design

Operations

El Pollo Loco plans to open a restaurant without a dining room

By Heather Lalley on Dec. 02, 2020

The fast-casual chicken chain is rolling out two new prototypes, both with a big focus on off-premise traffic.

Operations

Quick-service chains plan for a fast future

By Jonathan Maze on Nov. 24, 2020

As the pandemic hit, fast-food chains rethought their designs. Here’s a look at the most popular elements.

Operations

Winners chosen in Chicago’s outdoor dining design contest

By Heather Lalley on Oct. 08, 2020

Will cozy cabins or heated tables allow restaurants to continue service even as the weather gets colder?

Technology

Texas restaurants turn to neuroscience for menu makeovers

By Patricia Cobe on Sep. 25, 2020

Eye-tracking, heat maps and other scientific methods helped two operators optimize menu profitability.

Operations

A look inside Burger King’s new post-COVID restaurant design

By Jonathan Maze on Sep. 03, 2020

The smaller restaurant has more drive-thru lanes, drive-in spots and pickup lockers.

Operations

Food halls optimize tech and design to reopen safely

By Patricia Cobe on Aug. 31, 2020

Small tweaks and larger changes are in store for customers as they visit food halls in the age of COVID.

Emerging Brands

Buffalo Wings & Rings tries fast-casual service in new design

By Peter Romeo on Aug. 24, 2020

The high-volume chain plans to open a restaurant providing self-service as well as table service, for beer and food. New technology will be the enabler.

Financing

Taco Bell provides a glimpse of the industry’s future

By Jonathan Maze on Aug. 21, 2020

With the drive-thru and mobile ordering more important than ever, the Mexican chain’s design combining the two in a smaller box could be a sign of things to come.

Operations