In the latest American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) study, Chick-fil-A emerged as the leader in the fast food category with a score of 83 out of a possible 100 points.
This annual evaluation, which involves data and interviews with approximately 200,000 consumers, highlights customer preferences and experiences.
Following Chick-fil-A, Starbucks and Panda Express shared the second spot with equal scores of 80.
In contrast, McDonald’s lagged behind with a much lower score of 70, marking it as the least favored fast food chain in the study.
Besides the restaurant rankings, the hemp beverage industry is gearing up for a significant event this July in Atlanta.
The Hemp Beverage Alliance Expo is set to take place at the Omni Atlanta Hotel at Centennial Park from July 9-11.
Dubbed the largest assembly of hemp beverage brands in the nation, it is expected to feature nearly 100 exhibitors alongside over 45 speakers who will discuss the rapidly expanding market.
Earlier this year, Georgia’s lawmakers contemplated a ban on hemp-based, THC-infused drinks but later amended the proposal to enhance access to these beverages, allowing their sale in package stores.
That proposal ultimately stalled in the state legislature.
A previous law did pass, regulating certain aspects of THC beverages and limiting their availability to individuals aged 21 and older.
Consumer interest in hemp beverages is rising, with many opting for these alternatives as substitutes for alcohol, according to reports from The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
For those interested in the conference, registration is currently open on the Hemp Beverage Expo’s official website.
In other exciting news, a temporary pop-up at the Blind Pig Parlour Bar has transformed the Buckhead venue into the whimsically themed Pink Piggy Saloon.
The pop-up features decor inspired by Western themes, described as “cowgirl glam meets honky-tonk mischief,” along with a new menu focused on Southwestern cuisine.
While no end date has been specified, the Pink Piggy Saloon will only be available for a limited time this summer, operating from Wednesday to Sunday starting at 5 p.m.
Reservations are recommended and can be made via OpenTable.
For those seeking unique dining experiences, Wild Heaven Beer is excited to announce a month-long residency featuring the culinary talents of James Beard award-nominated chef Arnaldo Castillo from Tio Lucho’s.
This residency, dubbed Hermanita, showcases authentic Peruvian street food, including specialties such as whole chickens, chopped salads, and beef empanadas.
Guests can enjoy this delicious fare every day for lunch and dinner until July 13 at the brewery’s Avondale taproom.
Ecco, located in Midtown, is preparing a special Summer in Paris menu, which will be available for just ten nights from July 24 to August 3.
The limited-time menu celebrates French cuisine, featuring well-loved dishes such as steak tartare, escargots, crab thermidor, and cote de boeuf.
To secure a spot, it is advisable to make reservations through OpenTable in advance.
In terms of restaurant openings, The Hampton Social has made its debut in Dunwoody’s High Street development.
This spacious eatery, spanning 10,500 square feet, is the first location in Georgia for Chicago-based Parker Hospitality and serves lunch and dinner during weekdays, along with weekend brunch.
Whataburger, another beloved chain from Texas, opened its latest location on Thursday in Buford.
This establishment operates 24/7 year-round, excluding Christmas Day, and is situated in the Walmart development off I-85 on Hamilton Mill Road.
Mission Burger Co., a plant-based burger concept from Austin, Texas, is gearing up for its grand opening in West Midtown on June 26.
The opening ceremony will feature remarks from Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens as part of the ribbon-cutting festivities.
Additionally, Cinnabon Swirl, an ice cream partnership with Carvel, will launch its first Georgia location in Kennesaw on June 27.
One highlight from the menu is the Bonini, which consists of a warm Cinnabon roll stuffed with Carvel soft serve.
Currently, the only other two locations of the chain are in Peoria, Arizona, and Hillsboro, Oregon.
Unfortunately, the restaurant scene also faces changes with some closings.
Adobo ATL has announced its closure in Decatur, with its final service set for June 28.
Owner Mike Pimentel initially ran Adobo ATL as a pop-up, contributing to the growth of Filipino cuisine options in metro Atlanta.
Another abrupt closure was reported with the Mellow Mushroom location also in Decatur, described by the owner as a result of financial difficulties.
One thing remains clear — the Atlanta food and beverage scene is as dynamic as ever, with both new opportunities and challenges on the horizon.
image source from：ajc
