As the economy struggles, consumers are becoming more cautious with their dollar, with consumers eating more at home or at lower-cost fast-food restaurants. This shift has led to decreased sales for sit-down restaurants, particularly those with higher prices. While the overall number of restaurants has increased, several chains have either closed or gone out of business. Consumer traffic at full-service restaurants in Q3 2024 was down 3% from a year ago and 17% below the same period in 2019, according to CREST. In 2024, Texas Roadhouse became the biggest casual dining chain, surpassing Olive Garden. Meanwhile, McCormick & Schmick’s, a steakhouse concept now owned by Landry’'s, has been steadily shrinking over the past 15 years and is now smaller than in its heyday.