Best Burger In MA, New Raising Cane's: MA Food Week

MASSACHUSETTS — Welcome to Patch's weekly round up of food and restaurant news in Massachusetts, where we review openings, closings and more in the state's dining scene.

There's big news on the restaurant opening front this week across the state, plus, a local employee is in hot water for their acceptance of free meals and ski trips.

Here's what to know:

MA Gets New Raising Cane's

Raising Cane's is set to continue its New England expansion with a new restaurant in the Bay State opening this week.

The restaurant chain opened a new location in Seekonk on Tuesday, officials said. It marks the third location in Bristol County and fifth in Massachusetts.

The new location — located at 175 Highland Ave. — is opening with the theme of “Fast Times at Speedkonk” as a play on the town’s famous speedway.

Highly Anticipated Chestnut Hill Sushi Bar Opens

XOXO Sushi Bar opens on Friday featuring omakase-style presentations, à la carte sushi masterpieces, robatayaki specialties and inventive cocktails in a lively izakaya setting.

Executive chef Kegan Stritchko (Uni, Fat Baby Sushi) brings more than a decade of experience in the fine dining industry from celebrated restaurants across the country.

XOXO Sushi Bar is located at 1154 Boylston Street in Brookline’s Chestnut Hill neighborhood. It will be open for dinner service nightly from 5 to 10 p.m. with a late-night menu of handrolls and hot bites offered through 11 p.m. Sunday through Tuesday and midnight Wednesday to Saturday.

Here's what else to know from the week:

• Excessive Alcohol Deaths Surged In MA During Pandemic, CDC Says
• Free Ski Trips, Meals Land Natick Water And Sewer Employee $9K Fine
• Massachusetts Gets Another Raising Cane's This Week
• Latin Soul Food Restaurant Opens In Tewksbury
• Survey Names Best Burger Spots In Massachusetts
• Harbor Sweets Celebrates Season With Beverly, Salem Chocolate Events
• Celebrate Mass Beer Week at breweries across the state

Have dining news to announce? Email montana.samuels@patch.com with tips and press releases.