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Community invited to celebrate first Rialto Chick-fil-A opening on Jan. 31

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Up to 100 guests to earn free year of Chick-fil-A meals by participating in First 100 Campout

 

RIALTO, Calif. (Jan. 31, 2019) – Chick-fil-A will open its first Rialto restaurant on Jan. 31, bringing its handcrafted food and award-winning customer service, commitment to community engagement and hands-on mentoring for nearly 90 newly hired Team Members.

Chick-fil-A franchise owner and Operator Dave Rodriguez is inviting residents to join in the opening festivities at his new restaurant at 1150 West Renaissance Parkway by participating in a community celebration that has been a 15-year Chick-fil-A tradition. Chick-fil-A’s First 100 celebration will have given away almost $39 million through yearend 2018.

First 100 Campout event

The overnight First 100 Campout party includes engaging activities for participants who also enjoy Chick-fil-A meals throughout the countdown to the opening. Registration begins in the restaurant parking lot at 6 p.m., Jan. 30. Details include:

  • Up to 100 adults will win a digital offer card with a year of free Chick-fil-A meals (52 meals with each consisting of a Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich, medium Waffle Potato Fries and a medium beverage).
  • The community event is open to guests surrounding the restaurant with a list of eligible zip codes and complete rules found at https://thechickenwire.chick-fil-a.com/News/Future-Openings.

About Operator Dave Rodriguez

Rodriguez’s first Chick-fil-A experience came as a child in his native Texas when his family would visit a nearby mall location and he fell in love with the signature Chick-fil-A Sandwich. After graduating from Texas A&M University. Rodriguez went on to earn his MBA from the University of Dallas while building his career in the telecom field. Over the years, Rodriguez led operations for two Texas manufacturing facilities and managed an offshore partnership with China in support of the commercial aircraft industry.

Throughout his career, however, he remained a fan of Chick-fil-A and decided to explore the franchise owner opportunity by volunteering at local restaurants. It didn’t take long before he realized the brand’s focus on serving freshly prepared food and mentoring young people matched his entrepreneurial goals. He and his wife, Lisa, and their two daughters are thrilled to open the new Rialto restaurant, which brings them closer to family in Orange County, and welcome their new neighbors and friends.

“I am excited to bring Chick-fil-A’s signature handcrafted menu items and personalized customer service to Rialto,” he said. “I am committed to developing my Team Members as together we provide a remarkable experience to our guests.”

Restaurant details

Rodriguez’s new 4,500 -square-foot restaurant has been designed to enhance all aspects of a guest’s experience from the drive-thru to the counter to in-restaurant dining. Highlights include a:

  • drive-thru, merging into a single pick-up point that can handle upwards of 200 cars an hour.
  • heritage restaurant design that showcases a vintage-inspired interior with floor-to-ceiling windows and drop pendant lighting.
  • convenient way to decrease pick-up time including three entry points into the restaurant and two Chick-fil-A mobile ordering pickup parking spaces.
  • dining room with free Wi-Fi and 120 seats, along with a 16-seat outdoor patio.
  • full-service menu with a variety of healthy and dietary options and breakfast until 10:30 a.m., and will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Chick-fil-A locations are closed on Sunday to provide a day of rest and time with family and friends for team members.

Chick-fil-A in metro-Los Angeles

Chick-fil-A opened its first metro-Los Angeles restaurant at Santa Monica Place in 1980 and continued to expand into mall locations before opening its first stand-alone locations. January marks 15 years since Chick-fil-A opened its first standalone location in California in Chino Hills, followed a week later by an Irvine restaurant. Today, there are 46 Chick-fil-A restaurants within 50 miles of Los Angeles and Chick-fil-A’s West Coast corporate office is located in Irvine.

The new Highway 210 & Ayala Drive location is the fourth of five locations slated to open in the metro area in the first quarter. Chick-fil-A opened restaurants in Burbank, Riverside and Norwalk on Jan. 10. The chain’s Simi Valley location is slated to open in February. For more information about the new location, find the restaurant on Instagram at “cfarialto” or Facebook at www.facebook.com/CFARialto.

About Chick-fil-A, Inc.

Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A, Inc. is a family owned and privately held restaurant company founded in 1967 by S. Truett Cathy. Devoted to serving the local communities in which its franchised restaurants operate, and known for its original chicken sandwich, Chick-fil-A serves freshly prepared food in more than 2,400 restaurants in 47 states and Washington, D.C. Chick-fil-A reported more than $10 billion in revenue in 2018, which marks 51 consecutive years of sales growth. A leader in customer service satisfaction, consumers voted Chick-fil-A, Inc. fourth in Harris Poll’s annual corporate reputation survey, ranking the company fourth out of 100 in 2018. Chick-fil-A was also recognized for customer experience again in the 2018 Temkin Experience Ratings survey, was named “Best Franchise Brand” in 2018 by Airport Revenue News and was named one of the top 100 best places to work by Glassdoor in 2017. Continuing its founder’s legacy of generosity and service, in 2018 Chick-fil-A’s Remarkable Futures initiative awarded $14.65 million in scholarships to restaurant Team Members nationwide. In 2017 the company’s philanthropic Chick-fil-A Foundation awarded $1.23 million to 23 not-for-profit organizations across 13 states through the True Inspiration Awards. More information on Chick-fil-A is available at www.chick-fil-a.com.

The Inland Empire Business Journal (IEBJ) is the official business news publication of Southern California’s Inland Empire region - covering San Bernardino & Riverside Counties.

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Food & Lifestyle

Fogo de Chão Heats Up Rancho Cucamonga Dining Scene

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International Brazilian Steakhouse Opens with Signature Churrasco Experience and Community Commitment

RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA — October 9, 2025

The unmistakable aroma of fire-roasted meats and the rhythm of sizzling skewers have officially arrived in Rancho Cucamonga. Fogo de Chão, the globally celebrated Brazilian steakhouse, opens its newest location at 12240 Foothill Blvd. on Monday, October 13, marking the restaurant group’s 12th location in Southern California and introducing its signature Culinary Art of Churrasco to the heart of the Inland Empire.

As part of their grand opening, Fogo is donating 10% of its first week’s sales to Patria Food Distribution Center, a local nonprofit providing food relief and hope to those in need. The Rancho Cucamonga location also brings a boost to the local economy by creating over 100 jobs and offering a fresh dining experience built on tradition, hospitality, and innovation.

A Culinary Theater

Designed in collaboration with global firm Harrison, the restaurant presents an elegant yet energetic space, centered around an open churrasco grill. Guests are immersed in the Brazilian dining ritual, watching as Gaucho Chefs butcher, season, and grill premium cuts of meat over open flame. The space also includes a Market Table featuring fresh, seasonal items, a vibrant Bar Fogo, and private dining rooms tailored for everything from business meetings to milestone celebrations.

“We’re thrilled to continue our growth in Southern California with our new location in Rancho Cucamonga,” said Barry McGowan, Chief Executive Officer of Fogo de Chão. “This is a diverse and growing community, and we look forward to welcoming both new guests and loyal Fogo Fans to experience a tradition that’s rooted in authenticity.”

The Menu: Something for Everyone

The cornerstone of the Fogo experience is the Full Churrasco Experience, a prix-fixe menu that includes a never-ending tableside rotation of flame-grilled meats like bone-in ribeye, lamb chops, and Picanha (Fogo’s house specialty), paired with Brazilian sides and the Market Table’s vibrant offerings.

Other highlights include:

  • Indulgent Churrasco Experience – Adds luxury enhancements like Butter-Bathed™ Lobster Tail or Roasted Bone Marrow with dessert.
  • Best of Brazil – A limited-time curated menu available for $54.
  • Weekday Lunch – Starting at $18, a great entry point for new guests.
  • Weekend Brazilian Brunch – Features brunch classics fused with churrasco, plus waffle and omelet stations.
  • Bar Fogo – Offers all-day happy hour with $10 cocktails, $8 wines, $5 beers, and bites like the $10 Picanha Burger and Lobster & Shrimp Tacos.
  • Wagyu Experiences – Including a 20 oz. New York Strip carved tableside and a dry-aged Tomahawk Ribeye.

Health-conscious and dietary-aware diners will find inclusive options like Chilean Sea Bass, Seared Tofu & Black Bean Pasta, and Cauliflower Steak—ensuring every guest, regardless of preference, has a satisfying option.

At the Helm: A Local Leader with National Roots

The new Rancho Cucamonga location is led by General Manager Jenna Peterson, a standout Fogo team member who started in 2021 as a bartender and rose through the ranks from Portland to Huntington Beach. Her leadership reflects the brand’s commitment to internal growth and exceptional service.

With over 60 locations worldwide, Fogo de Chão continues to expand its footprint while staying true to its roots—bringing authentic Brazilian hospitality and culinary artistry to every city it enters.

Family-Friendly, Business-Ready

Fogo is built for everyone—from corporate groups to families. Children under six dine free, and kids aged 7–12 eat at half price. The location also offers customizable group dining packages, dedicated event managers, and A/V-equipped private rooms, making it an ideal choice for business functions, celebrations, and special events.

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Food & Lifestyle

Sanctity Hotel, a Tapestry Collection by Hilton, Opens in Rancho Cucamonga With City’s First Rooftop Bar and Durango-Inspired Dining

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Elevating Rancho Cucamonga: Sanctity Hotel Introduces Luxurious Retreat and Premier Rooftop Dining Experience

Rancho Cucamonga is stepping into the spotlight as a premier travel and lifestyle destination with the opening of Sanctity Hotel and Durango Cocina & Rooftop Bar on April 3. As the city experiences rapid growth—including the upcoming Brightline West high-speed rail connecting travelers to Las Vegas—Sanctity Hotel marks a new chapter in elevated hospitality with its retreat-style accommodations, advanced wellness therapy offerings and a first-of-its-kind restaurant and rooftop dining experience.

The Five Elements

A Tapestry Collection by Hilton™ hotel, the 68-room property redefines luxury in Rancho Cucamonga with premium amenities, including a gym, sauna, and Thriv Studio —offering advanced wellness therapies. Designed to embody the five elements of life—earth, water, fire, air and space—Sanctity Hotel offers a feeling of balance and tranquility whether you are traveling for business, leisure or in groups. 

“Bringing Sanctity Hotel and Durango Cocina to life has been a dream come true. Every detail tells a story, inviting guests to experience something truly unique to the area,” says Sachin Bhakta, Vice President of Development at Globiwest Hospitality. “Rancho Cucamonga is an incredible community, and we wanted to create a space that feels like a true retreat—where guests can unwind, experience exceptional hospitality, and enjoy amazing food and drink at Durango Cocina.” 

Design Inspired by the Five Elements and Natural Craftsmanship

Sanctity Hotel’s design is a modern interpretation of the five fundamental elements—earth, water, fire, air, and space—woven into every detail of the property. Inspired by the palaces of India and brought to life with natural materials, the interiors are grounded in earth through the use of hand-carved Parota wood sourced from Mexico. From sculptural headboards and coffee tables to the front desk, each piece is crafted from single cuts of real wood, free of synthetic materials. Air and space are reflected in the open layouts and expansive flow of the property, including Rancho Cucamonga’s first rooftop bar. Fire comes to life through the warmth and energy of Durango Cocina, the hotel’s signature restaurant. Water is symbolized by a cascading waterfall feature in the hotel lobby, welcoming guests with a sense of movement and tranquility. Guest rooms feature 100% recycled organic textiles, while original works by Mexico City-based artist and yogi Enrique de Anda add spiritual depth—merging nature, energy, and design in harmonious balance.

For guests seeking wellness treatments, Thriv Studio offers an advanced, holistic approach to relaxation and rejuvenation with innovative services like Lymphatic Drainage Therapy, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Infrared Ozone Therapy, and BrainTap Therapy—each designed to enhance mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Communal hotel amenities include a gym and sauna, a spacious private meeting room and function space, and indoor and outdoor event space for celebrating any occasion.

Durango-Inspired Cuisine 

Led by Chef Alex Carrasco, a Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient, Durango Cocina’s menu pays tribute to the culinary heritage of Durango, Mexico, while integrating locally sourced ingredients and modern cooking techniques. Brought to life by Boulevard Hospitality Group, the dynamic new concept brings a vibrant culinary destination and the city’s first rooftop dining experience. 

Set against expansive mountain views, Rancho Cucamonga’s first rooftop bar features serpentine-style seating and cabana sections surrounding cozy fire pits, and offers guests menu options like its Ceviche and an extensive mezcal and tequila selection, handcrafted cocktails, fine wines, and house-made agua frescas.

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Food & Lifestyle

Amazon Fresh Opens First San Bernardino County Location in Fontana, Elevating Grocery Shopping in the Inland Empire

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Amazon Fresh Brings Cutting-Edge Grocery Experience to Inland Empire with New Fontana Location

Amazon continues to expand its footprint in the grocery sector with the grand opening of its first Amazon Fresh store in San Bernardino County, located in the bustling city of Fontana. The store, which opened its doors on September 12, 2024, brings Amazon’s unique combination of technology-driven convenience and high-quality products to the Inland Empire.

Situated at 16188 S. Highland Ave., the Fontana Amazon Fresh store offers customers a modern grocery shopping experience. With a vast selection of national brands, fresh produce, meats, seafood, and a variety of freshly prepared meals, the store caters to a broad spectrum of consumer needs. Amazon Fresh’s private labels, such as Aplenty, Amazon Fresh, and 365 by Whole Foods Market, are also available at competitive prices.

This new Amazon Fresh location is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to enhancing grocery shopping both online and in-store. It is designed with Amazon’s latest brick-and-mortar layout, previously introduced in select stores across Chicago and Southern California. The design focuses on convenience, value, and a diverse array of grocery items, including more than 500 regional brands such as Caulipower, McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams, and Rockenwagner Bakery​.

Amazon Fresh’s arrival in Fontana has a broader impact on the community beyond just groceries. The store is creating dozens of jobs for local residents and is also partnering with Feeding America Riverside | San Bernardino to donate surplus food. This initiative aligns with Amazon’s efforts to give back to the communities where they operate​.

Prime members shopping at this location can enjoy exclusive savings, including a 10% discount on hundreds of products each week, and discounts of up to 50% on select grocery favorites. In addition to a wide selection of products, customers will find grab-and-go meals, sandwiches, and ready-to-cook options, offering convenience for busy families​.

“We’re thrilled to open our newest Amazon Fresh grocery store right here in the heart of the Inland Empire,” said Kevin Johnson, Amazon Fresh Regional Manager. “This opening invites customers in Fontana to experience grocery shopping with Amazon Fresh, both in-store and online.

The store is open seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., providing ample time for customers to shop at their convenience. As with other Amazon Fresh locations, the Fontana store also integrates seamlessly with Amazon’s online grocery services, allowing customers to shop online for home delivery or in-store pickup, further streamlining the grocery shopping experience​.

Amazon’s commitment to innovation, community, and customer satisfaction continues to reshape how Inland Empire residents experience grocery shopping. This latest opening in Fontana is expected to serve as a cornerstone for future expansions in the region.

For more information about Amazon Fresh and the products available, visit the store in Fontana or check out Amazon’s grocery services online.

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