Portillo’s to close several underperforming restaurants outside Chicago area

Portillo’s, a Chicago-based fast-casual restaurant chain, announced on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026, that it will close a "mid-to-high single-digit number" of underperforming locations. The closures will primarily affect restaurants situated outside of the Chicago area, with most expected to shutter by the end of 2026.

The decision follows an internal review of sales, operating costs, and projected future performance across the company’s 109 nationwide locations. Portillo’s CEO Brett Patterson stated during a third-quarter financial results call that the move is intended to improve the company's portfolio quality and strengthen returns on invested capital.

Patterson noted that the chain has faced difficulties gaining traction in newer markets due to branding choices. In some locations outside Chicago, the brand name was used without explicitly stating the types of food served. Patterson said this made it difficult for new customers to understand the restaurant's offerings.

While some locations are closing, Portillo's reported opening seven new restaurants in Texas during 2026, with plans to open one additional location in Chicago before the year ends. For the third quarter, the company reported total revenue of $194.1 million, a 7 percent increase, though customer visits saw a slight decline.

The company reported $194.1 million in quarterly revenue and $4.8 million in net income. The chain reported a 1.4 percent increase in sales at established restaurants against a dip in total customer traffic. To address these trends, the company plans to invest in new technology, restaurant equipment, and employee training programs.

The chain is also attempting to address branding issues Patterson described. By focusing on "disciplined growth," the chain is prioritizing profitability in existing markets. The company also intends to simplify its customer loyalty program and execute a revised marketing strategy.