ingredients

The 2012 Future 50 has distinguished itself as being one of the most varied collections of menus we’ve ever featured in our annual ranking of the fastest growing small chains in the country. The largest menu category represented—“varied menu”—typifies this.

Asian, Latin and Mediterranean have dominated the "ethnic" category on menus for at least a decade. Now, Datassential's data analysis of U.S. Chains and Independents in 2012 revealed that niche ingredients and flavors within these big three are emerging.

While these sweet, mild onions are the pride of the state, chefs around the country eagerly await the first spring crops. They are deep-frying rings, garnishing burgers, creating relishes and finding plenty of tasty applications for the famous Vidalia onion.