Recommended Restaurants
Recommended
“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.”
“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.”
Recently Added Restaurants
“Alma Cocina is a highly recommended restaurant known for its delicious, fresh, and homemade food. The owners, a husband and wife team, take great pride in providing excellent service and creating a welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant is small and intimate, with fewer than ten tables, so reservations are advised. The decor is clean, modern, and inviting, complemented by great music, including salsa tunes that add to the lively ambiance. Guests enjoy a variety of flavorful dishes such as octopus taco, carnitas taco, birria tacos, and Alma salad, all expertly prepared and beautifully plated. The restaurant also offers in-house desserts like churros, and drinks such as the spicy pomegranate margarita, which receive high praise. For special occasions like birthday dinners, Alma Cocina impresses with its attentive staff and great atmosphere, making every guest feel welcomed and cared for. Parking is convenient with a small lot at the back, and the restaurant’s warm service leaves a lasting impression. Whether dining in or taking out, visitors consistently enjoy the fresh salsa, complementary chips, and tasty plantains and roasted potatoes. Overall, Alma Cocina is a charming spot that offers excellent food, friendly service, and a cozy ambiance, making it a favorite local dining destination.”
“La Luz Mexican is a small, family-style restaurant known for its fresh and flavorful food that tastes homemade. The dishes, including chicken enchiladas and a combination with potato and chorizo enchilada, are outstanding and melt in the mouth. The chips and salsa are fantastic, and the horchata and tres leches cake are delicious desserts. Service is friendly and attentive, with staff serving with a smile and providing extra fixings when needed. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it a great spot to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine. The restaurant offers a clean small dining area, and parking is available off the side street. Whether dining in or doing carry-out, La Luz consistently delivers quality food and great customer service, making it a favorite local spot for authentic Mexican food.”
“Mooseshack is a unique, warm, and friendly place in the Millennocket area. The food is absolutely amazing, fantastic, and terrific. Specific meals like the reuben sandwich, Swiss mushroom burger, house steak and cheese wrap, and poutine fries are called some of the best ever had. The wings are very good, even to die for. Fish fry night all you can eat and taco night are popular. Food comes out quick with great portions. The staff is awesome, friendly, and the best around, providing good service. The owner is also noted as friendly. The place has a cool atmosphere with pool and pickleball inside, and an outdoor BBQ in summer. It is a MUST try, though it gets PACKED on Fridays and Saturdays.”
“Very good popusas and has a variety of them. 10/10 recommend. She is cash only though but very fairly priced.”
“Energy Fuel is a popular restaurant known for its healthy and tasty food options. The atmosphere is laid back and welcoming, with friendly staff that make customers feel comfortable. Ordering is simple and stress-free, and the service is quick. The menu offers a huge and creative selection of healthy meals, including favorites like fried alligator burgers and bear chips. Many customers praise the food for being genuinely good and fresh, not just healthy. The owner is attentive and caring, often giving free treats like protein brownies to customers, which are highly recommended as some of the best brownies around. The store is clean, and the staff, including long-time employees, are nice and helpful. While some find it pricey, most agree the quality and taste make it worth it. Energy Fuel is especially appreciated for late-night eats and healthy options that stand out from other places. Overall, it is a highly recommended spot for those looking for delicious, healthy food in a relaxed setting.”
“The Peak on Summit is a unique spot that combines a laundromat with a bar and eatery, making it a great place to enjoy a meal while waiting for laundry. Visitors appreciate the fresh food, with a standout salad/potato bar and delicious options like nachos, pizza, and the highly recommended smashburger and fries. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, with staff members like Jackie and Vanessa receiving praise for their outstanding service and engaging personalities. Many guests enjoy the hole-in-the-wall vibe, and the restaurant's prices are seen as very reasonable. Overall, The Peak on Summit offers a fun dining experience with great food and a casual environment, perfect for both locals and travelers alike.”
“When i 1st saw this restaurant; I hesitated to go in,simply because there is two buffet style haitian restaurant not too far from it. I decided to pay a visit one day and HONEYYY! they did not disappoint. Each time I place an order, food is always nice and fresh, steamy hot. Food taste so good, like your mamma made it with love. This place is my now go to for good haitian food. I pray for their success to continue to grow. Its a really nice open space, perhaps they can do other venues and entertainment to bring more people in.
David, thank you for serving our community with good food and service.
I pray you stay consistent with blessing us with good food always.”
“La Nonna’s Day Pizza and Pasta is a fantastic new restaurant that has quickly gained a reputation for its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere. The regular slice and margarita slice are described as the gold standard, with many praising their fresh, flavorful pizza that has a perfect texture. The restaurant is clean and well-kept, contributing to a pleasant dining experience. Customers have raved about the crispy, flavorful wings and the quality of the pasta dishes. The chicken cutlet parmigiana dinner is particularly highlighted, featuring soft, flavorful bread rolls and an amazing cheesecake for dessert. The chicken Francese hero is noted for its tender and juicy chicken, while the spaghetti is a generous portion that includes Italian bread. The service is consistently friendly and attentive, with many customers expressing their support for the new owners who are dedicated to maintaining high quality. Overall, La Nonna’s Day Pizza and Pasta is recommended for anyone seeking fresh food, generous portions, and a clean, inviting environment.”
“Killer lunch , great service and drinks . Food truck based at a local store . Go if you are in the area .”
“Sneaux Icy Snowballs is a very popular spot with great service and very friendly, professional staff. The team is attentive to details and to their customers, providing excellence and smiles. The snowballs are perfect for a hot summer day, hitting the spot with flavor in every bite. They offer a wide variety of flavors, including sugar free options and some dye free ones. The funnel cakes are also excellent. Some customers recommend them for a perfect treat, and note they sometimes have a crawfish boil on Sunday. It is a cleanly establishment where the owners are nice and the whole team serves the community with greatness. Many happily recommend swinging by this spot.”
“O Cookshop is a popular Jamaican restaurant known for its large portions and flavorful food. Customers praise the food as delicious and fresh, with many dishes offering a nice spicy kick and good flavor. The chicken is often described as juicy, flavorful, and well-seasoned, with some mentioning that no extra salt or pepper is needed. The rice, whether rice and peas or spinach rice, is fluffy and tasty, often enhanced with oxtail sauce for added flavor. The oxtails are a common highlight, praised for their flavor but also noted to be very fatty, which some customers find disappointing, especially given the high price of $25 for small oxtails. The mac & cheese is considered okay, better than many other Jamaican restaurants but not outstanding. The cabbage can sometimes be cooked a little more, and the menu appears to have limited options. Prices are seen as reasonable, with a typical meal costing around $47 to $100 for multiple dishes. While the atmosphere is clean but not very welcoming, overall, many find the food satisfying and plan to return to try different items. Despite some concerns about the fat content of the oxtails, O Cookshop is regarded as one of the best Jamaican restaurants in Essex County.”
“Playa Bowls is a bright, clean, and informative space. The staff is consistently great, pleasant, patient, and kind, taking time to explain options to ensure a good experience. Many customers are happy and recommend it for great service. The food is delicious, with bowls like the coco craze coconut bowl featuring fresh fruits and granola with a great texture. The location has become a favorite for its consistent quality. It is an absolutely gorgeous space where the bowls are so good they disappear quickly.”
“Taquizas Jalisco is a highly recommended catering service known for its delicious and authentic tacos. Customers praise the food for its flavor and generous portions, including options like tacos for events, vegetarian tacos, and sides such as flavorful salsas, beans, rice, chips, and refreshing agua fresca. The service is consistently described as outstanding—punctual, friendly, attentive, and professional. The team arrives early, sets up quickly, and works efficiently within the venue’s space, ensuring a smooth experience. Communication is noted as responsive and easy, with the staff accommodating special requests and adjustments seamlessly. Customers appreciate the team’s teamwork, friendliness, and dedication to making events memorable. Prices are considered reasonable given the quality and quantity of food provided. Whether for family gatherings, baby showers, or large events, Taquizas Jalisco consistently delivers a positive experience, with guests enjoying the meal and often taking leftovers home. Overall, they are admired for their authentic flavors, professionalism, and ability to make celebrations special. Repeatedly, clients express their intention to hire them again, highlighting their reliability and the memorable impact of their catering service.”
“Steven Dale's Pizzeria & Deli is a highly recommended restaurant known for its excellent food and friendly service. The pizza is praised for having the best crust and great taste, with many reviewers calling it the best in the area. The subs are made on fresh, wonderful rolls and are packed full of ingredients. Special dishes like the buffalo chicken cheesesteak are celebrated, with one reviewer calling it the best they've ever had. The restaurant offers a fun vibe with a free arcade cabinet where guests can play retros while waiting for their food. The staff is accommodating, often adding extras like bacon to orders. The food quality remains consistent, with some suggestions to keep fries and onion rings crispy by packaging them differently. Overall, Steven Dale's Pizzeria & Deli is a must-try spot, loved for its great pizza, tasty subs, and welcoming atmosphere.”
“Pogu Picnic is a casual restaurant offering a variety of delicious and flavorful meals. The menu features popular dishes like bulgogi, chicken gangjeong, eel, and kimbap, which are fresh, warm, and well-balanced. Portions are generous and prices are reasonable, making it a good choice for a quick, satisfying meal. The staff are friendly, and the seating is adequate, with parking available nearby. Customers appreciate the healthy and tasty options, and many plan to return to try more dishes such as the eel set. Despite occasional long lines, service moves quickly. Overall, Pogu Picnic is recommended for good food and casual dining that offers value for the price.”
Latest Reviews
“Best restaurant my family visited on our trip to Hawaii! I recommend to everyone”
“I've been a loyal customer of Holiday Cafe since they moved to Woodruff from Hazelhurts and I've never had a bad meal or any kind of dust up with the staff. Wonderful people and the food is very very good. Their Friday night fish fry is outstanding, their perch dinner is worth the wait on a Friday night.”
“I absolutely love Happy Dragon Family Restaurant in Monterey! Their Moo Goo Gai Pan is one of my go-to dishes, fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time. The fried rice is also fantastic and pairs so well with everything on the menu. Honestly, everything I’ve tried has been consistently delicious, served hot, and clearly made with care. You can really taste the quality. What makes the experience even better is the family who owns and runs the restaurant. They are always so kind, welcoming, and fun, it truly feels like you’re part of their extended family when you walk in. Great food, great people, and a place I’ll keep coming back to! Highly recommend.”
“The food was great and the staff very attentive Take out orders were coming in fast. Recommend highly! Salad we stopped in Deming NM”
“This is my favorite place to get sushi in Salem. I love the people that serve, the people who fix the food, and it's just a great place to have great food. I've never had a bad experience and I've been eating here weekly for over a year.”
“So tonight I ordered again from Jasmines On the Bayou a Shrimp PoBoy and Seafood Platter. The Oysters were BURNT...all small FOUR of them...so crunchy a guest said the could have broken their teeth?!? I ordered the Shrimp PoBoy and only got a HALF! They said they would refund me, well DoorDash did...not sure why they did and not Jasmines. , waiting on an answer from them BURNT FOOD IS UNACCEPTABLE...there was no way they didn't know...really!!?? Especially if it can harm someone? What else was there was good, but it was disappointing it wasn't right, again! Oh, a good thing, the Shrimp and Corn soup had shrimp in it this time, just too creamy for my taste. Not used to cream in it. Another bad thing is Jasmines doesn't have an email to respond before posting a review. Enjoy the pics.”
“andy is top notch excellent food”
“Simply: the BEST bakery in the area! I can't say enough- just go see for yourself. You won't regret it. And EVERYTHING is low calory, just ask them.The only negative remark- they aren't open enough hours, I suppose they have to have a life ... but we NEED the treats. NEED!!!”
“I like you can bring your beer outside and smoke and good prices”
“Best service and food ever. We had my sister in law's bridal shower in the private room, and shout out to Neetu for helping us with the planning, and execution. She was amazing. Food tasted delicious, service was incredible!”
“Portion sizes changed....smaller now.”
“We visit Pomona every chance we get. Never had a bad meal , Lisa is always happy to see you! It's worth the 40 minute drive from Newcastle. The real deal and worth every penny!”
“My girlfriend and I ate at this restaurant and we love it! It’s now our favorite restaurant! The view on the river is sooo Beautiful! Can’t wait to go this weekend.”
“The smoothie was on point establishment was clean the staff was friendly compassionate I even got to try a free sample of a power drink overall the experience was excellent thank you… 3/31/26”
“I had lunch today with two others. The special focaccia was yummy as was the ham sandwich. Also had the basque cheese cake, which is light and fluffy. I like this kind as well as the heavier cheese cake. The raspberry croissant had lots of filling. The baker didn’t skimp on the filling. I had a mocha coffee, which was just right. I cook and bake a lot. I’ve made croissants and cheese cakes. This bakery is excellent.”
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.”
“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.”