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.”
“Rio Juice is a Brazilian food place in Modesto, owned by a Brazilian couple. It is the only place around to get authentic açaí, which is described as amazing, really good, and stacked with layers like granola and banana. Reviews highlight the classic açaí, the Superfood açaí bowl, and one with peanut butter. The menu also features delicious Brazilian cheese bread, avocado toast to die for, and tasty protein shakes with new flavors. The iced latte with coconut milk and pumpkin spice syrup is called the best in a while. The service is amazing, with friendly, welcoming, and incredible staff. The atmosphere is relaxing, and the whole shop is very clean and well-maintained. The ingredients are fresh, and everything is made with care. Customers highly recommend stopping by to try this authentic and delicious food.”
“KRISP Fresh Living is a cozy and small cafe located in a business park, known for its quality coffee and friendly service. Despite being a bit pricey, customers find the drinks worth it, especially when ordering through Google for faster service. The cafe offers a variety of delicious beverages, such as the hot oat milk lavender vanilla latte with well-done artwork, sea salt coffee, signature matcha with whole milk, and a date smoothie. Many reviews highlight the excellent flavors, smooth textures, and balanced sweetness of the drinks. The staff at KRISP are friendly, accommodating, and attentive, making every visit pleasant. Customers appreciate the engaging conversations and good knowledge of the staff, especially Courtney and Melissa. Though the cafe can be crowded and understaffed during weekends, the service remains fast and friendly. The interior is small but inviting, with limited seating inside and on the patio, ideal for quick coffee on the go or relaxing moments inside. Overall, KRISP Fresh Living is highly recommended for its quality drinks and warm customer experience.”
“We have waited for a while for Deppen Brewing to find their way and I have to say they have made it. The Amber was excellent. It had a great flavor and smooth finish. My wife went with the Hef and she enjoyed it. All the TVs had all the football games going. The nachos were a great addition. Lastly, the holiday stout was very refreshing.
Updated 2/28/26-
Beer gas continued to be exceptional but the addition of Bayou BBQ Smokehouse door truck made it even better for my daughter's baby sprinkle.”
“Layers Superfood Bar is a beautifully designed space offering a warm and friendly atmosphere. It is known for its delicious smoothies and bowls, which are made with very fresh ingredients and have a natural, mild sweetness without added sugar. The fruit bowls are especially popular for being light, flavorful, and not overly sweet, making them a healthy refreshment before class or after a long day. The acai bowls are generous in portion and fresh, with a variety of flavors that appeal to those seeking healthy treats. The staff provides excellent customer service, paying attention to detail and ensuring a neat, quiet, and relaxing environment. The owner sources ingredients from small businesses, emphasizing quality and health benefits, which adds to the passion behind the menu. Many visitors love coming back, enjoying the care put into each item and the fair prices. Overall, Layers Superfood Bar is a favorite spot for healthy, flavorful bowls and smoothies in SouthSide.”
“Great place, food is amazing, staff is great, much nicer now they have the planting in place”
“Revival Coffee is a charming outdoor coffee shop that offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Surrounded by trees and dappled sunlight, sitting here feels like a relaxing exhale. The coffee is described as world class—rich, balanced, and crafted with care—making it a favorite for coffee lovers. The menu features a variety of options, including lattes, flavored syrups, espresso, and iced lemonades with flavored syrups and fresh mint leaves. Food is simple but filling, with popular items like hand and cheese croissants, and the homemade flavors are not overly sweet. The staff is very friendly and welcoming, providing genuine hospitality that makes visitors feel like regulars from the first visit. The outdoor seating is covered but limited to outdoor areas, so guests should be prepared for temperature variations. Overall, Revival Coffee is a cozy, community-oriented spot that is perfect for enjoying quality coffee in a peaceful setting, making it a must-visit for those seeking a quiet, friendly environment.”
“Finney's Crafthouse in Brea offers a lively atmosphere with nice views of downtown. Many reviews praise the consistently tasty food, friendly staff, and great service, describing the experience as amazing with a positive vibe. Specific servers receive shoutouts for being incredibly kind, super attentive, and for providing great service and good plate recommendations. However, some visits are disappointing. Critical reviews mention that the food wasn't great, with meals being overcooked. Specific dishes like the deviled eggs were watery and bland, the ahi tuna tacos tasted very fishy, and the avocado egg rolls were just okay. Drinks, including a margarita flight, have also been described as very watery. Despite these mixed experiences, many guests state they can't wait to go back.”
“Dinosaurs Sandwiches is a great place with delicious thick Vietnamese sandwiches and fresh baked bread. The pork sandwich is highly recommended. The food tastes made from scratch and the people are friendly and nice. There is a variety of chips, like honey butter chips, and drinks. Dining in is limited but there are benches and a nice park nearby. The spring rolls are decent with great peanut sauce.”
“7 Hills Pizzeria is a popular spot known for its delicious thin crust pizza, which is crispy, light, and full of flavor. The pizza options include tavern and artisan crusts, with standout varieties like the pesto sausage, margarita, and potato pizzas, all made with high-quality ingredients. The tomato sauce is sweet and mild, and the mozzarella is milky and slightly sweet. Customers also enjoy the sides like sausage and meatballs, as well as desserts such as cannoli and chocolate cake, with the cannoli often praised as the best ever. The restaurant offers a clean and friendly environment, with great service and even some 70s music in the background. Service is quick, and staff members frequently check on guests to ensure a good experience. While the food is quite good, some find it a little overpriced. The dining area can be noisy, especially with young families, and there are occasional issues like Wi-Fi and cell service dead zones. Overall, 7 Hills Pizzeria provides an enjoyable pizza experience that keeps guests coming back.”
“Duke's Cafe is a secluded and tucked away café in Hollywood, on a closed lot with signs pointing to its parking lot. It is a nice little hidden cafe that feels like a secret club. The small cafe offers outdoor seating. The food is delicious, with super dank, massive burgers and sandwiches that are on point. Specific meals include the Duke burger, a smash burger with a crispy and extremely well seasoned large patty, delicious housemade sauce, and a brioche bun. The breakfast burrito is also noted, described as fairly priced, well wrapped, center cut, and with perfect portions, available with house made sausage. They also have a reach-in cooler for RTD drinks. The workers are super cool, down to earth, professional, nice, and friendly. Service is great and quick. The cafe provides a welcoming atmosphere with games and massage chairs inside the building. While it can be a slightly confusing spot to find, it is definitely worth the visit.”
Latest Reviews
“Love it there. Food is great, Service is great, prices great and the view is great”
“Sam makes the BEST wraps! I had a great experience, the food and service was great! I'll definitely be getting my subs and wraps at this location.”
“I have been going to Griffiths for quite a while to watch the games. Enjoy company there foods excellent service is excellent. No complaints about that place. I love it.”
“We ate there over the weekend... i had the roast beef sandwich... it was awful.... roast beef was tough on two hard pieces of bread and the mashed potatoes weren't good no taste... don;t waste your money plenty of other places that have goof food.”
“Very pleased with staff and short waiting for meals; good staff”
“The food here is amazing! I got a slice of cheese and pepperoni and both were cooked perfectly. Great pizza can't wait to come back!”
“My first experience. I was told by friends who live in Rossville. I was with friend from Bartlett and we impressed. I give a 5 star all way round. Thanks for the good food!”
“Buckshot is our date night place, and we visit at least once a week! The fun atmosphere, lively music, and exceptional service make every visit a great experience. Their food selection is impressive for a bar and grill, with the prime rib and ribeye steaks being standouts. Sam is a fantastic waitress who treats everyone like family, and the entire wait staff is friendly and engaging, which truly enhances the experience. If you're looking for a place that feels like home with great food and a welcoming vibe, Buckshot is the place to be!”
“Excellent food. Good service. My go to place for Pho. Highly recommend.”
“Stopped for a coffee and stayed for a meal - the smells, flavors blew us away. Very tasty - we will be back”
“Went for my Birthday and everything was really good ! Food had really good flavor. Fresh and delicious ! I will definitely be back. Portion was good but I think rice and beans should come with your meal. Margaritas were very good too !”
“I just wanted to say that this is the best pizza and I only order from this location. I do have one concern on a pizza I ordered on Friday 13th around 5 PM It was a large with half cheese and half sausage and mushroom. The crust was thin the pizza was dry and the cheese was not soft. I don't know what happened but it was not good.”
“The food was amazing!!! Our bartender's name was Rocky and she was so sweet and attentive! The service is something that you cannot get in a large town/city, and you could just tell everyone was having a good time. I highly recommend this place.”
“Hi there! I just wanted to share a quick note about my experience. I stopped by recently and truly enjoyed myself. The drinks were wonderful and the food was amazing. I actually came twice in one day because it was just that good. The staff were all so kind and welcoming, and it was really nice to see the owner checking in and making sure everything was running smoothly and that everyone felt respected and taken care of. That level of care really shows. Thank you for creating such a warm and enjoyable place to visit. I’m looking forward to coming back again soon! 😊 Especially to see Lonnie at the bar … very inviting and personable !!!! And I love that he washes his hands in between and takes time to talk.”
“Amazing!! We stopped for lunch. The burger was so fresh and tasty. The homemade pickles and dips are tasty and really complement the food. We’ll be back!”
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.”