Fast_Casual

Why the social media burger wars are good for the industry

By Jonathan Maze on Mar. 06, 2026

The Week in Restaurants: This week’s episode of the weekly restaurant news discussion podcast looks at the McDonald’s-Burger King rivalry, the coffee market and what’s wrong with Sweetgreen.

Premium

Technology

An operator couldn't find the tech he needed, so he built it with AI

By Joe Guszkowski on Mar. 02, 2026

Tech Check: Pincho CEO Otto Othman is now offering his "vibe-coded" recipe manager to other restaurants. He believes tech suppliers should be concerned about the rise of AI coding tools.

Marketing

Schlotzsky's is going back to the Deli

By Jonathan Maze on Feb. 26, 2026

The fast-casual sandwich chain is changing its name again, returning to the Schlotzsky’s Deli moniker to remind customers what it’s all about. “I thought you were a dry cleaner.”

Financing

Five Guys is making some changes

By Jonathan Maze on Feb. 25, 2026

A Deeper Dive: Molly Catalano, chief marketing officer for the fast-casual burger chain, joins the restaurant finance podcast to discuss the chain’s evolution and its push into catering.

Food

Sweetgreen explores a new menu platform: Wraps

By Patricia Cobe on Feb. 24, 2026

The fast casual goes beyond the bowl and plate to showcase protein in a portable, handheld package.

Operations

RaceTrac: Don't expect a Potbelly in every convenience store

By Hannah Hammond on Feb. 19, 2026

The c-store chain said it acquired the fast-casual sandwich brand to diversify its business and that it plans to continue to grow the restaurant concept through a variety of channels.

Food

Salad concepts continue to make a move from bowls to plates

By Patricia Cobe on Feb. 18, 2026

Fast-casual Just Salad launched Build Your Own Market Plates to meet diners’ demand for customized protein-centric meals.

Leadership

Portillo's names Brett Patterson as new CEO

By Joe Guszkowski on Feb. 11, 2026

Patterson, a full-service dining veteran, replaces interim chief Michael Miles at the fast-casual hot dog chain that is going through a reset.

Technology

Wonder acquires fast casual Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken

By Joe Guszkowski on Feb. 10, 2026

The popular New York City spot is Wonder’s first restaurant acquisition, and there could be more to come as the food hall/delivery company looks to accelerate its growth.

Financing

Chipotle works to correct misleading reports about pricing