Restaurant development surpassed pre-pandemic levels last year, with openings topping the 2022 level by 10% to set an all-time expansion record, according to data compiled by the Yelp online dining guide.
The service’s researchers cited the findings as indications that a number of market sectors and geographic areas that fared particularly badly during the COVID crisis have regained their footing.
New York City and its namesake home state, for instance, suffered devastating economic damage during the health crisis. In 2023, the city saw more openings than any other urban center, with 4,739 additions, and New York was fourth on the state ranking…