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7 Chain Restaurants With the Most Openings So Far This Year

Fast-growing restaurant chains that shoppers may want to know about.

By Amanda Machado , Edited by Calista Headrick

Updated June 24, 2026

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The restaurant industry has been experiencing some big changes. While some longtime chains have been reducing locations, a newer generation of fast-casual and quick-service chain restaurant brands seems to be moving in the opposite direction.

For consumers, that means the restaurant opening in a nearby retail center is increasingly likely to be a growing sandwich shop, chicken chain, or Mediterranean place rather than a traditional sit-down restaurant. Many of these brands are targeting hundreds of new locations, making 2026 one of the busiest expansion years the industry has seen in some time and a great opportunity for people to go out to eat more.

Here are the chains making some of the biggest moves so far this year.

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Jersey Mike's

Jersey Mike's has had one of the industry's most aggressive growth stories. After reaching more than 3,200 locations in 2025, the sandwich chain is reportedly aiming for roughly 400 to 450 new openings in 2026. Few restaurant brands are expanding at a comparable pace.

Much of that growth seems to be concentrated in suburban communities, growing Sun Belt markets, and secondary cities where population growth is strong. The company's simple but tasty menu, franchise model, and broad appeal continue to support rapid expansion across the country.

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Dave's Hot Chicken

What began as a small hot chicken place has evolved into one of the fastest-growing restaurant chains in North America. Following approximately 120 new store openings in 2025, Dave's Hot Chicken reportedly has around 1,000 additional locations in development.

A major acquisition valued at roughly $1 billion has added momentum to the brand's growth strategy. New restaurants are increasingly appearing throughout Texas, Florida, Arizona, and other high-growth regions where there is a lot of demand for quick-service chicken restaurants.

CAVA

Mediterranean fast-casual chain CAVA continues to build on its impressive growth trajectory. The company had 72 new restaurant openings during fiscal 2025 and has outlined plans for roughly 16% unit growth in 2026.

Its expansion is largely focused on suburban retail places and rapidly growing metropolitan areas. Consumer interest in customizable meals like Chipotle, but with fresh ingredients and Mediterranean-inspired menu options, is helping fuel the company's steady rise.

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Culver's

For decades, Culver's was mostly associated with and located in the Midwest. Today, the chain is increasingly becoming a national food stop. The company has been opening approximately 50 to 60 new locations annually while pushing farther into the South and Southwest.

States such as Texas, Florida, Tennessee, and Arizona have become key expansion targets. The combination of burgers, frozen custard, and a family-friendly atmosphere seems to sit well with consumers relocating to and living in these fast-growing regions.

Raising Cane's

Raising Cane's continues to build on its popularity with chicken finger fans. The chain has been expanding steadily across the United States while also taking steps toward bigger international growth. The chain is on track to open nearly 100 new locations nationwide throughout 2026.

One of the company's most notable projects is its planned first location in London, expected in late 2026. Domestically, growth is still concentrated in major metropolitan areas and rapidly expanding suburban communities where younger families and people are driving demand.

Wingstop

Wingstop's expansion story has been years in the making, but the brand continues to add locations at an impressive pace. The chain now operates in 47 states and several different countries, making it one of the largest chains among fast-growing restaurant brands. In fact, the chain opened 97 net new restaurants in the first quarter of 2026, a 17% growth rate, with over 2,200 new locations under development.

Wingstop's growth has been supported by wing delivery and takeout demand, as well as a relatively efficient operating model. New openings tend to be in suburban shopping centers, smaller cities, and underserved markets where the brand still has room to grow.

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Crumbl Cookies

Crumbl Cookies turned a simple dessert idea like cookies into a national phenomenon. The company's rotating menu and strong social media presence have helped it expand rapidly across the country.

Many of its newest locations are opening in suburban retail developments, mixed-use centers, and fast-growing residential areas. The brand's popularity among families and gift buyers continues to create opportunities for additional expansion despite growing competition in the dessert category.

Bottom line

If it feels like new restaurant signs are appearing everywhere, the numbers suggest that impression may be accurate. Chains such as Jersey Mike's, Dave's Hot Chicken, and CAVA are adding locations at a pace that few traditional sitdown restaurant brands can currently match.

One trend worth watching is where these openings are happening. Many of the fastest-growing chains are prioritizing the South, Southwest, and other population-growth hotspots. For people who are considering a move or trying to avoid wasting money, those regions may offer not only new housing developments but also an increasingly diverse mix of dining options with them.

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