The restaurant industry has faced another turbulent year as inflation, rising labor costs, and changing consumer spending habits continued to pressure operators. While many chains quietly closed underperforming locations, a handful sought bankruptcy protection in hopes of restructuring—or, in some cases, winding down operations entirely. Here are three of the biggest restaurant bankruptcies of 2026. 1. FAT Brands FAT [...]
Popular burger chain quietly closes these restaurants across the U.S. in 2026
Five Guys remains one of America's most recognizable burger chains, but the company has quietly reduced its U.S. footprint throughout 2026. While the brand continues operating more than 1,500 restaurants worldwide, at least 14 locations have closed or are scheduled to close this year, with California experiencing the largest number of shutdowns. The closures span multiple regions and appear to reflect individual [...]
Recent Ohio restaurant closures signal a changing dining landscape
Ohio's restaurant industry continues to experience significant turnover as rising operating costs, labor shortages, inflation, and shifting consumer habits force more establishments to close their doors. While new concepts continue to emerge, several longtime restaurants across the Buckeye State have announced permanent closures in recent months, marking the end of popular local dining destinations. Mitchell's Steakhouse [...]
Beloved Chicago comfort food restaurant to close after 36 years, ending an era
A Chicago restaurant that became a favorite for generations of diners is preparing to serve its final meals. After 36 years in business, the longtime Southern-inspired restaurant is closing its last location, marking the end of a beloved chapter in the city's dining scene. Wishbone is closing its final location Wishbone, a longtime Chicago restaurant known for Southern comfort food and brunch, will close its West Loop [...]
California wine industry faces another blow as longtime supplier cuts dozens of jobs
California's wine industry is facing another setback as a longtime supplier prepares to eliminate dozens of jobs. The latest cuts add to mounting concerns about the challenges facing wine businesses across the state. 66 workers affected by layoffs G3 Enterprises, a California-based company that provides packaging and other services to the wine industry, is cutting 66 positions at a facility in the Modesto area. The [...]
Unique Arizona hybrid coffee shop closes after eight years
Another unique piece of Phoenix's arts scene has disappeared. Aftermarket, the Grand Avenue coffee shop and underground art gallery that blended espresso, local art, and community, permanently closed in late June 2026, ending an eight-year run that made it a favorite gathering place for artists, creatives, and coffee lovers. A one-of-a-kind concept Opened in 2018 by local artist Gino Belassen, founder of Belhaus [...]
