Celebrity Chicken Restaurant Closes + Oktoberfest Events: 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.

This week, we learned that Shaquille O'Neal's Big Chicken restaurant is closing its doors at Peabody's Northshore Mall.

The location was the franchise's first in Massachusetts, with plans for a second location on the North Shore slated for North Beverly. It opened at the mall in 2024.

Oktoberfest season is also underway this weekend, with events slated over the next two weekends at Jack's Abby in Framingham and new brews from local breweries including Jack's Abby and Mighty Squirrel.

Here's what else was cooking in Massachusetts this week:

• Shaquille O'Neal's Big Chicken Closes At Peabody Northshore Mall
• Starbucks Plans Store Closures, Layoffs: What To Know In MA
• Gloucester Seafood Restaurant Owner To Open Second Location In Downtown Danvers
• Asian Restaurant Coming To Mass Ave In Arlington: Report
• "Survivor" Fan Experience To Open At Boston Bar For Season 49
• It's Always Sunny In Boston: TV Star Scheduled For Bar Appearances On Whiskey Promo Run
• Kids Fruit Pouches Recalled; Were Sold At Major Retailer In MA
• MA's Mighty Squirrel Brewing Rolls Out Fall Brews Ahead Of Oktoberfest
• Jack's Abby Kicks Off Oktoberfest Events This Week: Lineup, Beer Releases
• National Salad Chain Opens Latest Restaurant In Framingham
• Braintree Food Truck Wednesdays Continuing Through October