Chain restaurants are closing hundreds of locations across the US in 2026. See the list.

Big chains are trimming their footprints in 2026 — Wendy’s may close up to 350 U.S. restaurants, Pizza Hut about 250, and Papa John’s roughly 200.
Brands blame inflation, rising labor costs, and shifting tastes, and many are leaning on menu innovation and value deals to win customers back.
Standout closures include Red Lobster’s Times Square flagship after 23 years, plus abrupt local shutdowns at some Denny’s and Red Robin locations.