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California Chains Locals Love: 7 Best Regional Restaurants

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health February 19, 2026

written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

California’s diverse culinary landscape is renowned for its fresh produce and innovative dining experiences. While the state boasts a wealth of independent restaurants, a select group of regional chain restaurants consistently capture the hearts (and appetites) of locals. From iconic burgers to flavorful Korean BBQ and authentic Mexican cuisine, these establishments offer a taste of California that residents can’t obtain enough of. Here are seven of the best regional chain restaurants in California, as favored by diners across the state.

The Golden State’s food scene is a reflection of its vibrant population, offering everything from upscale dining to casual eats. But when it comes to reliable favorites, these chains consistently deliver. California diners appreciate quality, value, and a taste of local flavor, and these restaurants provide all three. Finding the best regional chain restaurants in California often comes down to personal preference, but these seven consistently rank high among residents.

In-N-Out Burger: A California Institution

Perhaps no restaurant is more synonymous with California than In-N-Out Burger. The chain, known for its limited menu of burgers, fries, and shakes, has cultivated a devoted following thanks to its commitment to quality and value. As one fan put it, In-N-Out “absolutely slaps, especially on a late night after you’ve left some kind of event, or a theme park or a movie.” The appeal lies in its consistency, affordability, and the ability to customize orders – grilled onions are a popular, no-cost addition. Founded in 1948, In-N-Out currently operates locations across California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Texas, Oregon, and Colorado. In-N-Out Burger

Mariscos Jalisco: Seafood Tacos Done Right

For seafood lovers, Mariscos Jalisco is a must-endeavor. This street food truck chain has gained a reputation for serving some of the best seafood tacos in California. A particular standout is the ceviche de camaron, described by one enthusiast as “shrimpy and briny and bright and fresh also crunchy.” Mariscos Jalisco’s dedication to fresh ingredients and bold flavors has made it a favorite among locals seeking an authentic taste of the coast. Mariscos Jalisco Instagram

Mariscos Jalisco

Boudin Bakery and Cafe: Sourdough Perfection

Boudin Bakery and Cafe is celebrated for its iconic sourdough bread, which forms the foundation of its delicious sandwiches, soups, and other offerings. Customers rave about the quality and variety, with one diner sharing, “The Boudin Bakery is just one of a kind! We had the beef chili bowl with the chicken sandwich toasted! Great experience.” The bakery’s commitment to traditional baking techniques and fresh ingredients has made it a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. Boudin Bakery and Cafe

Boudin Bakery and Cafe

Habit Burger Grill: Consistent Quality

Founded in Santa Barbara in 1969, Habit Burger Grill has established itself as a travel-to destination for burgers, sandwiches, and more. The chain is praised for its consistency and quality, with one diner declaring, “The Habit Burger & Grill has NEVER missed.” Popular menu items include the Santa Barbara Char burger, onion rings, and a strawberry lemonade. Habit Burger Grill

Habit Burger Grill

Dos Coyotes Border Cafe: Cali-Mex Classics

Dos Coyotes Border Cafe has been serving up outstanding Cali-Mex cuisine since 1991. The restaurant’s enduring popularity is a testament to its delicious food and consistent quality. “We have been coming here for longer than I can remember and they’re delicious southwest food is just as quality as it was 20 years ago,” one diner shared. The chicken ranchero burrito and crunchy tacos are particular favorites. Dos Coyotes Border Cafe Instagram

Dos Coyotes Border Cafe

Gen Korean BBQ House: Interactive Dining

Gen Korean BBQ House, founded in Los Angeles in 2011, offers a unique and interactive dining experience. With 50 locations nationwide, the chain allows diners to grill their own meats at the table. One customer praised the quality of the BBQ, noting that “every cut of meat was fresh, expertly marinated, and grilled to perfection.” The variety of options, including premium beef, pork belly, and spicy chicken, adds to the appeal. Gen Korean BBQ House

Gen Korean BBQ House

Zankou Chicken: A Los Angeles Staple

Zankou Chicken, a Mediterranean fast-casual chain, has become a beloved institution in Los Angeles. Known for its incredible rotisserie chicken and shawarma, Zankou Chicken consistently receives rave reviews. “10/10!! Love this place. Hidden gem and would definitely be back,” one fan raved. The tri-tip shawarma plate is a particularly popular choice, praised for its exceptional flavor. Zankou Chicken

Zankou Chicken

California’s regional chain restaurants continue to evolve, adapting to changing tastes and preferences while maintaining the qualities that have made them local favorites. As the state’s culinary scene continues to flourish, these establishments are poised to remain integral parts of the dining landscape. What other California chains do you think deserve recognition? Share your favorites in the comments below!

Disclaimer: This article provides information about regional chain restaurants in California and is not intended to provide dietary or nutritional advice. Individual experiences may vary.

February 19, 2026 0 comments

Sport

Swiss Gourmet Restaurants: Why “Good Food, Good Business” No Longer Applies

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor February 19, 2026

written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

Switzerland, renowned for its high concentration of top restaurants, is facing a growing financial challenge. Despite boasting numerous Michelin stars and consistently full dining rooms, many gourmet kitchens are operating at a loss, struggling under the weight of rising costs and shifting consumer habits. The traditional principle of “good food, good business” is increasingly difficult to maintain, prompting a reliance on investors and hotel backing to keep these culinary institutions afloat.

The pressures facing Swiss gastronomy include increasing operational expenses, a decline in wine consumption, and high rental costs. This has led to a situation where even menus priced at 200 to 300 Swiss francs per person may not guarantee profitability. The question arises: is top-class gastronomy in Switzerland still a viable business model, or is it evolving into a cultural commitment sustained by wealthy patrons?

Jürg Ackermann, deputy editor-in-chief of the St.Galler Tagblatt, investigated the financial realities behind Switzerland’s acclaimed restaurant scene. His research revealed a growing dependence on external funding to support these high-conclude establishments. Urs Heller, editor-in-chief of Gault&Millau Switzerland, suggested a shift in investment priorities, stating, “I would rather the super-rich invest in hotels and restaurants instead of yachts and private jets.”

The Role of Patrons and Investors

The financial strain on gourmet restaurants has led to an increased need for patrons, and investors. Many restaurants operating at a high culinary level find it difficult to survive without the support of a wealthy benefactor or the financial stability of a hotel group. However, exceptions do exist, demonstrating that independent success is still possible.

One example highlighted is the “Gupf” restaurant, located high above Rehetobel. Rhine Valley entrepreneur Migg Eberle, now almost 90 years classic, was an early investor in the restaurant and reports having no regrets about his financial commitment. This illustrates the potential for passionate individuals to support and sustain exceptional dining experiences.

Einstein Gourmet: A Case Study in High-End Dining

The Einstein Gourmet in St. Gallen exemplifies the challenges and rewards of operating a top-tier restaurant. Awarded 18 points by GaultMillau and two Michelin stars, the restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on French-influenced and globally inspired cuisine. Chefs Sebastian Zier and Richard Schmidtkonz lead the culinary team, whereas Loris Lenzo serves as Wine Director & Head Sommelier, overseeing an impressive wine cellar containing over 3,000 labels, including a newly opened vaulted cellar built of white Bordeaux limestone as reported by SwissGlam.ch.

The Einstein Gourmet offers a 4-course gourmet lunch menu for CHF 150.00 per person and also caters to banquets for events ranging from 25 to 150 guests. Einstein St. Gallen provides information and reservations via +41 71 227 55 00 or [email protected].

Changing Tastes and Economic Realities

Beyond the high costs of operation, a shift in consumer preferences is also contributing to the financial pressures. Declining wine consumption is impacting revenue streams, and the need to constantly innovate and maintain exceptional quality requires significant investment. The restaurant industry is adapting, but the fundamental economic challenges remain.

The success of a restaurant, even one with a stellar reputation, is no longer solely determined by the quality of its cuisine. Financial stability, strategic investment, and a keen understanding of the evolving market are now essential ingredients for survival. The future of Swiss gourmet dining may depend on finding a sustainable balance between culinary excellence and sound business practices.

Looking ahead, the reliance on patrons and investors is likely to continue as Swiss gourmet restaurants navigate a complex economic landscape. The ability to attract and retain these financial backers will be crucial for maintaining the country’s position as a global leader in fine dining. The conversation surrounding the financial viability of high-end gastronomy will undoubtedly continue, prompting further discussion about the role of culture, investment, and sustainability in the culinary world.

What are your thoughts on the future of fine dining? Share your comments below and let us know what you think!

February 19, 2026 0 comments

Technology

Steak ‘n Shake Sees Sales Boost with Bitcoin Payments & Worker Bonuses

by Sophie Lin - Technology Editor February 18, 2026

written by Sophie Lin - Technology Editor

Steak ’n Shake is betting on bitcoin, and early results suggest the fast-food chain is seeing a significant return. The company reports a “dramatic” rise in same-store sales since implementing a strategy to accept bitcoin payments nine months ago, a move that has likewise allowed it to build a substantial bitcoin reserve for employee bonuses.

The burger chain’s embrace of cryptocurrency isn’t simply about accepting a novel form of payment; it’s a broader initiative to integrate digital assets into its operations. This includes adding $10 million worth of bitcoin to its corporate treasury and launching a bitcoin-themed burger, with a portion of proceeds donated to open-source bitcoin development. The move reflects a growing trend of businesses exploring the potential of cryptocurrency to attract customers and streamline financial processes.

According to a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, February 17, 2026, Steak ’n Shake’s “burger-to-Bitcoin transformation” has demonstrably boosted sales. The company’s chief operating officer, Dan Edwards, has stated that the chain saves approximately 50% on processing fees when customers pay with crypto, according to CoinDesk. This reduction in fees contributes directly to the company’s bottom line and allows for initiatives like the employee bonus program funded by the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve.

The initial foray into bitcoin payments, which began in May 2025, reportedly led to a 10% increase in sales, CoinTelegraph reported. Since then, the company has continued to tie increased sales figures to its bitcoin adoption, with quarter-over-quarter growth outpacing major competitors like McDonald’s, Domino’s, and Taco Bell.

Building a Bitcoin Reserve

Central to Steak ’n Shake’s strategy is the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. Every bitcoin payment received is deposited into this reserve, creating a “self-reinforcing” cycle where increased customer spending fuels the growth of the reserve, which in turn supports employee bonuses. As of January 2026, the reserve had grown to $15 million, CoinTelegraph reported, a significant increase from the initial $10 million investment earlier in the year.

In October 2025, Steak ’n Shake further solidified its commitment to the cryptocurrency community by introducing a bitcoin-themed burger. A portion of the proceeds from each “Bitcoin Meal” sold is donated to support open-source bitcoin development, demonstrating a broader commitment to the ecosystem beyond simply accepting payments.

The Broader Trend of Crypto Payments

Steak ’n Shake’s experience highlights a growing acceptance of cryptocurrency as a viable payment method for everyday purchases. As Decrypt noted, the range of goods and services purchasable with cryptocurrency has expanded significantly beyond its early days as a niche technology. Consumers can now use digital assets to book travel, purchase electronics, and even pay recurring bills.

Still, the most significant shift may not be consumers actively choosing to pay with crypto, but rather the emergence of stablecoin cards. These cards allow users to hold value outside of traditional banking systems while still enabling spending within the existing financial infrastructure. This has sparked a “three-sided race” between card networks like Visa and Mastercard, stablecoin issuers such as Circle and Paxos, and FinTech companies vying for control of the “monetary layer” beneath these payment systems.

Card companies are actively working to integrate stablecoins into their networks to avoid being disrupted, while stablecoin issuers aim to become the foundational layer for these transactions. FinTechs, exchanges, and wallets are competing for customer ownership and the ability to issue these programs.

What’s Next for Bitcoin and Fast Food?

Steak ’n Shake’s success with bitcoin payments could encourage other businesses to explore similar strategies. The company’s model demonstrates a potential pathway for integrating cryptocurrency into existing business operations, offering benefits such as reduced transaction fees and increased customer engagement. The continued growth of the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and the expansion of bitcoin-related offerings will likely be key indicators of the long-term success of this initiative. It remains to be seen whether this trend will become widespread, but Steak ’n Shake’s experience provides a compelling case study for the potential of cryptocurrency in the fast-food industry and beyond.

What are your thoughts on Steak ‘n Shake’s Bitcoin strategy? Share your comments below and let us know!

February 18, 2026 0 comments

Sport

Apirid Football Park, Adukrom: Hours & Location | Ghana

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor February 15, 2026

written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

Adukrom, a town nestled in the Eastern Region of Ghana, offers more than just scenic views of the Togo Atakora hills. At the heart of the community lies the Apirede Football Park, a local sporting venue gaining recognition as a focal point for recreation and community gatherings. The park, also known as the Apirede Presbyterian Football Park, provides a space for both organized matches and casual play, contributing to the vibrant social life of Adukrom and surrounding areas.

Located at 2WQC+C2P, Adukrom, Ghana, the Apirede Football Park is situated in one of the oldest towns on the Akuapim ridge. The park’s location offers a unique vantage point, with views of neighboring towns like Somanya and Asinima, particularly striking at night, according to local descriptions. It’s a community asset surrounded by other important institutions, including a guest house, a Presbyterian church, and a school, reflecting its integration into the fabric of Adukrom life.

What to Expect at Apirede Football Park

Even as specific details regarding ticket prices and scheduled events for 2026 are currently unavailable, the Apirede Football Park serves as a central location for football enthusiasts in the Okere District. The park’s existence underscores the importance of sports within the community, providing a venue for local teams and players to hone their skills and compete. The park is listed on several online directories, including Trip.com, indicating a growing interest from visitors seeking local experiences.

Adukrom itself is a town steeped in history, serving as the capital of the Okere District and sharing borders with Awukugua Akuapem, the birthplace of the legendary Okomfo Anokye. The town is also known for the Nifahene Stool of Akuapem, further highlighting its cultural and historical significance. The Apirede Football Park, exists within a broader context of community pride and tradition.

Accessibility and Location

The Apirede Football Park is easily accessible via the main Ho-Koforidua trunk road, which runs through the northern part of Akuapem. Adukrom’s location on the Togo Atakora hills makes it a visually appealing destination, and the football park adds to the town’s appeal for both residents and visitors. The coordinates for the park are 6°00′51″N 0°04′40″W, as documented on Wikipedia.

The town of Adukrom had an estimated population of 8,881 in 2013, according to available data. As the political and administrative capital of the Okere Constituency, represented in Parliament by Hon. Dan Botwe of the Latest Patriotic Party, Adukrom continues to develop and grow, with the Apirede Football Park playing a role in fostering community spirit.

Community and Culture in Adukrom

Beyond the football park, Adukrom is a town that celebrates its cultural heritage. The annual Odwira festival, typically held in September/October, is a significant event that draws attendees from all walks of life, including members of the diaspora. This festival, a staple of Ghana’s cultural expression, embodies themes of victory, gratitude, and harvest, uniting the community in celebration. The Apirede Football Park likely serves as a gathering point during these festivities, further solidifying its role as a community hub.

As Adukrom continues to evolve, the Apirede Football Park remains a testament to the town’s commitment to recreation and community engagement. Future developments and increased tourism could lead to expanded facilities and a more prominent role for the park in the region’s sporting landscape.

The Apirede Football Park stands as a valuable asset to the Adukrom community, offering a space for sport, recreation, and social interaction. As the town continues to grow and develop, the park is poised to remain a central part of its identity. We encourage readers to share their experiences and thoughts on this local sporting venue in the comments below.

February 15, 2026 0 comments

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