Chain restaurant retrenchment is hitting Florida and California harder than many other states in 2026, with closures tied to bankruptcy filings, restructuring plans and higher operating costs. Confirmed losses this year span Tallahassee, Calexico and additional markets where full state-by-state lists have not yet been released. Continue Reading
When the kitchen is already hot and the cookout budget feels tighter, smart no-oven dishes can keep a Fourth of July party easy, safe, and crowd-pleasing. These 10 ideas lean on make-ahead prep, deli convenience, and summer produce to deliver big results with less stress. Continue Reading
Costco is testing a pre-scan checkout system that lets employees scan carts before shoppers reach the register. The company says the pilot is part of a broader effort to speed transactions and improve traffic flow inside its warehouses. Continue Reading
In-N-Out’s burgers remain a draw across the West and South, but the chain’s plain fries continue to stand out as its most criticized menu item in customer discussions. Company materials emphasize fresh potatoes and sunflower oil, while many diners say they prefer custom orders such as well-done or Animal Style fries. Continue Reading
Denver is set to lose two longtime favorites this month as Port Side and Table 6 prepare to serve their final customers. The closures affect two very different neighborhood institutions, from a RiNo breakfast spot to a 22-year bistro in Alamo Placita. Continue Reading
Sam’s Club is leaning hard into affordable July 4th entertaining, with a small lineup of seasonal finds under $20 that make parties look more polished without blowing the budget. From patriotic serveware to limited-time prepared foods, these are the standout buys worth a warehouse run. Continue Reading
Costco members are racing to grab the warehouse’s hottest summer staples before July 4, from crowd-pleasing grill picks to limited-time desserts and backyard entertaining essentials. These are the items generating the most buzz and the clearest signs of sellout pressure. Continue Reading
Restaurant chains are rolling out confirmed July 4 weekend promotions tied to America’s 250th birthday, and one number appears repeatedly: $2.50. Golden Corral’s nationwide campaign puts that price point at the center of a broader holiday discount pattern. Continue Reading
Nell’s Restaurant in Seattle’s Green Lake neighborhood is closing at the end of June 2026 as chef-owner Philip Mihalski retires after 26 years. The restaurant says the space will reopen in July under a new name, with much of the staff and core menu expected to remain. Continue Reading
THC-infused drinks are gaining shelf space and consumer attention as some Americans cut back on alcohol, but public health agencies and medical researchers say the health comparison is not straightforward. The products may avoid some alcohol-related harms, yet impairment, delayed effects, and limited long-term research remain central concerns. Continue Reading