12 Chain Restaurants That Were in Every Mall
These 12 chain restaurants were once common in malls across the country and became part of everyday shopping experiences.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
During the 1980s and 1990s, many malls featured the same group of chain restaurants. These places served quick meals, snacks, and drinks to shoppers and workers alike. Although some of them have closed or changed, they helped define the culture of indoor malls for decades.
1. Sbarro
Famartin on Wikimedia Commons
Sbarro was best known for its large slices of New York-style pizza served from behind a glass counter. It was usually placed in the food court and offered pizza, pasta, and breadsticks. The food was ready to go, which made it easy for shoppers to eat quickly. For many, it was the go-to choice when they wanted something filling but familiar.
2. Auntie Anne’s
Phillip Pessar on Wikimedia Commons
This pretzel chain was famous for its warm, buttery smell that spread through the mall. The small kiosks sold soft pretzels, dipping sauces, and frozen lemonades. Shoppers often stopped by for a quick snack rather than a full meal. The brand became a regular stop for kids and adults during long shopping days.
3. Orange Julius
Rowanswiki on Wikimedia Commons
Orange Julius offered a mix of fruit drinks and blended ice drinks, with its signature being a frothy orange beverage. Most stands were part of Dairy Queen or placed near entrances. It was one of the few places in the mall focused mainly on drinks. People saw it as a refreshing break during shopping.
4. Panda Express
inazakira on Wikimedia Commons
Panda Express brought fast Chinese food to mall food courts with items like orange chicken and chow mein. The meals were served in combo plates, making it simple to choose. The chain’s bright red and black design was easy to spot. It became one of the most popular options in the 2000s.
5. Chick-fil-A
Sikander Iqbal on Wikimedia Commons
Before its large expansion, Chick-fil-A was mainly found in mall food courts. It sold its original chicken sandwich, waffle fries, and lemonade. Many customers first discovered the brand while shopping. It later expanded to stand-alone locations but kept its mall roots for years.
6. Hot Dog on a Stick
Captain-tucker on Wikimedia Commons
This chain was known for its striped uniforms and fresh lemonade stands. Workers would often be seen pressing lemons by hand at the counter. The corn dogs were made to order, and the process was visible to customers. It had a fun, playful feel that stood out from more serious food court options.
7. Cinnabon
pingping on Wikimedia Commons
Cinnabon served large cinnamon rolls with thick icing, baked on-site so the smell would attract passersby. It was less about meals and more about sweet treats. The rolls were served warm and often shared between friends or families. The scent alone made many people stop, even if they hadn’t planned to.
8. McDonald’s
Dirk Tussing on Wikimedia Commons
Some mall food courts had their own McDonald’s, offering the full menu of burgers, fries, and sodas. It gave shoppers a familiar and affordable option. While not every mall had one, the ones that did often had steady lines. The brand’s presence added a sense of consistency across locations.
9. Taco Bell
Missvain on Wikimedia Commons
Taco Bell brought fast Mexican-inspired food to mall visitors. It offered tacos, burritos, and combo meals, all served fast and at low prices. The food was designed to be eaten quickly, which suited the mall environment. Its bright colors and bold signs helped it stand out.
10. Subway
Phillip Pessar on Wikimedia Commons
Subway allowed customers to build their own sandwiches, which was appealing in a setting where most options were pre-made. It focused on fresh ingredients and offered both healthy and hearty choices. The chain became a regular part of many mall food courts. Its flexible menu worked well for all ages.
11. Dairy Queen
N-Lange.de on Wikimedia Commons
Dairy Queen offered soft-serve cones, sundaes, and blended ice cream treats like the Blizzard. It was mainly a dessert stop, though some locations offered food. Shoppers often visited it at the end of their trip. The brand had a long history and was trusted by families.
12. Arby’s
Minnaert on Wikimedia Commons
Arby’s served roast beef sandwiches, curly fries, and shakes in several mall food courts. It had a slightly more unique menu than some competitors. While not as widespread in every mall, it held a strong presence in many larger centers. It appealed to shoppers who wanted something different from burgers or pizza.