For more than a decade, Chick-fil-A held the title of America's highest-rated fast-food chain for customer satisfaction. Now, that streak has come to an end. According to the latest American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI), sandwich chain Jersey Mike's has overtaken Chick-fil-A to claim the No. 1 spot among quick-service restaurants. Jersey Mike's earned a score of 84 out of 100, narrowly edging Chick-fil-A, which [...]
California’s restaurant landscape is changing as major chains close locations and shrink footprints
Several well-known restaurant chains with deep roots in California have dramatically reduced their footprints in recent years, reflecting the challenges facing the casual dining and fast-casual industries. The closures come with labor and rent increases as well as reduced consumer spending. El Tortito shrinks locations One of the most notable examples is El Torito, the Mexican restaurant chain founded in California in [...]
These restaurant chains have exited Pennsylvania in 2026
Pennsylvania diners have watched several familiar restaurant brands disappear from the state in 2026, as national chains continue to shrink their footprints amid changing consumer habits and company restructuring. From casual dining staples to tropical-inspired eateries, multiple chains have closed their final Pennsylvania locations this year, leaving fans with one fewer place to dine. Smokey Bones leaves [...]
These grocery chains are closing stores across the U.S. in 2026
America's grocery industry continues to evolve, and not every store is surviving the shift. While many supermarket companies are investing in new locations and online shopping, others are closing underperforming stores as they adapt to changing consumer habits and rising operating costs. Kroger is reviewing underperforming stores Following its abandoned merger with Albertsons, Kroger announced plans to close [...]
New Kirkland Signature products hitting Costco shelves in 2026
Costco shoppers have long relied on Kirkland Signature products for value, but 2026 has brought a wave of new additions that are generating buzz among members. From snacks and bakery treats to prepared meals and beverages, Costco continues expanding its popular private-label lineup as it competes with national brands. New snacks and beverages arrive One of the most talked-about launches is the new Kirkland Signature [...]
Beloved Washington bar saved from closure after local neighbor steps in
Just months after announcing it would close for good, Seattle neighborhood favorite Baker's has been given a second chance. The beloved Sunset Hill bar and restaurant will remain open after a local resident stepped in to purchase the business, preserving a longtime gathering place that many feared was lost forever. The unexpected turnaround has been met with relief from regulars who rallied behind the establishment when it [...]
