Lots to Celebrate in 2026 on the Foodie Scene!

Long Island is set for a wave of new restaurants in 2026, with major chains like Raising Cane's, Shake Shack, Chipotle, Joe & The Juice, Qdoba, and Jinya Ramen Bar expanding, alongside new concepts like Tony's Di Napoli (Italian) and Rocco's Tacos, plus chef-driven spots from Wonder, bringing diverse options from fast-casual chicken and burgers to ramen, Mexican, and upscale Italian across various towns like Commack, Carle Place, Manhasset, Riverhead, and more.

Major Chain Expansions:
Raising Cane's: Targeting late 2026 for openings in Commack and potentially Carle Place/Farmingdale, focusing on their chicken finger meals.

Shake Shack: Five new locations planned through 2026 in Selden, Commack, Valley Stream (Green Acres Mall), Holbrook (SunVet), and Riverhead (Tanger Outlets).

Chipotle Mexican Grill: Opening in Smithtown (former American Roadside) and planned for Long Beach and Hempstead in 2026.

Joe & The Juice: First LI cafes coming to Woodbury and Manhasset in 2026, offering juices, shakes, and sandwiches.

Qdoba: Expanding with new locations in Riverhead (sharing with another spot) and other areas, with drive-thru windows planned.

Jinya Ramen Bar: Doherty Enterprises bringing the first LI locations to Lake Grove and Massapequa Park.

New Concepts & Full-Service Restaurants:
Tony's Di Napoli: A new family-style Italian spot opening in Manhasset in early 2026.

Wonder: The chef-driven food hall concept planning multiple new locations across LI (Westbury, East Meadow, Holbrook) with menus from top chefs.

Rocco's Tacos & Tequila Bar: First LI location coming to Walt Whitman Shops, offering Mexican cuisine and extensive tequila selection.

Dave's Hot Chicken: Already opened one in Carle Place, with plans for 14 total locations (7 LI, 7 Queens).

Other Noteworthy Arrivals:
Babylon Social: A new addition to Babylon, set to open its doors in 2026.