Story perspectives
Phone-Free Dining Expands Nationwide as Gen Z Disconnects
4/15/2026
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Story summary
- Phone-free restaurants are expanding to at least 11 states and the District of Columbia, including California and Texas.
- Antagonist in Charlotte requires guests to lock away their phones.
- Chick-fil-A in Maryland offers incentives for phone-free meals.
- Gen Z drives the trend, with 63% choosing to disconnect.
- Research links heavy phone use to diminished attention and social connection.
