Restaurant news is still dismal, here and nationally. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a continuing food-service job loss in January, down 19,000.

But some industry-watchers are tracking the surge in delivery-only “ghost” restaurants — no storefront at all — wondering whether the stay-home trend will outlive the pandemic.

Those wanting to support Hawaii mom-and-pop business should check twice any seemingly local ghost. Despite the “Eat Local” campaign, it actually could be a national chain’s brand.