Taste Tracker

Pat Cobe

Every week, Senior Menu Editor Pat Cobe takes a look at the latest new menu news from major chains and menu trends. The column features extensive work from RB Art Director Nico Heins on a visual presentation.

Food

As summer wraps up, fall menu launches gain ground

By Patricia Cobe on Sep. 07, 2021

Taste tracker: Shake Shack partners with famous chefs for LTOs; bacon and cheddar team up at Wendy’s and Schlotzsky’s; nachos and tacos trend at El Pollo Loco, Torchy’s and Taco Cabana; Dutch Bros. and Bennigan’s tout new drinks; and sweet treats get seasonal.

Food

Restaurants welcome fall with revamped menus

By Patricia Cobe on Aug. 31, 2021

September signals a new beginning, with Labor Day weekend marking the unofficial transition from summer to fall. Operators are responding to that signal with new menu launches and revamps of favorites.

Food

Restaurants riff on burgers, chicken, fries and other menu favorites

By Patricia Cobe on Aug. 24, 2021

Taco Bell pumps up the flavor of Nacho Fries; chicken rules the roost at Panda Express, Pollo Campero and Metro Diner; B. Good and Guy Fieri launch new burgers; and there’s no stopping the pumpkin spice blitz.

Food

Signs of fall coming to restaurant menus

By Patricia Cobe on Aug. 17, 2021

Taste Tracker: Dunkin’ debuts pumpkin and apple while 7-Eleven savors summer; beer cheese and pumpkin treats at Frisch’s; Dairy Queen whips up a pumpkin Blizzard; bar food gets bolder at Fox & Hound; and more menu news of the week.

Food

Plants continue to grow on menus

By Patricia Cobe on Aug. 10, 2021

Taste Tracker: Pizza Hut, Dog Haus and Lucille’s add plant-based items; it’s back-to-school time for Carl’s Jr. and McAlister’s; Red Robin heats up while BurgerFi cools off; and BBQ season is not over yet.

Food

Taste Tracker: Pumpkin spice is showing up early—but not in a latte

By Patricia Cobe on Aug. 03, 2021

Jamba jumps into fall with a smoothie; wings go pop at Dickey’s; Zaxby’s does a salad; avocados rule at Corner Bakery; and restaurants celebrate National Sandwich Month.

Food