A popular fast-casual burger chain known for its hand-cut fries and made-to-order burgers is closing multiple restaurants across the United States as rising operating costs continue to pressure the restaurant industry.
California hit hardest by closures
California has emerged as the epicenter of the company’s recent downsizing efforts. State WARN notices show at least four additional Five Guys restaurants are scheduled to close between late May and early July 2026. The affected locations include restaurants in Whittier, City of Industry, Merced, and Hanford.
The Whittier location at 10140 Carmenita Road is expected to close May 25, followed by the City of Industry restaurant at 1552 S. Azusa Avenue on May 26. The Merced store is scheduled to shut down June 26, while the Hanford location will close July 2.
According to filings reviewed by multiple outlets, Five Guys cited “financial hardship” as the reason for the closures. The shutdowns are expected to eliminate roughly 55 jobs in California alone.
Closures spreading nationwide
The California closures are part of a broader wave of restaurant shutdowns reported nationwide this year. Industry reports indicate at least 14 Five Guys locations have closed or are expected to close during the first half of 2026.
Other reported closures include restaurants in Tampa, Florida; Naperville, Illinois; Dubuque, Iowa; Lake Charles, Louisiana; Atlanta, Georgia; and Lincoln, Nebraska.
The closures come as fast-food chains nationwide grapple with higher labor expenses, increasing food costs, elevated rents, and consumers cutting back on discretionary spending.
Brand still expanding despite setbacks
Despite the recent closures, Five Guys does not appear to be retreating nationally. The company reportedly posted a net gain of 35 restaurants in 2024 even after closing dozens of underperforming stores.
The chain continues opening new restaurants in several states, including Georgia, Texas, Florida, and Mississippi. Five Guys currently operates more than 1,500 U.S. locations and nearly 2,000 restaurants worldwide.
Analysts say the closures likely reflect selective market adjustments rather than widespread financial collapse, though the situation highlights the growing strain facing even some of the country’s most recognizable restaurant brands.
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