The Next Big Chain
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Up-and-Comers to Watch
Even the most popular chains like McDonald's started out with just one location. As their popularity grew so did their number of locations.
Which chain will people go to next? We asked our readers that exact question and got hundreds of responses. Find out which businesses you are most excited about and think could be the next hot chain.
Next: Moe's Southwest GrillMore on Franchises
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Cassandra Hubbart, AOL
Moe's Southwest Grill
Locations: Locations in 35 states
Opened: 2002
The Concept: Southwest grill
According to LINDASUE C: "Great Southwestern food, cooked to order and not expensive."
Moe's WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Cassandra Hubbart, AOL
Spicy Pickle
Locations: Across 11 states
The Concept: Custom sandwiches
According to Kehleeq444: "Spicy Pickle has to be the hands down winner in the sandwich dept. It's one of the things I miss most about moving from CO. Best tasting, highest quality meats, amazing list of possibilities for your custom made sandwich."
Spicy Pickle WebsiteMore on Franchises
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J. von Elling, AOL
Zpizza
Locations: 91 locations in 16 states
Opened: 1986
The Concept: Organic pizza
According to Primespot: "Zpizza's organic and healthy product absolutely rocks your tastebuds!"
Zpizza WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Cassandra Hubbart, AOL
Fractured Prune
Locations: 23 locations in 8 states
Opened: 1976
The Concept: Hot, hand-dipped donuts
According to DR J GUMS: "The best designer like donuts which are made with no trans fat."
Fractured Prune WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Hey Cupcake!
Hey Cupcake!
Locations: 3 in Austin, TX
The Concept: Cupcakes
According to HWGHCCJ: "Hey Cupcake! features seven different cupcake varieties. For the icing on the cake, make it a whipper snapper with a shot of whipped cream injected into the center."
Hey Cupcake WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Cassandra Hubbart, AOL
Not Your Average Joe's
Locations: 16 locations in Massachusetts and 1 in Virginia
Opened: 1994
The Concept: Creative Casual Cuisine
According to HWGHCCJ: Creative, casual and tasty cuisine. Reasonably priced to boot! One of my new favorites."
Not Your Average Joe's WebsiteMore on Franchises
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J. von Elling, AOL
Massage Envy
Locations: Clinics open in 40 states
Opened: 2002
The Concept: Massage therapy
According to FundSage: "They opened up a Massage Envy near my house in Bethesda, MD and I've gone twice so far and really like it. It is half the price of the cost of most massages and they were very professional and helped with the knots in my back and arm."
Massage Envy WebsiteMore on Franchises
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J. von Elling, AOL
Hard Times Cafe
Locations: 16 locations in MD and VA
Opened: 1980
The Concept: Chili
According to PaulClark: "There's plenty on the menu, but for a discounted chili meal out, a cold beer and unique atmosphere, I recommended bellying up to the bar at your local Hard Times Cafe any day."
Hard Times WebsiteMore on Franchises
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J. von Elling, AOL
Yogen Fruz
Locations: Over 1100 locations in 21 countries
Opened: 1986
The Concept: Frozen yogurt
According to Newalex2009: "Yogen Fruz frozen yogurt has a fresh, delicious, nutritious taste."
Yogen Fruz WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Beef O'Brady's
Beef 'O' Brady's
Locations: Over 267 locations
Opened: 1985
The Concept: American and Irish cuisine
According to LKamer56: "Killer hamburgers ... my grandchildren LOVE this place... It's like a local bar with sports memorabilia for local teams on the walls."
Beef 'O' Brady's WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Jim Fiedler, AOL
The Fresh Market
Locations: 96 locations around the Eastern United States
The Concept: Feel of an old European market
According to Kelleylindor: "Incredible shopping experience!"
The Fresh Market WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Michael Nagle, Getty Images
Trader Joe's
Locations: Locations in 24 states
Opened: 1958
The Concept: Grocery store
According to Kamartin33333: "My absolute favorite store -- great gourmet products for reasonable prices."
Trader Joe's WebsiteMore on Franchises
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www.hungryrestaurant.com
Hungry? Restaurant
Locations: Rolling Meadows, IL
Opened: 2008
The Concept: Fast-casual restaurant
According to MikeAGonz86: "Amazing food! Breakfast through dinner. From gyros to chicken caesar wraps... make your own omelets or just have bacon and eggs. Amazing tea."
Hungry? Restaurant WebsiteMore on Franchises
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www.johnnyspizza.com
Johnny Brusco's New York Style Pizza
Locations: Locations in 8 states
Opened: 1965
The Concept: Pizza
According to Rw43pw: "They have a large selection of toppings so you can build just about anything you want."
Johnny Brusco's WebsiteMore on Franchises
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WhichWich
Whichwich
Locations: Locations in 16 states
The Concept: Sandwiches
According to Debimcmurray: "We just got a Whichwich in our city and we love it. All sandwiches are 4.95 and the great thing is that they have not only several kinds of meats for our family but four kinds of vegetarian sandwiches. They also serve hot cookies and shakes and have their own house chips as well as other chips."
Whichwich WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Jim Fiedler, AOL
Qdoba
Locations: 440 from coast to coast
Opened: 1995
The Concept: Mexican Grill
According to Karamelkitti: "They make the best burritos I've ever tasted. They're like small footballs filled with rice, beef, cheese, salsa, and cilantro. Huge and so tasty!"
Qdoba WebsiteMore on Franchises
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House Call Auto Mechanics
House Call Auto Mechanics
Locations: 2 mobile units
Opened: 2004
The Concept: Auto repair
According to KEVEEWEVEE: "The bill was fair (cheaper than expected) the guy was really nice, neat and smart. He had the problem figured out in minutes, was back with parts in 30 minutes and the car was fixed in two more hours! "
House Call Auto Mechanics WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Pyrogrill
Pyrogrill
Locations: 3 locations in Florida
Opened: 2001
The Concept: Fresh Burritos
According to Phoexixgal: "There are about 17 bajillion different mix combinations. No need to fact check that. They have a very expensive calculator."
Pyrogrill WebsiteMore on Franchises
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www.mycavas.com
Cavas Wine Tasting Room
Locations: 4 locations in Florida
Opened: 2006
The Concept: Wine
According to Carlosabascal: "Check out Cavas Wine Tasting Rooms in South Florida. They sell wine on demand and by the shot. You taste before you buy. It's very affordable and the locations are well selected. The one in South Miami is beautiful."
Cavas Wine Tasting Room WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Sunni Bunni
Sunni Bunni
Locations: Tampa and Sarasota, Florida
The Concept: Frozen Yogurt
According to Aquablondeone: "This place is amazing. The smoothies are off the charts and you can see them being made in front of you. The best customer service too. The lady that owns the store really takes the time to explain the benefits of her yogurt."
Sunni Bunni WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Jersey Mike's Subs
Jersey Mike's Subs
Locations: 350+ franchises
Opened: 1956
The Concept: Subs
According to Stoctrador: "Best subs I've had yet!"
Jersey Mike's Subs WebsiteMore on Franchises
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www.madmex.com
Mad Mex
Locations: Columbus, Pittsburgh, Happy Valley, Philadelphia
The Concept: Tex Mex
According to B StardToo: "They have a lot of amazingly good food choices -- probably too many."
Mad Mex WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Gene Blythe, AP
El Pollo Loco
Locations: More than 380 restaurants in California, Arizona, Nevada, Texas, Colorado, Illinois, Georgia, Massachusetts and Connecticut
Opened: 1975
The Concept: Flame Grilled Chicken
According to GRITSNGRAVYGRAM: "This fire roasted chicken is the best there is. It is served with mexican rice, beans and tortillas. They have other selections but the chicken is the best."
El Pollo Loco WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Getty Images
Boardwalk Best Burgers & Fries
Locations: 4 on the East coast
Opened: 1975
The Concept: Fresh, fast burger experience
According to JenniferStump: "Undoubtedly, the best burgers and fries I have ever experienced!"
Boardwalk Best Burgers & FriesMore on Franchises
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anthonyscoalfiredpizza.com
Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza
Locations: 11 in South Florida
Opened: 2002
The Concept: 'Old world' pizza cooked in a coal-fired oven
According to DCDDRUM: "The best pizza I've had in a long time and great chicken wings that are roasted and at least appear to be much healthier."
Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza WebsiteMore on Franchises
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bagelbagelcafe.com
Bagel Bagel Cafe
Locations: Nine in Florida
Opened: 1991
The Concept: Specialty bagel creations and breakfast and lunch sandwiches
According to Jcm0096: "It's like nothing you've ever tasted before in your life. It's not a deli, but an awesome breakfast and lunch spot."
Bagel Bagel Cafe WebsiteMore on Franchises
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brotherjimmys.com
Brother Jimmy's BBQ
Locations: Six in New York City
Opened: 1988
The Concept: Southern hospitality and fare in the heart of New York City
According to Focusonthis666: "I have been to several ... and in my opinion their bbq rox ... if you live in new york city and haven't tried it yet I highly suggest doing so."
Brother Jimmy's BBQ WebsiteMore on Franchises
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David Rogowski, AOL
Chop't Salad
Locations: Nine in N.Y. and D.C.
Opened: 2001
The Concept: Fresh, healthy lunchtime eats and the best bang for the buck
According to RThom92190: "All fresh ingrediants delivered daily, large portions, prepared in front of you. They make their own dressings."
Chop't SaladMore on Franchises
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doccheys.com
Doc Chey's Noodle House
Locations: Five in Ga., N.C. and S.C.
Opened: 1997
The Concept: Noodle bowls and stir-fries, fresh and made from scratch
According to KIMFGC: "Great fresh food with great prices. Wednesday night is Kids Eat Free night. Cool atmoshere on Woodruff Road in Greenville, S.C."
Doc Chey's Noodle House WebsiteMore on Franchises
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dutchbros.com
Dutch Bros. Coffee
Locations: 136 in six western states
Opened: 1992
The Concept: Drive thru coffee and more made-to-order
According to Iampreeti: "Their service is amazing and the coffee is really good as well. They are less expensive then Starbucks and it's better coffee!"
Dutch Bros. Coffee WebsiteMore on Franchises
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elevationburger.com
Elevation Burger
Locations: One in Falls Church, Va.
Opened: 2005
The Concept: Burgers made from organically raised free-range beef
According to AWTH1: "Elevation Burger gets my vote. The french fries are cooked in olive oil and the cookies are really good. A great alternative to McDonalds or BK."
Elevation Burger WebsiteMore on Franchises
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www.farrellsusa.com
Farrell's Ice Cream Parlor
Locations: One in Calif. and two in Hawaii
Opened: 1963
The Concept: A century past ice cream parlor, but with a modern menu
According to Twinkiefarmer2: "LOVED Farrells so much as a kid and an adult!"
Farrell's Ice Cream Parlor WebsiteMore on Franchises
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firehousesubs.com
Firehouse Subs
Locations: 346 mostly in southern states
Opened: 1994
The Concept: Hearty subs with high quality meats and cheeses
According to Wtwald: "Best sub on the planet. so much better than Subway and all other sub chains."
Firehouse Subs WebsiteMore on Franchises
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David Rogowski, AOL
Five Guys
Locations: Over 300 in 25 states
Opened: 1986
The Concept: Backyard-style burgers and fries
According to Crossfiregl14: "Best burgers in the world. Have had them from Florida to Massachusetts all locations have been consistantly superb ... the fries are also the best."
Five Guys WebsiteMore on Franchises
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www.freshandeasy.com
Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Markets
Locations: 100 in Calif., Nevada, Ariz.
Opened: 2007
The Concept: Smaller than the usual market, everything from staples to gourmet items
According to KBonf17096: "Their food and produce are outstanding and the prices are incredibly competitive!"
Fresh & Easy Neighborhood WebsiteMore on Franchises
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www.gcfb.net
Granite City Food & Brewery
Locations: 25 in 11 midwest states
Opened: 1999
The Concept: Casual dining with on-site brewery
According to BOB56301: "They are presently opening restaurants in the midwest.They give you the most food for the $ than any other restaurant I know. Also their service is top notch."
Granite City Food & Brewery WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Hot Head Burritos
Hot Head Burritos
Locations: Four in Dayton, Ohio
Opened: 2006
The Concept: Fast-casual Mexican in a fun atmosphere
According to jakspot: "You may choose the contents for your burrito or bowl and eat in or take out. The thing that makes it special is the flavor of their foods. It just sings in your mouth."
Hot Head Burritos WebsiteMore on Franchises
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http://www.huhot.com/
HuHot Mongolian Grill
Locations: 25 mostly in the midwest
Opened: 1999
The Concept: Fastest-growing Mongolian grill in the country
According to Lanceorama: "One of my favorite restaurants hands down. Beats all the other build-your-own stir fry places like B.D.'s and Flat Iron. You gotta try it!"
HuHot Mongolian Grill WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Amber Porter, AOL
Max Brenner: Chocolate By the Bald Man
Locations: Two in N.Y, 21 Worldwide
Opened: 2006
The Concept: Chocolate lover's dream
According to FundSage: "I thought I died and went to heaven when I walked into Max Brenner. From chocolate pizza's and soup to more traditional chocolate items."
Max Brenner WebsiteMore on Franchises
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getmesafresh.com
Mesa Fresh Mexican Grill
Locations: Three in Pa.
Opened: 2001
The Concept: Authentic Mexican in a festive atmosphere
According to MZacco: "Best new concept in my home town...chico angus burgers are a real kick!"
Mesa Fresh Mexican Grill WebsiteMore on Franchises
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www.muddycup.com
Muddy Cup Coffee House
Locations: Nine in upstate New York
Opened: 2001
The Concept: Where the community shares art, voices, opinions and a cup of joe
According to JimSvetz: "It's definitely the anti-Starbucks idea of a coffee house chain."
Muddy Cup Coffee House WebsiteMore on Franchises
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PCC Natural Markets
Locations: 10 in Wash.
Opened: 1953
The Concept: Largest consumer-owned natural food co-op
According to SoulPeaceMWJ: "Much like Whole Foods Market only in a smaller scale. This store has fresh organic products wonderful hot counters with a variaty of tasty dishes."
PCC Natural Markets WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Cassandra Shie, AOL
Pei Wei
Locations: 39 in 20 states
Opened: 2001
The Concept: Contemporary pan-Asian cuisine fast
According to Cassiethegreat: "A fun new diner that has an open environment, fast service and excellent quality and quantity of food for the cost."
Pei Wei WebsiteMore on Franchises
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pinkberry.com
Pinkberry
Locations: 70 in Calif. and N.Y.
Opened: 2005
The Concept: Contemporary, back-to-nature style featuring frozen treats
According to winniewooh: "An amazing frozen yogurt chain ... So far they're only in Calif. and N.Y., but hopefully they'll open a store in D.C. so I can enjoy them all the time."
Pinkberry WebsiteMore on Franchises
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raisingcanes.com
Raising Cane's
Locations: 71 around the country
Opened: 1996
The Concept: Great tasting chicken fingers
According to TeenieMomma: "Great chicken fingers ... I love the taste of the chicken here."
Raising Cane's WebsiteMore on Franchises
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seasons52.com
Season's 52
Locations: Seven in Fla. and Ga.
Opened: 2006
The Concept: Casually sophisticated grill and wine bar
According to VBALL9700: "The menu changes every season as well as weekly specials. Everything tastes delicious and fresh. All items on the menu are 475 calories or less!"
Season's 52 WebsiteMore on Franchises
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sprinklescupcakes.com
Sprinkles Cupcakes
Locations: Five in Calif., Texas and Ariz.
Opened: 2005
The Concept: Freshly-baked in over 20 different flavors
According to faithwheel: "Cupcakes are hot. And Sprinkles cupcakes are even hotter. All baked on premise! It looks like a national roll-out to me."
Sprinkles Cupcakes WebsiteMore on Franchises
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stircrazy.com
Stir Crazy
Locations: 15 spread across the country
The Concept: Stir Crazy brings the kitchen into the dining room with bold Asian dishes
According to JEagan1999: "Stir Crazy is a wonderful dining experience. Great quality food and the best create your own stir fry I've ever tasted!"
Stir Crazy WebsiteMore on Franchises
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http://www.sweettomatoes.com
Sweet Tomatoes
Locations: 110 in 15 states
Opened: 1978
The Concept: All-you-care-to-eat with a tailored menu
According to USER: "I think their food is awesome and the service is awesome. They come around several times to make sure you like the food and that you will come back."
Sweet Tomatoes WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Larry Domek, http://unclefrankys.com/
Uncle Franky's
Locations: Three in Minneapolis area
The Concept: Burgers, dogs, hot sandwiches and more
According to USER: "70s music for adults cartoons for kids, all of them are hot during lunch ... this place has a theme that should be all over the country, someone has to find these guys."
Uncle Franky's WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Cassandra Shie, AOL
Vocelli Pizza
Locations: 135 in eight states
Opened: 1988
The Concept: Authentic Italian pizza
According to Katietakemall: "The best pizza in town, paninis, very Italian. They also have salads and for the kids chicken figners ... One taste and you'll come back for more."
Vocelli Pizza WebsiteMore on Franchises
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www.yatscajuncreole.com
Yats
Locations: Six in Indianopolis and Chicago
Opened: mid 1990s
The Concept: Cajun creole and great jazz
According to indyshottamale: "Yats serves cajun/creole in a casual atmosphere. The menu changes daily, it always includes etouffe and jambalaya of some sort."
Yats WebsiteMore on Franchises
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zearestaurants.com
ZEA Restaurant
Locations: 12, primarily in La. and Texas
Opened: 1997
The Concept: Inspired American food
According to BabeBennet: "Unbelievable food. Their cheese grits are incredible. They marry Southern food with Middle Eastern and Greek."
ZEA Restaurant WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Surf Taco
Locations: Eight on the Jersey shore
Opened: 2001
The Concept: Fresh coastal cuisine
According to Nlbettler: "The best tacos in America."
Surf Taco WebsiteMore on Franchises
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Did We Miss Anything?
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Next Big Chain
- Moe's Southwest Grill
- Spicy Pickle
- Zpizza
- Fractured Prune
- Hey Cupcake
- Not Your Average Joe's
- Massage Envy
- Hard Times Cafe
- Yogen Fruz
- Beef 'O' Brady's
- The Fresh Market
- Trader Joe's
- Hungry? Restaurant
- Johnny Brusco's New York Style Pizza
- Whichwich
- Qdoba
- House Call Auto Mechanics
- Pyrogrill
- Cavas Wine Tasting Room
- Sunni Bunni
- Jersey Mike's Subs
- Mad Mex
- El Pollo Loco
- Boardwalk Best Burgers & Fries
- Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza
- Bagel Bagel Cafe
- Brother Jimmy's BBQ
- Chop't Salad
- Doc Chey's Noodle House
- Dutch Bros. Coffee
- Elevation Burger
- Farrell's Ice Cream Parlor
- Firehouse Subs
- Five Guys
- Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Markets
- Granite City Food & Brewery
- Hot Head Burritos
- HuHot Mongolian Grill
- Max Brenner: Chocolate By the Bald Man
- Mesa Fresh Mexican Grill
- Muddy Cup Coffee House
- PCC Natural Markets
- Pei Wei
- Pinkberry
- Raising Cane's
- Season's 52
- Sprinkles Cupcakes
- Stir Crazy
- Sweet Tomatoes
- Uncle Franky's
- Vocelli Pizza
- Yats
- ZEA Restaurant
- Surf Taco
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The Next Big Chain?
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