It feels like every few weeks, another familiar restaurant sign disappears from New Jersey. If you grew up here, you probably remember when chain restaurants were everywhere. Birthday dinners, after-game meals, late-night apps with friends. Places like this used to be packed. Now, many of them are struggling to keep the lights on.
Download the WJLK Mobile App Now
Why Chain Restaurants Are Struggling in New Jersey
One of the biggest reasons is simple. New Jersey has incredible local food.
In many other states, chain restaurants might be the best option in town. Here, that is rarely the case. We have family-owned restaurants, pizzerias on every corner, amazing diners, bagel shops, and small neighborhood spots that people have been loyal to for decades.
If you live in Jersey, you likely have your go-to places. The pizza spot you always order from. The diner that knows your order. The local restaurant where the owner actually comes out to say hello…