CA's First Smart Freeway | Iconic Restaurant Closing | Rats Shut Down Target |Free Chipotle: CA Business News

CALIFORNIA — This week in California business news: One fast food chain is doubling its footprint in Northern California, SpaceX's IPO could make Elon Musk a trillionaire, and the state's first "smart freeway" has officially opened.

Additionally, a new ranking found that 10 California restaurants are among the 50 best in North America.

But before getting to the biggest business stories in the Golden State, here are some of the best consumer deals of the week:

• Chipotle is giving away 53,000 free burritos tied to the 2026 NBA Finals matchup between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs. After the final game of the series, Chipotle will post a code on X — the first 53,000 people to text it will receive a coupon for a free entree. The date of the final game is pending, it could be as early as June 10 or as late as June 19. More info.
• While AAA is well known for its towing services, membership to the auto club comes with many under-the-radar perks — including generous discounts on entertainment. Members looking to enjoy the start of summer can score discounted movie and theme park tickets. Head over to the AAA website to browse a long menu of deals.

Freebies, Deals And Steals

Check out this week's top headlines for California business news on Patch:

• These 10 CA Restaurants Named Among 50 Best In North America
• A Guy Fieri-Approved BBQ Spot Is Facing An Uncertain Future Amid Neighbor Complaints
• Nation's Largest Airline Suspends Nonstop Routes At 3 CA Airports Amid Rising Fuel Costs
• This Beloved Fast Food Chain Is Doubling Its Footprint In NorCal
• SpaceX's IPO Is Set To Be The Biggest Ever And Could Make Elon Musk A Trillionaire
• Massive Drug Tunnel From Tijuana Discovered Under Fake SoCal 'Buy For Less' Store
• New CalFresh Rules Requiring Many To Work To Receive Food Benefits Go Into Effect
• CA's First 'Smart Freeway' Opens To Drivers

More Restaurant News

Gulliver's In OC To Close After Over 50 Years

Known for its prime rib, the old-school eatery in Irvine has been in business since 1970 and was once frequented by John Wayne.

Raising Cane's First Westside Location Set To Open This Month

The chicken chain will open the new location later this month.

Sora Handroll Bar Expands With New Location In Brentwood

The popular Farmers Market rooftop temaki concept is bringing its signature made-to-order sushi rolls to Brentwood.

Michelin Guide-Recognized Cloak & Petal To Open Café In San Diego

The 1,000-square-foot café will seat about 25 to 30 guests, with additional seating available in the adjacent restaurant dining room.

More Retail News

Nordstrom To Open First San Diego-Area Service Hub This Week

Unlike traditional department stores, Nordstrom Local locations focus on services such as online order pickup, returns and alterations.

Sam's Club To Anchor Commercial Project In Banning

The city said the project will bring "hundreds of jobs, major new tax revenue, and expanded affordable shopping options for local families."

BART MART Is Coming To Castro Valley

BART MART is a series of smaller pop-up art markets in BART stations.

More Business News

$10k In Stolen Yoga Clothing Recovered, Multiple Suspects Arrested After Pursuit In Bay Area: Police

Suspects fled on foot in multiple directions after a patrol officer spotted their black Range Rover and moved to stop them, police said.

Rats Spotted In Target Grocery Section Near Refrigerators, Bread Aisle In Bay Area: Report

County health inspectors confirmed the infestation at the location.

Massive Data Center Proposed For Coachella

The project, dubbed the Coachella Valley Technology Campus, would be built on at least 240 acres of agricultural land.

Embezzlement Scheme Nets East Bay Bank Employee Prison Time: DOJ

The 34-year-old admitted to the crimes back in November 2025, authorities said.