I Heart Mac & Cheese, a comfort food franchise, faces challenges despite its popularity. The chain has seen a significant decrease in locations, with many closing due to various issues. Legal cases in Indiana and California highlight alleged violations and misrepresentations by the company, leading to closures and financial losses for franchisees. MapQuest lists the 105 location in College Hill, Cincinnati as “Permanently closed” after less than a year of opening, with a closure date of October 20, 2025. Another location in Dallas, Texas at 489-499 N. Houston St. is also listed as “Permanently closed.”

I Heart Mac & Cheese faces challenges due to rising restaurant cost of goods sold (COGS). BMO reported significant increases in chicken breast (55-70%), while chicken wing prices have decreased. Beef prices have remained stable, with a 5% increase, and dairy prices have increased across all subsegments.

TheStreet reported on Nov 2, 2025, that I Heart Mac & Cheese is closing locations due to legal issues and rising COGS. This information was first published in the Restaurant section, highlighting the impact of inflation on the restaurant industry.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Comfort fast-food chain closes dozens of restaurants