Georgians can’t get enough of these restaurants during COVID-19 pandemic, report says
Longhorn Steakhouse has been the most visited fast-casual restaurant in Georgia since the start of the COVID-19 crisis, according to a new report.
Researchers at digital insight firm TOP Data analyzed “consumer tracking data” between mid-March and late July to identify the top five casual dining restaurants in each of the 50 U.S. states.
“The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on everything from our work and school schedules to live sports and even the way we greet our friends and neighbors,” the TOP Data team wrote. “Not surprisingly, this so-called new normal has also significantly altered American’s dining habits.”
Aside from Longhorn, Georgians enjoyed grabbing a bite at Chili’s, Waffle House, Cracker Barrel and IHOP, respectively, the report shows.
Nationally, Americans’ food interests lie with another fast-casual dining chain. Texas Roadhouse took the top spot in at least 15 states, followed by Olive Garden in 12 states. Fan favorite Applebee’s came in a close third, ranking No. 1 in eight states including New York, Nevada and Idaho.
The report also offered insight into how some of the nation’s most popular restaurants are faring during the coronavirus pandemic. While fast-food restaurants have experienced a 30% dip since the pandemic started, traffic at casual sit-down restaurants is down a significant 58%, TOP Data researchers said.
Many restaurants were forced to close earlier this year as cities and states imposed “stay at home” orders to help slow the spread of the virus. As of Friday, the U.S. has reported more than 4.9 million confirmed cases of COVID-19 and over 160,000 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University.