Beverage

With the thirst for craft soft drinks seemingly unquenchable, beverage concepts are booming

Specialized beverage chains are meeting the demand for affordable, innovative refreshment breaks, and the big guys are taking notice. Taco Bell, McDonald’s and others are drinking the Kool-Aid.
Boba tea is trending on drink menus. | Illustration by Nico Heins/Midjourney

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Financing

Crumbl has a math problem

The Bottom Line: The cookie chain’s franchise disclosure document shows some opportunities and challenges among its franchisee base. But it also shows why it’s important to pay attention to how a brand reports its numbers.

Operations

Wine concepts were the surprise toast of casual dining last year

Despite a nationwide slump in wine sales, wine-centric casual-dining chains like Sixty Vines and Postino are booming. Here’s their recipe for success.

Leadership

How one of the nation's top-grossing restaurateurs is navigating the toughest economic climate ever

Stephen Starr's company has nine concepts on the Top 100 list of top-performing independent restaurants, more than any other operator. But he says if he had to start over now, he's not sure he could build what he built.