News

Why every restaurateur should remember Joe Baum

By Peter Romeo on Jun. 27, 2023

Restaurant Rewind: His touch is evident throughout the business, from putting a sparkler in a guest's birthday cake to proving themed restaurants would appeal even to an upscale clientele.

Operations

Raising Cane's global flagship restaurant opens in NYC's Times Square

By Patricia Cobe on Jun. 27, 2023

The “coming soon” sign had been lit up for two-plus years, but the 8,000-square-foot location finally opened Tuesday, with blocks-long lines of fans waiting to get in.

Consumer Trends

Consumers see full-service chains offering greater value today, even with inflation

By Peter Romeo on Jun. 27, 2023

A new American Consumer Satisfaction Index survey shows the public perceives the sector as offering better quality for the money.

Premium

Financing

Cava, Subway and Darden rescue a boring M&A market

By Jonathan Maze on Jun. 27, 2023

The Bottom Line: Restaurant M&A has been slow for the past year and a half thanks to inflation and interest rates. Could these deals change its course?

Leadership

Michael Keller named CEO, president of Jeremiah's Italian Ice

By Lisa Jennings on Jun. 27, 2023

Founder Jeremy Litwack is shifting to a brand ambassador role, and the chain is beefing up its infrastructure to support more growth.

Food

Calif. restaurants get a 6-month reprieve on pork limits

By Peter Romeo on Jun. 26, 2023

A court has ruled that establishments can continue buying pork raised under prior standards, avoiding what some feared would be a severe shortage and a spike in prices.

Food

Summer specials launch at Dunkin', Outback and Sonic ahead of July 4

By Patricia Cobe on Jun. 26, 2023

Taste Tracker: BWW and Carl’s Jr. bring the heat; Smashburger and Huddle House spotlight sauces; drinks make news at Bahama Breeze and North Italia; and an Arby’s classic returns.

Marketing

Taco John's fires back in 'Taco Tuesday' tilt

By Jonathan Maze on Jun. 26, 2023

The company said that Taco Bell’s effort to cancel its registration is designed “to sell more tacos” and cause Taco John’s “to sell less tacos.”

Operations

Are restaurant surcharges about to be added to Biden's 'junk fees' list?

By Peter Romeo on Jun. 26, 2023

Working Lunch: The industry is tacking on service fees cavalierly. Is that attitude about to backfire in the form of regulation?

Marketing

Taco Bell partners with fan girl Paris Hilton to plug return of Volcano Menu