Flavor

Flavors poised to pop in the year ahead

By Patricia Cobe on Jan. 24, 2025

Flavor exploration brings customers into restaurants, but what will tempt them in the months ahead? We zeroed in on the top trends to put on operators’ radar.

Food

The first pumpkin crop is already landing on menus

By Patricia Cobe on Aug. 07, 2024

Starbucks and Dunkin’ are secretive about their release dates for pumpkin drinks and treats, but some early arrivals were ready as soon as the calendar flipped to August.

Food

Burger King turns up the heat as temperatures rise

By Patricia Cobe on Jul. 11, 2024

The fast-food chain’s new Fiery Menu offers five items aimed at spice seekers, with each rated according to its heat level.

Food

KFC's chicken nuggets take on a saucier attitude

By Patricia Cobe on Mar. 29, 2024

New Saucy Nuggets come in five varieties to satisfy flavor-craving sauce fans.

Food

The year menu innovation got turbo-charged

By Patricia Cobe on Dec. 20, 2023

2023 saw a lot of menu activity and unique food and drink launches. But many operators stuck with perennial favorites for LTOs.

Food

Pumpkin spice is exploding on menus—and it's earlier than ever

By Patricia Cobe on Aug. 10, 2023

Summer’s heat wave continues to blanket the country and fall is officially more than a month away, but the influx of pumpkin on chain menus began as soon as the calendar flipped to August.

Food

Big flavors power up menus at Papa Johns, Wingstop and Piada

By Patricia Cobe on Jul. 24, 2023

Taco Bell brings back a winner; summer sipping at Wetzel’s and Haagen Dazs; Krispy Kreme and Smalls Sliders invite indulgence; and spicy shrimp comes to Salata.

Food