Major Restaurant Chain Expansions Reported Across the U.S. From the Week of May 24-31, 2026
Restaurant development activity remained strong during the week of May 24-31, 2026, as national and regional chains announced new locations across multiple U.S. markets. Texas continued to dominate expansion activity, while fast-casual, chicken, coffee, sandwich, and dessert concepts remained among the industry’s most active growth segments.
This latest expansion report builds on trends highlighted in our earlier coverage of restaurant expansion activity during April 2026 and restaurant expansion signals from May 2026. Data from Restaurantdata.com shows continued momentum in restaurant construction, franchise development, and new-unit growth heading into the second half of 2026.
Largest Restaurant Chain Expansions This Week
Chipotle Mexican Grill Continues Aggressive Growth
With more than 4,100 locations nationwide, Chipotle Mexican Grill announced multiple new restaurants during the reporting period, including locations in Dallas, Boerne, and Tulare. The fast-casual brand remains one of the most active restaurant developers in North America.
Chick-fil-A Adds Multiple New Texas Locations
Chick-fil-A continued its rapid expansion with six reported locations planned across Texas, including projects in Austin, Katy, Dayton, Canton, Iowa Park, and Rusk. The brand remains one of the largest and fastest-growing restaurant chains in the country.
Jersey Mike’s Expands in Austin
Jersey Mike’s Subs announced a new Austin location as the sandwich chain continues its nationwide growth strategy. The company now operates more than 3,300 locations across the United States.
Jimmy John’s Targets Continued Sun Belt Growth
Jimmy John’s reported a new Arlington, Texas location, further strengthening its presence throughout one of the nation’s fastest-growing population corridors.
Firehouse Subs Maintains Expansion Momentum
Firehouse Subs announced new locations in both Georgia and Texas as the brand continues expanding through franchise-led development initiatives.
Other Notable Restaurant Chain Openings
Several additional restaurant concepts reported noteworthy expansion activity during the week, including:
- Buffalo Wild Wings in Houston, Texas
- Cava in Austin and New Braunfels, Texas
- Dave & Buster’s in Sugar Land, Texas
- Dave’s Hot Chicken in Great Falls, Montana
- Dunkin’ in College Park, Maryland
- Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers in Clarksville, Indiana
- Kura Revolving Sushi Bar in Oxnard, California
- Nothing Bundt Cakes in Tomball, Texas
- Shipley Do-Nuts in Vienna, Virginia
- Teriyaki Madness in Cumberland, Maryland
Restaurant Chain Growth Trends
Several clear themes emerged from this week’s restaurant development activity:
- Texas remained the leading market for new restaurant chain growth.
- Chicken-focused brands continued to be among the fastest-growing restaurant segments.
- Fast-casual chains accounted for a large share of reported openings.
- Coffee, beverage, bakery, and dessert concepts remained highly active.
- Shopping centers continued attracting many new restaurant tenants.
- Franchise-driven development remained a major engine of chain restaurant expansion.
Outlook for Summer 2026
Based on current permit filings, franchise registrations, alcohol applications, and construction activity, restaurant chain expansion is expected to remain active throughout Summer and Fall 2026. High-growth markets throughout Texas, Florida, Georgia, and the Mid-Atlantic region continue to attract significant restaurant investment.
