Family Dining

I’m excited to refresh a regular column that had been a staple of Restaurant Business for years. Here are my picks for the week’s (give or take a day or two) best ideas—plus one of the worst.

The tax law will foster an upswing in spending within franchised restaurants, while a friendlier business climate will have a positive effect on expansion plans, the International Franchise Association says.

Some restaurants are putting a unique spin on things by fusing traditional Mexican ingredients with classic American dishes. Here’s a sample of some tried-and-true menu items that incorporate these fresh flavors.