfast places they have visited, and the owner and chef ensure a safe and delicious experience for those with gluten issues. Visitors also enjoy great coffee and will return when in Myrtle Beach again.”
“The Osteria at Domenico offers an excellent dining experience with a menu featuring outstanding dishes. The calamari starter is crispy outside and perfect inside, complemented by amazing sauces. The risotto with wild mushrooms is rich and comforting, while the Regina pizza is incredible. The cheesecakes and other desserts provide a fabulous way to end the meal. The outdoor dining area, though sometimes affected by the weather, provides an upbeat environment with heaters available. The wine selection is fabulous and pairs well with the inviting menu. Customers have praised the food, wine, and attentive service, highlighting the value for the quality and price. The staff are known for their excellent and personalized treatment, making every visit special. Events like special tasting menus with Italian coastal region flair add a memorable touch. Customers appreciate the easy parking and the chance to try new dishes, though the restaurant's limited hours can make dining a bit rushed, especially if visiting close to closing time.”
“Chef Tony Macaroni & Co. is a hidden gem serving amazing authentic Italian food. The pasta dishes are delicious, and the sausage and peppers sandwich is huge and tasty. The fried raviolis are crispy, even after delivery, and the side salad with creamy Italian dressing and amazing croutons is a winner. Despite being closed for a few months, customers hope for the best for Tony and his wife. The chef's dedication to fresh ingredients shines through, making every meal a delight. Even though the fries are just standard, the overall experience at this restaurant is top-notch, making it a must-visit for any Italian food lover.”
“Fireflies Pottery, Coffee and Ice Cream offers a welcoming atmosphere with exceptional service. Visitors enjoy top-notch Wilcoxson’s ice cream and a fun pottery painting experience. The friendly staff is helpful and patient, making it an ideal spot for team outings and creative activities. Many recommend it for a fun and enjoyable time with friends or clients.”
“Wimal Authentic Thai Food serves delicious and authentic Thai cuisine, offering a variety of vegetarian options. The Penang Curry with tofu is a standout dish, while the Massaman curry and Hot pots are also remarkable favorites among customers. The Thai iced tea and iced coffee have received high praise, with one customer noting that it is the best iced coffee they have ever had. The homemade coconut cake is a delightful surprise, being moist and barely sweet. Service at Wimal is friendly and helpful, with staff always eager to make suggestions and assist diners. With its unique flavors and amazing service, Wimal is a great choice for those seeking authentic Thai food and a satisfying dining experience.”
“El Alce offers authentic Mexican food within a 200-mile radius. Customers praise the friendly service, excellent dishes like Chili Releno and Birria Tacos, and the overall cleanliness of the restaurant. Visitors especially enjoy top-notch frozen margaritas and tasty salsa & chips. The restaurant received positive feedback for quick service, amazing food, and affordable prices. The birria tacos are highly recommended, packed with juicy beef, crispy fried shell, and flavorful broth with hot sauce on the side. Many guests consider El Alce a very welcome and loved addition to the Moose Lake area cuisine scene, making it a favorite spot for those seeking delicious Mexican food in Minnesota. Despite some service and atmosphere issues, customers keep coming back for the tasty dishes and friendly staff.”
“DUA Vietnamese Restaurant is a popular spot for Vietnamese cuisine. The restaurant is known for its excellent service, with one reviewer praising the manager's recommendations and service. The menu features a variety of dishes, including the Bun Bo Hue broth and Vietnamese wings, which were described as amazing. The Shrimp Bun Bo Hue soup is a fan favorite, but some reviewers have experienced inconsistent quality and incorrect orders. Despite this, the restaurant's Pho is praised as the best among several tried, and the staff is friendly. The atmosphere is enjoyable, with music playing and plenty of parking available. The service is amazing, with food arriving hot and quick to the table. The manager is very friendly and knowledgeable about the menu, providing great recommendations. The wings and chicken banh mi are highly praised. The restaurant offers a wide variety of vegetarian options, including tofu and the ability to make the pho vegan. While the pho was just okay for some reviewers, the fried chicken wings were excellent, and the bubble tea was not bad.”
“Leroy's Water Street Coffee is a loved spot known for its delicious pastries and great coffee. Visitors enjoy the cozy interior and outside seating. The menu features items like cherry pastries, blueberry scone, and strawberry matcha, with drinks including latte, mocha latte, cortado, and chai. The staff is friendly, and the quality of food and drinks is consistently praised. It is a favorite place to relax and enjoy good food in a charming setting.”
“Farmstead Catering at Echo Farm provides an exceptional wedding experience, offering a unique and sustainable approach to catering. The team, led by Dillon, is dedicated to creating incredible food from scratch, using ingredients grown on-site at the farm. Couples can experience the farm-to-table concept firsthand by visiting the farm, where they can see the garlic, herbs, greens, chickens, cows, and vegetables being grown. Farmstead's commitment to reducing food waste and sustainable events sets them apart. The catering service offers customizable, delicious, and locally sourced meals, with options like fire-grilled chicken, patty pan squash with oregano pesto, colorful beet salad, and grilled colorful carrots. The team, including Chef Taylor and Kirsten, work closely with couples to create a personalized menu and floral arrangements that exceed expectations. With their professional and dynamic approach, Farmstead Catering ensures a memorable and unforgettable dining experience for wedding guests.”
Recently Added Restaurants
“West Chester Chicken is a fantastic new chicken spot in the borough. The chicken is hot, fresh, tasty, and fantastic, with tenders that are large, perfectly crispy, super juicy, and made with high-quality meat. The breading is perfect. Popular meals include the Tender Platter, OG sandwich, Chop Salad, and Cobb Salad with amazing grilled honey chicken. Sides are outstanding, with Boardwalk Fries that are especially tasty, thick-cut, golden, and ridiculously good. The Bacon Brussels Sprouts are phenomenal and the Mac & Cheese is outstanding. The loaded buffalo chicken fries are absolutely addictive. Dipping sauces are homemade and amazing, and the strawberry lemonade is highly recommended. The service is quick, awesome, and friendly, with wonderful staff. The experience is great all around, making it hard to go to any other spots in town. It is more suited for takeout than eat in, but is very highly recommended.”
“La Central Tacos is definitely one of the best taco places in Tampa, an authentic spot with the most flavorful tacos. The food is amazing, delicious, incredible, and always fresh. The Asada, carnitas, Birria, and arrachera/barbacoa tacos are all cooked to perfection and seasoned perfectly. The warm, house-made tortillas are excellent. The chips and salsa and consomé are also delicious and awesome, made with fresh ingredients. The service is superb, attentive, charismatic, super friendly, and helpful. Everyone is so nice and treats you like a member of their family. The atmosphere has great vibes with charming and unique decor. It is a great neighborhood favorite taco spot that needs to be on your list.”
“Tacos Fita is a popular, family-run restaurant known for its flavorful and fresh Mexican food. The restaurant offers a cozy and beautifully decorated atmosphere that creates a warm and inviting environment. Guests consistently praise the quick and friendly service, especially at the bar, where drinks are served efficiently. The menu features a variety of dishes, with tacos and asados being highly recommended. The tacos are made with homemade flour tortillas that hold the flavorful, tender meats, which are seasoned with in-house made spices. Popular choices include the rib eye taco, Chile verde taco, and picana tostadas. The restaurant also has an excellent cocktail menu that pairs well with the food, adding to the overall experience. Many reviewers mention that each visit is fantastic, with some noting that the food is not heavily salted and tastes genuine. Despite occasional wait times, customers find that the quality and flavor make it worth returning multiple times. Overall, Tacos Fita is a highly regarded spot for delicious food, great drinks, and friendly service.”
“Kasa Coffee is a cute, welcoming, and beautiful new addition to Beaverton. The space has been totally transformed and offers great vibes. The coffee is amazing, with specific praise for the iced horchata latte, iced coconut ube latte, and iced churro latte. Their breakfast food is great tasting, with the breakfast burrito highlighted as amazing and a new favorite. They also offer quality matcha. The staff is super sweet, nice, and provides great service with care and excellence, even when busy. It's a perfect place to dine or sip coffee with friends.”
“Suka Sushi has become a popular lunch spot for many, offering a unique and convenient sushi experience. The California roll is consistently fresh, flavorful, and perfectly made, while the restaurant's innovative packaging allows customers to enjoy their sushi on the go with ease. The atmosphere is pleasant, and the quality of the food is consistently great. Customers praise the fun and unique concept, where sushi slides out of a tube when pressed, making it a mess-free and convenient option. The portions are generous, and the overall taste is described as delicious, with the rolls being fresh and the presentation in the tube being interesting. The lack of long lines is an added bonus, making it an even better experience. However, some customers have expressed disappointment with certain aspects of their visit. The availability of specific menu items was limited, and the Spicy Tuna roll did not live up to the expected level of spiciness. Additionally, the soy sauce was described as having an unusual, more sour flavor than traditional soy sauce. Overall, Suka Sushi offers a unique and enjoyable sushi experience, with fresh, flavorful rolls and a convenient, mess-free presentation. While there may be some room for improvement in certain areas, the restaurant's innovative concept and generally positive reviews make it a popular choice for those seeking a quick and tasty sushi option.”
“Qwench Juice Bar at LAX offers smoothies, lemonades, and snacks like pretzel bitz and plain pretzels with caramel dip. Reviews mention the Old School smoothie, with strawberries, bananas, apple juice, greek yogurt, and agave, as perfectly sweet and very good, though pricey. Service experiences vary; some staff are described as extremely nice and great, while others are called rude with a bad attitude. Food items receive mixed feedback: pretzels are nice and warm, but bitz can have uneven cinnamon and be warm, not hot. Issues sometimes noted include no ice for drinks, no receipt tape, and hot lemonade. The smoothies are a highlight for many travelers.”
“Chubby Curry is a restaurant that offers a variety of flavorful dishes with generous portions and good quality ingredients. Customers praise the Wagyu steak rice bowl for its quality steak and great sauce, as well as the Wagyu steak rice plate, although some find the curry itself average. The restaurant prepares both spicy and non-spicy curry dishes well, and the katsu served on the side is enjoyed for its crunchy skin. The atmosphere is highly appreciated, with a nice decor creating a pleasant environment. Service is generally friendly and quick, with attentive staff who check on guests frequently, making the experience enjoyable. The use of an iPad for ordering helps speed up service, and staff members are often described as fantastic and attentive. While most find the food quality worth the price, some feel portions could be bigger and see the value as slightly expensive compared to the amount of food served. Overall, Chubby Curry provides a satisfying dining experience that many plan to revisit, especially for its inviting atmosphere and attentive service.”
“Frank & Furter’s is a hot dog and burger spot located inside the Westfield Valley Fair food court. The restaurant offers a wide variety of options, including a notable vegan selection and unique choices like the Bulgogi Dog. Customers praise the quality and freshness of the meat and toppings, with some mentioning the excellent craftsmanship of the truffle burger with double patty. The atmosphere is friendly, and service is highly appreciated, especially by staff members who treat guests like family. The restaurant provides satisfying bites for those shopping nearby and caters to different tastes with flavorful, well-prepared meals. Overall, Frank & Furter’s is a reliable place for a satisfying hot dog or burger, with good customer service and a variety of tasty options.”
“Aleppo Kabob is a spacious and casual restaurant that offers authentic and flavorful Middle Eastern dishes. The inside features booths and a lively atmosphere, making it a comfortable place to dine. Customers praise the food for its amazing flavors, with many highlights including the chicken sandwich, chicken plate, and shawarma wrap. The chicken is often described as tender, crispy, and perfectly cooked, while the plates are generous with a good balance of chicken, rice, and fresh vegetables. The veggies in the fatoush salad are crisp and plentiful, and the dressing comes in a container, allowing guests to enjoy it at their own pace. The hummus is creamy and delicious, and the falafel and chicken kabob plates are highly recommended for their perfect spices. The drinks, including berry soda, are enjoyable additions to the meal. Service is friendly, fast, and attentive, with staff often helpful with recommendations. The restaurant recently opened, and customers appreciate its cleanliness, modern vibe, and great prices. Overall, Aleppo Kabob is a favorite for flavorful, fresh, and satisfying Middle Eastern cuisine, leaving guests eager to return and try more menu options.”
“Simmer & Steamer is a hidden gem in San Francisco’s financial district, offering a relaxing and welcoming environment for both quick bites and meetings. The restaurant specializes in flavorful Korean-inspired dishes, including kimchi fried rice bowls, pork belly rice curry, avocado with cod roe mayo rice bowls, and tofu bowls. Customers appreciate the generous portions and great value, with meals often served in just a few minutes at affordable prices. The food is praised for its tasty flavors, especially the kimchi, which is highly recommended as an add-on. While some find certain dishes a bit mushy or lacking flavor, overall, the food is considered delicious and worth the price. The staff is friendly, polite, and provides helpful recommendations, making the dining experience smooth and enjoyable. Dine-in is cozy and relaxing, and take-out is efficient with fast delivery. Special treats like traditional Korean desserts, such as Yakgwa, add a special touch. Whether for a quick lunch or a casual gathering, Simmer & Steamer is a nice find, especially for those seeking authentic flavors and good service in a quiet setting.”
“My favorite hard kombucha. Amazing product. My favorite is the dragonfruit flavor. It’s so good”
“SIPS Coffee Wine Beer is a great new spot in Ventura. It is a local coffee, wine, and beer place with a friendly and personable atmosphere. They serve Beacon Coffee beans with a fantastic, expert barista for quality coffee, espresso, lattes, matcha, and iced chai lattes. There is a great variety of beer, cider, seltzers, and wine by the glass, with fine wines to go. The small homey kitchen menu has good food like panini sandwiches, a posh house salad, and pastries. They offer great service, have great prices, provide Wifi, and have toys for kids. It is a perfect chill spot and a must stop.”
“Whatever Forever Coffee is a charming outdoor coffee spot known for its warm community atmosphere and friendly service. Housed in a small customized trailer with outside seating, it provides a cozy and welcoming environment for customers. The owner, a personable and approachable individual, greets visitors warmly and often engages with them personally, creating a sense of connection and friendliness. The coffee offerings include popular choices like iced Americano with oat milk, ginger chai latte, and iced mocha, all praised for their quality and flavor. While the milk options are limited to oat milk, the drinks are generally well-received, with many customers highlighting the deliciousness of the coffee and the great service. The outdoor seating area, which includes chalk for kids to draw on, makes it a dog-friendly and family-friendly spot. Customers appreciate the reasonable prices and the vibrant community feel, often mentioning the owner’s efforts to build a loyal following through popups and events. Although the spot has been short-lived for some, there is excitement and hope for a new location, with many eager to support the owner in finding a new community gathering space. Overall, Whatever Forever Coffee offers a delightful, community-driven experience perfect for a quick coffee before a beach day or a relaxing outdoor visit.”
“Best Ice Cream In Town! I got tostilocos. My kids got ice cream and my husband got some jicama cucumber candy concoction. Everything is amazing! The lady inside that helped us did an amazing job and was super patient! I will be visiting more often!”
“D20 Pizza is a lively restaurant known for its Detroit style pizza and friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Visitors have praised the delicious pizza, especially the Pepperoni and Super Shroom, highlighting the dough's incredible quality and the toppings' plentifulness. The restaurant offers a variety of pizza options, including their signature Detroit style, which many find to be very tasty and satisfying. In addition to pizza, there are fun arcade games and an expanding board game library, making it a great place for socializing, parties, or casual gatherings. The ambiance is casual and welcoming, with some reviews mentioning themed game nights and trivia, though some events are still being developed. The space is described as clean, safe, and professional, with a growing setup that promises an even better experience over time. Customers appreciate the affordability, with some noting the deep dish pizza is available for only $20, and a large chopped Caesar salad for just $9. Overall, D20 Pizza is seen as a fun, fun-filled spot perfect for families, friends, or anyone looking to enjoy good pizza and entertainment in a friendly environment.”
Latest Reviews
“Food was amazing! Taz was the BEST! I really like Thai food it is one of my favorite foods! This place is the bomb! People, don’t judge a book by its cover!”
“Stopped in here on Wednesday March 11 2026.. The burger was exactly like Big Toms only better. I will be going back on saturday for another one, maybe 2...yes they are that good.”
“I ordered a pizza and they sent on slice, they neve asked to make sure of my order I finally got my pizza so listen to the customer when they call if not sure ask never assume other wise good service”
“We are always satisfied eating here!”
“My wife & I just left the Casino 5,400. ahead. Our best night ever. Great place to go.”
“Highly recommend Low prices High Quality Food”
“We went here on Monday to get an Acai bowl. We ordered 2 and also I ordered a Costel de Camoron that I was going to take home with me. We ate the Acai bowls there and they were delicious. Very fresh, perfectly ripe fruit! I ate my Shrimp cocktail later and it was outstanding!!! Great service too!!!!”
“We ordered the chicken parm it was good. A lot of food the penne was very nice I would have them put just a little more sauce on the penne. We had so much for left overs will order from them again.”
“I've been going to Papa John's in Bethel for the last few months. My orders are always correct, and the food is always hot and ready on time. The new Pan Pizza is a great addition to their menu and has become a personal favorite. Great Local Pizza place”
“Small gem with GREAT food and excellent service. The waiters are very kind and attentive, and the food is flavorful and purely delicious! We savored every bite!”
“It was my first time having Indian Cuisine and the waitress was very kind and explained a lot. The food was delicious and the servings were huge! I'm definitely going back :).”
“What an incredible experience!! I dont live in the area and looked up best rated Falafel and you were 24 min out of my way. I live about an hour from you. I have to say waht an incredible staff you have! Everyone was accommodating, kind, and informative! The food is beyond expectation to! Immediately I was hit with such wonderful aromas I was excited. I got everything! Well a bit of it all. I am vegan so I was thrilled I had so many options. My plate was the rainbow I was looking for to!! I was even given a Vegan cookie which I havnt had in well over a year possible 2. I just want to thank the staff for all they did for me and rave at how good everythibg truly is here!! 11/11 I will.be back for more! I took a video so its a screen shot but my God was she beautiful!”
“Great meals every visit. Cocktails, appetizers all delicious. Servers are very nice and attentive. My new go-to restaurant.”
Latest Blog Updates
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.
California's beloved burger chain is finally making its way to the South. In-N-Out Burger opened its first restaurants east of the Mississippi River - a historic expansion for the 76-year-old company. The chain launched two locations on Dec. 10 in Lebanon and Antioch, Tennessee, both suburbs near Nashville, with a third opening following on Dec. 12 in Murfreesboro. Each restaurant will employ about 75 associates at a starting wage of $17.50 per hour. The new locations feature one drive-thru lane, indoor seating for 74 guests, and covered patios accommodating roughly 30 more diners.
While U.S. restaurants battle rising costs and cautious consumers, international chains are rushing in the opposite direction. They're coming to America at roughly double the pace of a decade ago.
America’s first fast-food hamburger chain is changing how it serves sliders. White Castle showed off its latest store prototype last month just outside downtown Columbus, Ohio. Called the “Castle of Tomorrow,” the restaurant at 1025 Alum Creek Drive mixes high-tech automation with a focus on making guests feel welcome.
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.”
“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.”