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

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