"My problem is the quality of food. The new smash burger on the menu — have the creators ever had a smash burger? There was nothing smashing about it other than it looked like someone sat on it." That review, posted to a customer review site by a Sonic regular, cuts to the heart of a complaint that's been growing for years. Sonic still has a devoted following - particularly for its drinks and seasonal treats - but a vocal [...]
When could South Dakota get a Buc-ee’s?
South Dakota still does not have a Buc-ee's, but the chain is getting closer to the state than it used to be. For years, Buc-ee's felt like something South Dakota travelers had to experience only on faraway road trips. The chain's biggest presence was in Texas and the South, far from Sioux Falls, Rapid City and the long stretches of highway that define travel across the state. That is beginning to change. As Buc-ee's [...]
Iconic California Mexican chain has closed more than 150 restaurants as footprint shrinks
One of California's most recognizable restaurant brands has dramatically reduced its footprint over the past several decades, with more than 150 locations disappearing as the casual dining industry continues to face mounting challenges. El Torito, the Mexican restaurant chain founded in California in 1954, recently closed its Irvine location, marking the latest chapter in a years-long downsizing effort that has left the [...]
“Priced me out of fast food”: Wendy’s customers share why it’s not working any more
"Wendy's has priced me and my construction buddies out of fast food. What used to be a convenience is now priced like a luxury." That post on the Wendy's subreddit captured a frustration that's become common across fast food broadly - the sense that prices have outrun what the experience is worth. For Wendy's specifically, the complaint stings a little more, because the chain built its reputation on being the quality choice [...]
The 5 most wonderfully weird restaurants in Texas
Texas does not believe in doing anything halfway. The state can handle serious fine dining — 15 Texas restaurants have earned Michelin stars — but it also offers places where dinner comes with costumed characters, movie monsters, indoor thunderstorms and an internationally famous four-and-a-half-pound steak. "Weird" is subjective, but these five restaurants offer experiences that are difficult to mistake for an ordinary [...]
The 2 most beloved Nebraska restaurants closing their doors this month
Nebraska's restaurant scene is losing familiar names this month, including an Omaha barbecue destination that is preparing to leave its longtime Aksarben Village home. The closings arrive as restaurant closures across America continue affecting everything from independent dining rooms to recognizable regional chains. Oklahoma Joe's BBQ in Omaha Oklahoma Joe's BBQ is expected to leave its restaurant at 1912 South 67th [...]
