Fresh food manufacturer FreshRealm has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, resulting in significant job losses in California as the company restructures its operations. The company, a major supplier of meal kits and prepared foods for retailers and brands including Blue Apron, entered bankruptcy after a series of financial and operational challenges that weakened its business. More than 200 California workers [...]
The 3 most beloved Alabama restaurants that shut down this month
Alabama diners lost several familiar restaurant names this month, from longtime seafood to tacos and sports-bar favorites. Not all of the closures were independent restaurants. But in local communities, chain restaurants can still become beloved when they last for years, anchor a familiar shopping center or become part of family routines. The latest closures come during a year when Alabama's favorite restaurants have [...]
The best 4th of July restaurant deals across this great nation
Nothing says the Fourth of July quite like hot dogs, burgers, barbecue, ice cream and someone proudly explaining why their potato salad is better than everyone else's. This year, restaurants and food brands across the country are leaning into the holiday with patriotic pricing, freebies, app deals and limited-time desserts. If you are planning your own cookout, these classic Fourth of July foods still deserve a spot on the [...]
Aldi shoppers are seeing major changes at stores nationwide
Aldi shoppers may notice some major changes the next time they visit the discount grocer — and in some markets, the changes may be even bigger than a new item on the shelf. The company is in the middle of a major U.S. expansion, a private-label packaging refresh, and a broader update to the ingredients allowed in its exclusive-brand foods. Some shoppers may simply see new packaging or reformulated products. Others may see a [...]
Iconic chain closes its first Alabama restaurant after more than five decades
Alabama has lost one of its longest-running chain restaurants. The Red Lobster at 1030 Montgomery Highway in Vestavia Hills permanently closed on May 24, 2026, after 54 years in business. Its departure adds another prominent name to the growing list of beloved Alabama restaurants closing their doors. The restaurant opened in 1972 and was reportedly the first Red Lobster location in Alabama. The 9,585-square-foot building [...]
What’s going on with Rodney Scott’s BBQ empire?
Rodney Scott's BBQ went from one of the South's most celebrated barbecue names to one of the restaurant industry's most surprising trouble stories almost overnight. The brand built around James Beard Award-winning pitmaster Rodney Scott has been known for whole-hog barbecue, long lines, national acclaim and locations across several states. But on May 3, 2026, every Rodney Scott's Whole Hog BBQ location closed simultaneously [...]
