cuisine

Customers who keep coming back are worth a lot more than just their contribution to the bottom line. Here’s how to go get them—and keep the ones you have.

The broad category of "traditional North American" has grown by 26% since 2008 and is now the most popular cuisine type listed on menus, according to Mintel Menu Insights, a resource that tracks flavor and ingredient trends in leading chain and independent restaurants.

The limitless possibilities of making a meal between two slices of bread have catapulted the sandwich into new menu territory. Breakfast and lunch sandwiches still dominate, but these days, bars and late night menus are featuring mini ethnic sandwiches and full-service restaurants tout overstuffed dinner-size versions.