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Financing

Expect more of the same in 2026: A bifurcated economy, slow growth and a lot of uncertainty

 By Jonathan Maze and Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 16, 2026

Projections suggest the restaurant industry can expect a better year, buoyed by easier comparisons and tax law changes. But many other factors could inhibit that growth, and not everybody will benefit.

Emerging Brands

Once known as a spirits-free bar, Bandbox adds a splash of alcohol

 By Lisa Jennings on Jan. 16, 2026

Consumers are drinking less, but not necessarily giving up booze entirely. This bar concept wants to be the place where everyone can gather for a cocktail, with or without alcohol.

Financing

Here are some companies that could, or should, go public

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 15, 2026

The Bottom Line: The public markets remain uncertain for restaurant chains, but several companies could go if it opens, and some are strong enough to go public now. Here’s a look at a few.

Food

Affordability is written into the business plans of these independent restaurants

By Patricia Cobe on Jan. 15, 2026

To build a steady stream of traffic, an urban neighborhood restaurant must offer the right menu mix, personalized hospitality and prices that won’t break the bank, say these operators. That’s how they’re thriving in a tough economy.

Operations

Here’s why you should be paying attention to hemp-THC

By Heather Lalley on Jan. 15, 2026

Retail Watch: Plus, grocery stores are trying to eat your lunch business.

Financing

Krispy Kreme is hoping for a duller 2026

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 14, 2026

The doughnut chain had a brutal 2025 with the collapse of its McDonald’s partnership and the shift in focus to cutting costs and paying down debt. The company is planning on a calmer, and better, 2026.

Food

Why grapes star in Moon Rabbit's Vietnamese New Year dessert

By Patricia Cobe on Jan. 14, 2026

Behind the Menu: Executive pastry chef Susan Bae infuses Vietnamese tradition, the Tet celebration and her childhood memories into the restaurant’s seasonal dessert.

Financing

Why are some restaurant chains struggling in Texas?

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 14, 2026

The Bottom Line: Portillo’s and Salad and Go both struggled in their bids to go big in Texas. They’re not the first restaurant chains to be enamored with the state and its growth only to stumble later.

Financing

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill carves out a niche in polished casual

By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 13, 2026

The full-service chain is hitting a sweet spot for value-conscious consumers, who are trading up and down to visit the growing brand, even at lunch.

Financing

Lessons in investing from David Rubenstein

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 13, 2026

The Bottom Line: The cofounder of The Carlyle Group, an active investor in the restaurant space, revealed the private-equity firm’s return on its McDonald’s China investment and dished out wisdom.

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