Recommended Restaurants
Recommended
“Hardy John's Bar & Grill in Oshawa offers a genuine and authentic community atmosphere. The bar is praised for its top-notch servers who provide great service and a wonderful experience. Customers enjoy delicious meals, including the beef and swiss cheese beef sandwich au jus, steak and lobster, and appreciate the excellent value. The restaurant is known for its excellent wings, Caesar salad, and curry rolls. The DJ on Friday nights plays 90s R&B and hip hop, creating a fun vibe for guests. The kitchen is open until 1:30 am, which is a big win for late-night diners. The staff is attentive, ensuring the quality of the food and offering wonderful guidance on the specials and menu options. Hardy John's also provides catering services, which have been described as outstanding, with unforgettable food and reasonable pricing. The chef's special, beef Wellington, is also praised as delicious. Hardy John's is a must-try for anyone visiting Oshawa.”
“Taj Mahal Indian Cuisine is a modern Indian restaurant that offers a lavish buffet spread and à la carte options. It provides a warm welcome with smiling staff who explain the menu and can accommodate special requests, including being very vegan-friendly. The buffet features a clear list of vegetarian options and is a good value at $12 per dish. Guests often enjoy tasting multiple dishes through the buffet to discover their favorites, and the food is always fresh and flavorful. The menu includes a diverse range of dishes, such as the popular chicken in curry with a customizable spice level. Guests appreciate the presentation, taste, and service, which exceed expectations for a typical Indian restaurant. With its calm ambiance, quick service, and delicious food, Taj Mahal Indian Cuisine is a must-visit for Indian cuisine enthusiasts. The staff goes above and beyond, even offering to prepare fresh food for guests at the buffet and bringing it to their tables. The restaurant also has a bar and ample parking available, making it a convenient spot for a satisfying Indian meal. The rich variety of traditional dishes, from savory curries to freshly baked naan, along with reasonable pricing, makes it highly recommended for those seeking flavorful Indian food. The friendly staff and consistent quality keep visitors returning regularly, ensuring a phenomenal dining experience.”
“Southern Charm Bakery offers an amazing and friendly experience. The case is full of sweet treats, with delicious desserts like German chocolate cake and sugar free/gluten free cupcakes. They also have awesome sandwiches, including chicken salad. The staff is great, warm, welcoming, and helpful.”
“Bake to Square One offers a wide range of delectable cakes, cupcakes, and specialty items for all occasions. Their baked goods are beautifully crafted and available in various flavors to suit any preference. The staff is highly qualified, with Lauren being noted as an absolute master of delicious desserts. Customers have praised her creations, including stunning cakes and treats that not only look fabulous but also taste amazing. The staff is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service, ensuring a satisfying experience for all who visit. Bake to Square One is a great choice for special events, with gift box cookies and smash cakes that have become favorites among guests.”
“Testo's Restaurant & Banquets offers a fantastic hotspot with a horseshoe-shaped bar and televisions. The restaurant boasts endless choices, with solid and fruitful meals that often provide leftovers. They feature enticing happy hour specials, earlybird specials from 3 to 6 PM, and daily specials alongside their regular menu. Notable dishes include the early bird special pork chop, described as fantastic and tender, prepared with onions and mushrooms and served with pasta or potato and vegetables. The seafood boat is also mentioned as very good, though a small portion for the price. The twin lobster special for $24 is an absolute winner. Drink specials are available, including martinis for $10 and lower-priced beers and wines. Lasagna and the seafood trio are highlighted as the best dishes by far. The gnocchi in vodka sauce is also a favorite. The atmosphere is beautiful, and the staff is pleasant, accommodating, and provides tremendous service. Testo's is a reliable place for consistent quality food and has become a frequent hang out.”
“Aspire Coffee House offers a cozy atmosphere and a spacious environment, making it a nice spot to relax. The maple brown sugar coffee is noted as super delicious and not too sweet. However, some customers have experienced issues with their iced drinks tasting like water and long wait times, even when there are few people in line. While the food and drinks can be good, service has been described as lackluster, with delays in fulfilling orders. Overall, it is a place worth trying, especially for coffee lovers in Centennial Hills.”
“The Lazy Donkey Mexican Restaurant Downtown offers good food in a lively and clean environment with awesome white queso and margaritas. The restaurant features reasonable prices and a menu with lots of variety, including vegetarian options like cheese enchiladas, rice and beans, chips and salsa, cheese quesadillas, and salads. The chicken fajitas special for 12.49 is a great deal. Many customers have remarked on the good portions, noting they are not too big or too small, and the meat is great. The steak street tacos and quesabirria tacos have received special praise. The restaurant has plenty of parking spots available right next to the building. Inside, the decor is festive with colorful decorations, TVs to watch sports, and a friendly atmosphere. Although some reviews mention issues with orders being wrong and that service could be more attentive, the overall experience remains positive. The location is convenient for many, situated between home and work, but some note it can be easy to miss if not paying attention. The Lazy Donkey is a great choice for a casual meal, especially for those looking for a fun and busy place to enjoy Mexican food.”
“City Coffee & Bar offers an exceptional food experience, standing out as a pinnacle of Modern American Dining. The dishes are delicate, refined, and delicious, with highlights including their fantastic hamburger, Burrito, Shakshuka, and House Granola. Omelets, Pancakes, Lemon Chicken Paillard, and various sandwiches also consistently impress, alongside outstanding French fries and sweet potato fries. Beyond their excellent coffee and drinks, the establishment provides a welcoming atmosphere for working with free WiFi and is dog friendly. The staff is friendly, professional, and attentive, ensuring a great experience whether for lunch, coffee, or drinks. It's a must-visit casual dining destination.”
“The Saigonville Restaurant offers incredible seafood rigatoni and pho, with large portions and great service. The soft shell crab and truffle spring rolls are amazing. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff provide a taste of Saigon, making it a great choice for a relaxing meal. The pho is especially tasty and the spring rolls are crispy and packed with flavor. The restaurant has a clean and comfortable ambiance with a relaxing vibe. Although the service can be a bit slow, the staff are friendly, attentive, and welcoming, making it a great choice for authentic Vietnamese food, including their unique Vietnamese brownies with homemade ice cream.”
“It's All Good: Southern Kitchen offers a variety of delicious Southern-style dishes for delivery and takeout at reasonable prices. The menu includes classic favorites such as beef tips, rice, collard greens, macaroni and cheese with bacon, cornbread meatloaf, and peanut butter pie, as well as options like chicken salad and green beans. According to customers, the food is well-seasoned and flavorful, providing a satisfying dining experience. The restaurant is known for its clean and well-organized setup, making the ordering process convenient. The staff is described as very helpful and friendly, and the food is served hot with a quick turnaround time. Customers also appreciate the ample parking and the restaurant's wheelchair accessibility, with a handicap ramp available. Reviewers highlight the restaurant's home-cooked style, with one customer describing the Southern chicken pie as a standout favorite. The meatloaf and bacon mac and cheese have also received positive feedback, and some customers are eager to try the Carolina-style burger. Overall, It's All Good: Southern Kitchen is praised for its delicious Southern cuisine, friendly service, and customer-friendly accommodations, making it a popular choice for both dine-in and takeout experiences.”
“Rich's Pizza Joint is a favorite among pizza lovers, known for its unique pizza options. The restaurant offers the popular birria pizza, which features birria and consommé, and the St. Paddy's day fatty. The double decker pizza with cheese in the middle is also a highlight. Their pizzas are cooked well-done and delivered quickly. Customers enjoy toppings like sausage, pepperoni, and banana pepper, with large portions and a crispy thin crust. For those craving classic Chicago-style pizza, Rich's provides a thick-crust option with spicy sausage and pepperoni, topped with crispy pepperoni. Many find the menu to be very unique and are pleasantly surprised by the quality. While some reviews mention a desire for more sauce and better mushroom flavor, the overall feedback is positive, with high-quality pizza and friendly service. Rich's has gained new fans, especially those looking to support local businesses.”
“Koby's Creekside Grill is a cozy American dream by the creek, known for its fresh and flavorful meals. The Chicken Pargeiot sandwich, lamb burger, and fantastic pita have received high praise. The staff is friendly and attentive, creating a warm atmosphere for a delightful dining experience. Dishes like hummus and steak showcase fresh ingredients, cooked to perfection. The outdoor dining area provides a lovely setting to enjoy excellent food, often served al fresco along the creek under woodland shade. The Koby burger, served on pita bread with a spicy koby sauce, is a must-try, as is the delicious hummus that pairs well with soft pita. The menu also includes Mediterranean and Israeli-inspired dishes, such as grilled eggplant in a Sabich pita, offering an authentic taste. Whether enjoying brunch or dinner, Koby's is a must-visit spot, especially during the winter months when reservations are recommended. The serene patio and fresh, tasty food make it a favorite for those seeking a unique and enjoyable culinary experience.”
“Luigi's Ristorante Italiano is a hidden gem with warm and inviting interior, offering exceptional and great service that makes you feel welcome. The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, happy to explain the menu and offer recommendations. The food is outstanding, with dishes like ribeye steak, spaghetti, and chicken carbonara receiving high praise. The portions are generous, and even the salad dressing is a highlight. While it may be a bit pricey, the quality and atmosphere make it well worth the cost. The Alfredo sauce was thick and so good—definitely the highlight! The pizza is pretty good, and the owner is there all the time. The atmosphere was great; they had the steak with vegetables and chicken Alfredo pasta. The meatballs tasted like lots of breadcrumbs was in it. They did refund us and we will go back but pay attention to your cards upon leaving. With its consistent improvement and attention to detail, Luigi's is a must-visit for a memorable dining experience. Note: Please call ahead to confirm hours of operation.”
“Bella Cake is renowned for its exquisite cakes, particularly its birthday cakes. The attention to detail and craftsmanship are exceptional, with reviewers praising the perfect lemon buttercream and impressive cake decorations. The bakery is also noted for its professionalism, kindness, and reasonable pricing. Customers often comment on the delicious treats, such as the Double Layered Blueberry Cheesecake, which features rich, smooth blueberry cheese and moist sponge cake that is light and fluffy. The blueberry sauce's slight sourness balances well with the sweetness, and the sponge cake crumbs on top add a cute, fluffy appearance. Many customers appreciate the thoughtful service, including writing personalized sugar plaques and candy signs for special occasions, making the cakes even more memorable. Recently, Bella Cake has received praise for its stunning creations, like a Hamilton themed birthday cake that exceeded expectations. The process is described as easy and flexible, allowing for customizations that enhance the final product. Their cakes are not only beautiful but also delicious; customers have noted the moist texture and balanced sweetness that appeals to all palates. For example, an earl grey cake for a birthday celebration impressed guests with its soft sponge and rich cream cheese frosting. With a focus on custom orders and attentive communication, Bella Cake remains a go-to destination for celebrating special moments with stunning and tasty cakes.”
Recently Added Restaurants
“Jimmy’s Legacy Grille offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for enjoying time with friends and family. The restaurant features a cozy setting with an old resort vibe, complemented by old photographs that add to its charm. Guests frequently praise the friendly and attentive staff, ensuring smooth service and a great dining experience. The menu includes a variety of flavorful and fresh dishes, with highlights such as the chicken parm, calamari, meatball appetizer, and short rib grilled cheese. The food is consistently described as delicious, beautifully prepared, and cooked to perfection. Many reviews mention the excellent drinks and the inviting ambiance, which makes it a great spot to relax, especially on cold nights next to the fireplace. Overall, Jimmy’s Legacy Grille is highly recommended for its great food, attentive service, and cozy atmosphere, making it a perfect place to enjoy a memorable meal.”
“The Campfire Grill is a charming restaurant that offers a variety of delicious and fresh food in a welcoming atmosphere. Guests praise the friendly and attentive staff, who make every visit enjoyable. The menu features traditional favorites like breakfast, with the Campfire Special breakfast receiving high marks for perfectly cooked eggs and amazing local bread. Modern options such as Chorizo tacos, soup, creamy pasta, and the 50 50 burger with bacon cater to different tastes. Many reviewers enjoyed standout dishes like the fried chicken sandwich, homemade fries, broccoli cheddar soup, and carrot cake, which was described as excellent. While some items like fried zucchini and fried shrimp received mixed reviews, overall, the food is considered good and satisfying. The restaurant is praised for cleanliness, affordability, and a cozy atmosphere that makes customers want to return. The Campfire Grill is appreciated for creating a menu that combines traditional comfort foods with modern twists, making it a favorite spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. With friendly service and tasty food, it’s a place that visitors recommend highly.”
“The Shoe Beverage Bar is a unique and welcoming neighborhood hangout in Rochester, transforming from a former shoe repair place into a cozy spot with a homey atmosphere. It offers a variety of drinks, including cold beer, signature drinks, fresh kombucha, and NA beverages. The owners are down-to-earth, friendly, and dedicated, creating a place where everyone feels comfortable and eager to chat. With its cool vibe, affordable drinks, and inviting environment, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy a casual social experience.”
“Luv's Café is a recently opened restaurant that offers a variety of tasty dishes in a cozy and clean setting. The restaurant features counter service with plenty of space, and outdoor seating would be a nice addition, weather permitting. The menu includes items like the smash burger, cheesesteak, calamari, crab chowder, breakfast burrito, cheese steak, and special events such as BBQ night with smoked brisket. Customers praise the smash burger for being very tasty and cooked perfectly, with thin cut fries that are just right. The kids enjoy their burgers, and many find the food to be flavorful and satisfying. The calamari is highly recommended as the best in a long time, cooked with full bodies, and served with delicious fried hot cherry peppers. The crab chowder is also a highlight, with big chunks of crab meat and just the right spice level. Breakfast at Luv’s Café is described as gourmet, with flavorful sandwiches and burritos. While some find the prices a bit high compared to typical local delis, the quality and flavor are well appreciated. The staff is friendly, attentive, and helpful, making diners feel welcome. During restaurant week, the experience included a prix fixe menu with appetizers, entrees, and desserts such as toffee Bundt cake and fried cheesecake, which received positive reviews. Overall, Luv’s Café is highly recommended for its great food, friendly service, and inviting atmosphere. Many look forward to returning, especially for lunch and breakfast, although some wish they were open later.”
“El Moro is a restaurant serving delicious churros and other items. The churros are described as amazing, awesome, perfectly crispy, really tasty, and great. They stay fresh for hours and are served in a foil-lined sleeve. Four churros are enough for two people as a dessert. The menu also includes a cafecito, Chocolate Oaxaqueño which is reminiscent of cafe de olla, Mexican chocolate, an Horchata iced latte, and a sandwich or torta that is pretty decent. The service is nice and the hospitality goes crazy, especially for a self-serving place. The branding and colors are cohesive. There is indoor and outdoor seating and the environment is not too loud. Wait times are typically between 20 to 30 minutes, even on a weeknight or Sunday afternoon, with the line taking 20 minutes tops. Some reviewers note that long waits can occur during peak hours at new locations, like in LA's Echo Park, but the experience matches that of the Mexico City and New York locations. People are excited to try it and are not disappointed, with many planning to return.”
“Baked on Maine is a charming and cheerful restaurant that has quickly become a local favorite in the Brunswick area. The small eatery offers a delightful ambiance, with pleasant vibes, a clean environment, and friendly staff. The menu boasts a variety of tempting options, from mid-morning snacks to hearty breakfast and lunch sandwiches, including standouts like the caprese sandwich and falafel sandwich. The real highlight, however, is the exceptional food. The chef's culinary skills are on full display, particularly with the smoked brisket, which has been described as "as big as the plate and taste even better." The pancakes, while having a slightly gummy/custardy texture, are still enjoyed by many. The baked goods, such as the pecan rolls and cinnamon rolls, are also a huge hit. Despite the occasional challenge of having to wait to order due to a busy kitchen, Baked on Maine continues to impress with its great prices, amazing service, and an overall fantastic dining experience. Customers are excited for the restaurant's future and look forward to returning, eager to explore more of the menu, including the highly anticipated Chicken Biscuit.”
“Cuban Grounds Cafe is a hidden gem that offers authentic Cuban cuisine in a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Despite its unassuming exterior, the interior transforms into a beautiful space where guests can enjoy a variety of delicious dishes. The menu features standout items like the Cuban sandwich, Cuban Waffle, croquetta sandwich, and pan con queso, all prepared with attention to detail and seasoned perfectly. The cafe also serves exceptional cafe con leche and a highly recommended rum cake and Guava Flan, which many describe as some of the best they've had. Guests appreciate the authentic flavors that evoke memories of traditional Cuban eateries, with some noting the slice of bread and the way it’s sliced for dunking reminds them of Ybor City. The staff are friendly and accommodating, contributing to a comfortable environment. Many reviewers express excitement about expanding the menu and hours, hoping the cafe grows and attracts more visitors. Overall, Cuban Grounds Cafe is praised for its phenomenal food, authentic feel, and warm service, making it a must-visit for lovers of Cuban cuisine.”
“THEY WERE GREAT!!! I will definitely becoming back. The store looks so clean organized and the employees were also very nice. The ice cream was amazing! I will definitely be coming her for my next ice cream run”
“Great entertainment, food, atmosphere and I'm treated like family 💕 Love them!”
“Graze Craze Charcuterie Boards & Boxes is a local gem. The boards are a work of art and taste even better, with a perfect mix of sweet, savory, and seasonal items. They offer yummy individual grab & graze boxes, perfect for a quick lunch or a lighter evening meal, with keto and vegetarian options available. The breakfast boxes and boards are amazing for events and a huge hit, delicious and decently priced. They feature sustainable packing. Everyone gets excited for these perfect snacks and meals, making them highly recommendable for any occasion.”
“This place slaps. A+ service and the sandwiches never miss. Get the big kahuna or any of the Italian sandwiches mikes way.
Is it pricey? Yes. But you do get what you pay for, in the form of a very consistently great experience. On the other hand, jersey mikes will need to remain competitive with the likes of Habit (and their meal deals) next door”
“Sweet & Chill is a cozy and fun spot that offers delicious coffee, treats, lemonade, and desserts. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, perfect for family, friends, or just hanging out. The servings are large, and everything on the menu is sure to satisfy. The owners provide great customer service and create a positive vibe that instantly puts visitors in a good mood. The shop also supports local creatives by selling their fresh products. Whether stopping by for something sweet or relaxing, Sweet & Chill is a great place to enjoy a feel-good experience with cute, intentional decor.”
“PYO Chai is a sweet, colorful drink spot in Astoria rooted in Indian sweets. The drinks are amazing, with highlights being the PYO Chai Malai Kulfi Milk Tea, which tastes like a Malai Kulfi Ice Cream Bar, and the delicious mango kulfi milk tea. The food is extremely good and fresh; the chicken momos are delicious and come with tasty sauces. The turkey bacon, egg and cheese sandwich is also tasty. The place is aesthetically pleasing and offers a desi 3rd space for the community. The staff is super nice, helpful, kind, accommodating, and welcoming, providing great customer service. The space has outlets for laptops, making it a welcoming spot to return to.”
“Seafood Village is a welcoming restaurant that recently opened in November. Customers appreciate the friendly and warm service from the staff, especially Moni, who greets guests warmly and makes sure they have everything they need. Visitors enjoy the variety of food options, including seafood dishes like the crab and shrimp tray (#5) and veggie boil, as well as homemade teas and lemonades. The lemonade selection, especially peach and strawberry, gets high praise for its flavor. Guests are also offered samples of the food, sauces, and drinks, which they find flavorful and tasty. The owner is described as sweet and attentive, creating a pleasant atmosphere. Many customers note their loyalty, returning multiple times because of the good food and excellent service. While some requests for customizing their pan were not always met, overall the experience is positive. Seafood Village has quickly become a favorite spot for those looking for fresh seafood, tasty drinks, and friendly staff in a cozy setting.”
“Sbarro Fort Leonard Wood offers tasty pizza and pasta dishes, with friendly service from the staff. The fresh pizza is described as super yummy, with favorites like the meats lover and pepperoni & mushroom. Chicken patties and spaghetti are also delicious options. Prices are reasonable, with a slice costing around $5 and a combo for two slices at about $14. However, some customers found the breadsticks lacking flavor and wings not to their liking.”
Latest Reviews
“good customer service and food is hot a fresh”
“Best Chili Relleno I've had. Great Margaritas. Excellent food, service, and atmosphere.”
“Food was great rated # 1 Service well if being should I say being Shined the whole meal service Can’t they get descent help As DC”
“I ate there on 1/31/26 I had the shredded beef tacos plate. It was to die for. It was plenty of food too. Sooo delicious. Some of the best I have ever had. I cannot wait to go back. I will definitely order the same thing.”
“Spent the day in Zanesville seeing the sights and stopped in for lunch. The food was very good as was the service. Kudos to our waitress Tara Clark who recommended an excellent local craft beer to go with my craw tail po' boy. My wife also enjoyed her fried cod with slaw and clam chowder; the slaw tasted homemade with a little kick to it.”
“love going here. but just found out that they no longer serving beer or wine? does anyine know what happen?”
“Wonderful coffee shop with the best cocoa drinks and blueberry muffins!! Wednesday nights they had a special art class which added to an already great place. The Art teachers were fantastic and the painting was fun! Thanks y'all, for a lovely evening and break from the business of life! : D”
“Just had the hot Italian and it was the best, employees very friendly and Happy to serve, definitely going back.”
“I think this is one of the best kept secrets in town. The owners are great, the pizza is outstanding, there is a pretty good selection of beers that are worth coming to check out on a regular basis to see what is new. The decor is inviting and warm. Have been here 3 times this year and heading back tomorrow night to see what is new, with friends. Come check it out. Do not believe you will be disappointed.”
“I came in between 4 and 5pm with my husband. We are frequent visitors of the Latham location. When we were being cashed out, we were abruptly interrupted when a older male (assuming their boss) came from the back and started (quite rudely) yelling at the employees working the front. It was quite unappetizing to see them being spoken to in that manner, especially in front of customers. The friendly employees are one of the main reasons my husband and I favor this location. I am quite surprised they did not quit on the spot. I gave them a sympathetic look before putting money in one of the tip jars.”
“We ate Brent's Smokin' Butts and Grill on 2/18/2026. The food was FANTASTIC! The staff was friendly and very efficient. We'll be back.”
“Great food. Great customer service! My husbands birthday was today. I gave him his choice of where to go for dinner, anywhere in Florida. He chose here because of the shrimp entree. Delicious as usual.”
“My go to place where I am greated by my name and can sip wine, relax and chat with people I know.”
“Food is delicious. Our server Aerial truly made our experience great. She’s the best!”
“Un lugar donde se come delicioso, un ambiente super agradable y el servicio esepcional,”
Latest Blog Updates
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.
Chick-fil-A opened Daybright Coffee & Refreshment, a standalone café concept in Hiram, Georgia, marking its latest venture beyond chicken sandwiches. The new location opened Thursday, Oct. 30, serving "handcrafted coffee beverages, smoothies, cold-pressed juices, and food made with simple ingredients," according to a company spokesperson. Unlike its parent restaurant, Daybright won't feature any Chick-fil-A menu items.
Einstein Bros. Bagels is launching its most aggressive growth strategy in years. The fast-casual chain is rolling out a new store design called "Elevate the Morning" while simultaneously opening more than 100 locations through 2026. The prototype aims to transform Einstein locations into what the company calls a "premium fast-casual breakfast spot."
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.”
“Stumbling Moose Lodge Bar and Grill is a standout establishment in Pitkin, known for its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere. The staff, led by friendly owners, provide exceptional service, ensuring a memorable experience for all visitors. This bar and grill also features a charming shop with adorable merchandise that guests enjoy browsing. The vibes are cozy, fun, and full of personality, making it a great hangout spot for drinks and socializing. The menu offers a range of tasty options, including the popular Burnt Ends Tacos. The bar area has shuffleboard and pool tables, perfect for relaxing and enjoying time with friends. With its great staff, excellent food, and inviting setting, Stumbling Moose Lodge Bar and Grill is definitely worth a visit.”