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2019 brings a rash of restaurant name changes

Shorter became better as potentially limiting terms were lopped off. By Peter Romeo on Dec. 27, 2019
dunkin
Photograph: Shutterstock

What’s in a name? Far too much, according to the handful of restaurant operations that made name shortening a sleeper trend of 2019.  They decided that specificity was a detriment as they endeavored to broaden their appeal beyond a single menu item or trademark.

Here’s a sampling of names that changed during the year.

Dunkin’ Donuts >>> Dunkin’

Jamba Juice >>> Jamba

Dig Inn >>> Dig

Pincho Grill >>> Pincho

Famous Dave’s of America >>> BBQ Holdings

Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar >>> Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux

Click here to see more of the top restaurant trends from 2019.

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Peter Romeo has covered the restaurant industry since 1984 for a variety of media. As Editor At Large for Restaurant Business, his current beats are government affairs, labor and family dining. He is also the publication's unofficial historian.  
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