"Challenges Ahead for Pandemic-Driven Delivery-Only Restaurants"

Delivery-only restaurants, born out of the pandemic, are facing uncertainty as large chains grapple with overtaxed kitchens, rising customer complaints, and a return to in-person dining. While the concept saw explosive growth during the pandemic, with investors pouring in billions of dollars and celebrities creating their own virtual brands, the challenges of maintaining quality and managing orders during peak times have led some chains to reconsider their delivery-only strategy. Despite these challenges, some chains are continuing to operate and even expand their virtual brands, while others are learning to stick with what they know best.