<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"><channel><title><![CDATA[Restaurant - Newslocker]]></title><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/</link><atom:link rel="self" href="https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/rss/1000/" /><atom:link rel="hub" href="http://pubsubhubbub.appspot.com" /><description><![CDATA[Find your latest Restaurant news with just one click. Don't miss out on anything happening in your profession!]]></description><language>en-us</language><copyright>Copyright (C) 2026 newslocker.com</copyright><lastBuildDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 18:12:00 +0200</lastBuildDate><item><title><![CDATA[Chick-fil-A is bringing back its best-selling seasonal offering of all time]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food chicken chain&rsquo;s signature Cow Appreciation Day also returns for the first time since the pandemic]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chick-fil-a-is-bringing-back-its-best-selling-seasonal-offering-of-all-time/</link><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 18:12:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chick-fil-a-is-bringing-back-its-best-selling-seasonal-offering-of-all-time/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Raising Cane’s plans another flagship restaurant in Los Angeles]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual chicken chain will open a location this month near SoFi Stadium and Intuit Dome]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/raising-canes-plans-another-flagship-restaurant-in-los-angeles/</link><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 17:37:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/raising-canes-plans-another-flagship-restaurant-in-los-angeles/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Firebirds CEO details casual chain’s unique approach to value through experience]]></title><description><![CDATA[Steve Kislow shares the branding and service components that build loyalty with guests]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/firebirds-ceo-details-casual-chains-unique-approach-to-value-through-experience/</link><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 16:49:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/firebirds-ceo-details-casual-chains-unique-approach-to-value-through-experience/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Pizza Hut, Dutch Bros and Logan’s Roadhouse]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pizza-hut-dutch-bros-and-logans-roadhouse/</link><pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 13:10:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pizza-hut-dutch-bros-and-logans-roadhouse/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Clover Food Lab gets a lifeline]]></title><description><![CDATA[The plant-based chain said it will reopen its doors next week after finalizing a deal to remain open]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/clover-food-lab-gets-a-lifeline/</link><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 23:33:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/clover-food-lab-gets-a-lifeline/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Logan’s Roadhouse is testing THC cocktails]]></title><description><![CDATA[Three new beverages infused with hemp-derived THC are hitting the menu at 14 locations in Texas.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/logans-roadhouse-is-testing-thc-cocktails/</link><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 20:00:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/logans-roadhouse-is-testing-thc-cocktails/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[29 restaurant executives on the move in May, including CEO changes at Wendy’s, Jack in the Box, and Miller’s Ale House]]></title><description><![CDATA[From a veteran taking the helm at Wendy&rsquo;s to the founders of Crumbl stepping back, it was a busy month]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/29-restaurant-executives-on-the-move-in-may-including-ceo-changes-at-wendys-jack-in-the-box-and-millers-ale-house/</link><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 18:58:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/29-restaurant-executives-on-the-move-in-may-including-ceo-changes-at-wendys-jack-in-the-box-and-millers-ale-house/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle is giving away burritos for the NBA finals]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual Mexican chain has also teamed up with New York Knicks guards Josh Hart and Mikal Bridges for new digital menu items]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-is-giving-away-burritos-for-the-nba-finals/</link><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:39:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-is-giving-away-burritos-for-the-nba-finals/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Nation’s Restaurant News debuts video series with its food editor]]></title><description><![CDATA[In the Kitchen with Bret Thorn features chefs demonstrating signature techniques and dishes at their restaurants]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nations-restaurant-news-debuts-video-series-with-its-food-editor/</link><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:17:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nations-restaurant-news-debuts-video-series-with-its-food-editor/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Five Iron Golf launches tournaments, with real money on the line]]></title><description><![CDATA[Customers can compete against other golfers in real time at locations across the U.S.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/five-iron-golf-launches-tournaments-with-real-money-on-the-line/</link><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:10:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/five-iron-golf-launches-tournaments-with-real-money-on-the-line/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Little Ceasars launches Amazon Prime Day deal]]></title><description><![CDATA[The offer includes $5 pepperoni and cheese pizzas for Prime members]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/little-ceasars-launches-amazon-prime-day-deal/</link><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 16:24:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/little-ceasars-launches-amazon-prime-day-deal/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s, Shake Shack and Yum Brands]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-shake-shack-and-yum-brands/</link><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 13:15:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-shake-shack-and-yum-brands/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Coming soon to Sweetgreen: A test of lower prices]]></title><description><![CDATA[Chief Commercial Officer Zipporah Allen said the fast-casual chain plans to start testing a new pricing architecture this month. The chain&rsquo;s biggest barrier is its perception of value.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/coming-soon-to-sweetgreen-a-test-of-lower-prices/</link><pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:02:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/coming-soon-to-sweetgreen-a-test-of-lower-prices/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Trending this week: Dairy Queen is giving cash to franchisees that open new locations]]></title><description><![CDATA[See which stories readers couldn't get enough of]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-dairy-queen-is-giving-cash-to-franchisees-that-open-new-locations/</link><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 22:20:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-dairy-queen-is-giving-cash-to-franchisees-that-open-new-locations/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Investment Summit returns to CREATE to connect emerging brands with investors]]></title><description><![CDATA[Chipotle CEO Scott Boatwright to keynote special CREATE session focused on growth and finance for leaders of emerging restaurants]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/investment-summit-returns-to-create-to-connect-emerging-brands-with-investors/</link><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 21:52:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/investment-summit-returns-to-create-to-connect-emerging-brands-with-investors/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[This Chattanooga restaurant sells mezcal distilled with chicken]]></title><description><![CDATA[Little Coyote&rsquo;s pechuga program turns novelty into customer loyalty]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/this-chattanooga-restaurant-sells-mezcal-distilled-with-chicken/</link><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 20:08:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/this-chattanooga-restaurant-sells-mezcal-distilled-with-chicken/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[In a tough restaurant market, business dining is a bright spot]]></title><description><![CDATA[Spending is outpacing the broader industry as in-office work and business travel bounce back, according to a report from Dinova.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/in-a-tough-restaurant-market-business-dining-is-a-bright-spot/</link><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 18:38:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/in-a-tough-restaurant-market-business-dining-is-a-bright-spot/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Popeyes brings back its $6 Big Box]]></title><description><![CDATA[The limited-time offering is part of the chain&rsquo;s focus on providing everyday value to consumers following several quarterly sales declines]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/popeyes-brings-back-its-6-big-box/</link><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 18:33:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/popeyes-brings-back-its-6-big-box/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Tracy Skeans is retiring from Yum Brands]]></title><description><![CDATA[She has been with the company for more than 25 years, including as chief operating officer and chief people and culture officer]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tracy-skeans-is-retiring-from-yum-brands/</link><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 18:03:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tracy-skeans-is-retiring-from-yum-brands/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dimitri Zafeiropoulos promotes the diversity of Greek wines at Estiatorio Milos]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fine-dining concept&rsquo;s beverage director is also introducing summertime spritzes]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dimitri-zafeiropoulos-promotes-the-diversity-of-greek-wines-at-estiatorio-milos/</link><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 18:00:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dimitri-zafeiropoulos-promotes-the-diversity-of-greek-wines-at-estiatorio-milos/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Michael White makes his Dallas debut with two original concepts, Lions Den and Bar Leonessa]]></title><description><![CDATA[The restaurant and cocktail lounge are part of the 103-year-old Stoneleigh hotel&rsquo;s recent transformation]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/michael-white-makes-his-dallas-debut-with-two-original-concepts-lions-den-and-bar-leonessa/</link><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 17:57:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/michael-white-makes-his-dallas-debut-with-two-original-concepts-lions-den-and-bar-leonessa/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Mike Burns named CEO of Cafe Rio Fresh Modern Mexican]]></title><description><![CDATA[He most recently served as CEO of Latitude Food Group, parent company of &amp;pizza and Tijuana Flats]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mike-burns-named-ceo-of-cafe-rio-fresh-modern-mexican/</link><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 15:36:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mike-burns-named-ceo-of-cafe-rio-fresh-modern-mexican/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Shake Shack stock takes a hit after it lowers sales guidance]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual burger chain lowered its expectations for sales and profitability, citing economic uncertainty and competition.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/shake-shack-stock-takes-a-hit-after-it-lowers-sales-guidance/</link><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 15:11:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/shake-shack-stock-takes-a-hit-after-it-lowers-sales-guidance/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Qdoba, Chipotle and Papa Johns]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/qdoba-chipotle-and-papa-johns/</link><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 14:15:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/qdoba-chipotle-and-papa-johns/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s FIFA World Cup campaign includes a meal, cup collection and a lot of athletes]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food giant revealed its global marketing strategy around the event, which will feature a heavy dose of Grimace along with Squishmallows.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-fifa-world-cup-campaign-includes-a-meal-cup-collection-and-a-lot-of-athletes/</link><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 13:37:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-fifa-world-cup-campaign-includes-a-meal-cup-collection-and-a-lot-of-athletes/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald's Refresher launch signals mainstream moment for fruity drinks]]></title><description><![CDATA[LTO mentions are up 424% as chains from Starbucks to Sonic chase younger consumers who prefer customizable, caffeine-optional beverages over bitter coffee and tea]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-refresher-launch-signals-mainstream-moment-for-fruity-drinks/</link><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 02:16:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-refresher-launch-signals-mainstream-moment-for-fruity-drinks/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why Penn Station East Coast Subs is now Penn Station Sandwiches]]></title><description><![CDATA[The 316-unit fast-casual chain still has hot subs. But now the menu includes cold sandwiches on nine-grain sliced bread, as well as wraps and bowls&mdash;all dishes that travel better for delivery.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-penn-station-east-coast-subs-is-now-penn-station-sandwiches/</link><pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:19:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-penn-station-east-coast-subs-is-now-penn-station-sandwiches/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New restaurant concept Piebird opens at DoubleTree by Hilton]]></title><description><![CDATA[Hilton&rsquo;s &ldquo;upper midscale&rdquo; hotel brand has plans to expand the concept across the U.S., offering a menu of American comfort food with a modern spin.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-restaurant-concept-piebird-opens-at-doubletree-by-hilton/</link><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 22:58:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-restaurant-concept-piebird-opens-at-doubletree-by-hilton/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Erbert &amp;amp; Gerbert&rsquo;s names Mark Kocer CEO]]></title><description><![CDATA[The industry veteran joins the 60-unit regional chain as it ratchets up expansion. Former CEO and owner Eric Wolfe moves to a chief development officer role.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/erbert-ampamp-gerbertrsquos-names-mark-kocer-ceo/</link><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 22:45:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/erbert-ampamp-gerbertrsquos-names-mark-kocer-ceo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wendy’s new CEO, Starbucks AI walk-back, and CAVA’s big quarter]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, movie promotions and an international brand that&rsquo;s exiting the U.S.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-new-ceo-starbucks-ai-walk-back-and-cavas-big-quarter/</link><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 19:29:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-new-ceo-starbucks-ai-walk-back-and-cavas-big-quarter/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chicago’s Smyth is the best restaurant in North America, according to 50 Best]]></title><description><![CDATA[New York dominates the list overall, tallying 13 restaurants in the top 50]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chicagos-smyth-is-the-best-restaurant-in-north-america-according-to-50-best/</link><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 18:12:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chicagos-smyth-is-the-best-restaurant-in-north-america-according-to-50-best/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chagee, Red Lobster, the economy]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chagee-red-lobster-the-economy/</link><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:49:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chagee-red-lobster-the-economy/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Papa Johns opens Pizza Planet popups for Toy Story collab]]></title><description><![CDATA[The experience coincides with the pizza chain&rsquo;s limited-time themed menu in celebration of the movie&rsquo;s release June 19]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-opens-pizza-planet-popups-for-toy-story-collab/</link><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:46:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-opens-pizza-planet-popups-for-toy-story-collab/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Qdoba completes $435 million whole business securitization]]></title><description><![CDATA[The capital will be used to support the fast-casual Mexican chain&rsquo;s continued expansion]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/qdoba-completes-435-million-whole-business-securitization/</link><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 15:37:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/qdoba-completes-435-million-whole-business-securitization/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle is testing happy hour pricing in three markets]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual Mexican chain is offering the $2.50 tacos in Kansas City, Orlando and Tampa through June 2]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-is-testing-happy-hour-pricing-in-three-markets/</link><pubDate>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 13:41:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-is-testing-happy-hour-pricing-in-three-markets/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Miami chef Olivia Ostrow has (finally) recreated a true French baguette. Naturally, a sandwich concept is next.]]></title><description><![CDATA[The owner of Maison Ostrow this week launched the fast-casual Maison Baguette, with big plans for growth. She has been called &ldquo;the queen of kosher&rdquo; for her Glatt menu.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/miami-chef-olivia-ostrow-has-finally-recreated-a-true-french-baguette-naturally-a-sandwich-concept-is-next/</link><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 22:32:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/miami-chef-olivia-ostrow-has-finally-recreated-a-true-french-baguette-naturally-a-sandwich-concept-is-next/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jack in the Box is debuting a new ‘Hot Ones’ Munchie Meal]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food chain is bringing back some old items and debuting some new ones in partnership with the YouTube program.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-is-debuting-a-new-hot-ones-munchie-meal/</link><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 19:45:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-is-debuting-a-new-hot-ones-munchie-meal/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[From food trucks to cruise ships: Custom kitchen solutions]]></title><description><![CDATA[When chefs and restaurants invest in RATIONAL, the company invests in them.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/from-food-trucks-to-cruise-ships-custom-kitchen-solutions/</link><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 19:22:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/from-food-trucks-to-cruise-ships-custom-kitchen-solutions/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Red Lobster to close Times Square location, citing construction]]></title><description><![CDATA[Ongoing work on the building has hurt traffic, the company said, and it will close for good on June 14.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/red-lobster-to-close-times-square-location-citing-construction/</link><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 18:47:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/red-lobster-to-close-times-square-location-citing-construction/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: Rabbit curry and springtime halibut]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus Hawaiian-inspired short ribs, Puerto Rican-inspired tenderloin, and a clarified Pi&ntilde;a Colada-Daiquiri mashup]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-rabbit-curry-and-springtime-halibut/</link><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 18:32:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-rabbit-curry-and-springtime-halibut/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from Chick-fil-A, Taco Bell, and Pizza Hut]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at Jack in the Box, Jersey Mike's, Panda Express, Olive Garden, Tropical Smoothie Cafe, Whataburger, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-chick-fil-a-taco-bell-and-pizza-hut/</link><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 16:40:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-chick-fil-a-taco-bell-and-pizza-hut/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Tilman Fertitta, Del Taco, Clover Food Lab]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tilman-fertitta-del-taco-clover-food-lab/</link><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 16:26:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tilman-fertitta-del-taco-clover-food-lab/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Del Taco comes out with a new value menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food Mexican chain is launching the "Get A Lot For What You&rsquo;ve Got" menu, with 11 items starting at $1]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/del-taco-comes-out-with-a-new-value-menu/</link><pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2026 23:15:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/del-taco-comes-out-with-a-new-value-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Saladworks parent Woworks adds to its C-suite]]></title><description><![CDATA[The restaurant chain operator, which also owns concepts like Frutta Bowls and Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh, named James Walker chief growth officer and Nolan Woods chief operating officer.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/saladworks-parent-woworks-adds-to-its-c-suite/</link><pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2026 22:14:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/saladworks-parent-woworks-adds-to-its-c-suite/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Tilman Fertitta to acquire Caesars Entertainment for $5.7B]]></title><description><![CDATA[The deal, which also includes $11.9 billion in debt, would create a giant network of casinos, hotels and restaurants.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tilman-fertitta-to-acquire-caesars-entertainment-for-57b/</link><pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2026 21:02:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tilman-fertitta-to-acquire-caesars-entertainment-for-57b/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Portillo's opens first airport location at Dallas Fort Worth International]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual chain hopes the airport unit will build brand awareness in Texas and demonstrate how the brand can perform in a small format.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/portillos-opens-first-airport-location-at-dallas-fort-worth-international/</link><pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2026 20:17:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/portillos-opens-first-airport-location-at-dallas-fort-worth-international/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Drone delivery company Matternet to go public]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company, which is working with Dave&rsquo;s Hot Chicken, will go public via reverse merger]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/drone-delivery-company-matternet-to-go-public/</link><pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2026 19:35:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/drone-delivery-company-matternet-to-go-public/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[For Tommy Bahama, restaurants and retail are a potent pairing]]></title><description><![CDATA[The clothing company has carved out a unique niche in casual dining with its combination of retail stores and restaurants.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/for-tommy-bahama-restaurants-and-retail-are-a-potent-pairing/</link><pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2026 18:34:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/for-tommy-bahama-restaurants-and-retail-are-a-potent-pairing/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How Mendocino Farms is setting the pace for fast casual’s future]]></title><description><![CDATA[CEO Kevin Miles and CMO Alicia Mowder share how a commitment to quality is fueling the chain&rsquo;s fast growth]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-mendocino-farms-is-setting-the-pace-for-fast-casuals-future/</link><pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2026 17:23:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-mendocino-farms-is-setting-the-pace-for-fast-casuals-future/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Europe's fast food menu trends may be heading for U.S. shores]]></title><description><![CDATA[QSR operators looking for the next menu sensation may want to consider the crousty or a dip flight, just two of the items trending across the Atlantic.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/europes-fast-food-menu-trends-may-be-heading-for-us-shores/</link><pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2026 16:40:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/europes-fast-food-menu-trends-may-be-heading-for-us-shores/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jersey Mike’s, Chili’s, Tropical Smoothie]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jersey-mikes-chilis-tropical-smoothie/</link><pubDate>Thu, 28 May 2026 15:01:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jersey-mikes-chilis-tropical-smoothie/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dairy Queen is giving cash to franchisees that open new locations]]></title><description><![CDATA[The new program gives operators $150,000 in cash to franchisees that open one of its Grill &amp; Chill location on time]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dairy-queen-is-giving-cash-to-franchisees-that-open-new-locations/</link><pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2026 23:46:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dairy-queen-is-giving-cash-to-franchisees-that-open-new-locations/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Hot Head Burritos founder, CEO Ray Wiley dies at age 60]]></title><description><![CDATA[Wiley founded the now 85-unit fast-casual chain in 2007. The company has named co-owner Kelly Gray to the role of president, and Peter Wiley has moved to vice president.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/hot-head-burritos-founder-ceo-ray-wiley-dies-at-age-60/</link><pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2026 20:17:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/hot-head-burritos-founder-ceo-ray-wiley-dies-at-age-60/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Playa Bowls enhances leadership to support North American expansion]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: New leadership expands development, marketing, and digital capabilities to support robust unit growth pipeline]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/playa-bowls-enhances-leadership-to-support-north-american-expansion/</link><pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2026 19:50:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/playa-bowls-enhances-leadership-to-support-north-american-expansion/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Your packaging is now your dining room: How QSR brands are winning in off-premise dining]]></title><description><![CDATA[The QSR experience has moved beyond the dining room. From delivery to drive-thru, packaging is now one of the most important customer touchpoints and the brands using it strategically are gaining an edge.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/your-packaging-is-now-your-dining-room-how-qsr-brands-are-winning-in-off-premise-dining/</link><pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2026 19:30:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/your-packaging-is-now-your-dining-room-how-qsr-brands-are-winning-in-off-premise-dining/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jersey Mike’s leases space for new headquarters]]></title><description><![CDATA[The sandwich chain has moved to a more than 70,000 square feet in Tinton Falls, N.J., not far from the former base.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jersey-mikes-leases-space-for-new-headquarters/</link><pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2026 19:19:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jersey-mikes-leases-space-for-new-headquarters/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[KFC launches Supergirl-themed meals ahead of movie launch]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Ultimate Meal, Combo Meal and Krypto Collectible Bucket drop before the film&rsquo;s June 24 release]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfc-launches-supergirl-themed-meals-ahead-of-movie-launch/</link><pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2026 17:14:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfc-launches-supergirl-themed-meals-ahead-of-movie-launch/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Cinnabon upgrades its coffee program in a bid for more frequency]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Atlanta-based cinnamon roll chain will start serving Seattle&rsquo;s Best Coffee nationwide]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cinnabon-upgrades-its-coffee-program-in-a-bid-for-more-frequency/</link><pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2026 17:14:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cinnabon-upgrades-its-coffee-program-in-a-bid-for-more-frequency/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chili's teams up with Lizzo for new Baby Back Ribs jingle]]></title><description><![CDATA[The singer puts her spin on the classic tune to promote Chili's new ribs.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-teams-up-with-lizzo-for-new-baby-back-ribs-jingle/</link><pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2026 17:03:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-teams-up-with-lizzo-for-new-baby-back-ribs-jingle/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle tests crispy chicken]]></title><description><![CDATA[The protein has been spotted in select restaurants of the fast-casual Mexican chain in California]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-tests-crispy-chicken/</link><pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2026 16:24:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-tests-crispy-chicken/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Guzman y Gomez, McDonald&rsquo;s and I Heart Mac &amp;amp; Cheese]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/guzman-y-gomez-mcdonaldrsquos-and-i-heart-mac-ampamp-cheese/</link><pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2026 15:53:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/guzman-y-gomez-mcdonaldrsquos-and-i-heart-mac-ampamp-cheese/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wingstop launches ‘experience-led’ loyalty program]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chicken wing chain is partnering with reality TV star Maura Higgins for an exclusive and curated &ldquo;Club in a Box&rdquo;]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wingstop-launches-experience-led-loyalty-program/</link><pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2026 15:46:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wingstop-launches-experience-led-loyalty-program/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Pizza Hut introduces Crispy Parm Pan Pizza]]></title><description><![CDATA[The new offering is part of the fast-food pizza chain&rsquo;s Hut Crust platform introduced earlier this year to promote its different crust options]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pizza-hut-introduces-crispy-parm-pan-pizza/</link><pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2026 15:05:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pizza-hut-introduces-crispy-parm-pan-pizza/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: Thai-Japanese salmon and Indian-Mexican shawarma]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus pea soup with leek foam, a peach cocktail, and an Ib&eacute;rico pork chop]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-thai-japanese-salmon-and-indian-mexican-shawarma/</link><pubDate>Fri, 22 May 2026 20:28:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-thai-japanese-salmon-and-indian-mexican-shawarma/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Hopdoddy takes a shot at its competitors with new campaign]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual restaurant will give away free burgers at one of its Austin locations next Thursday to kick off its &ldquo;Obsession&rdquo; campaign]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/hopdoddy-takes-a-shot-at-its-competitors-with-new-campaign/</link><pubDate>Fri, 22 May 2026 18:24:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/hopdoddy-takes-a-shot-at-its-competitors-with-new-campaign/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Giordano’s ties its newest discount to gas prices]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Chicago-based pizza chain is rolling out a promotion giving customers a discount based on the price of a gallon of gas in its hometown]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/giordanos-ties-its-newest-discount-to-gas-prices/</link><pubDate>Fri, 22 May 2026 17:55:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/giordanos-ties-its-newest-discount-to-gas-prices/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from KFC, Taco Bell, and Panera]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at Buffalo Wild Wings, Church&rsquo;s Texas Chicken, Friendly's, La Madeleine, Margaritas, Red Robin, Sonic Drive-In, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-kfc-taco-bell-and-panera/</link><pubDate>Fri, 22 May 2026 17:27:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-kfc-taco-bell-and-panera/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, Red Robin]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-pizza-hut-red-robin/</link><pubDate>Fri, 22 May 2026 16:31:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-pizza-hut-red-robin/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Pamela Smith to serve as interim CFO at Portillo's]]></title><description><![CDATA[Smith will serve as an independent contractor to replace former CFO Michelle Hooks while the fast-casual chain searches for a successor.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pamela-smith-to-serve-as-interim-cfo-at-portillos/</link><pubDate>Fri, 22 May 2026 00:58:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pamela-smith-to-serve-as-interim-cfo-at-portillos/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks is ending its use of AI to count inventory]]></title><description><![CDATA[The coffee chain cited a decision to shift to a single process across all its inventory counts amid complaints about accuracy]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-is-ending-its-use-of-ai-to-count-inventory/</link><pubDate>Fri, 22 May 2026 00:06:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-is-ending-its-use-of-ai-to-count-inventory/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Ghai Restaurants acquires 44 Taco Bell locations]]></title><description><![CDATA[The franchisee is acquiring the locations in the Houston area, its first in the state and a deal that more than doubles its footprint with the fast-food Mexican chain]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ghai-restaurants-acquires-44-taco-bell-locations/</link><pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2026 20:34:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ghai-restaurants-acquires-44-taco-bell-locations/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[5 food and drink trends highlighted at the National Restaurant Show]]></title><description><![CDATA[Tastings at the booths of hundreds of exhibitors at the Show revealed some surprising discoveries along with variations of continuing trends]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/5-food-and-drink-trends-highlighted-at-the-national-restaurant-show/</link><pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2026 19:01:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/5-food-and-drink-trends-highlighted-at-the-national-restaurant-show/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Some Pizza Hut locations are embracing the brand’s Red Roof nostalgia]]></title><description><![CDATA[Nearly 155 restaurants across the U.S. include throwback features, such as Tiffany-style lamps, salad bars and classic arcade games]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/some-pizza-hut-locations-are-embracing-the-brands-red-roof-nostalgia/</link><pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2026 18:44:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/some-pizza-hut-locations-are-embracing-the-brands-red-roof-nostalgia/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Coco’s and Shari’s owner files for bankruptcy amid cash-flow freeze]]></title><description><![CDATA[Lena Brands asked a bankruptcy court to intervene after a payment processor withheld access to $650,000 in funds]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cocos-and-sharis-owner-files-for-bankruptcy-amid-cash-flow-freeze/</link><pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2026 18:25:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cocos-and-sharis-owner-files-for-bankruptcy-amid-cash-flow-freeze/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How restaurants can once again become an employer of choice]]></title><description><![CDATA[The industry hasn&rsquo;t experienced a workforce pinch like this among younger workers since the 1970s]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-restaurants-can-once-again-become-an-employer-of-choice/</link><pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2026 17:29:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-restaurants-can-once-again-become-an-employer-of-choice/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[5 tips from Whataburger CEO on how restaurant chains can create a family-like culture]]></title><description><![CDATA[Whataburger calls its 50,000-plus employees &ldquo;family members&rdquo;; here&rsquo;s how CEO Debbie Stroud leans into that mentality to grow the business]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/5-tips-from-whataburger-ceo-on-how-restaurant-chains-can-create-a-family-like-culture/</link><pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2026 17:14:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/5-tips-from-whataburger-ceo-on-how-restaurant-chains-can-create-a-family-like-culture/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wendy’s, CAVA, KFC]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-cava-kfc/</link><pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2026 15:51:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-cava-kfc/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell launches a cold brew lineup]]></title><description><![CDATA[The platform includes three flavored cold foams and is available only at the Mexican fast-food chain&rsquo;s Live M&aacute;s Caf&eacute;s]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-launches-a-cold-brew-lineup/</link><pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2026 13:50:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-launches-a-cold-brew-lineup/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s and Nike collaborate on a Devin Booker shoe]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food giant is partnering with the shoemaker and NBA star on a shoe inspired by the company&rsquo;s turquoise location in Sedona, Ariz.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-and-nike-collaborate-on-a-devin-booker-shoe/</link><pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2026 00:22:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-and-nike-collaborate-on-a-devin-booker-shoe/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Smashburger names Kate Savelli chief marketing officer]]></title><description><![CDATA[The former executive with Bagel Brands is part of a trio of executive changes at the fast-casual burger chain]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/smashburger-names-kate-savelli-chief-marketing-officer/</link><pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 22:52:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/smashburger-names-kate-savelli-chief-marketing-officer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Eric Dale drives pastry innovation at one of Denver’s most popular restaurants]]></title><description><![CDATA[Menu Talk: After more than 20 years at Rioja, he has invented a new kind of doughnut]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/eric-dale-drives-pastry-innovation-at-one-of-denvers-most-popular-restaurants/</link><pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 22:49:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/eric-dale-drives-pastry-innovation-at-one-of-denvers-most-popular-restaurants/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bojangles installs first EV charging station, redefining the roadside stop with a new ‘charge-and-dine’ experience]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: Bojangles partners with XLR8 America to offer EV charging hubs]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bojangles-installs-first-ev-charging-station-redefining-the-roadside-stop-with-a-new-charge-and-dine-experience/</link><pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 22:44:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bojangles-installs-first-ev-charging-station-redefining-the-roadside-stop-with-a-new-charge-and-dine-experience/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Red Robin posts best traffic in three years]]></title><description><![CDATA[Big Yummm value meals and a new menu are working for the casual-dining chain]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/red-robin-posts-best-traffic-in-three-years/</link><pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 20:49:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/red-robin-posts-best-traffic-in-three-years/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Church’s Texas Chicken debuts a signature sauce]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food chicken chain celebrated the launch with a block party that included a live performance of Freak Nasty&rsquo;s &ldquo;Da&rsquo; Dip&rdquo;]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/churchs-texas-chicken-debuts-a-signature-sauce/</link><pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 19:57:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/churchs-texas-chicken-debuts-a-signature-sauce/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell adds Shredded Beef Nacho Fries to the menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food Mexican chain has also brought back its birria-inspired Shredded Beef Dipping Taco]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-adds-shredded-beef-nacho-fries-to-the-menu/</link><pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 19:07:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-adds-shredded-beef-nacho-fries-to-the-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[KFC launches a 5 for $5 Tenders deal]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food chicken chain is also bringing back its fried pickles due to consumer demand]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfc-launches-a-5-for-5-tenders-deal/</link><pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 18:31:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfc-launches-a-5-for-5-tenders-deal/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Kura Sushi, AI, protein]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kura-sushi-ai-protein/</link><pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 16:41:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kura-sushi-ai-protein/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Here's what we liked about this year's National Restaurant Association Show, and what we didn't]]></title><description><![CDATA[We liked a lot of new foods, cheese, ice cream and beverages, and were none too fond of noise]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/heres-what-we-liked-about-this-years-national-restaurant-association-show-and-what-we-didnt/</link><pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 15:57:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/heres-what-we-liked-about-this-years-national-restaurant-association-show-and-what-we-didnt/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bob Wright returns to Wendy’s as its CEO]]></title><description><![CDATA[Wright, who spent years at the fast-food chain, had previously been the CEO of the sandwich chain Potbelly]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bob-wright-returns-to-wendys-as-its-ceo/</link><pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 15:52:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bob-wright-returns-to-wendys-as-its-ceo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Consumers are drinking less. Here’s how restaurants can fix it]]></title><description><![CDATA[Cash-strapped consumers are cutting back on alcohol and think prices are too high, but the right promotion can get them in the door, according to Technomic]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/consumers-are-drinking-less-heres-how-restaurants-can-fix-it/</link><pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2026 23:53:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/consumers-are-drinking-less-heres-how-restaurants-can-fix-it/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Cava raises guidance after a strong 1Q]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual Mediterranean chain's same-store sales rose nearly 10%]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cava-raises-guidance-after-a-strong-1q/</link><pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2026 23:50:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cava-raises-guidance-after-a-strong-1q/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[FAT Brands, immigration, LTOs]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-immigration-ltos/</link><pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2026 18:16:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-immigration-ltos/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Limited-time offers have increased by triple digits since 2019]]></title><description><![CDATA[Consumers are demanding more innovation and spending more when it&rsquo;s available]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/limited-time-offers-have-increased-by-triple-digits-since-2019/</link><pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2026 15:13:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/limited-time-offers-have-increased-by-triple-digits-since-2019/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How 3 CEOs of 2 brands have thrived through challenges]]></title><description><![CDATA[The leaders of Wahlburgers and The Granola Bar shared their respective journeys at the National Restaurant Show.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-3-ceos-of-2-brands-have-thrived-through-challenges/</link><pubDate>Tue, 19 May 2026 05:06:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-3-ceos-of-2-brands-have-thrived-through-challenges/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Tech trends that caught our eye at the Restaurant Show]]></title><description><![CDATA[Rotary phones, robots and maybe too much AI]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tech-trends-that-caught-our-eye-at-the-restaurant-show/</link><pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 23:41:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tech-trends-that-caught-our-eye-at-the-restaurant-show/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[I don’t know why I’m loading up on protein]]></title><description><![CDATA[Food Writer&rsquo;s Diary: Just because you know a trend is silly doesn&rsquo;t mean you&rsquo;re not susceptible to it]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/i-dont-know-why-im-loading-up-on-protein/</link><pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 22:16:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/i-dont-know-why-im-loading-up-on-protein/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jack in the Box&rsquo;s leadership shakeup, Papa Johns' retail move, and 2025&rsquo;s winners and losers]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, an interview with Naya&rsquo;s head of R&amp;D Khalfani Coicou]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-boxrsquos-leadership-shakeup-papa-johns-retail-move-and-2025rsquos-winners-and-losers/</link><pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 21:39:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-boxrsquos-leadership-shakeup-papa-johns-retail-move-and-2025rsquos-winners-and-losers/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Nine notable drinks at the National Restaurant Show]]></title><description><![CDATA[Nine notable drinks at the National Restaurant Show<br />
Beverages with sophisticated flavors, healthful attributes, and plenty of THC were available for sampling]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nine-notable-drinks-at-the-national-restaurant-show/</link><pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 20:02:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nine-notable-drinks-at-the-national-restaurant-show/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Discover the innovation at The Coca Cola Company booth at the National Restaurant Show]]></title><description><![CDATA[NRN's editor-in-chief, Sam Oches, stopped by the Coca-Cola Booth #4402 The National Restaurant Association Show and got a peak at some serious beverage innovation. From testing out the new Coca-Cola mixology unit to sampling the fresh Costa cold brew concentrate, it's clear Coca-Cola is bringing next-level drink experiences to the restaurant industry.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/discover-the-innovation-at-the-coca-cola-company-booth-at-the-national-restaurant-show/</link><pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 18:32:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/discover-the-innovation-at-the-coca-cola-company-booth-at-the-national-restaurant-show/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Consumer trends, Subway, National Restaurant Show]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/consumer-trends-subway-national-restaurant-show/</link><pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 17:16:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/consumer-trends-subway-national-restaurant-show/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Restaurant operators need to keep talking about immigration]]></title><description><![CDATA[It&rsquo;s an economic issue, not a partisan one, argued panelists at the National Restaurant Show. The need for immigration reform is urgent.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurant-operators-need-to-keep-talking-about-immigration/</link><pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 16:02:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurant-operators-need-to-keep-talking-about-immigration/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How champion-level tennis is like running restaurants]]></title><description><![CDATA[At the National Restaurant Show, tennis great Andre Agassi shared his journey of resilience and making peace with a sport he did not choose. He endured highs and lows, and in the end found purpose.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-champion-level-tennis-is-like-running-restaurants/</link><pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 04:11:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-champion-level-tennis-is-like-running-restaurants/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Turning scrolls into seats: What restaurant operators should know about social media strategy]]></title><description><![CDATA[One influencer gives advice for burgeoning brands looking to branch out on socials]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/turning-scrolls-into-seats-what-restaurant-operators-should-know-about-social-media-strategy/</link><pubDate>Mon, 18 May 2026 02:40:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/turning-scrolls-into-seats-what-restaurant-operators-should-know-about-social-media-strategy/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[29th annual MenuMasters Awards ceremony honors chefs and innovators from across the industry]]></title><description><![CDATA[Grant Achatz, Douglas Keane and six more culinary trailblazers were celebrated at the awards gala Saturday in Chicago]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/29th-annual-menumasters-awards-ceremony-honors-chefs-and-innovators-from-across-the-industry/</link><pubDate>Sun, 17 May 2026 22:39:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/29th-annual-menumasters-awards-ceremony-honors-chefs-and-innovators-from-across-the-industry/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How culinary students are adapting to the AI era]]></title><description><![CDATA[Young chefs from Northern Arizona University are embracing AI, but say some tasks are best left to humans]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-culinary-students-are-adapting-to-the-ai-era/</link><pubDate>Sun, 17 May 2026 21:46:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-culinary-students-are-adapting-to-the-ai-era/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chip Wade, Union Square Hospitality Group CEO, wins the Gold Plate Award]]></title><description><![CDATA[The longtime industry veteran was chosen for the honor by IFMA, the Food Away From Home Association]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chip-wade-union-square-hospitality-group-ceo-wins-the-gold-plate-award/</link><pubDate>Sun, 17 May 2026 19:47:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chip-wade-union-square-hospitality-group-ceo-wins-the-gold-plate-award/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How to create training content that keeps Gen Z engaged]]></title><description><![CDATA[During a panel at the 2026 National Restaurant Association Show, operators from First Watch and Qdoba share what&rsquo;s working with their training programs and how they&rsquo;re creating training content that keeps young employees interested.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-to-create-training-content-that-keeps-gen-z-engaged/</link><pubDate>Sun, 17 May 2026 18:29:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-to-create-training-content-that-keeps-gen-z-engaged/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Daddy’s Chicken Shack acquired by New Jersey multi-concept group]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual chain was developed for franchising by private-equity firm Area 15. New owner Esperto Hospitality Group plans expansion.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/daddys-chicken-shack-acquired-by-new-jersey-multi-concept-group/</link><pubDate>Sun, 17 May 2026 15:38:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/daddys-chicken-shack-acquired-by-new-jersey-multi-concept-group/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Subway shakes up its marketing team]]></title><description><![CDATA[Global CMO Greg Lyons has departed, and two others step up in shift to regional chiefs. The sandwich giant is also shifting its strategy in a move to rebuild its relevance, according to a report in Ad Age]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/subway-shakes-up-its-marketing-team/</link><pubDate>Sun, 17 May 2026 05:56:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/subway-shakes-up-its-marketing-team/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Restaurant industry navigates ‘complex’ consumer landscape as sentiment hits all-time low]]></title><description><![CDATA[How Fogo de Ch&atilde;o and DineAmic Hospitality are adapting to anxious, value-seeking guests]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurant-industry-navigates-complex-consumer-landscape-as-sentiment-hits-all-time-low/</link><pubDate>Sun, 17 May 2026 00:45:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurant-industry-navigates-complex-consumer-landscape-as-sentiment-hits-all-time-low/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[6 protein options at the National Restaurant Show]]></title><description><![CDATA[The trending macronutrient was on full display]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/6-protein-options-at-the-national-restaurant-show/</link><pubDate>Sat, 16 May 2026 23:16:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/6-protein-options-at-the-national-restaurant-show/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Famed Los Cabos restaurant La Lupita Taco y Mezcal coming to Dallas]]></title><description><![CDATA[The founders have partnered with Dallas-based Duro Hospitality to grow the elevated taco concept across the U.S.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/famed-los-cabos-restaurant-la-lupita-taco-y-mezcal-coming-to-dallas/</link><pubDate>Sat, 16 May 2026 22:55:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/famed-los-cabos-restaurant-la-lupita-taco-y-mezcal-coming-to-dallas/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[4 delicious things from first-time exhibitors at the National Restaurant Show]]></title><description><![CDATA[On Day 1 on at McCormick Place, a Taste of the States offers a vibrant African sauce, date syrups, pistachio spreads, and oils spiked with New Mexico chilis.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/4-delicious-things-from-first-time-exhibitors-at-the-national-restaurant-show/</link><pubDate>Sat, 16 May 2026 22:44:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/4-delicious-things-from-first-time-exhibitors-at-the-national-restaurant-show/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How to make decisions in the face of uncertainty]]></title><description><![CDATA[Theo Schweitz shared his advice at the National Restaurant Association Show]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-to-make-decisions-in-the-face-of-uncertainty/</link><pubDate>Sat, 16 May 2026 21:54:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-to-make-decisions-in-the-face-of-uncertainty/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Innovation and cultural relevance drove the success for many burger chains]]></title><description><![CDATA[Upgraded core offerings and LTOS that resonated helped drive sales]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/innovation-and-cultural-relevance-drove-the-success-for-many-burger-chains/</link><pubDate>Fri, 15 May 2026 23:37:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/innovation-and-cultural-relevance-drove-the-success-for-many-burger-chains/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Innovation was not the key to success among chicken chains in 2025]]></title><description><![CDATA[Smart innovation can drive sales, but so can great execution and unit growth]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/innovation-was-not-the-key-to-success-among-chicken-chains-in-2025/</link><pubDate>Fri, 15 May 2026 21:34:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/innovation-was-not-the-key-to-success-among-chicken-chains-in-2025/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks is laying off another 300 workers]]></title><description><![CDATA[The coffeeshop chain, which last month laid off 61 technology employees, is also consolidating some of its regional support offices]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-is-laying-off-another-300-workers/</link><pubDate>Fri, 15 May 2026 16:30:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-is-laying-off-another-300-workers/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The restaurant metric that doesn't exist (but should)]]></title><description><![CDATA[Why revenue per call should be an important data point for all operators]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-restaurant-metric-that-doesnt-exist-but-should/</link><pubDate>Fri, 15 May 2026 15:35:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-restaurant-metric-that-doesnt-exist-but-should/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell, Wingstop, Legal Sea Foods]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-wingstop-legal-sea-foods/</link><pubDate>Fri, 15 May 2026 14:28:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-wingstop-legal-sea-foods/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Kyuramen Group acquires matcha gelato concept to grow across U.S.]]></title><description><![CDATA[Offering varying grades of matcha in gelato and drinks, Aok&#333; Matcha will grow as a standalone concept and within Kyuramen locations.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kyuramen-group-acquires-matcha-gelato-concept-to-grow-across-us/</link><pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 23:27:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kyuramen-group-acquires-matcha-gelato-concept-to-grow-across-us/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[In family dining, closing early is good business]]></title><description><![CDATA[Chains that serve only breakfast and lunch are soaring, while those covering all three dayparts have stumbled, according to Technomic Top 500 data]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/in-family-dining-closing-early-is-good-business/</link><pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 21:56:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/in-family-dining-closing-early-is-good-business/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: Stuffed potatoes and rabbit-rattlesnake sausage]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus fluffy tonkatsu, an Earl Grey-matcha hybrid, and the latest from Jos&eacute; Garces]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-stuffed-potatoes-and-rabbit-rattlesnake-sausage/</link><pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 21:05:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-stuffed-potatoes-and-rabbit-rattlesnake-sausage/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Here's what we're excited to see at the 2026 National Restaurant Association Show]]></title><description><![CDATA[More than 53,000 foodservice professionals are gathering in Chicago's McCormick Place for the four-day annual event, starting May 16. Here's what the Informa editorial team is expecting to see at this year's Show.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/heres-what-were-excited-to-see-at-the-2026-national-restaurant-association-show/</link><pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 20:34:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/heres-what-were-excited-to-see-at-the-2026-national-restaurant-association-show/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Here's what to expect at the 2026 National Restaurant Association Show]]></title><description><![CDATA[More than 53,000 foodservice professionals are gathering in Chicago's McCormick Place for the four-day annual event, starting May 16. Here's what the Informa editorial team is expecting to see at this year's Show.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/heres-what-to-expect-at-the-2026-national-restaurant-association-show/</link><pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 20:34:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/heres-what-to-expect-at-the-2026-national-restaurant-association-show/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from Taco Bell, Starbucks, and Carl’s Jr.]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at Carvel, Cousins Subs, Kura Sushi, Smoothie King, Ziggi's Coffee, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-taco-bell-starbucks-and-carls-jr/</link><pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 19:54:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-taco-bell-starbucks-and-carls-jr/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chuck E. Cheese, McDonald’s, Black Rock Coffee]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chuck-e-cheese-mcdonalds-black-rock-coffee/</link><pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 19:05:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chuck-e-cheese-mcdonalds-black-rock-coffee/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[San Diego’s Trust Restaurant Group has opened À L’ouest, a new French brasserie]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company is in expansion mode and taking its Rare Society steakhouse brand national]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/san-diegos-trust-restaurant-group-has-opened-louest-a-new-french-brasserie/</link><pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 18:59:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/san-diegos-trust-restaurant-group-has-opened-louest-a-new-french-brasserie/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wingstop is bringing its House of Flavor experience to North America]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Dallas and Toronto popups coincide with the FIFA World Cup soccer matches scheduled in those cities]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wingstop-is-bringing-its-house-of-flavor-experience-to-north-america/</link><pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 16:57:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wingstop-is-bringing-its-house-of-flavor-experience-to-north-america/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[84 Hospitality founder reveals 5 key elements that create great restaurant atmosphere]]></title><description><![CDATA[If you want guests to have a great experience instead of just a good one, restaurateur Rachel Cope says these are the ingredients that must be included]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/84-hospitality-founder-reveals-5-key-elements-that-create-great-restaurant-atmosphere/</link><pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 16:08:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/84-hospitality-founder-reveals-5-key-elements-that-create-great-restaurant-atmosphere/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell is launching a Mexican Pizza/Cantina Chicken mashup]]></title><description><![CDATA[The limited-time offer is available starting May 21 and will be served with a new Jalape&ntilde;o Citrus Salsa]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-is-launching-a-mexican-pizzacantina-chicken-mashup/</link><pubDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 13:50:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-is-launching-a-mexican-pizzacantina-chicken-mashup/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jack in the Box names Mark King interim CEO]]></title><description><![CDATA[Lance Tucker, who was only named permanent CEO 14 months ago, is out and will be replaced on an interim basis by the former Taco Bell chief executive]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-names-mark-king-interim-ceo/</link><pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 22:48:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-names-mark-king-interim-ceo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[In a tough burger business, some chains are taking share]]></title><description><![CDATA[Sales among limited-service burger chains remain weak as consumers cut back on dining and shift to chicken or other items. But Culver's and Shake Shack are gaining ground]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/in-a-tough-burger-business-some-chains-are-taking-share/</link><pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 20:04:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/in-a-tough-burger-business-some-chains-are-taking-share/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Marcus Samuelsson to debut burger restaurant at New York soccer stadium in 2027]]></title><description><![CDATA[The as-yet-unnamed concept is expected to join other local restaurants at Etihad Park]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/marcus-samuelsson-to-debut-burger-restaurant-at-new-york-soccer-stadium-in-2027/</link><pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 19:59:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/marcus-samuelsson-to-debut-burger-restaurant-at-new-york-soccer-stadium-in-2027/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Marcus Sameulsson to debut burger restaurant at New York soccer stadium in 2027]]></title><description><![CDATA[The as-yet-unnamed concept is expected to join other local restaurants at Etihad Park]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/marcus-sameulsson-to-debut-burger-restaurant-at-new-york-soccer-stadium-in-2027/</link><pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 19:59:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/marcus-sameulsson-to-debut-burger-restaurant-at-new-york-soccer-stadium-in-2027/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dave &amp;amp; Buster&rsquo;s brings back unlimited gameplay passes for summer]]></title><description><![CDATA[The eatertainment chain also unveiled 10 new games as it looks to shake a same-store sales slump]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dave-ampamp-busterrsquos-brings-back-unlimited-gameplay-passes-for-summer/</link><pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 18:51:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dave-ampamp-busterrsquos-brings-back-unlimited-gameplay-passes-for-summer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New Chicago restaurants to try during the National Restaurant Show]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Windy City is a restaurant-rich town. Here are a few places to check out that are brand new and (mostly) ready to be discovered.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-chicago-restaurants-to-try-during-the-national-restaurant-show/</link><pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 18:10:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-chicago-restaurants-to-try-during-the-national-restaurant-show/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[10 restaurant marketing moves from April]]></title><description><![CDATA[Salad stuffers, Star Wars, and the return of fan favorites were all notable campaigns]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/10-restaurant-marketing-moves-from-april/</link><pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 17:58:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/10-restaurant-marketing-moves-from-april/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[QSR pizza sales turned negative in 2025]]></title><description><![CDATA[While the overall industry has decelerated for four consecutive years, pizza was the only category in the red]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/qsr-pizza-sales-turned-negative-in-2025/</link><pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 17:53:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/qsr-pizza-sales-turned-negative-in-2025/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Papa Johns, Pizza Hut and El Pollo Loco]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-pizza-hut-and-el-pollo-loco/</link><pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 17:15:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-pizza-hut-and-el-pollo-loco/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Habit Burger &amp;amp; Grill has created a destination for ranch lovers]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual burger chain's Habit Ranch is a western town that turns its signature housemade condiment into an experience]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/habit-burger-ampamp-grill-has-created-a-destination-for-ranch-lovers/</link><pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 17:03:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/habit-burger-ampamp-grill-has-created-a-destination-for-ranch-lovers/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[National Restaurant Association Show's 2026 FABI awards spotlight top trends]]></title><description><![CDATA[The 28 food and beverage products receiving the award target the needs of today&rsquo;s operators, menus and consumers]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/national-restaurant-association-shows-2026-fabi-awards-spotlight-top-trends/</link><pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 16:29:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/national-restaurant-association-shows-2026-fabi-awards-spotlight-top-trends/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Papa Johns' signature garlic sauce will hit retail shelves]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food pizza chain's sauce will be available this summer at Walmart, Kroger, Albertson&rsquo;s and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-signature-garlic-sauce-will-hit-retail-shelves/</link><pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 16:25:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-signature-garlic-sauce-will-hit-retail-shelves/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Nation's Restaurant News May 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[Our special National Restaurant Association Show issue is chock-full of insights on the state of the restaurant industry, plus the latest edition of the Signature Series, featuring Whataburger CEO Debbie Stroud.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nations-restaurant-news-may-2026/</link><pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 16:18:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nations-restaurant-news-may-2026/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Sales grow at Black Rock Coffee Bar, despite some bad weather]]></title><description><![CDATA[The coffee chain said that &ldquo;strategic densification&rdquo; in its crucial Phoenix market also created some same-store sales headwinds]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sales-grow-at-black-rock-coffee-bar-despite-some-bad-weather/</link><pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 00:08:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sales-grow-at-black-rock-coffee-bar-despite-some-bad-weather/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[D.C.-area Vietnamese chain Roll Play plans to expand]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual concept, part of Happy Endings Hospitality, grosses $5 million per location]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dc-area-vietnamese-chain-roll-play-plans-to-expand/</link><pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2026 23:19:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dc-area-vietnamese-chain-roll-play-plans-to-expand/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Trending this week: KFC’s $10 bucket deal is now available each weekday]]></title><description><![CDATA[See which stories readers couldn't get enough of]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-kfcs-10-bucket-deal-is-now-available-each-weekday/</link><pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2026 21:56:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-kfcs-10-bucket-deal-is-now-available-each-weekday/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Catering is a growth engine for some Top 500 chains]]></title><description><![CDATA[From quick-service to casual dining, brands are seeing a robust catering program as a steady revenue stream]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/catering-is-a-growth-engine-for-some-top-500-chains/</link><pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2026 21:22:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/catering-is-a-growth-engine-for-some-top-500-chains/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Ford’s Garage to open at a Delaware car dealership]]></title><description><![CDATA[The new location is part of a three-unit development agreement that will bring the casual-dining chain to Delaware]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fords-garage-to-open-at-a-delaware-car-dealership/</link><pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2026 20:38:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fords-garage-to-open-at-a-delaware-car-dealership/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Get to know Whataburger CEO Debbie Stroud]]></title><description><![CDATA[Why she loves the Spurs, &lsquo;The Pitt,&rsquo; Texas BBQ, and Brene Brown]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/get-to-know-whataburger-ceo-debbie-stroud/</link><pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2026 20:31:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/get-to-know-whataburger-ceo-debbie-stroud/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Phil Rosenthal, Steve Ells, Panda Express founders to headline 2026 CREATE]]></title><description><![CDATA[The industry&rsquo;s leading event for emerging restaurateurs is heading to California this July 20-22]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/phil-rosenthal-steve-ells-panda-express-founders-to-headline-2026-create/</link><pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2026 20:27:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/phil-rosenthal-steve-ells-panda-express-founders-to-headline-2026-create/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chicago&rsquo;s new magic venue, The Hand &amp;amp; The Eye, features a restaurant and six bars]]></title><description><![CDATA[The 36,000-square-foot space operated by Levy Restaurants provides dinner and a series of immersive shows]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chicagorsquos-new-magic-venue-the-hand-ampamp-the-eye-features-a-restaurant-and-six-bars/</link><pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2026 20:12:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chicagorsquos-new-magic-venue-the-hand-ampamp-the-eye-features-a-restaurant-and-six-bars/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[CEO Chris Simms favors ‘approachable innovation’ to steer the menu at Lazy Dog Restaurants]]></title><description><![CDATA[Menu Talk: The casual-dining chain stays ahead of the curve by balancing comfort food favorites with trendsetting food and drinks]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ceo-chris-simms-favors-approachable-innovation-to-steer-the-menu-at-lazy-dog-restaurants/</link><pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2026 20:09:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ceo-chris-simms-favors-approachable-innovation-to-steer-the-menu-at-lazy-dog-restaurants/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[F1 Arcade names new CEO as it revs up growth plans]]></title><description><![CDATA[Mat Horvath, former COO of Gordon Ramsay Restaurants, replaces Jonathan Peters at the food and gaming concept]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/f1-arcade-names-new-ceo-as-it-revs-up-growth-plans/</link><pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2026 19:33:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/f1-arcade-names-new-ceo-as-it-revs-up-growth-plans/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Ark Restaurants expects legal battle over Bryant Park Grill to go to trial]]></title><description><![CDATA[The operator of three restaurants in New York&rsquo;s Bryant Park in Manhattan lost a lease bid last year. But the company sued and continues to operate the cornerstone concepts, pending litigation.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ark-restaurants-expects-legal-battle-over-bryant-park-grill-to-go-to-trial/</link><pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2026 19:02:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ark-restaurants-expects-legal-battle-over-bryant-park-grill-to-go-to-trial/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dunkin’ is returning to Canada for the first time since 2018]]></title><description><![CDATA[The coffee and doughnut chain reached a deal with Foodtastic to develop &ldquo;hundreds&rdquo; of locations across the country]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dunkin-is-returning-to-canada-for-the-first-time-since-2018/</link><pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2026 18:23:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dunkin-is-returning-to-canada-for-the-first-time-since-2018/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Swig announces 10-Unit deal in Colorado Springs]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: Original dirty soda brand expands footprint in El Paso County]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/swig-announces-10-unit-deal-in-colorado-springs/</link><pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2026 18:11:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/swig-announces-10-unit-deal-in-colorado-springs/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Texas Roadhouse, FAT Brands, El Pollo Loco]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/texas-roadhouse-fat-brands-el-pollo-loco/</link><pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2026 17:51:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/texas-roadhouse-fat-brands-el-pollo-loco/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Papa Johns is the latest chain to test drone delivery]]></title><description><![CDATA[The pizza chain partnered with Alphabet&rsquo;s Wing, building on its existing work with Alphabet's Google Cloud]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-is-the-latest-chain-to-test-drone-delivery/</link><pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2026 16:17:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-is-the-latest-chain-to-test-drone-delivery/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[&amp;amp;pizza to bring fast-casual build-your-pie model to India]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual chain is taking its first step overseas with a 10-unit master franchise deal. The first is scheduled to open next year in Mumbai.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ampamppizza-to-bring-fast-casual-build-your-pie-model-to-india/</link><pubDate>Tue, 12 May 2026 13:00:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ampamppizza-to-bring-fast-casual-build-your-pie-model-to-india/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Crumbl founders are stepping aside from their day-to-day roles]]></title><description><![CDATA[Jason McGowan and Sawyer Hemsley, who founded the treat chain in 2017, plan to search for a new CEO and other c-level executives to run the brand]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/crumbl-founders-are-stepping-aside-from-their-day-to-day-roles/</link><pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 22:58:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/crumbl-founders-are-stepping-aside-from-their-day-to-day-roles/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[MenuMasters winning chef Grant Achatz reflects on a career of constant innovation]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chef and owner of Alinea, Next, and Aviary in Chicago is being inducted into NRN&rsquo;s MenuMasters Hall of Fame in May]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menumasters-winning-chef-grant-achatz-reflects-on-a-career-of-constant-innovation/</link><pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 21:18:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menumasters-winning-chef-grant-achatz-reflects-on-a-career-of-constant-innovation/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[What to expect from the 2026 National Restaurant Association Show]]></title><description><![CDATA[Lisa Malikow, SVP of the Restaurant Show, offers a look at what&rsquo;s new and how attendees can get the most out of the event]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/what-to-expect-from-the-2026-national-restaurant-association-show/</link><pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 20:43:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/what-to-expect-from-the-2026-national-restaurant-association-show/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Inspire’s plans to go public, Burger King’s case for brand of the year, and Wendy’s worrisome woes]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, an interview with the cofounders of Jeff&rsquo;s Bagel Run]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/inspires-plans-to-go-public-burger-kings-case-for-brand-of-the-year-and-wendys-worrisome-woes/</link><pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 20:25:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/inspires-plans-to-go-public-burger-kings-case-for-brand-of-the-year-and-wendys-worrisome-woes/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Vicious Biscuit names industry veteran Mike Stevens Chief Development Officer and promotes Kate Byrd]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: Leadership additions strengthen franchise development, operations and support as brand scales nationally]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/vicious-biscuit-names-industry-veteran-mike-stevens-chief-development-officer-and-promotes-kate-byrd/</link><pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 19:58:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/vicious-biscuit-names-industry-veteran-mike-stevens-chief-development-officer-and-promotes-kate-byrd/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[El Pollo Loco’s margin, marketing, menu momentum continues]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain reported a 5.8% increase in same-store sales in the first quarter and updated its full-year guidance]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/el-pollo-locos-margin-marketing-menu-momentum-continues/</link><pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 18:56:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/el-pollo-locos-margin-marketing-menu-momentum-continues/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Papa Johns offers free pizza to Spirit Airlines loyalty members]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Skies to Pies campaign includes a free large, one-topping pizza]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-offers-free-pizza-to-spirit-airlines-loyalty-members/</link><pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 17:49:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-offers-free-pizza-to-spirit-airlines-loyalty-members/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s, Wendy’s and Texas Roadhouse]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-wendys-and-texas-roadhouse/</link><pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 15:33:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-wendys-and-texas-roadhouse/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dunkin’ owner Inspire Brands files documents for an IPO]]></title><description><![CDATA[The restaurant chain operator, which also owns Arby&rsquo;s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Sonic and Jimmy Johns, confidentially filed documents with the SEC to go public]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dunkin-owner-inspire-brands-files-documents-for-an-ipo/</link><pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 22:39:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dunkin-owner-inspire-brands-files-documents-for-an-ipo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[STK-parent One Group says cost-cutting efforts are paying off]]></title><description><![CDATA[Same-store sales are also improving after a down year for the upscale-dining company]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/stk-parent-one-group-says-cost-cutting-efforts-are-paying-off/</link><pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 21:20:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/stk-parent-one-group-says-cost-cutting-efforts-are-paying-off/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: Indian chickpea fritters and a bao-doughnut hybrid]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus sea bream with cucumber, a springtime rhubarb cocktail, and the latest from Chopped winner Kayla Pfeiffer]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-indian-chickpea-fritters-and-a-bao-doughnut-hybrid/</link><pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 21:15:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-indian-chickpea-fritters-and-a-bao-doughnut-hybrid/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How to create food fandom]]></title><description><![CDATA[Four tips for tapping into the opportunity of a lifetime]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-to-create-food-fandom/</link><pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 21:11:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-to-create-food-fandom/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bakery-cafe Maman plots next-level growth with new infusion of capital]]></title><description><![CDATA[The French-American fast-casual concept has 56 units across nine states and Canada. New and existing investors have signed on to continue growing the New York-born brand, including private equity firm TriSpan USA.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bakery-cafe-maman-plots-next-level-growth-with-new-infusion-of-capital/</link><pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 20:28:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bakery-cafe-maman-plots-next-level-growth-with-new-infusion-of-capital/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Papa Johns, Noodles &amp;amp; Company, Applebee&rsquo;s]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-noodles-ampamp-company-applebeersquos/</link><pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 17:04:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-noodles-ampamp-company-applebeersquos/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wendy’s sales fell again last quarter, but the company sees progress in international]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food chain&rsquo;s same-store sales fell 7.8% in the first quarter, but it also reached a deal for 1,000 locations in China]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-sales-fell-again-last-quarter-but-the-company-sees-progress-in-international/</link><pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 16:36:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-sales-fell-again-last-quarter-but-the-company-sees-progress-in-international/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from Popeyes, Jimmy John’s, and Dutch Bros]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at BJ&rsquo;s, Insomnia Cookies, Marco's Pizza, Noodles &amp; Company, Sweetgreen, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-popeyes-jimmy-johns-and-dutch-bros/</link><pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 16:32:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-popeyes-jimmy-johns-and-dutch-bros/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Texas Roadhouse sprints to best same-store sales since ’24]]></title><description><![CDATA[Same-store sales at the steakhouse chain jumped by 7.1% driven by strong operations and takeout]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/texas-roadhouse-sprints-to-best-same-store-sales-since-24/</link><pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 15:43:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/texas-roadhouse-sprints-to-best-same-store-sales-since-24/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Sweetgreen records its biggest same-store sales decline as a public company in 1Q]]></title><description><![CDATA[But the fast-casual salad chain&rsquo;s CEO sees green shoots of hope resulting from the turnaround plan and the rollout of wraps]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sweetgreen-records-its-biggest-same-store-sales-decline-as-a-public-company-in-1q/</link><pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 00:22:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sweetgreen-records-its-biggest-same-store-sales-decline-as-a-public-company-in-1q/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Sweetgreen records its biggest same-store sales decline as a public company]]></title><description><![CDATA[But the fast-casual salad chain&rsquo;s CEO sees green shoots resulting from the turnaround plan and the rollout of wraps]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sweetgreen-records-its-biggest-same-store-sales-decline-as-a-public-company/</link><pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 00:22:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sweetgreen-records-its-biggest-same-store-sales-decline-as-a-public-company/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Krispy Kreme outsources delivery logistics as turnaround gains speed]]></title><description><![CDATA[CEO Josh Charlesworth said the Artemis doughnut launch had to be extended because of high demand]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/krispy-kreme-outsources-delivery-logistics-as-turnaround-gains-speed/</link><pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2026 20:32:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/krispy-kreme-outsources-delivery-logistics-as-turnaround-gains-speed/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Shake Shack stock plunges as weather and beef costs pressure earnings]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company reported 4.6% same-store sales growth, but its shares fell more than 20% after it missed expectations on revenues and earnings]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/shake-shack-stock-plunges-as-weather-and-beef-costs-pressure-earnings/</link><pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2026 19:09:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/shake-shack-stock-plunges-as-weather-and-beef-costs-pressure-earnings/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King, Popeyes, BJ’s]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-popeyes-bjs/</link><pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2026 19:01:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-popeyes-bjs/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Only the Wild Ones opens in Austin, the hi-fi wine bar’s third location, after L.A. and New York]]></title><description><![CDATA[The team has more in the works, including bars in additional markets and an Austin opening of the Butcher&rsquo;s Daughter]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/only-the-wild-ones-opens-in-austin-the-hi-fi-wine-bars-third-location-after-la-and-new-york/</link><pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2026 17:51:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/only-the-wild-ones-opens-in-austin-the-hi-fi-wine-bars-third-location-after-la-and-new-york/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The real problem with the pizza industry]]></title><description><![CDATA[Pizza is under pressure, but the tools to respond have never been more capable]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-real-problem-with-the-pizza-industry/</link><pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2026 16:58:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-real-problem-with-the-pizza-industry/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Cautious consumers and rivals' promotions hit Papa Johns' sales]]></title><description><![CDATA[The pizza chain is ramping up its innovation pipeline, including oven toasted sandwiches and sides, to bring in new guests]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cautious-consumers-and-rivals-promotions-hit-papa-johns-sales/</link><pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2026 16:58:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cautious-consumers-and-rivals-promotions-hit-papa-johns-sales/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s sales rose last quarter, thanks to value and marketing]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food giant&rsquo;s U.S. same-store sales rose 3.9% in the first quarter, as the company cited its value, menu innovation and marketing]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-sales-rose-last-quarter-thanks-to-value-and-marketing/</link><pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2026 13:00:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-sales-rose-last-quarter-thanks-to-value-and-marketing/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[placeholder]]></title><description><![CDATA[placeholder]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/placeholder/</link><pubDate>Thu, 07 May 2026 12:30:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/placeholder/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Noodles &amp;amp; Company raises guidance on strong first quarter]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual chain&rsquo;s same-store sales grew more than 9% with a nearly 5% increase in traffic. CEO Joe Christina said turnaround efforts are showing real results.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/noodles-ampamp-company-raises-guidance-on-strong-first-quarter/</link><pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 23:20:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/noodles-ampamp-company-raises-guidance-on-strong-first-quarter/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Applebee’s feels a pinch from higher gas prices]]></title><description><![CDATA[After a solid first quarter, same-store sales slowed in April as some lower-income consumers pulled back]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-feels-a-pinch-from-higher-gas-prices/</link><pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 23:16:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-feels-a-pinch-from-higher-gas-prices/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Shake Shack names Michelle Hook CFO]]></title><description><![CDATA[The former Portillo&rsquo;s chief financial officer will join the fast-casual burger chain May 11]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/shake-shack-names-michelle-hook-cfo/</link><pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 23:00:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/shake-shack-names-michelle-hook-cfo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dutch Bros raises its expectations after sales soar]]></title><description><![CDATA[The drive-thru beverage chain&rsquo;s revenue increased 31% on the back of strong same-store sales last quarter]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dutch-bros-raises-its-expectations-after-sales-soar/</link><pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 22:40:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dutch-bros-raises-its-expectations-after-sales-soar/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[AI, Gen Alpha, and more global restaurant trends to watch according to one expert]]></title><description><![CDATA[As a global consultant and operator, Rafael LaRue can see what&rsquo;s around the corner for U.S. restaurants]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ai-gen-alpha-and-more-global-restaurant-trends-to-watch-according-to-one-expert/</link><pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 21:59:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ai-gen-alpha-and-more-global-restaurant-trends-to-watch-according-to-one-expert/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Trending this week: Chipotle taps industry vet Fernando Machado as chief brand officer]]></title><description><![CDATA[See which stories readers couldn't get enough of]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-chipotle-taps-industry-vet-fernando-machado-as-chief-brand-officer/</link><pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 20:43:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-chipotle-taps-industry-vet-fernando-machado-as-chief-brand-officer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bloomin' stock soars as Outback gains momentum]]></title><description><![CDATA[Shares were up 45% on Wednesday after a better-than-expected quarter.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bloomin-stock-soars-as-outback-gains-momentum/</link><pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 20:33:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bloomin-stock-soars-as-outback-gains-momentum/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[BJ's Restaurants posts seventh straight quarter of growth]]></title><description><![CDATA[Same-store sales rose 2.4% and traffic was up 2.2%, continuing a hot stretch for the casual-dining chain]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bjs-restaurants-posts-seventh-straight-quarter-of-growth/</link><pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 19:07:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bjs-restaurants-posts-seventh-straight-quarter-of-growth/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[MAKfam in Denver looks after its staff as well as its bottom line]]></title><description><![CDATA[Business is booming at the modern Chinese restaurant]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/makfam-in-denver-looks-after-its-staff-as-well-as-its-bottom-line/</link><pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 18:47:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/makfam-in-denver-looks-after-its-staff-as-well-as-its-bottom-line/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Lehigh University's Clayton's Kitchen brings local restaurants to campus]]></title><description><![CDATA[The ghost kitchen concept housed inside the school's Clayton University Center features weekly local restaurant residencies.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/lehigh-universitys-claytons-kitchen-brings-local-restaurants-to-campus/</link><pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 17:46:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/lehigh-universitys-claytons-kitchen-brings-local-restaurants-to-campus/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[First Watch, Portillo’s and KFC]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/first-watch-portillos-and-kfc/</link><pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 17:06:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/first-watch-portillos-and-kfc/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Sweetgreen rolls out wrap sandwiches nationwide]]></title><description><![CDATA[The protein-filled salads wrapped in giant tortillas have been a hit for the fast-casual chain in test. Some look an awful lot like burritos.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sweetgreen-rolls-out-wrap-sandwiches-nationwide/</link><pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 15:00:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sweetgreen-rolls-out-wrap-sandwiches-nationwide/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King’s sales surge while Popeyes struggles]]></title><description><![CDATA[Same-store sales at Burger King rose 5.8% as the company&rsquo;s viral Whopper improvement lured customers. But its sister chicken concept continued to bleed sales]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-kings-sales-surge-while-popeyes-struggles/</link><pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 12:41:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-kings-sales-surge-while-popeyes-struggles/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Portillo's reverses traffic slide, but the pace of growth remains a question mark]]></title><description><![CDATA[Portillo's is taking a hard look at getting unit economics right before pushing growth, said new CEO Brett Patterson. Meanwhile, chief financial officer Michelle Hook is stepping down.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/portillos-reverses-traffic-slide-but-the-pace-of-growth-remains-a-question-mark/</link><pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2026 22:46:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/portillos-reverses-traffic-slide-but-the-pace-of-growth-remains-a-question-mark/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Spike Gjerde highlights the terroir of the Chesapeake Bay region]]></title><description><![CDATA[Menu Talk: The chef of Woodberry Kitchen and La Jet&eacute;e in Baltimore has more restaurants in the works]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/spike-gjerde-highlights-the-terroir-of-the-chesapeake-bay-region/</link><pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2026 21:07:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/spike-gjerde-highlights-the-terroir-of-the-chesapeake-bay-region/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[32 restaurant executives on the move in April including new CEOs at Denny&rsquo;s, Jeni&rsquo;s, and Bagels &amp;amp; Co.]]></title><description><![CDATA[The month also brought a wave of finance and development hires, high-profile brand and digital appointments, and board refreshes]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/32-restaurant-executives-on-the-move-in-april-including-new-ceos-at-dennyrsquos-jenirsquos-and-bagels-ampamp-co/</link><pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2026 20:18:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/32-restaurant-executives-on-the-move-in-april-including-new-ceos-at-dennyrsquos-jenirsquos-and-bagels-ampamp-co/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Caribou Coffee launches Everyday Value Menu with items starting at $2]]></title><description><![CDATA[The new menu features coffee, a breakfast sandwich, muffin and more, all for less than $4 each]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/caribou-coffee-launches-everyday-value-menu-with-items-starting-at-2/</link><pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2026 19:24:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/caribou-coffee-launches-everyday-value-menu-with-items-starting-at-2/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[First Watch gets a lift from new menu and marketing]]></title><description><![CDATA[Same-store sales rose 2.8% at the family-dining chain as customers spent more across a refreshed menu]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/first-watch-gets-a-lift-from-new-menu-and-marketing/</link><pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2026 19:10:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/first-watch-gets-a-lift-from-new-menu-and-marketing/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Cool spaces and great chefs inspire Philadelphia-Based Defined Hospitality]]></title><description><![CDATA[How this group takes a behind-the-scenes approach and lets chefs and restaurants take the spotlight]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cool-spaces-and-great-chefs-inspire-philadelphia-based-defined-hospitality/</link><pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2026 18:19:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cool-spaces-and-great-chefs-inspire-philadelphia-based-defined-hospitality/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Signature: An exclusive interview with Whataburger CEO Debbie Stroud]]></title><description><![CDATA[With more than three decades of foodservice leadership under her belt, Stroud is now shepherding the 50,000-member family that is Whataburger into the future with pride, care, and love]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/signature-an-exclusive-interview-with-whataburger-ceo-debbie-stroud/</link><pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2026 18:14:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/signature-an-exclusive-interview-with-whataburger-ceo-debbie-stroud/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How two independent restaurants are managing a high-cost environment]]></title><description><![CDATA[Chicago&rsquo;s Adalina Prime and Atlanta&rsquo;s Talat Market are finding savings from labor optimization to fixing equipment in-house]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-two-independent-restaurants-are-managing-a-high-cost-environment/</link><pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2026 18:01:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-two-independent-restaurants-are-managing-a-high-cost-environment/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Papa Johns and Toy Story 5 mark first-ever collaboration]]></title><description><![CDATA[To celebrate the movie&rsquo;s release June 19, the pizza chain is offering a variety of limited-edition personal pizzas inspired by iconic Toy Story characters]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-and-toy-story-5-mark-first-ever-collaboration/</link><pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2026 16:51:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-and-toy-story-5-mark-first-ever-collaboration/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chicken sales, Popeyes wraps, Miller’s CEO]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chicken-sales-popeyes-wraps-millers-ceo/</link><pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2026 15:45:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chicken-sales-popeyes-wraps-millers-ceo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[KFC’s $10 bucket deal is now available each weekday]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food chicken chain has also introduced two new sauces, Honey Chili Crisp and Jalape&ntilde;o Ranch]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfcs-10-bucket-deal-is-now-available-each-weekday/</link><pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2026 15:17:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfcs-10-bucket-deal-is-now-available-each-weekday/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Fruit-based drinks are everywhere, but Juice It Up keeps growing]]></title><description><![CDATA[The rapid growth of beverage concepts does not appear to be hurting juice and smoothie players, even 30-year-old brands; once again, protein is a big traffic driver]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fruit-based-drinks-are-everywhere-but-juice-it-up-keeps-growing/</link><pubDate>Tue, 05 May 2026 00:47:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fruit-based-drinks-are-everywhere-but-juice-it-up-keeps-growing/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Miller’s Ale House promotes Joel Chick to CEO]]></title><description><![CDATA[The former COO replaces Brett Patterson, who left to become CEO of Portillo&rsquo;s]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/millers-ale-house-promotes-joel-chick-to-ceo/</link><pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2026 20:34:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/millers-ale-house-promotes-joel-chick-to-ceo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[KFC jumps on Met Gala marketing opportunity]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food chicken chain is offering a promotion in response to rumors that celebrities demanded hourly KFC deliveries during last year&rsquo;s event]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfc-jumps-on-met-gala-marketing-opportunity/</link><pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2026 20:23:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfc-jumps-on-met-gala-marketing-opportunity/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The chicken category’s sales slowed last year]]></title><description><![CDATA[The category increased 5.3% in 2025, down from 9.1% in 2024 and more than 12% in 2023, according to Technomic data]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-chicken-categorys-sales-slowed-last-year/</link><pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2026 19:37:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-chicken-categorys-sales-slowed-last-year/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Kwame Onwuachi opens Maroon, an Afro-Caribbean steakhouse at Sahara Las Vegas]]></title><description><![CDATA[This is the acclaimed chef&rsquo;s first restaurant outside of the East Coast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kwame-onwuachi-opens-maroon-an-afro-caribbean-steakhouse-at-sahara-las-vegas/</link><pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2026 18:10:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kwame-onwuachi-opens-maroon-an-afro-caribbean-steakhouse-at-sahara-las-vegas/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Boutique hotel Casa Cañita opens in Miami with a Michelle Berstein-led restaurant]]></title><description><![CDATA[The restaurant, La Ca&ntilde;ita, is inspired by Caribbean rum culture and cuisine]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/boutique-hotel-casa-caita-opens-in-miami-with-a-michelle-berstein-led-restaurant/</link><pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2026 17:44:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/boutique-hotel-casa-caita-opens-in-miami-with-a-michelle-berstein-led-restaurant/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle swings positive, Starbucks wows, and Wingstop lays an egg]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, Subway&rsquo;s first-ever value menu]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-swings-positive-starbucks-wows-and-wingstop-lays-an-egg/</link><pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2026 17:30:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-swings-positive-starbucks-wows-and-wingstop-lays-an-egg/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Huey Magoo’s, Chipotle, Rosa Mexicano]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/huey-magoos-chipotle-rosa-mexicano/</link><pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2026 16:52:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/huey-magoos-chipotle-rosa-mexicano/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wonder hires Antonio Silveria as chief technology officer]]></title><description><![CDATA[The former Nextdoor and GoDaddy exec will help the food hall/delivery concept prepare for an IPO]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wonder-hires-antonio-silveria-as-chief-technology-officer/</link><pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2026 16:31:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wonder-hires-antonio-silveria-as-chief-technology-officer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wonder hires Antonio Silveira as chief technology officer]]></title><description><![CDATA[The former Nextdoor and GoDaddy exec will help the food hall/delivery concept prepare for an IPO]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wonder-hires-antonio-silveira-as-chief-technology-officer/</link><pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2026 16:31:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wonder-hires-antonio-silveira-as-chief-technology-officer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Popeyes chicken wraps are now on the menu permanently]]></title><description><![CDATA[The wraps are available in classic and spicy flavors, as well as the new blackened ranch flavor]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/popeyes-chicken-wraps-are-now-on-the-menu-permanently/</link><pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2026 13:51:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/popeyes-chicken-wraps-are-now-on-the-menu-permanently/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Pret A Manger jumps on mix-and-match value bandwagon]]></title><description><![CDATA[The sandwich and coffee chain launched a Pick Your Pair menu of half portions for $9.99, following similar moves by Panera Bread and La Madeleine.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pret-a-manger-jumps-on-mix-and-match-value-bandwagon/</link><pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 22:59:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pret-a-manger-jumps-on-mix-and-match-value-bandwagon/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s refreshes McCafé brand amid broader beverage rollout]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company said the updated branding was created to reflect its &lsquo;modernized portfolio&rsquo;]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-refreshes-mccaf-brand-amid-broader-beverage-rollout/</link><pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 22:12:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-refreshes-mccaf-brand-amid-broader-beverage-rollout/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbird names Stefanie Lee CFO]]></title><description><![CDATA[She joins the growing fast-casual chicken chain three months after Greg Levin was named CEO]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbird-names-stefanie-lee-cfo/</link><pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 19:21:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbird-names-stefanie-lee-cfo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Huey Magoo’s adds a new prototype to support national growth]]></title><description><![CDATA[The approximately 1,850-square-foot model reduces build out costs and increases franchisee flexibility]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/huey-magoos-adds-a-new-prototype-to-support-national-growth/</link><pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 18:54:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/huey-magoos-adds-a-new-prototype-to-support-national-growth/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: Toban chicken and a croaker spring roll]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus a cocktail inspired by The Devil Wears Prada 2, lobster ravioli with candied tomatoes, and the latest from Jonathon Sawyer]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-toban-chicken-and-a-croaker-spring-roll/</link><pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 18:26:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-toban-chicken-and-a-croaker-spring-roll/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from McDonald’s, Wendy’s, and KFC]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at BJ's, Chili's, Dunkin', Shake Shack, Taco Cabana, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-mcdonalds-wendys-and-kfc/</link><pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 17:32:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-mcdonalds-wendys-and-kfc/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle plans back-to-back giveaways]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company is hosting Cinco de Mayo, Teacher Appreciation Week, and National Nurses Week promotions]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-plans-back-to-back-giveaways/</link><pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 16:34:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-plans-back-to-back-giveaways/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Richard Zoob named CEO of Rosa Mexicano]]></title><description><![CDATA[He has previously served as CEO of The Granola Bar and is also the co-founder of Right Coast Taqueria]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/richard-zoob-named-ceo-of-rosa-mexicano/</link><pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 15:57:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/richard-zoob-named-ceo-of-rosa-mexicano/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Ryan Slemons named chief development officer for Sweetgreen]]></title><description><![CDATA[The former Unleashed Brands executive joins the fast-casual chain as it moves toward the goal of 1,000 domestic restaurants]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ryan-slemons-named-chief-development-officer-for-sweetgreen/</link><pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 22:46:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ryan-slemons-named-chief-development-officer-for-sweetgreen/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[OpenTable creates council of chefs and hospitality leaders to gain insider insights]]></title><description><![CDATA[The U.S. Restaurant Ambassador Council brings together 20 industry pros with boots on the ground to share real-world expertise.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/opentable-creates-council-of-chefs-and-hospitality-leaders-to-gain-insider-insights/</link><pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 22:26:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/opentable-creates-council-of-chefs-and-hospitality-leaders-to-gain-insider-insights/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Cheesecake Factory, Chipotle, Yum Brands spinoffs]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today's Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cheesecake-factory-chipotle-yum-brands-spinoffs/</link><pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 22:08:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cheesecake-factory-chipotle-yum-brands-spinoffs/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Ask Jill: The trust factor in modern hospitality]]></title><description><![CDATA[How trust shapes the guest experience when the systems are already doing their part]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ask-jill-the-trust-factor-in-modern-hospitality/</link><pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 20:20:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ask-jill-the-trust-factor-in-modern-hospitality/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell and KFC generating returns from new concept tests]]></title><description><![CDATA[During parent company Yum Brands&rsquo; earnings call, CEO Chris Turner said Live M&aacute;s Caf&eacute; and Saucy are bolstering business]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-and-kfc-generating-returns-from-new-concept-tests/</link><pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 18:15:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-and-kfc-generating-returns-from-new-concept-tests/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Cheesecake Factory surprises with strong first quarter]]></title><description><![CDATA[Same-store sales rose 1.6%, exceeding expectations despite bad weather and consumer uncertainty]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-cheesecake-factory-surprises-with-strong-first-quarter/</link><pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 18:14:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-cheesecake-factory-surprises-with-strong-first-quarter/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[James Beard Foundation launches Good Food Finder to spotlight honorees]]></title><description><![CDATA[Now diners can search for award winners and nominees by city or region, a move designed to drive traffic to those restaurants]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/james-beard-foundation-launches-good-food-finder-to-spotlight-honorees/</link><pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 18:11:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/james-beard-foundation-launches-good-food-finder-to-spotlight-honorees/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chili’s, Taco Bell and Wingstop]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today's Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-taco-bell-and-wingstop/</link><pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 16:49:40 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-taco-bell-and-wingstop/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Red Robin hires longtime Bloomin’ leader as CFO]]></title><description><![CDATA[Mark Graff joins the casual-dining burger chain after nearly 14 years with the Outback Steakhouse owner.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/red-robin-hires-longtime-bloomin-leader-as-cfo/</link><pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/red-robin-hires-longtime-bloomin-leader-as-cfo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle swings positive after a tough 2025]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual Mexican chain reported a 0.5% increase in same-store sales in Q1 and a 0.6% increase in transactions]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-swings-positive-after-a-tough-2025/</link><pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 00:40:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-swings-positive-after-a-tough-2025/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[America is losing independent restaurants]]></title><description><![CDATA[The number of independents declined by 2.3% in 2025, reflecting a net loss of about 9,500 restaurants, according to Technomic]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/america-is-losing-independent-restaurants/</link><pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 00:36:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/america-is-losing-independent-restaurants/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Subway, McDonald’s beverages and Chipotle]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today's Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/subway-mcdonalds-beverages-and-chipotle/</link><pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2026 21:07:41 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/subway-mcdonalds-beverages-and-chipotle/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wingstop’s Q1 hammered by weather, consumer pressures]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual chicken-wing chain's same-store sales fell 8.7%, though revenue rose 7% from new unit openings]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wingstops-q1-hammered-by-weather-consumer-pressures/</link><pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2026 20:37:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wingstops-q1-hammered-by-weather-consumer-pressures/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How restaurant brands can thrive in uncertain times]]></title><description><![CDATA[The brands that emerge stronger from challenging cycles are those that simplify, focus on fundamentals, and sharpen the strategies already working for them]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-restaurant-brands-can-thrive-in-uncertain-times/</link><pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2026 20:32:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-restaurant-brands-can-thrive-in-uncertain-times/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How ‘boomerang’ chefs are changing the fine-dining landscape]]></title><description><![CDATA[Chefs are bringing their big-city experience back home and discovering that fine-dining diners can be found almost anywhere]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-boomerang-chefs-are-changing-the-fine-dining-landscape/</link><pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2026 20:08:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-boomerang-chefs-are-changing-the-fine-dining-landscape/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How Philadelphia-based chain Honeygrow sparked growth by closing stores and resetting]]></title><description><![CDATA[Founder Justin Rosenberg made the difficult decision to close some locations in major markets; 10 years later, his brand is rapidly opening new locations]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-philadelphia-based-chain-honeygrow-sparked-growth-by-closing-stores-and-resetting-2/</link><pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2026 19:56:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-philadelphia-based-chain-honeygrow-sparked-growth-by-closing-stores-and-resetting-2/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How Philadelphia based chain Honeygrow sparked growth by closing stores and resetting]]></title><description><![CDATA[Founder Justin Rosenberg made the difficult decision to close some locations in major markets; 10 years later, his brand is rapidly opening new locations]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-philadelphia-based-chain-honeygrow-sparked-growth-by-closing-stores-and-resetting/</link><pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2026 19:56:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-philadelphia-based-chain-honeygrow-sparked-growth-by-closing-stores-and-resetting/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chili’s keeps rolling, with a kick from chicken sandwiches]]></title><description><![CDATA[The casual-dining chain rebounded from bad weather in January with strong traffic growth that has accelerated into April.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-keeps-rolling-with-a-kick-from-chicken-sandwiches/</link><pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2026 18:56:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-keeps-rolling-with-a-kick-from-chicken-sandwiches/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell franchisee reorganizes executive team to drive more growth]]></title><description><![CDATA[Diversified Restaurant Group has named Todd Kelly brand president, Tom Douglas COO and Jason Dunn chief restaurant officer]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-franchisee-reorganizes-executive-team-to-drive-more-growth/</link><pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2026 18:46:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-franchisee-reorganizes-executive-team-to-drive-more-growth/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Value, innovation, cultural relevance drive another robust quarter for Taco Bell]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food Mexican chain&rsquo;s same-store sales increased 8% in Q1, lapping 9% a year ago]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/value-innovation-cultural-relevance-drive-another-robust-quarter-for-taco-bell/</link><pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:18:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/value-innovation-cultural-relevance-drive-another-robust-quarter-for-taco-bell/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks&rsquo; sales improve in a 'milestone' quarter]]></title><description><![CDATA[The coffee shop giant&rsquo;s U.S. same-store sales increased 7.1% in the U.S., led by transaction growth, and profits are starting to follow]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucksrsquo-sales-improve-in-a-milestone-quarter/</link><pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 23:04:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucksrsquo-sales-improve-in-a-milestone-quarter/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Piada Italian Street Food is looking for strategic growth partner]]></title><description><![CDATA[The 62-unit chain believes there&rsquo;s room for 1,000 fast-casual Italian restaurants across the U.S. It just needs capital for expansion]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/piada-italian-street-food-is-looking-for-strategic-growth-partner/</link><pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 22:48:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/piada-italian-street-food-is-looking-for-strategic-growth-partner/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Take a look at McDonald's new beverage lineup]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food giant will start selling a selection of dirty sodas and Refreshers starting May 6]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/take-a-look-at-mcdonalds-new-beverage-lineup/</link><pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 20:12:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/take-a-look-at-mcdonalds-new-beverage-lineup/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[At The Dabney, chef-owner Jeremiah Langhorne showcases Mid-Atlantic cuisine and conviviality]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Michelin-starred Washington, D.C. restaurant is steeped in a rich culinary heritage shaped by the bounty of the region and the chef&rsquo;s vision]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/at-the-dabney-chef-owner-jeremiah-langhorne-showcases-mid-atlantic-cuisine-and-conviviality/</link><pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 19:18:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/at-the-dabney-chef-owner-jeremiah-langhorne-showcases-mid-atlantic-cuisine-and-conviviality/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Trending this week: Red Lobster brings back Endless Shrimp for first time since bankruptcy]]></title><description><![CDATA[See which stories readers couldn't get enough of]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-red-lobster-brings-back-endless-shrimp-for-first-time-since-bankruptcy/</link><pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 18:23:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-red-lobster-brings-back-endless-shrimp-for-first-time-since-bankruptcy/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Subway launches first-ever value menu with 15 items under $5]]></title><description><![CDATA[The quick-service chain&rsquo;s inaugural value menu features Deli Faves alongside the previously launched Protein Pockets and Sub of the Day]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/subway-launches-first-ever-value-menu-with-15-items-under-5/</link><pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 17:49:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/subway-launches-first-ever-value-menu-with-15-items-under-5/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why Domino’s is adjusting its menu and marketing calendar]]></title><description><![CDATA[In response to a first quarter that &ldquo;didn&rsquo;t meet expectations,&rdquo; the fast-food pizza chain is accelerating product innovation]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-dominos-is-adjusting-its-menu-and-marketing-calendar/</link><pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 17:32:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-dominos-is-adjusting-its-menu-and-marketing-calendar/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Ryan Lulow named Mountain Mike’s CFO]]></title><description><![CDATA[He joined the pizza chain as controller in 2020 and was promoted to VP of finance in 2021]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ryan-lulow-named-mountain-mikes-cfo/</link><pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 17:28:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ryan-lulow-named-mountain-mikes-cfo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Papa Johns launches an AI assistant to help with group orders]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food pizza chain's Lou AI platform is deployed through Google Cloud&rsquo;s Food Ordering agent]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-launches-an-ai-assistant-to-help-with-group-orders/</link><pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 17:21:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-launches-an-ai-assistant-to-help-with-group-orders/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Domino’s, Jack in the Box and fast-casual chain sales]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today's Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dominos-jack-in-the-box-and-fast-casual-chain-sales/</link><pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dominos-jack-in-the-box-and-fast-casual-chain-sales/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle taps industry vet Fernando Machado as chief brand officer]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual Mexican chain also named Arlie Sisson to the newly created chief digital officer role]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-taps-industry-vet-fernando-machado-as-chief-brand-officer/</link><pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2026 22:35:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-taps-industry-vet-fernando-machado-as-chief-brand-officer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks’ east coast move, McDonald’s major milestone, and Little Caesars’ new delivery method]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, Steak &rsquo;n&rsquo; Shake&rsquo;s new Chief MAHA Officer role]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-east-coast-move-mcdonalds-major-milestone-and-little-caesars-new-delivery-method/</link><pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2026 22:24:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-east-coast-move-mcdonalds-major-milestone-and-little-caesars-new-delivery-method/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Applebee’s, joint employer regulations and Top 500 franchise brands]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today's Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-joint-employer-regulations-and-top-500-franchise-brands/</link><pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:51:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-joint-employer-regulations-and-top-500-franchise-brands/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[In a heavy value environment, loyalty is harder to come by]]></title><description><![CDATA[Diners are demanding more than just deals as their discretionary spending is pressured]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/in-a-heavy-value-environment-loyalty-is-harder-to-come-by/</link><pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:31:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/in-a-heavy-value-environment-loyalty-is-harder-to-come-by/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How Yum Brands executives work together on value]]></title><description><![CDATA[Executives with Taco Bell, KFC and Habit Burger &amp; Grill share ideas and strategies to win over consumers. That has come in handy as value becomes vital for consumers]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-yum-brands-executives-work-together-on-value/</link><pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2026 19:26:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-yum-brands-executives-work-together-on-value/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[After a popular residency, Kevin Finch’s Arthur now has a permanent home in Brooklyn, N.Y.]]></title><description><![CDATA[The bistro-inspired menu features escargot skewers and Brioche Martinis]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/after-a-popular-residency-kevin-finchs-arthur-now-has-a-permanent-home-in-brooklyn-ny/</link><pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2026 19:00:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/after-a-popular-residency-kevin-finchs-arthur-now-has-a-permanent-home-in-brooklyn-ny/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Long John Silver’s teams up with a spicy partner]]></title><description><![CDATA[A lineup of chicken and seafood items flavored with Frank&rsquo;s RedHot Buffalo launches at the quick-service chain]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/long-john-silvers-teams-up-with-a-spicy-partner/</link><pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2026 18:51:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/long-john-silvers-teams-up-with-a-spicy-partner/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Domino’s starts the year slowly but maintains a strong outlook]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food pizza chain reported same-store sales growth of 0.9% and expects to finish 2026 with 3%]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dominos-starts-the-year-slowly-but-maintains-a-strong-outlook/</link><pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2026 16:46:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dominos-starts-the-year-slowly-but-maintains-a-strong-outlook/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Top 500 fast-casual restaurant chains that won in 2025]]></title><description><![CDATA[Sales growth slowed for the fast-casual segment overall, but it was a good year to be a Mediterranean or sandwich brand]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-top-500-fast-casual-restaurant-chains-that-won-in-2025/</link><pubDate>Sat, 25 Apr 2026 00:18:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-top-500-fast-casual-restaurant-chains-that-won-in-2025/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How restaurant traffic will trend this Mother’s Day]]></title><description><![CDATA[Based on OpenTable&rsquo;s 2025 numbers, the holiday brings in a huge chunk of business, with 2026 looking promising]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-restaurant-traffic-will-trend-this-mothers-day/</link><pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2026 22:35:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-restaurant-traffic-will-trend-this-mothers-day/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: Spring stew and a cherry blossom dessert]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus a mushroom dumpling, a localized Mojito, and dressed-up shrimp and rice]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-spring-stew-and-a-cherry-blossom-dessert/</link><pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2026 19:22:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-spring-stew-and-a-cherry-blossom-dessert/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Little Caesars drones, Starbucks pickup, Wendy’s spicy chicken]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/little-caesars-drones-starbucks-pickup-wendys-spicy-chicken/</link><pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2026 18:55:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/little-caesars-drones-starbucks-pickup-wendys-spicy-chicken/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from Wendy’s, Chipotle, and IHOP]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at Arby&rsquo;s, Bojangles, Jollibee, Luckin Coffee, Moe's Southwest Grill, Snooze Eatery, Zaxby's, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-wendys-chipotle-and-ihop/</link><pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2026 15:59:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-wendys-chipotle-and-ihop/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Labor department proposes new joint employer rule]]></title><description><![CDATA[The definition of "joint employer" varies by jurisdiction. This proposed rule will attempt to clarify who is responsible for compliance with wage-and-hour worker protections.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/labor-department-proposes-new-joint-employer-rule-2/</link><pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 22:43:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/labor-department-proposes-new-joint-employer-rule-2/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s wants you to know it has protein on the menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food giant has added callouts with 17 of its menu items so you know that they have protein and how much]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-wants-you-to-know-it-has-protein-on-the-menu/</link><pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 22:35:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-wants-you-to-know-it-has-protein-on-the-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Making a menu that works hard to boost profitability]]></title><description><![CDATA[Three operators share their strategies for maximizing margins as costs continue to rise and consumers grow wary of menu price hikes.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/making-a-menu-that-works-hard-to-boost-profitability/</link><pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 21:52:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/making-a-menu-that-works-hard-to-boost-profitability/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wendy’s spring menu lineup is filled with watermelon, jalapeño and cookie dough]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food chain revealed a host of new sweet and spicy menu items this spring, including a Cookie Dough Frosty Fusion]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-spring-menu-lineup-is-filled-with-watermelon-jalapeo-and-cookie-dough/</link><pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 21:48:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-spring-menu-lineup-is-filled-with-watermelon-jalapeo-and-cookie-dough/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How Kim Malek and Lauren Bailey overcame ‘founderitis’]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Salt &amp; Straw and Postino founders shared their stories and wisdom during this week&rsquo;s Restaurant Leadership Conference]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-kim-malek-and-lauren-bailey-overcame-founderitis/</link><pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 19:23:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-kim-malek-and-lauren-bailey-overcame-founderitis/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[50 Best Bars names New York&rsquo;s Sip &amp;amp; Guzzle the best bar in North America]]></title><description><![CDATA[This year&rsquo;s list features 28 United States bars, including 13 in New York City and four in Chicago]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/50-best-bars-names-new-yorkrsquos-sip-ampamp-guzzle-the-best-bar-in-north-america/</link><pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 19:22:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/50-best-bars-names-new-yorkrsquos-sip-ampamp-guzzle-the-best-bar-in-north-america/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle, Jeni’s and which restaurant chains are growing]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-jenis-and-which-restaurant-chains-are-growing/</link><pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 19:08:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-jenis-and-which-restaurant-chains-are-growing/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Rethinking fast-casual growth in the age of instant gratification]]></title><description><![CDATA[Five tips for building a model that consistently delivers what customers want]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/rethinking-fast-casual-growth-in-the-age-of-instant-gratification/</link><pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 18:25:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/rethinking-fast-casual-growth-in-the-age-of-instant-gratification/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Layne’s Chicken Fingers chases massive franchise growth in crowded category]]></title><description><![CDATA[CEO Garrett Reed explains why the opportunity in fast-casual chicken is nearly limitless]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/laynes-chicken-fingers-chases-massive-franchise-growth-in-crowded-category/</link><pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 17:57:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/laynes-chicken-fingers-chases-massive-franchise-growth-in-crowded-category/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Restaurants brace for the impact of high gas prices]]></title><description><![CDATA[Restaurants are turning to value and service to keep customers happy as the spend more at the pump]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurants-brace-for-the-impact-of-high-gas-prices/</link><pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 17:22:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurants-brace-for-the-impact-of-high-gas-prices/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dog Haus unveils unique new franchising model]]></title><description><![CDATA[The 60-unit fast-casual chain has the potential to grow quickly into a national brand under this ground-breaking strategy, which seeks to bridge an inherent disconnect between franchisor and franchisee]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dog-haus-unveils-unique-new-franchising-model/</link><pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 17:17:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dog-haus-unveils-unique-new-franchising-model/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Fuzzy’s Taco Shop launches seasonal value menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Viva Los Tacos menu is available beginning June 14, featuring tacos, bowls, and beverages]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fuzzys-taco-shop-launches-seasonal-value-menu/</link><pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 17:06:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fuzzys-taco-shop-launches-seasonal-value-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Fuzzy’s Taco Shop launches seasonal menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Viva Los Tacos menu is available through June 14, featuring tacos, bowls, and beverages]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fuzzys-taco-shop-launches-seasonal-menu/</link><pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 17:06:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fuzzys-taco-shop-launches-seasonal-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks will soon let you plan your pickup times]]></title><description><![CDATA[The coffee shop giant will start allowing scheduled ordering in its North American shops starting on May 11]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-will-soon-let-you-plan-your-pickup-times/</link><pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 16:53:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-will-soon-let-you-plan-your-pickup-times/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Little Caesars deploys high-capacity drone delivery]]></title><description><![CDATA[The pizza chain has partnered with Flytrex for what it said is the largest capacity of any food delivery drone in operation, at 8.8 pounds]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/little-caesars-deploys-high-capacity-drone-delivery/</link><pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 16:32:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/little-caesars-deploys-high-capacity-drone-delivery/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald's added a lot of new U.S. restaurants in 2025]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food giant opened more locations in the U.S. in 2025 than in any year since 2002, ending the brand's low-growth era]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-added-a-lot-of-new-us-restaurants-in-2025/</link><pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 15:49:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-added-a-lot-of-new-us-restaurants-in-2025/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Troy Aikman on leadership, foodservice, and ‘90s football]]></title><description><![CDATA[The former Dallas Cowboys quarterback spoke at the Restaurant Leadership Conference]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/troy-aikman-on-leadership-foodservice-and-90s-football/</link><pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2026 22:59:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/troy-aikman-on-leadership-foodservice-and-90s-football/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle brings back popular honey chicken dish]]></title><description><![CDATA[The protein delivered the highest order rates of any limited-time offering in the chain&rsquo;s history following its initial launch last year]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-brings-back-popular-honey-chicken-dish/</link><pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2026 22:43:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-brings-back-popular-honey-chicken-dish/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks, Steak n Shake, P.F. Chang’s, El Pollo Loco]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-steak-n-shake-pf-changs-el-pollo-loco/</link><pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2026 21:15:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-steak-n-shake-pf-changs-el-pollo-loco/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jeni&rsquo;s scoops up former Ben &amp;amp; Jerry&rsquo;s chief as CEO]]></title><description><![CDATA[Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream hires former Ben &amp; Jerry's chief David Stever as CEO]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jenirsquos-scoops-up-former-ben-ampamp-jerryrsquos-chief-as-ceo/</link><pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2026 19:02:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jenirsquos-scoops-up-former-ben-ampamp-jerryrsquos-chief-as-ceo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The trends shaping restaurants in 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[Gas prices, GLP-1s and a new food pyramid are creating uncertainty and opportunity, Technomic experts said at the Restaurant Leadership Conference]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-trends-shaping-restaurants-in-2026/</link><pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2026 02:15:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-trends-shaping-restaurants-in-2026/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How the different generations interact with restaurants]]></title><description><![CDATA[A panel ranging from Baby Boomer to Gen Z share their perspectives on what they crave and how they make the choices that they do]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-the-different-generations-interact-with-restaurants/</link><pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:55:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-the-different-generations-interact-with-restaurants/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[An inside look at what's challenging restaurant chain execs in 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[At the Restaurant Leadership Conference in Phoenix, five C-level executives shared the ins and outs of growing their brands]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/an-inside-look-at-whats-challenging-restaurant-chain-execs-in-2026/</link><pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:03:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/an-inside-look-at-whats-challenging-restaurant-chain-execs-in-2026/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[An insde look at what's challenging restaurant chain execs in 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[At the Restaurant Leadership Conference in Phoenix, five C-level executives shared the ins and outs of growing their brands]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/an-insde-look-at-whats-challenging-restaurant-chain-execs-in-2026/</link><pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:03:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/an-insde-look-at-whats-challenging-restaurant-chain-execs-in-2026/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Longtime Fogo de Chão CFO Tony Laday is retiring]]></title><description><![CDATA[Laday spent 12 years with the Brazilian steakhouse chain and helped steer it through a period of growth and change]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/longtime-fogo-de-cho-cfo-tony-laday-is-retiring/</link><pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 23:09:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/longtime-fogo-de-cho-cfo-tony-laday-is-retiring/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How Christine Barone creates ‘magic’ at Dutch Bros]]></title><description><![CDATA[The 2026 Restaurant Leader of the Year said the company&rsquo;s recent success is driven by its focus on culture]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-christine-barone-creates-magic-at-dutch-bros/</link><pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-christine-barone-creates-magic-at-dutch-bros/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Kevin Armantrout promoted to CEO of Bagels &amp;amp; Co.]]></title><description><![CDATA[Co-founder Mike Marsh is shifting to strategy role for the 11-unit bagel chain, known for its creative schmears. Armantrout, who joined as COO last year, is the previous president of Another Broken Egg Caf&eacute;.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kevin-armantrout-promoted-to-ceo-of-bagels-ampamp-co/</link><pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 21:36:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kevin-armantrout-promoted-to-ceo-of-bagels-ampamp-co/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Kevin Armantrout promoted to CEO of Bagel &amp;amp; Co.]]></title><description><![CDATA[Co-founder Mike Marsh is shifting to strategy role for the 11-unit bagel chain, known for its creative schmears. Armantrout, who joined as COO last year, is the previous president of Another Broken Egg Caf&eacute;.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kevin-armantrout-promoted-to-ceo-of-bagel-ampamp-co/</link><pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 21:36:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kevin-armantrout-promoted-to-ceo-of-bagel-ampamp-co/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King’s latest collaboration is with Star Wars]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food chain is launching a limited-time menu in partnership with the movie Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu, featuring a BBQ Bounty Whopper and collectible cups]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-kings-latest-collaboration-is-with-star-wars/</link><pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 21:08:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-kings-latest-collaboration-is-with-star-wars/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Philippe Chow’s new flagship restaurant is now open in Midtown Manhattan]]></title><description><![CDATA[The popular Chinese spot sports a larger footprint than its Upper East Side original, and more space for private dining]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/philippe-chows-new-flagship-restaurant-is-now-open-in-midtown-manhattan/</link><pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 20:54:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/philippe-chows-new-flagship-restaurant-is-now-open-in-midtown-manhattan/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Trending this week: Chili’s launches new chicken sandwiches with another jab at McDonald’s]]></title><description><![CDATA[See which stories readers couldn't get enough of]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-chilis-launches-new-chicken-sandwiches-with-another-jab-at-mcdonalds/</link><pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 19:55:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-chilis-launches-new-chicken-sandwiches-with-another-jab-at-mcdonalds/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Suresh Sundas and Dante Datta innovate with Indian food &amp;amp; drink in D.C.&rsquo;s H Street neighborhood]]></title><description><![CDATA[Menu Talk: The chef and beverage director of Daru and Tapori cover the gamut of South Asian culinary culture]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/suresh-sundas-and-dante-datta-innovate-with-indian-food-ampamp-drink-in-dcrsquos-h-street-neighborhood/</link><pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 19:15:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/suresh-sundas-and-dante-datta-innovate-with-indian-food-ampamp-drink-in-dcrsquos-h-street-neighborhood/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The hidden “middleman tax” behind food delivery prices]]></title><description><![CDATA[AI could help restaurants rethink rising food delivery costs]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-hidden-middleman-tax-behind-food-delivery-prices/</link><pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 18:58:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-hidden-middleman-tax-behind-food-delivery-prices/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Steak n Shake names a chief MAHA officer]]></title><description><![CDATA[The burger chain, which has embraced the &ldquo;Make America Healthy Again&rdquo; movement, said on the social media site X that it is hiring Michael Boes to oversee its ingredients.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/steak-n-shake-names-a-chief-maha-officer/</link><pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:45:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/steak-n-shake-names-a-chief-maha-officer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jersey Mike’s, Red Lobster, and the Top 500 Restaurant Chains]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jersey-mikes-red-lobster-and-the-top-500-restaurant-chains/</link><pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:45:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jersey-mikes-red-lobster-and-the-top-500-restaurant-chains/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Ford’s Garage hires Kathleen Bush as first CMO]]></title><description><![CDATA[Bush previously spent more than three years at Red Robin. Ford&rsquo;s also promoted David Ragosa to chief development officer]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fords-garage-hires-kathleen-bush-as-first-cmo/</link><pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:39:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fords-garage-hires-kathleen-bush-as-first-cmo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Nation's Restaurant News April 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[NRN&rsquo;s Power List is back, and this year we&rsquo;re focusing on some of the most creative, entrepreneurial leaders in the industry: Founders.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nations-restaurant-news-april-2026/</link><pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:55:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nations-restaurant-news-april-2026/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Pizza Hut relaunches Huts Rewards]]></title><description><![CDATA[The loyalty program enables members to earn faster rewards through challenges, as well as limited-edition drops and members-only experiences]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pizza-hut-relaunches-huts-rewards/</link><pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 06:37:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pizza-hut-relaunches-huts-rewards/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Women’s Foodservice Forum names Ellie Doty chief brand officer]]></title><description><![CDATA[She brings over 20 years of industry experience to the role, including as CMO of Burger King and Chili&rsquo;s]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/womens-foodservice-forum-names-ellie-doty-chief-brand-officer/</link><pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 06:13:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/womens-foodservice-forum-names-ellie-doty-chief-brand-officer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New AI developments, McDonald's big beverage upgrade, and Red Lobster's return to endless shrimp]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, a conversation with Noodles &amp; Co. head chef Tina Massey]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-ai-developments-mcdonalds-big-beverage-upgrade-and-red-lobsters-return-to-endless-shrimp/</link><pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2026 23:41:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-ai-developments-mcdonalds-big-beverage-upgrade-and-red-lobsters-return-to-endless-shrimp/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[What NASA got right about hospitality]]></title><description><![CDATA[Five lessons for restaurant operators from the Artemis II mission]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/what-nasa-got-right-about-hospitality/</link><pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:41:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/what-nasa-got-right-about-hospitality/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[El Pollo Loco, Bread Zeppelin, Snooze Eatery]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/el-pollo-loco-bread-zeppelin-snooze-eatery/</link><pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:17:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/el-pollo-loco-bread-zeppelin-snooze-eatery/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Zaxbys puts ‘Giant’ Chicken Finger Wraps on the menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain has also teamed up with Savannah Bananas player Jackson Olson to promote the return of its Banana Pudding Milkshake]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/zaxbys-puts-giant-chicken-finger-wraps-on-the-menu/</link><pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2026 15:19:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/zaxbys-puts-giant-chicken-finger-wraps-on-the-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Technomic Top 500: Another tough year for chain restaurants]]></title><description><![CDATA[Top 500 chain restaurant sales slowed again in 2025 as consumers cut back on dining, but sectors like coffee, beverages and snacks and chicken thrived]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-technomic-top-500-another-tough-year-for-chain-restaurants/</link><pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2026 15:16:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-technomic-top-500-another-tough-year-for-chain-restaurants/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jersey Mike's files confidential IPO documents]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual sandwich chain has confidentially filed a draft S-1 registration statement with the SEC less than 18 months after the company was sold to the private-equity firm Blackstone]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jersey-mikes-files-confidential-ipo-documents/</link><pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2026 14:45:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jersey-mikes-files-confidential-ipo-documents/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The 2026 Pacesetter Award goes to: Nothing Bundt Cakes]]></title><description><![CDATA[The 803-unit bundt cake brand was celebrated at the Restaurant Leadership Conference in Phoenix, which continues this week]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-2026-pacesetter-award-goes-to-nothing-bundt-cakes/</link><pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2026 07:22:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-2026-pacesetter-award-goes-to-nothing-bundt-cakes/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Red Lobster brings back Endless Shrimp for first time since bankruptcy]]></title><description><![CDATA[The all-you-can-eat special was a catalyst for the chain&rsquo;s restructuring in 2024. But customers wanted it back, and Red Lobster listened.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/red-lobster-brings-back-endless-shrimp-for-first-time-since-bankruptcy/</link><pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2026 01:29:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/red-lobster-brings-back-endless-shrimp-for-first-time-since-bankruptcy/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Marriott to switch from Pepsi to Coke]]></title><description><![CDATA[The change will be initiated this summer, ending a 34-year relationship]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/marriott-to-switch-from-pepsi-to-coke/</link><pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 22:11:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/marriott-to-switch-from-pepsi-to-coke/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bread Zeppelin to Panera: We stuffed salad into bread first]]></title><description><![CDATA[Texas-based Bread Zeppelin is inviting guests to bring in their receipt for Panera&rsquo;s new Salad Stuffer for a free taste of the OG salad in hollowed-out bread]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bread-zeppelin-to-panera-we-stuffed-salad-into-bread-first/</link><pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 21:04:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bread-zeppelin-to-panera-we-stuffed-salad-into-bread-first/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: Mortadella tonnato and lamb uttapam Benedict]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus she-crab risotto, carne asada with blue cheese, and a localized smoked Old Fashioned]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-mortadella-tonnato-and-lamb-uttapam-benedict/</link><pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 20:56:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-mortadella-tonnato-and-lamb-uttapam-benedict/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Restaurant brands roll out promotions for 4/20]]></title><description><![CDATA[The occasion comes as marijuana consumption experiences a significant and sustainable increase]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurant-brands-roll-out-promotions-for-420/</link><pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 19:08:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurant-brands-roll-out-promotions-for-420/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Kayla Edidin named chief operating officer of Red Door Brands]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: Proven growth executive joins multi-unit, multi-brand franchise group to expand portfolio and manage operations]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kayla-edidin-named-chief-operating-officer-of-red-door-brands/</link><pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 18:01:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kayla-edidin-named-chief-operating-officer-of-red-door-brands/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[El Pollo Loco debuts new Loco Tenders]]></title><description><![CDATA[They are available in classic and spicy flavors and are paired with signature dipping sauces]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/el-pollo-loco-debuts-new-loco-tenders/</link><pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 17:21:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/el-pollo-loco-debuts-new-loco-tenders/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from CAVA, Chili’s, and Taco Bell]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at Bubbakoo's, Denny's, Garbanzo, Gong cha, Habit Burger, Hardee's, Milk Bar, Pollo Campero, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-cava-chilis-and-taco-bell/</link><pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 17:10:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-cava-chilis-and-taco-bell/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Snooze Eatery extends into lunch with new menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[The breakfast and brunch chain added a selection of sandwiches and a salad, bringing it more in line with competitors]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/snooze-eatery-extends-into-lunch-with-new-menu/</link><pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 16:55:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/snooze-eatery-extends-into-lunch-with-new-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Little Caesars, Dairy Queen and Chicago’s tip credit]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/little-caesars-dairy-queen-and-chicagos-tip-credit/</link><pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 15:49:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/little-caesars-dairy-queen-and-chicagos-tip-credit/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Rising gas prices remind why earned wage access is so important]]></title><description><![CDATA[With so many Americans living paycheck to paycheck, a jump in fuel costs creates immediate household expenses]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/rising-gas-prices-remind-why-earned-wage-access-is-so-important/</link><pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2026 21:52:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/rising-gas-prices-remind-why-earned-wage-access-is-so-important/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dairy Queen rolls out voice AI for the drive-thru]]></title><description><![CDATA[The quick-service treat chain will expand its partnership with Presto to more locations after early tests showed promise]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dairy-queen-rolls-out-voice-ai-for-the-drive-thru/</link><pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2026 19:57:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dairy-queen-rolls-out-voice-ai-for-the-drive-thru/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chicago to continue slow phase-out of tip credit]]></title><description><![CDATA[The city council attempted to freeze increases in the tipped wage where it is. But the mayor vetoed the move, and city lawmakers didn&rsquo;t have enough votes for an override]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chicago-to-continue-slow-phase-out-of-tip-credit/</link><pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2026 19:55:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chicago-to-continue-slow-phase-out-of-tip-credit/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle brings back its hockey BOGO promotion]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual Mexican chain is also releasing its first limited-edition hockey jersey]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-brings-back-its-hockey-bogo-promotion/</link><pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:49:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-brings-back-its-hockey-bogo-promotion/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell’s Triple Double Crunchwrap returns after 8 years]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food Mexican chain celebrated the 20th anniversary of its signature item last year]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bells-triple-double-crunchwrap-returns-after-8-years/</link><pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:12:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bells-triple-double-crunchwrap-returns-after-8-years/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[5 tips for starting new restaurant concepts from FB Society CEO Jack Gibbons]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Dallas-based hospitality group leader has cofounded several successful concepts, and he shared the recipe for what goes into a scalable restaurant]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/5-tips-for-starting-new-restaurant-concepts-from-fb-society-ceo-jack-gibbons/</link><pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2026 16:06:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/5-tips-for-starting-new-restaurant-concepts-from-fb-society-ceo-jack-gibbons/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks AI, CAVA seafood, Hardee’s prime rib]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-ai-cava-seafood-hardees-prime-rib/</link><pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2026 15:40:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-ai-cava-seafood-hardees-prime-rib/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Little Caesars has launched an app in ChatGPT to help with orders]]></title><description><![CDATA[The feature helps users plan meals, receive personalized recommendations, and customize orders]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/little-caesars-has-launched-an-app-in-chatgpt-to-help-with-orders/</link><pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2026 13:20:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/little-caesars-has-launched-an-app-in-chatgpt-to-help-with-orders/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Miami-based Motek is opening its second NYC location, with more on the way]]></title><description><![CDATA[They&rsquo;ll also introduce the Mediterranean street food concept, Yalla Motek, later this year]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/miami-based-motek-is-opening-its-second-nyc-location-with-more-on-the-way/</link><pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2026 21:49:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/miami-based-motek-is-opening-its-second-nyc-location-with-more-on-the-way/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Oberweis to open first scoop shop, inside a Giordano’s]]></title><description><![CDATA[The two Chicago-area brands are teaming up for a co-branded location in the suburb of Naperville]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/oberweis-to-open-first-scoop-shop-inside-a-giordanos/</link><pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2026 19:32:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/oberweis-to-open-first-scoop-shop-inside-a-giordanos/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell Nacho Fries, Chili’s chicken sandwich, Jack in the box franchisee]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-nacho-fries-chilis-chicken-sandwich-jack-in-the-box-franchisee/</link><pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2026 18:28:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-nacho-fries-chilis-chicken-sandwich-jack-in-the-box-franchisee/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Hardee’s, looking to build sales, turns to prime rib]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food chain is introducing a line of prime rib sandwiches across dayparts along with a new beverage platform]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/hardees-looking-to-build-sales-turns-to-prime-rib/</link><pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2026 18:25:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/hardees-looking-to-build-sales-turns-to-prime-rib/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[CAVA adds salmon to the menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual Mediterranean chain&rsquo;s newest protein is also its first seafood offering]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cava-adds-salmon-to-the-menu/</link><pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:12:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cava-adds-salmon-to-the-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[At Denver restaurants Olivia and Dear Emilia sustainability is a responsibility]]></title><description><![CDATA[Sustainability director Paula Thomas shares her approach to running greener businesses]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/at-denver-restaurants-olivia-and-dear-emilia-sustainability-is-a-responsibility/</link><pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2026 16:32:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/at-denver-restaurants-olivia-and-dear-emilia-sustainability-is-a-responsibility/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Mo’Bettahs exits the Kansas City market]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Hawaiian plate lunch concept continues to enter new markets and generated 18% unit-count growth in 2025]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mobettahs-exits-the-kansas-city-market/</link><pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2026 16:31:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mobettahs-exits-the-kansas-city-market/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[AI can now help you pick your Starbucks drink]]></title><description><![CDATA[The coffee shop giant has a new app on ChatGPT that will help you select your drink based on the weather, your mood, or what you're wearing.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ai-can-now-help-you-pick-your-starbucks-drink/</link><pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2026 14:17:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ai-can-now-help-you-pick-your-starbucks-drink/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Trending this week: NRN’s 2026 Power List]]></title><description><![CDATA[See which stories readers couldn't get enough of]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-nrns-2026-power-list/</link><pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 21:39:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-nrns-2026-power-list/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Topgolf taps Jay Spears as CIO]]></title><description><![CDATA[Spears joins the golf-based eatertainment chain from CEC Entertainment, where he worked with new Topgolf CEO David McKillips]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/topgolf-taps-jay-spears-as-cio/</link><pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 20:53:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/topgolf-taps-jay-spears-as-cio/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How AI search is reshaping foodservice marketing]]></title><description><![CDATA[Here&rsquo;s what restaurant suppliers in particular should do about it]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-ai-search-is-reshaping-foodservice-marketing/</link><pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:32:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-ai-search-is-reshaping-foodservice-marketing/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Gregg Horan builds steakhouse success in the suburbs]]></title><description><![CDATA[Menu Talk: The Greggory offers a food and drink menu, service style and ambiance that draws a crowd in South Barrington, Illinois]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/gregg-horan-builds-steakhouse-success-in-the-suburbs/</link><pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:24:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/gregg-horan-builds-steakhouse-success-in-the-suburbs/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Here’s when hospitality becomes unreasonable, according to one food expert]]></title><description><![CDATA[Adam Reiner discusses his book &ldquo;The New Rules of Dining Out&rdquo;]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/heres-when-hospitality-becomes-unreasonable-according-to-one-food-expert/</link><pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 18:38:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/heres-when-hospitality-becomes-unreasonable-according-to-one-food-expert/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chili’s launches new chicken sandwiches with another jab at McDonald’s]]></title><description><![CDATA[The casual-dining chain unveiled the new Big Crispy lineup made with upgraded ingredients, including a chicken filet that it says is &ldquo;WAY bigger&rdquo; than McDonald&rsquo;s version.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-launches-new-chicken-sandwiches-with-another-jab-at-mcdonalds/</link><pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 17:51:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-launches-new-chicken-sandwiches-with-another-jab-at-mcdonalds/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell teams up with Zab’s for new Nacho Fries]]></title><description><![CDATA[The collaboration marks the chain&rsquo;s first datil pepper hot sauce partnership]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-teams-up-with-zabs-for-new-nacho-fries/</link><pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 17:50:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-teams-up-with-zabs-for-new-nacho-fries/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Church’s Texas Chicken signs major deal for China entry]]></title><description><![CDATA[The first location will open in Shanghai this summer]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/churchs-texas-chicken-signs-major-deal-for-china-entry/</link><pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 17:44:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/churchs-texas-chicken-signs-major-deal-for-china-entry/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Toast launches an all-in-one drive-thru system]]></title><description><![CDATA[The new system from the big POS supplier includes hardware, software and AI voice bots and is aimed at modernizing fast-food drive-thrus]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/toast-launches-an-all-in-one-drive-thru-system/</link><pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 16:16:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/toast-launches-an-all-in-one-drive-thru-system/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s, Denny’s and Jersey Mike’s]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-dennys-and-jersey-mikes/</link><pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 15:49:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-dennys-and-jersey-mikes/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[&lsquo;DoorDash Grandma&rsquo; delivers McDonald's to the White House]]></title><description><![CDATA[The event was staged to celebrate the anniversary of No Tax on Tips, but some say the stunt showcases a problem with the economy]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/lsquodoordash-grandmarsquo-delivers-mcdonalds-to-the-white-house/</link><pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 02:41:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/lsquodoordash-grandmarsquo-delivers-mcdonalds-to-the-white-house/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[&amp;quot;DoorDash Grandma&amp;quot; delivers McDonald's to the White House]]></title><description><![CDATA[The event was staged to celebrate the anniversary of No Tax on Tips. But some say the stunt instead showcases a problem with the economy.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ampquotdoordash-grandmaampquot-delivers-mcdonalds-to-the-white-house/</link><pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 02:41:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ampquotdoordash-grandmaampquot-delivers-mcdonalds-to-the-white-house/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jack in the Box adds Eduardo Luz to its board of directors]]></title><description><![CDATA[David Goebel, the company&rsquo;s former chairman, is also stepping down from the board of directors, as is former Hilton Hotels executive Madeleine Kleiner.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-adds-eduardo-luz-to-its-board-of-directors/</link><pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 00:59:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-adds-eduardo-luz-to-its-board-of-directors/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Gong cha partners with Batta brothers to expand bubble tea presence in Southern California with three new locations]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: Gong cha taps seasoned franchise operators Gagan and Aman Batta to launch three bubble tea stores in Fontana, Eastvale, and Jurupa Valley]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/gong-cha-partners-with-batta-brothers-to-expand-bubble-tea-presence-in-southern-california-with-three-new-locations/</link><pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2026 23:16:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/gong-cha-partners-with-batta-brothers-to-expand-bubble-tea-presence-in-southern-california-with-three-new-locations/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Brian Lindley joins Chicken Salad Chick as chief development officer to drive franchise growth and national expansion]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: Brian Lindley brings expertise in franchising, real estate, and growth strategies to Chicken Salad Chick's leadership team]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/brian-lindley-joins-chicken-salad-chick-as-chief-development-officer-to-drive-franchise-growth-and-national-expansion/</link><pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2026 23:06:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/brian-lindley-joins-chicken-salad-chick-as-chief-development-officer-to-drive-franchise-growth-and-national-expansion/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chick-fil-A’s crazy sales, Chili’s big milestone, and Taco Bell’s new flavor enhancer]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, developments from several regional restaurant chains]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chick-fil-as-crazy-sales-chilis-big-milestone-and-taco-bells-new-flavor-enhancer/</link><pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2026 22:38:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chick-fil-as-crazy-sales-chilis-big-milestone-and-taco-bells-new-flavor-enhancer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Denny’s names Chris Bode CEO, unveils new turnaround plan]]></title><description><![CDATA[The diner chain&rsquo;s longtime COO will spearhead Project Grand Slam as the chain looks to turn over a new leaf under private ownership.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dennys-names-chris-bode-ceo-unveils-new-turnaround-plan/</link><pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2026 20:37:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dennys-names-chris-bode-ceo-unveils-new-turnaround-plan/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle has updated its rewards program]]></title><description><![CDATA[The new design includes a more gamified experience aimed at driving more frequency among younger consumers]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-has-updated-its-rewards-program/</link><pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2026 19:50:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-has-updated-its-rewards-program/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Papa Murphy’s challenges continued in Q1]]></title><description><![CDATA[Parent company MTY Group acquired about 50 underperforming locations from franchisees last year and their turnaround is &lsquo;more complicated than anticipated&rsquo;]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-murphys-challenges-continued-in-q1/</link><pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2026 19:42:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-murphys-challenges-continued-in-q1/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Auntie Anne's parent GoTo Foods names first-ever chief digital officer]]></title><description><![CDATA[The multi-brand parent of Auntie Anne's, Carvel and more is adding to its executive team with Biplav Misra as chief digital officer. In addition, Tatiana Lambert is the platform company's new chief development officer.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/auntie-annes-parent-goto-foods-names-first-ever-chief-digital-officer/</link><pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2026 18:22:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/auntie-annes-parent-goto-foods-names-first-ever-chief-digital-officer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald's is coming out with Refreshers and crafted sodas next month]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food giant, which is making a big push into beverages this year, will also release energy drinks later in 2026.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-is-coming-out-with-refreshers-and-crafted-sodas-next-month/</link><pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2026 17:41:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-is-coming-out-with-refreshers-and-crafted-sodas-next-month/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Quick-service consumers, Crumbl, Saucy by KFC]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/quick-service-consumers-crumbl-saucy-by-kfc/</link><pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:42:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/quick-service-consumers-crumbl-saucy-by-kfc/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Popeyes launches anime-inspired menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[The brand has teamed up with One Piece, one of the most successful anime franchises in the world]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/popeyes-launches-anime-inspired-menu/</link><pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2026 13:46:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/popeyes-launches-anime-inspired-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: Guava short ribs and bacon-Gorgonzola pizza]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus highly marbled rack of lamb, a gin-pistachio cocktail, and soft-shell crab with caramelized pico de gallo]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-guava-short-ribs-and-bacon-gorgonzola-pizza/</link><pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 22:01:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-guava-short-ribs-and-bacon-gorgonzola-pizza/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu prices continue to outpace surging inflation]]></title><description><![CDATA[Restaurant prices have grown 3.8% since March 2025, while the U.S. inflation rate spiked to 3.3% annually from higher gas prices]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-prices-continue-to-outpace-surging-inflation/</link><pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 19:39:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-prices-continue-to-outpace-surging-inflation/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Value menus are the top driver of frequency for QSR diners]]></title><description><![CDATA[According to new data from YouGov, 66% of weekly visitors seek discounts]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/value-menus-are-the-top-driver-of-frequency-for-qsr-diners/</link><pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 19:35:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/value-menus-are-the-top-driver-of-frequency-for-qsr-diners/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[KFC’s Saucy is expanding to Texas]]></title><description><![CDATA[The concept has also launched the Pepsi Drips beverage lineup with exclusive flavors]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfcs-saucy-is-expanding-to-texas/</link><pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 19:29:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfcs-saucy-is-expanding-to-texas/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The hot new restaurant tech trend: AI agents]]></title><description><![CDATA[PAR and Square this week unveiled AI tools that can do things on operators&rsquo; behalf, like run marketing campaigns and draft employee schedules. They're part of a new wave of AI aimed at supercharging productivity.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-hot-new-restaurant-tech-trend-ai-agents/</link><pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 18:27:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-hot-new-restaurant-tech-trend-ai-agents/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from Starbucks, Panera, and Domino’s]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at Applebee&rsquo;s, Black Sheep Coffee, Burgerville, Del Taco, Krispy Kreme, Naya, Smashburger, Starbucks, Texas de Brazil, Ziggi&rsquo;s Coffee, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-starbucks-panera-and-dominos/</link><pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 17:40:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-starbucks-panera-and-dominos/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Power List, Chili’s and 7-Eleven]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-power-list-chilis-and-7-eleven/</link><pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 15:37:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-power-list-chilis-and-7-eleven/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chili's is now the second-largest U.S. casual-dining chain]]></title><description><![CDATA[The resurgent bar and grill brand passed Olive Garden to take the No. 2 spot behind Texas Roadhouse, according to new Technomic data.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-is-now-the-second-largest-us-casual-dining-chain/</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 22:09:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-is-now-the-second-largest-us-casual-dining-chain/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell heats up its Crispy Chicken Nuggets with a layer of Diablo Dust]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Mexican fast-food chain transformed its popular Diablo Sauce into a coating that&rsquo;s layered on the nuggets.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-heats-up-its-crispy-chicken-nuggets-with-a-layer-of-diablo-dust/</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 21:37:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-heats-up-its-crispy-chicken-nuggets-with-a-layer-of-diablo-dust/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Mo’ Bettahs expands to Phoenix, Indianapolis, Minneapolis as Hawaiian barbecue brand grows nationwide]]></title><description><![CDATA[Hawaiian barbecue chain Mo&rsquo; Bettahs enters Phoenix, Indianapolis, and Minneapolis, continuing its disciplined national growth strategy.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mo-bettahs-expands-to-phoenix-indianapolis-minneapolis-as-hawaiian-barbecue-brand-grows-nationwide/</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 21:25:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mo-bettahs-expands-to-phoenix-indianapolis-minneapolis-as-hawaiian-barbecue-brand-grows-nationwide/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[America’s favorite fast-casual restaurant chains revealed: 5 factors driving customer loyalty]]></title><description><![CDATA[NRN&rsquo;s Sam Oches and Technomic&rsquo;s Robert Byrne break down the top fast-casual chains according to consumers &mdash; and why]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/americas-favorite-fast-casual-restaurant-chains-revealed-5-factors-driving-customer-loyalty/</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 21:15:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/americas-favorite-fast-casual-restaurant-chains-revealed-5-factors-driving-customer-loyalty/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[David Burke to take over management of The Station in Bernardsville, N.J.]]></title><description><![CDATA[The restaurant&rsquo;s d&eacute;cor is being updated and the menu streamlined]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/david-burke-to-take-over-management-of-the-station-in-bernardsville-nj/</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 20:49:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/david-burke-to-take-over-management-of-the-station-in-bernardsville-nj/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Mad Greens parent brings John Montgomery back as CEO]]></title><description><![CDATA[The former president of the fast-casual better-for-you chain has taken the helm of Salad Collective. The leadership shift comes as Mad Greens unveils a menu overhaul.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mad-greens-parent-brings-john-montgomery-back-as-ceo/</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 19:37:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mad-greens-parent-brings-john-montgomery-back-as-ceo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The 2026 Power List: 34 restaurant founders flexing their creative power to change the industry]]></title><description><![CDATA[Restaurant founders are the heart and soul of the brands they build, offering a powerful resource for their teams to tap into]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-2026-power-list-34-restaurant-founders-flexing-their-creative-power-to-change-the-industry/</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:30:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-2026-power-list-34-restaurant-founders-flexing-their-creative-power-to-change-the-industry/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Mary Nguyen&rsquo;s quest to make chef-driven food accessible has resonated through Olive &amp;amp; Finch]]></title><description><![CDATA[The restaurateur&rsquo;s mission has been to create a community space with soul that doesn&rsquo;t require a &lsquo;commitment in time, diet, or money&rsquo;]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mary-nguyenrsquos-quest-to-make-chef-driven-food-accessible-has-resonated-through-olive-ampamp-finch/</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:14:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mary-nguyenrsquos-quest-to-make-chef-driven-food-accessible-has-resonated-through-olive-ampamp-finch/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Justin Rosenberg combines tech, service, and unique food at Honeygrow]]></title><description><![CDATA[The founder started the stir-fry noodle chain as part of a health journey]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/justin-rosenberg-combines-tech-service-and-unique-food-at-honeygrow/</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:14:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/justin-rosenberg-combines-tech-service-and-unique-food-at-honeygrow/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How Jennifer Weishaupt built a burgeoning brunch empire rooted in New Orleans culture]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Ruby Slipper Caf&eacute; cofounder turned a post-Hurricane Katrina idea into a 36-unit celebration of Southern hospitality and community]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-jennifer-weishaupt-built-a-burgeoning-brunch-empire-rooted-in-new-orleans-culture/</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:14:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-jennifer-weishaupt-built-a-burgeoning-brunch-empire-rooted-in-new-orleans-culture/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Daniella Senior champions Cuban hospitality with growing Colada Shop concept]]></title><description><![CDATA[Senior filled a white space in the industry with her Washington, D.C.-based all-day caf&eacute; concept that transitions from Cuban coffee in the daytime to coladas at night]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/daniella-senior-champions-cuban-hospitality-with-growing-colada-shop-concept/</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:14:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/daniella-senior-champions-cuban-hospitality-with-growing-colada-shop-concept/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Christina Tosi: ‘Success comes in days stacked on top of each other’]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Milk Bar founder shapes tastes with inventive yet accessible flavors]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/christina-tosi-success-comes-in-days-stacked-on-top-of-each-other/</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:14:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/christina-tosi-success-comes-in-days-stacked-on-top-of-each-other/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[FB Society CEO Jack Gibbons shares the recipe for developing great restaurant brands]]></title><description><![CDATA[As cofounder of some of the group&rsquo;s most popular concepts, including Velvet Taco and Sixty Vines, Gibbons has cracked the code on what resonates in the marketplace]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fb-society-ceo-jack-gibbons-shares-the-recipe-for-developing-great-restaurant-brands/</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:13:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fb-society-ceo-jack-gibbons-shares-the-recipe-for-developing-great-restaurant-brands/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Elizabeth Blau’s restaurants inform her consulting practice]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Las Vegas pioneer still has skin in the game while also running Blau &amp; Associates]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/elizabeth-blaus-restaurants-inform-her-consulting-practice/</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:13:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/elizabeth-blaus-restaurants-inform-her-consulting-practice/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Marco’s Pizza continues its West Coast push]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food pizza chain signed a 12-unit deal with Baljit Gill to accelerate expansion in Southern California, continuing the brand&rsquo;s westward growth.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/marcos-pizza-continues-its-west-coast-push/</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 17:58:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/marcos-pizza-continues-its-west-coast-push/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Eggs Up Grill extends same-store sales growth streak]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-growing breakfast and lunch chain has now recorded positive same-store sales for 21 straight quarters.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/eggs-up-grill-extends-same-store-sales-growth-streak/</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 17:27:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/eggs-up-grill-extends-same-store-sales-growth-streak/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[FAT Brands, bankrupt franchisee, Panera menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-bankrupt-franchisee-panera-menu/</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 15:49:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-bankrupt-franchisee-panera-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Tijuana Flats’ corporate restaurants are for sale in refranchising move]]></title><description><![CDATA[Parent Latitude Food Group is looking to turn those units over to franchisees, but only those that also want to grow the brand. The goal is to keep about 20% of the 95-unit chain company owned.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tijuana-flats-corporate-restaurants-are-for-sale-in-refranchising-move/</link><pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tijuana-flats-corporate-restaurants-are-for-sale-in-refranchising-move/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why your training program should never end]]></title><description><![CDATA[Stop treating training like a checklist and use these tips to reduce turnover]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-your-training-program-should-never-end/</link><pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 22:46:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-your-training-program-should-never-end/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Mexican chef Gabriela Cámara opens Cantina Contramar at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas]]></title><description><![CDATA[The restaurant reflects her culinary landmark in Mexico City]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mexican-chef-gabriela-cmara-opens-cantina-contramar-at-the-fontainebleau-las-vegas/</link><pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 21:39:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mexican-chef-gabriela-cmara-opens-cantina-contramar-at-the-fontainebleau-las-vegas/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Michelin guide is coming to the American Midwest]]></title><description><![CDATA[The latest extension of the fabled restaurant guide will be an American Great Lakes edition, including Cleveland, Detroit, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Minneapolis and Pittsburgh.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-michelin-guide-is-coming-to-the-american-midwest/</link><pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 21:31:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-michelin-guide-is-coming-to-the-american-midwest/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[LeBron James’ foundation opens full-service chicken restaurant in Ohio]]></title><description><![CDATA[Buckets will serve as a training center for young people involved with the LeBron James Family Foundation&rsquo;s I Promise program]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/lebron-james-foundation-opens-full-service-chicken-restaurant-in-ohio/</link><pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 18:42:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/lebron-james-foundation-opens-full-service-chicken-restaurant-in-ohio/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How a college senior’s cheesesteak dream became a global reality]]></title><description><![CDATA[Charley Shin&rsquo;s recipe for success has been his focus on quality, visibility, and a mentor&rsquo;s advice]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-a-college-seniors-cheesesteak-dream-became-a-global-reality/</link><pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 18:14:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-a-college-seniors-cheesesteak-dream-became-a-global-reality/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Postino founder Lauren Bailey ‘really loves being wrong’]]></title><description><![CDATA[Twenty-five years in, Bailey has built a team she trusts, even when she disagrees]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/postino-founder-lauren-bailey-really-loves-being-wrong/</link><pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 18:13:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/postino-founder-lauren-bailey-really-loves-being-wrong/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jeff Uttz named CFO of Firebirds Wood Fired Grill]]></title><description><![CDATA[The former Kura Sushi finance chief will take the same position with the polished casual-dining chain.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jeff-uttz-named-cfo-of-firebirds-wood-fired-grill/</link><pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:28:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jeff-uttz-named-cfo-of-firebirds-wood-fired-grill/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[7 tips from Chili’s CEO on how restaurant chains can turn their business around]]></title><description><![CDATA[Brinker International CEO Kevin Hochman offers the blueprint for Chili&rsquo;s unprecedented success]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/7-tips-from-chilis-ceo-on-how-restaurant-chains-can-turn-their-business-around/</link><pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:17:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/7-tips-from-chilis-ceo-on-how-restaurant-chains-can-turn-their-business-around/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Domino’s, KFC and gas prices]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dominos-kfc-and-gas-prices/</link><pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:53:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dominos-kfc-and-gas-prices/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Panera rolls out new Salad Stuffer menu category]]></title><description><![CDATA[It&rsquo;s a twist on the soup-in-a-bread-bowl tradition. These are salads in a bread roll.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/panera-rolls-out-new-salad-stuffer-menu-category/</link><pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 12:00:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/panera-rolls-out-new-salad-stuffer-menu-category/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Trending this week: Taco Bell fans pick India’s Butter Chicken Taco for U.S. menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[See which stories readers couldn't get enough of]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-taco-bell-fans-pick-indias-butter-chicken-taco-for-us-menu/</link><pubDate>Tue, 07 Apr 2026 21:47:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-taco-bell-fans-pick-indias-butter-chicken-taco-for-us-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Pies ‘n’ Thighs celebrates 20 years with a second location in Brooklyn]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Park Slope store serves the same tried-and-true fried chicken, sandwiches, and pies as the Williamsburg original]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pies-n-thighs-celebrates-20-years-with-a-second-location-in-brooklyn/</link><pubDate>Tue, 07 Apr 2026 20:33:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pies-n-thighs-celebrates-20-years-with-a-second-location-in-brooklyn/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bonrue Bakery plans to more than triple in unit count by end of 2027]]></title><description><![CDATA[Less than a year after the acquisition by Savory Fund, this three-unit bakery has big growth plans in Utah.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bonrue-bakery-plans-to-more-than-triple-in-unit-count-by-end-of-2027/</link><pubDate>Tue, 07 Apr 2026 20:25:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bonrue-bakery-plans-to-more-than-triple-in-unit-count-by-end-of-2027/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Urbanbelly to return to Chicago’s Fulton Market]]></title><description><![CDATA[Bill Kim will close the current Wicker Park location later this month]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/urbanbelly-to-return-to-chicagos-fulton-market/</link><pubDate>Tue, 07 Apr 2026 20:08:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/urbanbelly-to-return-to-chicagos-fulton-market/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Domino's releases a new Slice Sauce, and a watch collection]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-food pizza chain is launching a sauce for customers to dip their pizzas in and is also giving those who buy its premium pizzas access to buy from a collection of high-end watches]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dominos-releases-a-new-slice-sauce-and-a-watch-collection/</link><pubDate>Tue, 07 Apr 2026 17:50:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dominos-releases-a-new-slice-sauce-and-a-watch-collection/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Restaurant chains serve up deals to ease pain of tax season]]></title><description><![CDATA[Promotions from Qdoba, Corner Bakery, Church's and more are designed to give customers a break, while also highlighting new offerings and services.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurant-chains-serve-up-deals-to-ease-pain-of-tax-season/</link><pubDate>Tue, 07 Apr 2026 17:35:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurant-chains-serve-up-deals-to-ease-pain-of-tax-season/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[B.J. Lieberman finds work-life balance in Columbus, Ohio]]></title><description><![CDATA[Menu Talk: The chef and restaurateur operates Metsi&rsquo;s and Ginger Rabbit]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bj-lieberman-finds-work-life-balance-in-columbus-ohio/</link><pubDate>Tue, 07 Apr 2026 17:32:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bj-lieberman-finds-work-life-balance-in-columbus-ohio/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chick-fil-A, IHOP and Huey Magoo’s]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chick-fil-a-ihop-and-huey-magoos/</link><pubDate>Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:41:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chick-fil-a-ihop-and-huey-magoos/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[DoorDash winds down restaurant discovery app Zesty]]></title><description><![CDATA[The AI-powered app will go dark after less than six months, but some of its features will be folded into the regular DoorDash delivery app.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/doordash-winds-down-restaurant-discovery-app-zesty/</link><pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 2026 20:39:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/doordash-winds-down-restaurant-discovery-app-zesty/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Huey Magoo's signs 15-unit franchise deal in Texas]]></title><description><![CDATA[The agreement will span five counties across the Lone Star state, a new market for the fast-casual chicken-tender chain which hopes to reach 100 units nationally before the end of the year]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/huey-magoos-signs-15-unit-franchise-deal-in-texas/</link><pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 2026 20:37:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/huey-magoos-signs-15-unit-franchise-deal-in-texas/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How to grow your restaurant using a simple and proven formula]]></title><description><![CDATA[The data is clear that if you reach more guests more often, your orders increase]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-to-grow-your-restaurant-using-a-simple-and-proven-formula/</link><pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 2026 19:42:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-to-grow-your-restaurant-using-a-simple-and-proven-formula/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New York chef Tom Valenti dies at age 67]]></title><description><![CDATA[His kindness is remembered as much as his legendary lamb shanks]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-york-chef-tom-valenti-dies-at-age-67/</link><pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 2026 19:20:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-york-chef-tom-valenti-dies-at-age-67/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King, Taco Bell and the latest jobs report]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-taco-bell-and-the-latest-jobs-report/</link><pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 2026 17:39:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-taco-bell-and-the-latest-jobs-report/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks offers baristas bonuses, McDonald’s raises the value bar, and Shake Shack goes full tech]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, Papa Johns sandwiches, 7 Brew on campus, and big chains get bigger]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-offers-baristas-bonuses-mcdonalds-raises-the-value-bar-and-shake-shack-goes-full-tech/</link><pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 2026 16:15:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-offers-baristas-bonuses-mcdonalds-raises-the-value-bar-and-shake-shack-goes-full-tech/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[IHOP embraces acronym culture with BLT trademark]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company&rsquo;s &ldquo;Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato &hellip; And Fries&rdquo; plays on social media vernacular as it aspires to &lsquo;move at the speed of culture&rsquo;]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ihop-embraces-acronym-culture-with-blt-trademark/</link><pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 2026 15:59:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ihop-embraces-acronym-culture-with-blt-trademark/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: Spicy tuna churros and asado short ribs]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus Creole shrimp &amp; artichoke dip, scallops with mushrooms, and a coffee-inspired cocktail that isn&rsquo;t an Espresso Martini]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-spicy-tuna-churros-and-asado-short-ribs/</link><pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 2026 21:13:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-spicy-tuna-churros-and-asado-short-ribs/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King believes it can be the No. 1 burger chain]]></title><description><![CDATA[Executive chairman Patrick Doyle and president Tom Curtis are pulling pages from their previous experience at Domino&rsquo;s, when the chain surpassed Pizza Hut]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-believes-it-can-be-the-no-1-burger-chain/</link><pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 2026 19:30:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-believes-it-can-be-the-no-1-burger-chain/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Restaurants claw back some of the jobs lost in February]]></title><description><![CDATA[After shedding 26,200 positions, the industry added 21,500 back in March]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurants-claw-back-some-of-the-jobs-lost-in-february/</link><pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 2026 19:26:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurants-claw-back-some-of-the-jobs-lost-in-february/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell fans pick India’s Butter Chicken Taco for U.S. menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[The offering received nearly 65% of the chain&rsquo;s inaugural Global Taco Vote]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-fans-pick-indias-butter-chicken-taco-for-us-menu/</link><pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 2026 19:21:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-fans-pick-indias-butter-chicken-taco-for-us-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[24 restaurant executives on the move in March 2026, including new leaders at McDonald’s, Brinker, and Inspire]]></title><description><![CDATA[Last month saw new board members appointed and chiefs added for marketing, operations, and finance &mdash; but no new CEOs]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/24-restaurant-executives-on-the-move-in-march-2026-including-new-leaders-at-mcdonalds-brinker-and-inspire/</link><pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 2026 18:37:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/24-restaurant-executives-on-the-move-in-march-2026-including-new-leaders-at-mcdonalds-brinker-and-inspire/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from Wendy’s, White Castle, and Jack in the Box]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at Bonchon, Cousins Subs, Lazy Dog Restaurants, Papa Johns, Shake Shack, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-wendys-white-castle-and-jack-in-the-box/</link><pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 2026 16:17:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-wendys-white-castle-and-jack-in-the-box/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks, Red Lobster, McDonald’s]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-red-lobster-mcdonalds/</link><pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 2026 15:16:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-red-lobster-mcdonalds/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why restaurants should consider second-chance hiring]]></title><description><![CDATA[In a challenging labor market, bringing in formerly incarcerated workers can be good for business]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-restaurants-should-consider-second-chance-hiring/</link><pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:40:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-restaurants-should-consider-second-chance-hiring/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Yum! Brands adds Kathleen Oberg to board]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: Kathleen Oberg, former Marriott CFO, joins Yum! Brands board, bringing decades of financial and operational expertise to the global restaurant leader]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/yum-brands-adds-kathleen-oberg-to-board/</link><pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 20:35:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/yum-brands-adds-kathleen-oberg-to-board/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Sysco’s bid for Restaurant Depot, Nothing Bundt Cakes acquisition]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus Wendy&rsquo;s menu upgrades in this episode of Quick Bites]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/syscos-bid-for-restaurant-depot-nothing-bundt-cakes-acquisition/</link><pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 19:55:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/syscos-bid-for-restaurant-depot-nothing-bundt-cakes-acquisition/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Restaurant chains crossing 1,000 locations on the rise]]></title><description><![CDATA[There were 30 such concepts in 2005, while there are now 46]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurant-chains-crossing-1000-locations-on-the-rise/</link><pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 19:52:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurant-chains-crossing-1000-locations-on-the-rise/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s Under $3 Menu includes at least 10 items]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain is also launching a $4 Breakfast Meal Deal available starting April 21]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-under-3-menu-includes-at-least-10-items/</link><pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 19:52:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-under-3-menu-includes-at-least-10-items/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King is going on a hiring spree]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company said its turnaround efforts have driven an &lsquo;immediate need&rsquo; for up to 60,000 new employees]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-is-going-on-a-hiring-spree/</link><pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 19:52:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-is-going-on-a-hiring-spree/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks’ Coachella sponsorship aligns with broader marketing goals]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain&rsquo;s turnaround plan includes &ldquo;being persistently in culture&rdquo;]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-coachella-sponsorship-aligns-with-broader-marketing-goals/</link><pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 19:51:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-coachella-sponsorship-aligns-with-broader-marketing-goals/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Papa Johns is rewarding customers who order carryout]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain is acknowledging high gas prices with its Pizza Miles promotion]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-is-rewarding-customers-who-order-carryout/</link><pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 19:50:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-is-rewarding-customers-who-order-carryout/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bananas trend on menus, particularly in drinks]]></title><description><![CDATA[South Korea&rsquo;s influence has led to a boom in coffee beverages with the fruit]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bananas-trend-on-menus-particularly-in-drinks/</link><pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 19:13:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bananas-trend-on-menus-particularly-in-drinks/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Sysco, Chagee, Shake Shack]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sysco-chagee-shake-shack/</link><pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:04:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sysco-chagee-shake-shack/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Salud opens in Los Angeles serving breakfast and coffee in the morning, and tapas and cocktails at night]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Venice Beach bar and restaurant is inspired by Mexico City&rsquo;s vibrant caf&eacute; culture]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/salud-opens-in-los-angeles-serving-breakfast-and-coffee-in-the-morning-and-tapas-and-cocktails-at-night/</link><pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 17:10:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/salud-opens-in-los-angeles-serving-breakfast-and-coffee-in-the-morning-and-tapas-and-cocktails-at-night/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks plans bonuses and more tipping for workers]]></title><description><![CDATA[The coffee shop giant will give its baristas incentive bonuses of up to $300 per quarter based on store performance. It also plans faster pay and more tipping.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-plans-bonuses-and-more-tipping-for-workers/</link><pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 17:07:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-plans-bonuses-and-more-tipping-for-workers/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chili’s CEO, pt 1: Kevin Hochman on the leadership traits necessary for business success]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Chili's CEO shares how his time at Procter &amp; Gamble and Yum Brands prepared him to lead one of the restaurant industry's most remarkable turnarounds]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-ceo-pt-1-kevin-hochman-on-the-leadership-traits-necessary-for-business-success/</link><pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 16:33:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-ceo-pt-1-kevin-hochman-on-the-leadership-traits-necessary-for-business-success/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Shake Shack unveils a new tech strategy to drive more growth]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual burger chain has unveiled Project Catalyst, with new point-of-sale and KDS systems and AI to improve operations]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/shake-shack-unveils-a-new-tech-strategy-to-drive-more-growth/</link><pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 21:37:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/shake-shack-unveils-a-new-tech-strategy-to-drive-more-growth/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Mukbang burger sliders launch nationwide at Ruby Tuesday locations]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: Mukbang Burger expands to Ruby Tuesday nationwide, offering indulgent sliders on King's Hawaiian Rolls for delivery through top platform]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mukbang-burger-sliders-launch-nationwide-at-ruby-tuesday-locations/</link><pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 21:14:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mukbang-burger-sliders-launch-nationwide-at-ruby-tuesday-locations/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The fast-casual pizza category struggles continue]]></title><description><![CDATA[Pieology exits Hawaii, while a Crust Pizza franchisee files for bankruptcy]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-fast-casual-pizza-category-struggles-continue/</link><pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 21:05:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-fast-casual-pizza-category-struggles-continue/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Cheesecake Factory launches app]]></title><description><![CDATA[The software allows customers to make reservations, order takeout, search the menu, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cheesecake-factory-launches-app/</link><pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 21:03:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cheesecake-factory-launches-app/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dave &amp;amp; Buster&rsquo;s traffic trends improve despite tough quarter]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company plans to launch new games as its entertainment business faltered in Q4]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dave-ampamp-busterrsquos-traffic-trends-improve-despite-tough-quarter/</link><pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 21:02:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dave-ampamp-busterrsquos-traffic-trends-improve-despite-tough-quarter/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chagee adjusts after a tough 2025 with big goals for the U.S.]]></title><description><![CDATA[CEO Junjie Zhang apologized on the call for a dismal fourth quarter, but said the long-term plan is to transform tea culture]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chagee-adjusts-after-a-tough-2025-with-big-goals-for-the-us/</link><pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 21:00:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chagee-adjusts-after-a-tough-2025-with-big-goals-for-the-us/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Firehouse Subs franchising, KFC value, gas prices]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/firehouse-subs-franchising-kfc-value-gas-prices/</link><pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 15:30:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/firehouse-subs-franchising-kfc-value-gas-prices/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Shake Shack rolls out pimento cheese-inspired menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[A new burger and chicken sandwich have a spread of sharp cheddar and cherry peppers]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/shake-shack-rolls-out-pimento-cheese-inspired-menu/</link><pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 21:50:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/shake-shack-rolls-out-pimento-cheese-inspired-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Trending this week: Jack in the Box introduces sliders]]></title><description><![CDATA[See which stories readers couldn't get enough of]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-jack-in-the-box-introduces-sliders/</link><pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 21:24:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-jack-in-the-box-introduces-sliders/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[James Beard Foundation announces Restaurant and Chef Awards nominees]]></title><description><![CDATA[The winners will be announced June 15 in Chicago]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/james-beard-foundation-announces-restaurant-and-chef-awards-nominees/</link><pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 20:59:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/james-beard-foundation-announces-restaurant-and-chef-awards-nominees/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Sysco, Wendy’s, Papa Johns]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sysco-wendys-papa-johns/</link><pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 20:06:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sysco-wendys-papa-johns/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Fried chicken sandwiches evolve into platforms for experimentation]]></title><description><![CDATA[Once focused on simple builds, the popular items now are showcases for innovation]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fried-chicken-sandwiches-evolve-into-platforms-for-experimentation/</link><pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 19:49:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fried-chicken-sandwiches-evolve-into-platforms-for-experimentation/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why Lion’s Choice won’t compromise on its signature sandwich despite higher beef costs]]></title><description><![CDATA[Menu Talk: CEO Fred Burmer shares the secrets behind the St.Louis-based quick-service concept&rsquo;s famous roast beef]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-lions-choice-wont-compromise-on-its-signature-sandwich-despite-higher-beef-costs/</link><pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 18:26:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-lions-choice-wont-compromise-on-its-signature-sandwich-despite-higher-beef-costs/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[7 Brew to open its first on-campus stand]]></title><description><![CDATA[The University of Arkansas location marks the brand&rsquo;s third &lsquo;walk-thru&rsquo; location]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/7-brew-to-open-its-first-on-campus-stand/</link><pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:59:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/7-brew-to-open-its-first-on-campus-stand/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s shuffles its leadership team]]></title><description><![CDATA[Skye Anderson will return to the U.S. business as chief operating officer, while Mason Smoot has been named SVP of global franchising and delivery]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-shuffles-its-leadership-team/</link><pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:55:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-shuffles-its-leadership-team/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[KFC launches Box Feasts lineup in latest value play]]></title><description><![CDATA[There are three price point options &mdash; $7, $9, and $11]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfc-launches-box-feasts-lineup-in-latest-value-play/</link><pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:51:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfc-launches-box-feasts-lineup-in-latest-value-play/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Restaurants launch promotions aimed at gas price relief]]></title><description><![CDATA[Subway is offering a Footlong BOGO deal, while Snooze Eatery customers can receive an offer based on their state&rsquo;s average costs at the pump]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurants-launch-promotions-aimed-at-gas-price-relief/</link><pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:48:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurants-launch-promotions-aimed-at-gas-price-relief/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Domino&rsquo;s revs up Pizza Tracker, McDonald&rsquo;s sees modest bump from Big Arch, and Noodles &amp;amp; Co. explores ramen]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, Chipotle&rsquo;s popular tattoo promo]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dominorsquos-revs-up-pizza-tracker-mcdonaldrsquos-sees-modest-bump-from-big-arch-and-noodles-ampamp-co-explores-ramen/</link><pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 22:24:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dominorsquos-revs-up-pizza-tracker-mcdonaldrsquos-sees-modest-bump-from-big-arch-and-noodles-ampamp-co-explores-ramen/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle is hosting a ‘Double Protein Power Hour’ promotion]]></title><description><![CDATA[It is part of the chain&rsquo;s popular National Burrito Day promotion, offering rewards members the chance to play a digital game to win prizes]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-is-hosting-a-double-protein-power-hour-promotion/</link><pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 21:19:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-is-hosting-a-double-protein-power-hour-promotion/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jack in the Box names Yum Brands veteran Katelyn Zborowski chief marketing officer]]></title><description><![CDATA[The appointment comes as the chain celebrates its 75th anniversary]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-names-yum-brands-veteran-katelyn-zborowski-chief-marketing-officer/</link><pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 19:38:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-names-yum-brands-veteran-katelyn-zborowski-chief-marketing-officer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Papa Johns rolls out new toasted sandwiches]]></title><description><![CDATA[The menu update comes as management acts to simplify operations]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-rolls-out-new-toasted-sandwiches/</link><pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 18:52:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-rolls-out-new-toasted-sandwiches/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Add pecans for premium flavor]]></title><description><![CDATA[Operators can enhance menu items with these buttery rich tree nuts year-round]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/add-pecans-for-premium-flavor/</link><pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 18:41:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/add-pecans-for-premium-flavor/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Smashburger named Official Smashburger of the Colorado Rockies for 2026 MLB Season]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: Fan-focused promotion offers game attendees free burgers and hot dogs when Rockies hit home runs at home games]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/smashburger-named-official-smashburger-of-the-colorado-rockies-for-2026-mlb-season/</link><pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 18:34:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/smashburger-named-official-smashburger-of-the-colorado-rockies-for-2026-mlb-season/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wendy’s has upgraded its chicken sandwiches]]></title><description><![CDATA[The change includes a new buttery potato bun, which is also available across the chain&rsquo;s entire sandwich lineup]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-has-upgraded-its-chicken-sandwiches/</link><pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 18:31:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-has-upgraded-its-chicken-sandwiches/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[First Watch eliminates chief operations role]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company&rsquo;s operations leadership will now report directly to CEO Chris Tomasso]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/first-watch-eliminates-chief-operations-role/</link><pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 17:34:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/first-watch-eliminates-chief-operations-role/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Boka Restaurant Group opens Gingie in Chicago]]></title><description><![CDATA[The River North restaurant features the food of Brian Lockwood, consulting chef for &lsquo;The Bear&rsquo;]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/boka-restaurant-group-opens-gingie-in-chicago/</link><pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 17:02:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/boka-restaurant-group-opens-gingie-in-chicago/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wonder, Dos Toros Taqueria and Gigglewaters]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wonder-dos-toros-taqueria-and-gigglewaters/</link><pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 16:05:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wonder-dos-toros-taqueria-and-gigglewaters/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Amy’s Drive Thru shutters final location]]></title><description><![CDATA[The San Francisco Airport unit&rsquo;s closure came weeks after the vegetarian concept&rsquo;s last brick-and-mortar location closed]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/amys-drive-thru-shutters-final-location/</link><pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 15:47:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/amys-drive-thru-shutters-final-location/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Zaxbys appoints GoTo Foods veteran to CFO role]]></title><description><![CDATA[Michael Dixon has more than 30 years of experience, including Ignite Restaurant Group, Pinkberry, and The Cheesecake Factory]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/zaxbys-appoints-goto-foods-veteran-to-cfo-role/</link><pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 13:58:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/zaxbys-appoints-goto-foods-veteran-to-cfo-role/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[IHOP unveils 'Stuffed &lsquo;N Stacked Omelettes' to highlight unique offerings]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain is also adding a fifth item to its Everyday Value Menu and launching a new coffee blend for the first time in 20 years]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ihop-unveils-stuffed-lsquon-stacked-omelettes-to-highlight-unique-offerings/</link><pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 13:46:00 +0200</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ihop-unveils-stuffed-lsquon-stacked-omelettes-to-highlight-unique-offerings/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dos Toros to reopen in Chicago]]></title><description><![CDATA[The New York City-based burrito concept exited the Midwest in 2022]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dos-toros-to-reopen-in-chicago/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2026 20:36:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dos-toros-to-reopen-in-chicago/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Revisiting Auntie Anne’s and Jamba’s reinvestments one year later]]></title><description><![CDATA[Both of these GoTo Foods brands announced major changes in 2025; EVP of brands Mike Freeman talks about their progress]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/revisiting-auntie-annes-and-jambas-reinvestments-one-year-later/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2026 20:21:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/revisiting-auntie-annes-and-jambas-reinvestments-one-year-later/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: Tom yam sushi and pork belly in stout barbecue sauce]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus a newfangled Brandy Alexander, pistachio-crusted halibut, and a rhubarb-based celebration of spring]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-tom-yam-sushi-and-pork-belly-in-stout-barbecue-sauce/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2026 19:12:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-tom-yam-sushi-and-pork-belly-in-stout-barbecue-sauce/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[There are less women in the restaurant industry’s workforce than last year]]></title><description><![CDATA[The number of people employed in the sector remains unchanged, according to data from the National Restaurant Association]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/there-are-less-women-in-the-restaurant-industrys-workforce-than-last-year/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2026 18:50:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/there-are-less-women-in-the-restaurant-industrys-workforce-than-last-year/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[RNR Tire Express debuts multi-brand company with 1920s-inspired restaurant]]></title><description><![CDATA[Gigglewaters combines a full-service restaurant and bar with a 32-seat classic movie theater]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/rnr-tire-express-debuts-multi-brand-company-with-1920s-inspired-restaurant/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2026 18:38:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/rnr-tire-express-debuts-multi-brand-company-with-1920s-inspired-restaurant/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jack in the Box introduces sliders]]></title><description><![CDATA[They will also be part of a Smashed Jack Sliders Munchie Meal that comes with a blind-bagged Jack pin]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-introduces-sliders/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2026 18:17:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-introduces-sliders/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell, Noodles &amp;amp; Company, Sweetgreen]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-noodles-ampamp-company-sweetgreen/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2026 17:41:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-noodles-ampamp-company-sweetgreen/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from Burger King, McDonald’s, and Whataburger]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at BJ's, Luke&rsquo;s Lobster, MOD Pizza, Ruby Slipper, Starbird, Sweetgreen, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-burger-king-mcdonalds-and-whataburger/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2026 15:33:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-burger-king-mcdonalds-and-whataburger/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell puts two global flavors up for a fan vote]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain is asking loyalty members to choose between Thailand&rsquo;s Kickin&rsquo; Chicken Taco and India&rsquo;s Butter Chicken Taco for a spot on the U.S. menu]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-puts-two-global-flavors-up-for-a-fan-vote/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 19:24:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-puts-two-global-flavors-up-for-a-fan-vote/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How burger chains are navigating beef inflation]]></title><description><![CDATA[Companies turn to supply chain diversification, digital promotions, and more to keep the traffic-driving item affordable]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-burger-chains-are-navigating-beef-inflation/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 18:32:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-burger-chains-are-navigating-beef-inflation/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Sweetgreen launches more chicken items as turnaround effort continues]]></title><description><![CDATA[Orange-sesame chicken launched nationwide while Korean chicken is in test]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sweetgreen-launches-more-chicken-items-as-turnaround-effort-continues/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 18:27:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sweetgreen-launches-more-chicken-items-as-turnaround-effort-continues/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Western Addition Restaurant Group to open its first venue outside of Texas]]></title><description><![CDATA[Italian concept il Bracco is slated to debut in Scottsdale, Ariz., on March 30]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/western-addition-restaurant-group-to-open-its-first-venue-outside-of-texas/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 17:17:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/western-addition-restaurant-group-to-open-its-first-venue-outside-of-texas/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[15 restaurant marketing promotions from March]]></title><description><![CDATA[March Madness, the Big Arch, and new menu items proved interesting promotions in March]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/15-restaurant-marketing-promotions-from-march/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 16:55:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/15-restaurant-marketing-promotions-from-march/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks tests additional ordering methods in high-traffic locations]]></title><description><![CDATA[Senior vice president Aaron Koransky said the company is exploring technology to provide more ways to access the brand in licensed stores]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-tests-additional-ordering-methods-in-high-traffic-locations/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 16:22:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-tests-additional-ordering-methods-in-high-traffic-locations/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s promotes Tabassum Zalotrawala to oversee global development]]></title><description><![CDATA[She joined the company in 2023 as U.S. chief development officer]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-promotes-tabassum-zalotrawala-to-oversee-global-development/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 16:05:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-promotes-tabassum-zalotrawala-to-oversee-global-development/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s, Applebee’s franchisee, Krispy Kreme]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-applebees-franchisee-krispy-kreme/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 15:51:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-applebees-franchisee-krispy-kreme/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Noodles &amp;amp; Company considers ramen menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain reported Q4 comps of 6.6%, which increased to more than 9% so far this year]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/noodles-ampamp-company-considers-ramen-menu/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:24:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/noodles-ampamp-company-considers-ramen-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[CEO on the front lines? How burger chain Freddy’s is optimizing restaurant operations]]></title><description><![CDATA[CEO Chris Dull shares the lessons he&rsquo;s learned about workflow and technology just by working in his kitchens]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ceo-on-the-front-lines-how-burger-chain-freddys-is-optimizing-restaurant-operations/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 21:37:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ceo-on-the-front-lines-how-burger-chain-freddys-is-optimizing-restaurant-operations/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Buffalo Wild Wings taps Hannah Berner and Amanda Batula for March Madness promotions]]></title><description><![CDATA[The celebrities appear in ads marketing the ongoing Pick 6 Meal for Two promotion]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/buffalo-wild-wings-taps-hannah-berner-and-amanda-batula-for-march-madness-promotions/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 20:16:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/buffalo-wild-wings-taps-hannah-berner-and-amanda-batula-for-march-madness-promotions/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Applebee’s franchisee files Chapter 11 bankruptcy]]></title><description><![CDATA[Parent company Dine Brands will act as a stalking horse bidder for the company, which operates more than 50 restaurants]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-franchisee-files-chapter-11-bankruptcy/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 19:23:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-franchisee-files-chapter-11-bankruptcy/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wendy’s puts DC superheroes in the spotlight]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain&rsquo;s limited-edition DC Rides Kids&rsquo; Meal features 12 collectibles]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-puts-dc-superheroes-in-the-spotlight/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 19:20:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-puts-dc-superheroes-in-the-spotlight/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Firehouse Subs franchisee files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company operates locations in Idaho and Utah]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/firehouse-subs-franchisee-files-for-chapter-11-bankruptcy/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 19:18:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/firehouse-subs-franchisee-files-for-chapter-11-bankruptcy/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s scores another winning collab with KPop Demon Hunters]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain has collaborated with Netflix to introduce meals inspired by the Academy Award-winning animated film]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-scores-another-winning-collab-with-kpop-demon-hunters/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 19:11:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-scores-another-winning-collab-with-kpop-demon-hunters/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Krispy Kreme accelerates refranchising plan]]></title><description><![CDATA[In a joint venture transaction announced Tuesday, WKS Restaurant Group will increase its ownership stake from 45% to 80%]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/krispy-kreme-accelerates-refranchising-plan/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 19:08:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/krispy-kreme-accelerates-refranchising-plan/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King turns to pepper for latest Whopper by You]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Peppercorn BLT is available for a limited time beginning March 30]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-turns-to-pepper-for-latest-whopper-by-you/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 19:04:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-turns-to-pepper-for-latest-whopper-by-you/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks, Domino’s, OpenTable]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-dominos-opentable/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 15:44:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-dominos-opentable/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Get to know Chili’s CEO Kevin Hochman]]></title><description><![CDATA[His favorite menu item, podcast routine, NFL team, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/get-to-know-chilis-ceo-kevin-hochman/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 21:34:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/get-to-know-chilis-ceo-kevin-hochman/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How CEO Mike Tattersfield is reshaping Salad and Go’s growth strategy]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company shuttered nearly half of its restaurants shortly after he came on board last year]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-ceo-mike-tattersfield-is-reshaping-salad-and-gos-growth-strategy/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 20:05:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-ceo-mike-tattersfield-is-reshaping-salad-and-gos-growth-strategy/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Rocco DiSpirito’s Italian-American brasserie, Bar Rocco, is now open in New York City]]></title><description><![CDATA[It&rsquo;s one of four concepts to open at the Kimpton Era Midtown New York hotel]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/rocco-dispiritos-italian-american-brasserie-bar-rocco-is-now-open-in-new-york-city/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 19:15:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/rocco-dispiritos-italian-american-brasserie-bar-rocco-is-now-open-in-new-york-city/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[GEN Korean BBQ expands its grocery division]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company&rsquo;s portfolio now includes meals, sides, sauces, beverages, and snacks]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/gen-korean-bbq-expands-its-grocery-division/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 18:25:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/gen-korean-bbq-expands-its-grocery-division/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chris Padoan appointed chief operating officer of Popeyes]]></title><description><![CDATA[He brings nearly 15 years of experience with Restaurant Brands International sibling chain Burger King]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chris-padoan-appointed-chief-operating-officer-of-popeyes/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 18:22:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chris-padoan-appointed-chief-operating-officer-of-popeyes/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle’s tattoo-themed promotion generates highest sales day ever]]></title><description><![CDATA[The campaign, held for the second time March 13, stems from a viral meme]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotles-tattoo-themed-promotion-generates-highest-sales-day-ever/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 18:17:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotles-tattoo-themed-promotion-generates-highest-sales-day-ever/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Domino’s updates its pizza tracker to provide more order details]]></title><description><![CDATA[Customers can now see when their order was placed in the oven and when their delivery driver leaves the store]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dominos-updates-its-pizza-tracker-to-provide-more-order-details/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 18:14:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dominos-updates-its-pizza-tracker-to-provide-more-order-details/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Hardee’s promotes breakfast burger with giveaway]]></title><description><![CDATA[Loyalty program members can score a free sandwich with proof of a disappointing morning meal at any other restaurant]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/hardees-promotes-breakfast-burger-with-giveaway/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 17:58:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/hardees-promotes-breakfast-burger-with-giveaway/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Trending this week: An exclusive interview with Brinker International CEO Kevin Hochman]]></title><description><![CDATA[See which stories readers couldn't get enough of]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-an-exclusive-interview-with-brinker-international-ceo-kevin-hochman/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 17:46:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-an-exclusive-interview-with-brinker-international-ceo-kevin-hochman/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[James Trees brings the independent restaurant spirit to hotel dining]]></title><description><![CDATA[How he built relationships to launch High Steaks at the Rio Grande in Las Vegas]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/james-trees-brings-the-independent-restaurant-spirit-to-hotel-dining/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 17:13:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/james-trees-brings-the-independent-restaurant-spirit-to-hotel-dining/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Stop guessing what guests want; your employees already know]]></title><description><![CDATA[Data tells you what is happening. Your team can tell you why.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/stop-guessing-what-guests-want-your-employees-already-know/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 16:48:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/stop-guessing-what-guests-want-your-employees-already-know/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Nicholas Poulmentis plans distinctive Greek cuisine at his upcoming New York City restaurant]]></title><description><![CDATA[Menu Talk: Kythira NP will be named for his home island, but feature food from across the country]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nicholas-poulmentis-plans-distinctive-greek-cuisine-at-his-upcoming-new-york-city-restaurant/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 16:48:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nicholas-poulmentis-plans-distinctive-greek-cuisine-at-his-upcoming-new-york-city-restaurant/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Nation’s Restaurant News names Panda Express as 2026 Brand Icon winner]]></title><description><![CDATA[Annual award recognizes restaurant companies that balance a rich legacy with modern innovation]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nations-restaurant-news-names-panda-express-as-2026-brand-icon-winner/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 16:10:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nations-restaurant-news-names-panda-express-as-2026-brand-icon-winner/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s Big Arch, DoorDash gas prices, Little Caesars menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-big-arch-doordash-gas-prices-little-caesars-menu/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 14:37:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-big-arch-doordash-gas-prices-little-caesars-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Restaurant AI must deliver more than fancy dashboards]]></title><description><![CDATA[Operators want AI to provide more manager-oriented solutions around scheduling and labor optimization]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurant-ai-must-deliver-more-than-fancy-dashboards/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 20:39:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurant-ai-must-deliver-more-than-fancy-dashboards/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s Big Arch provides a modest traffic bump]]></title><description><![CDATA[The premium burger is aimed at protecting margins while the chain&rsquo;s value offerings are meant to drive traffic]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-big-arch-provides-a-modest-traffic-bump/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 19:39:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-big-arch-provides-a-modest-traffic-bump/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chicken Salad Chick Names Jill Thomas Chief Marketing Officer With 20 Years Brand Experience]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: Thomas previously led marketing at PGA TOUR Superstore and held senior roles at Disney Parks, Cinnabon, Bloomin' Brands and Yum! Brands]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chicken-salad-chick-names-jill-thomas-chief-marketing-officer-with-20-years-brand-experience/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 18:43:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chicken-salad-chick-names-jill-thomas-chief-marketing-officer-with-20-years-brand-experience/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King takes a page from Domino’s, Darden keeps defying odds, and Fat Brands gets a lifeline]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, CAVA and Raising Cane&rsquo;s significant new locations]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-takes-a-page-from-dominos-darden-keeps-defying-odds-and-fat-brands-gets-a-lifeline/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 18:42:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-takes-a-page-from-dominos-darden-keeps-defying-odds-and-fat-brands-gets-a-lifeline/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[DoorDash brings back gas relief program for drivers]]></title><description><![CDATA[The program runs until April 26 and includes cash back for those with the company&rsquo;s Crimson Card]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/doordash-brings-back-gas-relief-program-for-drivers/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 18:03:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/doordash-brings-back-gas-relief-program-for-drivers/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s shows off humanoid robot in Shanghai restaurant as part of museum opening]]></title><description><![CDATA[The bipedal service robot was on hand to greet customers during the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum event]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-shows-off-humanoid-robot-in-shanghai-restaurant-as-part-of-museum-opening/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:19:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-shows-off-humanoid-robot-in-shanghai-restaurant-as-part-of-museum-opening/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s debuts humanoid robot in Shanghai restaurant]]></title><description><![CDATA[The bipedal service robot greets customers and collects used trays]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-debuts-humanoid-robot-in-shanghai-restaurant/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:19:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-debuts-humanoid-robot-in-shanghai-restaurant/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Look Who’s Franchising Now: Spring 2026 Edition]]></title><description><![CDATA[Six early and mid-stage concepts that have recently announced franchising]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/look-whos-franchising-now-spring-2026-edition/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 15:43:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/look-whos-franchising-now-spring-2026-edition/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[CloudKitchens, Wonder, and more FAT Brands]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cloudkitchens-wonder-and-more-fat-brands/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 15:00:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cloudkitchens-wonder-and-more-fat-brands/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Little Caesars jumps on the shareable trend]]></title><description><![CDATA[The limited-time Four-N-One Stix includes 16 breadsticks in four flavors, along with Crazy Sauce]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/little-caesars-jumps-on-the-shareable-trend/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:54:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/little-caesars-jumps-on-the-shareable-trend/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Zaxbys recruits Cameron and Cayden Boozer for loyalty promotion]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain is rewarding fans who &ldquo;transfer&rdquo; to its program]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/zaxbys-recruits-cameron-and-cayden-boozer-for-loyalty-promotion/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:48:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/zaxbys-recruits-cameron-and-cayden-boozer-for-loyalty-promotion/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Walk-On’s to team up with country singer Cole Swindell to open Nashville location]]></title><description><![CDATA[The musical artists will have his own speakeasy-style space downstairs from the sports bar]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/walk-ons-to-team-up-with-country-singer-cole-swindell-to-open-nashville-location/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2026 21:21:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/walk-ons-to-team-up-with-country-singer-cole-swindell-to-open-nashville-location/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Uber cofounder Travis Kalanick launches Atoms — a new robotics and food tech company]]></title><description><![CDATA[Kalanick has unveiled a previously undercover parent company for his ventures, including CloudKitchens, Otter, Picnic, and new projects]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/uber-cofounder-travis-kalanick-launches-atoms-a-new-robotics-and-food-tech-company/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2026 18:23:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/uber-cofounder-travis-kalanick-launches-atoms-a-new-robotics-and-food-tech-company/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: Jamie Bissonnette’s pizza and a vegetarian gimbap]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus a Oaxacan hand pie, one cocktail inspired by the Lunar New Year and another inspired by a Viggo Mortensen film]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-jamie-bissonnettes-pizza-and-a-vegetarian-gimbap/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2026 18:08:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-jamie-bissonnettes-pizza-and-a-vegetarian-gimbap/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[From Roaster to Register: Coffee shop systems that shape the guest experience]]></title><description><![CDATA[How setting back of house expectations shapes front of house quality for coffee shops]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/from-roaster-to-register-coffee-shop-systems-that-shape-the-guest-experience/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2026 18:05:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/from-roaster-to-register-coffee-shop-systems-that-shape-the-guest-experience/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[FAT Brands CEO Andy Wiederhorn steps down during remainder of bankruptcy process]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company and all involved parties agreed that Wiederhorn will step back until the bankruptcy proceedings and possible sale of the business are finalized]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-ceo-andy-wiederhorn-steps-down-during-remainder-of-bankruptcy-process/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:35:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-ceo-andy-wiederhorn-steps-down-during-remainder-of-bankruptcy-process/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell adds dirty sodas to the permanent menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[The offerings can be customized with select fountain beverages and freezes]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-adds-dirty-sodas-to-the-permanent-menu/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:56:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-adds-dirty-sodas-to-the-permanent-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chick-fil-A is opening a distribution center in Texas]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Lubbock location was selected due to its strategic location]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chick-fil-a-is-opening-a-distribution-center-in-texas/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:53:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chick-fil-a-is-opening-a-distribution-center-in-texas/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from Carl’s Jr, Sonic Drive-in, and Taco Bell]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at BJ&rsquo;s, Jollibee, Noodles &amp; Company, Peet&rsquo;s Coffee, Smalls Sliders, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-carls-jr-sonic-drive-in-and-taco-bell-2/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:33:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-carls-jr-sonic-drive-in-and-taco-bell-2/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[FAT Brands CEO, Darden performance, MCL closures]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-ceo-darden-performance-mcl-closures/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2026 14:56:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-ceo-darden-performance-mcl-closures/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Darden Restaurants' sales continue to grow]]></title><description><![CDATA[LongHorn Steakhouse was the top performer, but all categories saw increases in comps]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/darden-restaurants-sales-continue-to-grow/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2026 20:33:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/darden-restaurants-sales-continue-to-grow/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Charlie Palmer opens Cattlemen’s Bar in Paso Robles, Calif.]]></title><description><![CDATA[It&rsquo;s the first of three Palmer concepts to open at the historic Paso Robles Inn]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/charlie-palmer-opens-cattlemens-bar-in-paso-robles-calif/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2026 20:17:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/charlie-palmer-opens-cattlemens-bar-in-paso-robles-calif/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dallas restaurant The Charles debuts a new design and updated menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Duro Hospitality founders gave their first concept a refresh before it ever felt stale]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dallas-restaurant-the-charles-debuts-a-new-design-and-updated-menu/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2026 20:13:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dallas-restaurant-the-charles-debuts-a-new-design-and-updated-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Raising Cane’s ready to open its 1,000th location]]></title><description><![CDATA[The milestone restaurant will be located on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/raising-canes-ready-to-open-its-1000th-location/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2026 18:27:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/raising-canes-ready-to-open-its-1000th-location/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[MCL Restaurants &amp;amp; Bakery closing several locations]]></title><description><![CDATA[The 76-year-old chain said sales were not where they need to be to cover operating costs]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcl-restaurants-ampamp-bakery-closing-several-locations/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2026 18:19:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcl-restaurants-ampamp-bakery-closing-several-locations/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chicago becomes the latest city to vote to bring back the tip credit]]></title><description><![CDATA[Chicago&rsquo;s City Council voted to permanently halt the 2028 phase-out of a lower minimum wage for tipped workers]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chicago-becomes-the-latest-city-to-vote-to-bring-back-the-tip-credit/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2026 18:09:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chicago-becomes-the-latest-city-to-vote-to-bring-back-the-tip-credit/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Tax refunds can’t outpace gas prices, dampening optimism for restaurant operators]]></title><description><![CDATA[Consumer sentiment has been significantly impacted by quickly rising fuel costs]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tax-refunds-cant-outpace-gas-prices-dampening-optimism-for-restaurant-operators/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2026 18:08:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tax-refunds-cant-outpace-gas-prices-dampening-optimism-for-restaurant-operators/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle, Peloton founders aim to disrupt sandwich category at Counter Service]]></title><description><![CDATA[CEO Tom Cortese shares how proprietary technology could help the New York-based concept scale quickly]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-peloton-founders-aim-to-disrupt-sandwich-category-at-counter-service/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2026 16:19:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-peloton-founders-aim-to-disrupt-sandwich-category-at-counter-service/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Maggiano’s, Chipotle, El Pollo Loco]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/maggianos-chipotle-el-pollo-loco/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2026 14:08:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/maggianos-chipotle-el-pollo-loco/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Doherty Enterprises opens the first dual-branded Applebee’s/IHOP restaurant east of the Mississippi in Hawthorne, N.Y.]]></title><description><![CDATA[Tim Doherty, president and COO of the longtime Applebee&rsquo;s franchisee, wants to &lsquo;wow every guest, every time&rsquo;]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/doherty-enterprises-opens-the-first-dual-branded-applebeesihop-restaurant-east-of-the-mississippi-in-hawthorne-ny/</link><pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2026 18:36:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/doherty-enterprises-opens-the-first-dual-branded-applebeesihop-restaurant-east-of-the-mississippi-in-hawthorne-ny/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Maggiano’s pulls a page from Chili’s to bolster portion sizes]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Italian-American chain has also added 15 items to its family-style menu as part of its turnaround]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/maggianos-pulls-a-page-from-chilis-to-bolster-portion-sizes/</link><pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2026 17:48:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/maggianos-pulls-a-page-from-chilis-to-bolster-portion-sizes/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Pizza Hut sparks nostalgia with Space Jam collaboration]]></title><description><![CDATA[The promotion ties into the brand&rsquo;s continued partnership with March Madness, which began in 2016]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pizza-hut-sparks-nostalgia-with-space-jam-collaboration/</link><pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2026 17:45:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pizza-hut-sparks-nostalgia-with-space-jam-collaboration/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[El Pollo Loco has upgraded its loyalty program]]></title><description><![CDATA[Loco Rewards now includes experiential prizes and access to exclusive menu items]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/el-pollo-loco-has-upgraded-its-loyalty-program/</link><pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2026 17:42:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/el-pollo-loco-has-upgraded-its-loyalty-program/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle introduces Cilantro Lime Sauce]]></title><description><![CDATA[The limited-time item comes as the chain ramps up its menu innovation cadence]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-introduces-cilantro-lime-sauce/</link><pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2026 17:32:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-introduces-cilantro-lime-sauce/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Papa Johns Selects Deliverect to Modernize Delivery Operations Across U.S. Restaurants]]></title><description><![CDATA[&ndash; The NRN editorial department was not involved in the creation of this content.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-selects-deliverect-to-modernize-delivery-operations-across-us-restaurants/</link><pubDate>Wed, 18 Mar 2026 15:25:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-selects-deliverect-to-modernize-delivery-operations-across-us-restaurants/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Signature: An exclusive interview with Brinker International CEO Kevin Hochman]]></title><description><![CDATA[He&rsquo;s the architect of one of the most impressive turnarounds in restaurant history, but he has his sights set on something bigger: building a restaurant dynasty]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/signature-an-exclusive-interview-with-brinker-international-ceo-kevin-hochman/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 20:46:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/signature-an-exclusive-interview-with-brinker-international-ceo-kevin-hochman/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Johnny Carino’s is debuting a new restaurant prototype, brand refresh]]></title><description><![CDATA[The design includes modernized elements and an enhanced bar presence]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/johnny-carinos-is-debuting-a-new-restaurant-prototype-brand-refresh/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 20:04:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/johnny-carinos-is-debuting-a-new-restaurant-prototype-brand-refresh/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Handel’s Ice Cream appoints Yum Brands veteran to CFO role]]></title><description><![CDATA[Naveen Dasa joins the brand as it accelerates growth]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/handels-ice-cream-appoints-yum-brands-veteran-to-cfo-role/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 19:22:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/handels-ice-cream-appoints-yum-brands-veteran-to-cfo-role/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Applebee’s shifts its marketing budget toward digital]]></title><description><![CDATA[2026 is the first year the casual-dining chain will have more money allocated to digital and social media channels than TV]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-shifts-its-marketing-budget-toward-digital/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 18:41:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-shifts-its-marketing-budget-toward-digital/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How the Women’s Foodservice Forum helped Brooke Buchanan tell her own story]]></title><description><![CDATA[The crisis communications expert has helped guide several brand turnarounds, and now she&rsquo;s ready to learn from and help others]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-the-womens-foodservice-forum-helped-brooke-buchanan-tell-her-own-story/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 18:34:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-the-womens-foodservice-forum-helped-brooke-buchanan-tell-her-own-story/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley is exactly the kind of restaurant he likes to dine in]]></title><description><![CDATA[Menu Talk: The elevated Southern menu, handcrafted cocktails and welcoming vibe hit the sweet spot with today&rsquo;s diners]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kitchen-kocktails-by-kevin-kelley-is-exactly-the-kind-of-restaurant-he-likes-to-dine-in/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 17:19:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kitchen-kocktails-by-kevin-kelley-is-exactly-the-kind-of-restaurant-he-likes-to-dine-in/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King, Fat Brands and Popeyes]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today's Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-fat-brands-and-popeyes/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 16:33:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-fat-brands-and-popeyes/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[FAT Brands could be under new ownership by May]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company is preparing to potentially sell its assets following a Ch. 11 bankruptcy filing in January]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-could-be-under-new-ownership-by-may/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 16:23:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-could-be-under-new-ownership-by-may/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell is expanding its Cantina Chicken menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Cantina Chicken Rolled Quesadilla will be added as a permanent menu nationwide]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-is-expanding-its-cantina-chicken-menu/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-is-expanding-its-cantina-chicken-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Tech Tracker: AI chatbots are the next frontier in restaurant technology]]></title><description><![CDATA[From vendors like Miso Robotics and Olo to operators like Papa Johns and Burger King, agentic AI is transforming restaurant operations]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tech-tracker-ai-chatbots-are-the-next-frontier-in-restaurant-technology/</link><pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2026 21:38:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tech-tracker-ai-chatbots-are-the-next-frontier-in-restaurant-technology/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[20 Popeyes restaurants close following franchisee’s bankruptcy]]></title><description><![CDATA[Sailormen rejected the leases of three restaurants in Georgia this month]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/20-popeyes-restaurants-close-following-franchisees-bankruptcy/</link><pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:25:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/20-popeyes-restaurants-close-following-franchisees-bankruptcy/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wendy’s launches a Dunks Menu for March Madness]]></title><description><![CDATA[Every in-app purchase from the menu earns a shot at a $100,000 cash prize]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-launches-a-dunks-menu-for-march-madness/</link><pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:22:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-launches-a-dunks-menu-for-march-madness/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[CAVA opens its first restaurant in Ohio as part of Midwest push]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Cincinnati location follows openings in Michigan, Indiana, and Chicago]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cava-opens-its-first-restaurant-in-ohio-as-part-of-midwest-push/</link><pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:16:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cava-opens-its-first-restaurant-in-ohio-as-part-of-midwest-push/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell’s new menu reveal, gas prices’ threat to restaurants, and Starbucks’ loyalty update]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus Wendy&rsquo;s, Pizza Hut, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bells-new-menu-reveal-gas-prices-threat-to-restaurants-and-starbucks-loyalty-update/</link><pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2026 17:27:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bells-new-menu-reveal-gas-prices-threat-to-restaurants-and-starbucks-loyalty-update/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Portillo’s appoints Jennifer Pecoraro-Striepling as chief development officer]]></title><description><![CDATA[Pecoraro-Striepling previously held development leadership roles at Miller&rsquo;s Ale House and Walk-On&rsquo;s Sports Bistreaux]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/portillos-appoints-jennifer-pecoraro-striepling-as-chief-development-officer/</link><pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2026 15:42:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/portillos-appoints-jennifer-pecoraro-striepling-as-chief-development-officer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[2026 Seafood Excellence Awards Winners Unveiled]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Seafood Excellence Awards recognize the product leaders in the North American seafood market.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/2026-seafood-excellence-awards-winners-unveiled/</link><pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2026 15:22:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/2026-seafood-excellence-awards-winners-unveiled/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King crowns its guests as the ‘New King’]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain debuted a new brand creative reflecting years of investments in the business and harnessing guest feedback]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-crowns-its-guests-as-the-new-king/</link><pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2026 01:20:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-crowns-its-guests-as-the-new-king/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dave’s Hot Chicken’s growth is ‘full speed ahead’ under new CEO Jim Bitticks]]></title><description><![CDATA[Dave&rsquo;s achieved 58% growth last year and under Bitticks&rsquo; leadership and Roark Capital&rsquo;s ownership, the brand will pivot to international development]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/daves-hot-chickens-growth-is-full-speed-ahead-under-new-ceo-jim-bitticks/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 20:58:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/daves-hot-chickens-growth-is-full-speed-ahead-under-new-ceo-jim-bitticks/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: Miso lobster Thermidor and lump crab scampi]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus Mexican-influenced shrimp &amp; grits, Napa bagna cauda, and a cocktail that combines Chartreuse and Midori]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-miso-lobster-thermidor-and-lump-crab-scampi/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 19:17:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-miso-lobster-thermidor-and-lump-crab-scampi/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[IHOP is bolstering its catering channel]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain created proprietary packaging and local store marketing toolkits to get the word out]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ihop-is-bolstering-its-catering-channel/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 17:45:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ihop-is-bolstering-its-catering-channel/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[KFC gears up for the Oscars, March Madness]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain is offering a Big Box (office) Meal with any $10 minimum purchase the day after Hollywood's biggest awards show]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfc-gears-up-for-the-oscars-march-madness/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 17:00:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfc-gears-up-for-the-oscars-march-madness/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Golden Corral’s new CFO brings global expertise to drive expansion]]></title><description><![CDATA[Trona Balkissoon spent the past 27 years at Nestl&eacute; and joins the buffet chain as it plans to double its presence]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/golden-corrals-new-cfo-brings-global-expertise-to-drive-expansion/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:55:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/golden-corrals-new-cfo-brings-global-expertise-to-drive-expansion/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Proposed legislation would offer grants to small businesses impacted by ICE crackdowns]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Small Business ICE Disruption Fund Act was introduced to the Senate last month]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/proposed-legislation-would-offer-grants-to-small-businesses-impacted-by-ice-crackdowns/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:51:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/proposed-legislation-would-offer-grants-to-small-businesses-impacted-by-ice-crackdowns/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[El Pollo Loco’s culinary and operational investments are paying off]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company continued to improve restaurant-level margins in the fourth quarter, while transactions at franchised restaurants grew]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/el-pollo-locos-culinary-and-operational-investments-are-paying-off/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:47:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/el-pollo-locos-culinary-and-operational-investments-are-paying-off/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from Buffalo Wild Wings, Panda Express, and Panera Bread]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at Blaze Pizza, Dutch Bros, Tropical Smoothie Cafe, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-buffalo-wild-wings-panda-express-and-panera-bread/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 15:36:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-buffalo-wild-wings-panda-express-and-panera-bread/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Papa Johns, Burger King and Noma]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-burger-king-and-noma/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 14:44:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-burger-king-and-noma/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Nation's Restaurant News March 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[NRN&rsquo;s editors are diving into casual dining to find out why this category is resonating with customers today and what other sectors can learn to jumpstart their own performance.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nations-restaurant-news-march-2026/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 13:27:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nations-restaurant-news-march-2026/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New York City’s proposed $30 minimum wage would be the highest in the U.S.]]></title><description><![CDATA[New York City is among four proposals nationwide to raise state or citywide minimum wages in 2026, alongside a new federal bill]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-york-citys-proposed-30-minimum-wage-would-be-the-highest-in-the-us/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 21:27:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-york-citys-proposed-30-minimum-wage-would-be-the-highest-in-the-us/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[René Redzepi resigns as head of Noma and MAD]]></title><description><![CDATA[His departure comes amid accusations of abuse and during a pop-up in Los Angeles]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ren-redzepi-resigns-as-head-of-noma-and-mad/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 20:07:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ren-redzepi-resigns-as-head-of-noma-and-mad/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s plans to go even lower on value]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain is targeting items for $3 and breakfast meals for $4, according to a Wall Street Journal report]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-plans-to-go-even-lower-on-value/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 19:21:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-plans-to-go-even-lower-on-value/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Papa Johns CEO Todd Penegor envisions a shift toward localized mom-and-pop-style operations]]></title><description><![CDATA[The quick-service pizza chain&rsquo;s leader also declined to address the latest company takeover rumors at the UBS Global Conference]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-ceo-todd-penegor-envisions-a-shift-toward-localized-mom-and-pop-style-operations/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 19:18:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-ceo-todd-penegor-envisions-a-shift-toward-localized-mom-and-pop-style-operations/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Restaurants celebrate Pi Day with BOGOs and other deals]]></title><description><![CDATA[The mathematical constant is being honored on March 14]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurants-celebrate-pi-day-with-bogos-and-other-deals/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 17:03:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurants-celebrate-pi-day-with-bogos-and-other-deals/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Meet Matter: the first fast-casual restaurant that customizes and tracks your macronutrients]]></title><description><![CDATA[Customers at this New York City eatery can build plates and bowls with their preferred levels of protein, fiber, fats, carbs, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/meet-matter-the-first-fast-casual-restaurant-that-customizes-and-tracks-your-macronutrients/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 16:59:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/meet-matter-the-first-fast-casual-restaurant-that-customizes-and-tracks-your-macronutrients/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Planta’s Ch. 11 bankruptcy converted to liquidation]]></title><description><![CDATA[A Delaware court approved the Chapter 7 declaration once the debtor stated no other options were available]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/plantas-ch-11-bankruptcy-converted-to-liquidation/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 16:58:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/plantas-ch-11-bankruptcy-converted-to-liquidation/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Logan’s Roadhouse acquired by Cici’s Pizza parent company SSCP Management]]></title><description><![CDATA[SPB Hospitality confirmed the sale of the steakhouse brand at the end of 2025, marking the brand&rsquo;s third owner in six years]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/logans-roadhouse-acquired-by-cicis-pizza-parent-company-sscp-management/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 16:57:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/logans-roadhouse-acquired-by-cicis-pizza-parent-company-sscp-management/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Casual dining redefines value in an inflationary environment]]></title><description><![CDATA[The restaurant segment has benefited from Chili&rsquo;s playbook by blurring the lines between quick-service and full-service offerings]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/casual-dining-redefines-value-in-an-inflationary-environment/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 16:56:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/casual-dining-redefines-value-in-an-inflationary-environment/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chef Gabriel Kreuther is embracing wood-fired cooking at Saverne, his new NYC brasserie]]></title><description><![CDATA[It&rsquo;s a more accessible follow-up to his two-Michelin-starred namesake restaurant]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chef-gabriel-kreuther-is-embracing-wood-fired-cooking-at-saverne-his-new-nyc-brasserie/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 16:29:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chef-gabriel-kreuther-is-embracing-wood-fired-cooking-at-saverne-his-new-nyc-brasserie/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Krystal promotes Amanda Hyde to chief operating officer]]></title><description><![CDATA[She will report to G.J. Hart, chief executive officer of parent company SPB Hospitality]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/krystal-promotes-amanda-hyde-to-chief-operating-officer/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 16:20:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/krystal-promotes-amanda-hyde-to-chief-operating-officer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wendy’s and Pizza Hut look for momentum from consumer input]]></title><description><![CDATA[The brands have created respective chief tasting officer and Hut Crust Connoisseur positions to provide feedback]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-and-pizza-hut-look-for-momentum-from-consumer-input/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 16:09:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-and-pizza-hut-look-for-momentum-from-consumer-input/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[P.F. Chang’s CEO reports early wins in Asian chain’s turnaround plan]]></title><description><![CDATA[Jim Mazany has spent most of his career in full-service restaurants - now he&rsquo;s tasked with turning around the Asian bistro concept]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pf-changs-ceo-reports-early-wins-in-asian-chains-turnaround-plan/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:55:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pf-changs-ceo-reports-early-wins-in-asian-chains-turnaround-plan/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Papa Johns, McDonald’s, gas prices]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-mcdonalds-gas-prices/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:16:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-mcdonalds-gas-prices/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Olive Garden’s Buy One, Take One offer returns]]></title><description><![CDATA[The casual-dining chain is pricing it the same as last year]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/olive-gardens-buy-one-take-one-offer-returns/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 21:24:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/olive-gardens-buy-one-take-one-offer-returns/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Pizza Hut updated its Hand-Tossed Pizza recipe for the first time in a decade]]></title><description><![CDATA[The core menu update is accompanied by a new ad campaign and a $10 promotion that&rsquo;s part of the brand&rsquo;s new Hut Crust platform]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pizza-hut-updated-its-hand-tossed-pizza-recipe-for-the-first-time-in-a-decade/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 21:22:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pizza-hut-updated-its-hand-tossed-pizza-recipe-for-the-first-time-in-a-decade/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco John’s expands daily deals]]></title><description><![CDATA[The weekday value promotions join the recently extended Meal Steals]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-johns-expands-daily-deals/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 18:03:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-johns-expands-daily-deals/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Gene Lee named chair of Portillo’s board]]></title><description><![CDATA[He succeeds Michael Miles Jr., who is retiring from the governing body after nearly 12 years]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/gene-lee-named-chair-of-portillos-board/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 18:00:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/gene-lee-named-chair-of-portillos-board/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wingstop authorizes $300 million share repurchase program expansion]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Dallas-based fast-casual chain&rsquo;s board of directors announced a significant expansion of its share repurchase program]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wingstop-authorizes-300-million-share-repurchase-program-expansion/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:41:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wingstop-authorizes-300-million-share-repurchase-program-expansion/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Rising gas prices could disrupt restaurant sales recovery]]></title><description><![CDATA[Consumer Edge data finds that some chains are impacted more based on consumers&rsquo; fuel share-of-wallet]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/rising-gas-prices-could-disrupt-restaurant-sales-recovery/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:35:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/rising-gas-prices-could-disrupt-restaurant-sales-recovery/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Grocery price increases outpaced restaurants in February]]></title><description><![CDATA[The inflation index was in line with expectations, but the data predates energy price spikes from the Iran War]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/grocery-price-increases-outpaced-restaurants-in-february/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:30:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/grocery-price-increases-outpaced-restaurants-in-february/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Panera Bread makes return to energy drink category with new Refreshers]]></title><description><![CDATA[The new Energy Refreshers contain about 10% of the caffeine content as Panera&rsquo;s now-discontinued Charged Lemonades]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/panera-bread-makes-return-to-energy-drink-category-with-new-refreshers/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 16:28:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/panera-bread-makes-return-to-energy-drink-category-with-new-refreshers/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell, Jimmy John’s, Noma]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-jimmy-johns-noma/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 15:23:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-jimmy-johns-noma/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell’s Live Más Live goes Hollywood]]></title><description><![CDATA[14 menu launches that we can expect from the chain this year]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bells-live-ms-live-goes-hollywood/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 21:53:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bells-live-ms-live-goes-hollywood/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Sage Hospitality Group takes management of Benson Hotel &amp;amp; Faculty Club on CU Anschutz campus in Aurora, Colo.]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: The luxury property features The Common Good restaurant serving seasonal menus with locally sourced ingredients and craft cocktails for guests]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sage-hospitality-group-takes-management-of-benson-hotel-ampamp-faculty-club-on-cu-anschutz-campus-in-aurora-colo/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 21:22:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sage-hospitality-group-takes-management-of-benson-hotel-ampamp-faculty-club-on-cu-anschutz-campus-in-aurora-colo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dave &amp;amp; Buster's launches What The Fun campaign with $1-a-day unlimited arcade gaming pass offer]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: The entertainment chain debuts its biggest value proposition alongside a new brand platform celebrating spontaneous fun and real-life connections.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dave-ampamp-busters-launches-what-the-fun-campaign-with-1-a-day-unlimited-arcade-gaming-pass-offer/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 21:12:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dave-ampamp-busters-launches-what-the-fun-campaign-with-1-a-day-unlimited-arcade-gaming-pass-offer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbird inks largest franchise deal ever with 36-unit Texas expansion through Mac Haik Restaurant Group]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: The Bay Area chicken brand partners with Mac Haik Restaurant Group to open locations in Houston, Austin and San Antonio starting in 2027]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbird-inks-largest-franchise-deal-ever-with-36-unit-texas-expansion-through-mac-haik-restaurant-group/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 21:01:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbird-inks-largest-franchise-deal-ever-with-36-unit-texas-expansion-through-mac-haik-restaurant-group/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why restaurant industry leaders are pushing for updated immigrant work permit legislation]]></title><description><![CDATA[Through Seat the Table, groups like the James Beard Foundation support immigrant worker reform like the Dignity Act of 2025]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-restaurant-industry-leaders-are-pushing-for-updated-immigrant-work-permit-legislation/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 20:30:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-restaurant-industry-leaders-are-pushing-for-updated-immigrant-work-permit-legislation/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chicago chef Charlie McKenna has opened Fatback, a hybrid sandwich shop, butcher, and market]]></title><description><![CDATA[The new concept is a partnership with a local hospitality powerhouse, the Fifty/50 Group]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chicago-chef-charlie-mckenna-has-opened-fatback-a-hybrid-sandwich-shop-butcher-and-market/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 19:38:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chicago-chef-charlie-mckenna-has-opened-fatback-a-hybrid-sandwich-shop-butcher-and-market/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jimmy John’s promotes CMO Darin Dugan to brand president]]></title><description><![CDATA[Kate Carpenter is named new head of marketing]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jimmy-johns-promotes-cmo-darin-dugan-to-brand-president/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:59:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jimmy-johns-promotes-cmo-darin-dugan-to-brand-president/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle brings back tattoo promotion for Friday the 13th]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain is teaming up with hip-hop musician Swae Lee to create a temporary tattoo flash sheet]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-brings-back-tattoo-promotion-for-friday-the-13th/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:59:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-brings-back-tattoo-promotion-for-friday-the-13th/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Scott and Jacob Margroff discuss flavor and innovation at Strickland’s]]></title><description><![CDATA[Menu Talk: The Ohio ice cream concept recently opened a franchise in Southern California]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/scott-and-jacob-margroff-discuss-flavor-and-innovation-at-stricklands/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:53:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/scott-and-jacob-margroff-discuss-flavor-and-innovation-at-stricklands/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks launches new online merch shop with first access for highest tier Rewards members]]></title><description><![CDATA[The new Starbucks Rewards program with three tiers launched on March 10]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-launches-new-online-merch-shop-with-first-access-for-highest-tier-rewards-members/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:22:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-launches-new-online-merch-shop-with-first-access-for-highest-tier-rewards-members/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bennigan’s honors Irish roots with 50th anniversary Blarney Blast]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: Month-long St. Patrick&rsquo;s Day promotion features limited-time signature cocktails, themed food items and &lsquo;2 for $50&rsquo; bundle]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bennigans-honors-irish-roots-with-50th-anniversary-blarney-blast/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 16:09:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bennigans-honors-irish-roots-with-50th-anniversary-blarney-blast/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why Taco Bell is thinking about daypart extensions ‘more than ever’]]></title><description><![CDATA[Global chief food innovation officer Liz Matthews said younger consumers are pushing the brand beyond its traditional menu innovation]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-taco-bell-is-thinking-about-daypart-extensions-more-than-ever/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 15:48:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-taco-bell-is-thinking-about-daypart-extensions-more-than-ever/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell’s 2026 menu innovations inspired by ‘spicy’ fan feedback]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain unveiled its upcoming launches during its annual Live M&aacute;s Live event in Hollywood last week, which include more variety and a heavier focus on beverages and desserts]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bells-2026-menu-innovations-inspired-by-spicy-fan-feedback/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 15:40:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bells-2026-menu-innovations-inspired-by-spicy-fan-feedback/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Applebee’s wings, Gong cha expansion, California Pizza Kitchen CPG]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-wings-gong-cha-expansion-california-pizza-kitchen-cpg/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 15:03:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-wings-gong-cha-expansion-california-pizza-kitchen-cpg/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[7 Brew expands onto retail shelves]]></title><description><![CDATA[Three of the drive-thru chain&rsquo;s beverages will be available at Walmart stores across Arkansas]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/7-brew-expands-onto-retail-shelves/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 15:03:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/7-brew-expands-onto-retail-shelves/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Cinnabon taps into the dirty soda trend with launch of Swirled Sodas]]></title><description><![CDATA[The limited-time drinks are inspired by Disney-owned Hulu and ABC reality TV shows, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives and The Bachelorette]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cinnabon-taps-into-the-dirty-soda-trend-with-launch-of-swirled-sodas/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 18:02:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cinnabon-taps-into-the-dirty-soda-trend-with-launch-of-swirled-sodas/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Cleveland’s Rosy is a new neighborhood restaurant serving cuisine inspired by the Istrian peninsula]]></title><description><![CDATA[It&rsquo;s run by the team behind Cordelia restaurant and skips a traditional menu in favor of 12 always-changing dishes]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/clevelands-rosy-is-a-new-neighborhood-restaurant-serving-cuisine-inspired-by-the-istrian-peninsula/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 17:50:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/clevelands-rosy-is-a-new-neighborhood-restaurant-serving-cuisine-inspired-by-the-istrian-peninsula/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Gong cha acquires master franchise rights to 170 U.S. stores, accelerating national expansion]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: Gong cha brings major franchise territory in-house]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/gong-cha-acquires-master-franchise-rights-to-170-us-stores-accelerating-national-expansion/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 17:28:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/gong-cha-acquires-master-franchise-rights-to-170-us-stores-accelerating-national-expansion/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wingstop makes ranch the moment with a limited-edition 32 oz. cup of ranch]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: Only 500 available exclusively in New York City and Dallas on National Ranch Day]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wingstop-makes-ranch-the-moment-with-a-limited-edition-32-oz-cup-of-ranch/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 17:20:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wingstop-makes-ranch-the-moment-with-a-limited-edition-32-oz-cup-of-ranch/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[TGI Fridays doubles down on international growth with hotel agreement in Kenya]]></title><description><![CDATA[The casual-dining chain&rsquo;s development agreement with PrideInn Hotels and Resorts marks its first expansion into sub-Saharan Africa]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tgi-fridays-doubles-down-on-international-growth-with-hotel-agreement-in-kenya/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 17:15:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tgi-fridays-doubles-down-on-international-growth-with-hotel-agreement-in-kenya/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why Darden Restaurants prioritizes an inclusive workplace]]></title><description><![CDATA[Sarah King joined the company in 2017 as chief people officer and has focused on building leadership pipelines]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-darden-restaurants-prioritizes-an-inclusive-workplace/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 17:10:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-darden-restaurants-prioritizes-an-inclusive-workplace/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[California Pizza Kitchen extending retail lineup beyond frozen pizza]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company is also expanding its consumer-packaged goods business to new global markets]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/california-pizza-kitchen-extending-retail-lineup-beyond-frozen-pizza/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 17:03:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/california-pizza-kitchen-extending-retail-lineup-beyond-frozen-pizza/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s brings its All American Games to the Happy Meal]]></title><description><![CDATA[The new promotion launches March 10 for a limited time and includes Crocs keychains]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-brings-its-all-american-games-to-the-happy-meal/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 16:59:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-brings-its-all-american-games-to-the-happy-meal/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Applebee’s March Madness promotion focuses on the to-go business]]></title><description><![CDATA[Chief executive officer John Peyton said the chain&rsquo;s off-premises channels are a source of growth]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-march-madness-promotion-focuses-on-the-to-go-business/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 16:56:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-march-madness-promotion-focuses-on-the-to-go-business/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[3 ways restaurant chains are drawing in consumers for National Meatball Day]]></title><description><![CDATA[Deals, discounts and a sweepstakes hope to drive traffic]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/3-ways-restaurant-chains-are-drawing-in-consumers-for-national-meatball-day/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 16:54:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/3-ways-restaurant-chains-are-drawing-in-consumers-for-national-meatball-day/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s Big Arch controversy, Cracker Barrel’s sales woes, and alarming data about closures]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, a conversation with Clutch Coffee founder Darren Spicer on the brand&rsquo;s sale to Dutch Bros]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-big-arch-controversy-cracker-barrels-sales-woes-and-alarming-data-about-closures/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 15:15:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-big-arch-controversy-cracker-barrels-sales-woes-and-alarming-data-about-closures/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jobs report, Texas Roadhouse, full-service restaurants]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jobs-report-texas-roadhouse-full-service-restaurants/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 15:10:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jobs-report-texas-roadhouse-full-service-restaurants/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s showcases employees in reality TV-inspired campaign]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain is doubling down on its messaging that one in eight Americans worked there at some point in their career]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-showcases-employees-in-reality-tv-inspired-campaign/</link><pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 21:22:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-showcases-employees-in-reality-tv-inspired-campaign/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: An Espresso Martini flight and a Texas take on a Philadelphia classic]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus Filipino chicken, wagyu beef tataki, and Indian-inspired cauliflower steak]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-an-espresso-martini-flight-and-a-texas-take-on-a-philadelphia-classic/</link><pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 20:45:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-an-espresso-martini-flight-and-a-texas-take-on-a-philadelphia-classic/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Restaurants and bars lost nearly 30K jobs in February]]></title><description><![CDATA[The sector was not immune to a broader decline in the labor market, which pushed the unemployment rate to 4.4%]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurants-and-bars-lost-nearly-30k-jobs-in-february/</link><pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 19:00:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurants-and-bars-lost-nearly-30k-jobs-in-february/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Secretary Kennedy wants Starbucks and Dunkin’ to prove their drinks are safe]]></title><description><![CDATA[Health and Human Services Secretary RFK Jr. targeted both coffee chains&rsquo; sugary drinks at a recent rally]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/secretary-kennedy-wants-starbucks-and-dunkin-to-prove-their-drinks-are-safe/</link><pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 18:47:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/secretary-kennedy-wants-starbucks-and-dunkin-to-prove-their-drinks-are-safe/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Cracker Barrel, Del Taco, Chick-fil-A]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today's Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cracker-barrel-del-taco-chick-fil-a/</link><pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 16:42:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cracker-barrel-del-taco-chick-fil-a/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from Chick-fil-A, Dunkin’, and Jimmy John’s]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at Starbucks, Dutch Bros, The Human Bean, Sonic Drive-In, Portillo&rsquo;s, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-chick-fil-a-dunkin-and-jimmy-johns/</link><pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 16:23:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-chick-fil-a-dunkin-and-jimmy-johns/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Texas Roadhouse adds White Castle CEO to the board]]></title><description><![CDATA[Lisa Ingram has led the slider burger chain since 2015]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/texas-roadhouse-adds-white-castle-ceo-to-the-board/</link><pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 16:12:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/texas-roadhouse-adds-white-castle-ceo-to-the-board/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[9% of full-service restaurants are at risk for closure in 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[New data from Black Box Intelligence identified such units as those that lost 30% or more of their peak sales last year]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/9-of-full-service-restaurants-are-at-risk-for-closure-in-2026/</link><pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 16:03:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/9-of-full-service-restaurants-are-at-risk-for-closure-in-2026/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[From Burger King to Taco Bell: How AI employee assistants could quietly reshape restaurant labor]]></title><description><![CDATA[Burger King&rsquo;s new virtual assistant is drawing 'Big Brother' comparisons, but other quick-service brands are testing similar tools]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/from-burger-king-to-taco-bell-how-ai-employee-assistants-could-quietly-reshape-restaurant-labor/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 22:24:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/from-burger-king-to-taco-bell-how-ai-employee-assistants-could-quietly-reshape-restaurant-labor/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[With prices up, restaurant consumers turn to snacking]]></title><description><![CDATA[Smaller, lower-priced items require less commitment and allow for more flexibility]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/with-prices-up-restaurant-consumers-turn-to-snacking/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 21:46:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/with-prices-up-restaurant-consumers-turn-to-snacking/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Catch Hospitality Group has opened Or’esh, a live-fire Mediterranean restaurant in New York City]]></title><description><![CDATA[Chef Nadav Greenberg&rsquo;s menu explores the flavors of the Levant]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/catch-hospitality-group-has-opened-oresh-a-live-fire-mediterranean-restaurant-in-new-york-city/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 21:38:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/catch-hospitality-group-has-opened-oresh-a-live-fire-mediterranean-restaurant-in-new-york-city/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Subway seeks to serve 1M meatballs on National Meatball Day with free footlong upgrades]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: On March 9, join the world's first Million Meatball Monday and make any six-inch Sub of the Day or Meal of the Day a footlong for free]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/subway-seeks-to-serve-1m-meatballs-on-national-meatball-day-with-free-footlong-upgrades/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 20:45:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/subway-seeks-to-serve-1m-meatballs-on-national-meatball-day-with-free-footlong-upgrades/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wendy’s is hiring a chief tasting officer]]></title><description><![CDATA[The salary for the remote position is listed as $100,000]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-is-hiring-a-chief-tasting-officer/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 19:29:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-is-hiring-a-chief-tasting-officer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Del Taco introduces turnaround plan fresh off its acquisition]]></title><description><![CDATA[Project Sunrise includes strategies to &ldquo;embrace innovation and reconnect to passionate guests&rdquo;]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/del-taco-introduces-turnaround-plan-fresh-off-its-acquisition/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 18:36:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/del-taco-introduces-turnaround-plan-fresh-off-its-acquisition/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Black Rock Coffee Bar sets 1,000-store target as an emerging coffee segment contender]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Scottsdale, Arizona-based 181-unit beverage chain reported 9.3% same-store sales growth for the fourth quarter]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/black-rock-coffee-bar-sets-1000-store-target-as-an-emerging-coffee-segment-contender/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 18:27:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/black-rock-coffee-bar-sets-1000-store-target-as-an-emerging-coffee-segment-contender/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Cracker Barrel sees slow improvement despite continued traffic slump in Q2]]></title><description><![CDATA[The family-dining company reported 7.1% same-store sales declines, but noted improved traffic and guest scores in January]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cracker-barrel-sees-slow-improvement-despite-continued-traffic-slump-in-q2/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 17:21:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cracker-barrel-sees-slow-improvement-despite-continued-traffic-slump-in-q2/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s Big Arch, Starbucks corporate office, Freddy’s]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-big-arch-starbucks-corporate-office-freddys/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 16:12:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-big-arch-starbucks-corporate-office-freddys/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Shipley Donuts adds three executives to the C-suite]]></title><description><![CDATA[The growing company has appointed a chief operating officer, development officer, and financial officer]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/shipley-donuts-adds-three-executives-to-the-c-suite/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 16:11:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/shipley-donuts-adds-three-executives-to-the-c-suite/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chick-fil-A is launching a Jalapeño Ranch Club Chicken Sandwich]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain&rsquo;s spring menu also features four new Strawberry Hibiscus beverages]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chick-fil-a-is-launching-a-jalapeo-ranch-club-chicken-sandwich/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 15:50:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chick-fil-a-is-launching-a-jalapeo-ranch-club-chicken-sandwich/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jack in the Box, Olo consumer app, Slutty Vegan]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the heaadlines in today's Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-olo-consumer-app-slutty-vegan/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 21:09:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-olo-consumer-app-slutty-vegan/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[30 restaurant executives on the move in February, including new CEOs at Portillo’s, Chuck E. Cheese, and 2 regional groups]]></title><description><![CDATA[It was a big month for CEOs, CFOs, and board members]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/30-restaurant-executives-on-the-move-in-february-including-new-ceos-at-portillos-chuck-e-cheese-and-2-regional-groups/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 20:25:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/30-restaurant-executives-on-the-move-in-february-including-new-ceos-at-portillos-chuck-e-cheese-and-2-regional-groups/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wendy’s targets Latin America for expansion]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company has finalized two franchise agreements for more than 60 new restaurants in Mexico in the coming years]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-targets-latin-america-for-expansion/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 20:24:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-targets-latin-america-for-expansion/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[JRI Hospitality acquires 43 Freddy&rsquo;s Frozen Custard &amp;amp; Steakburgers locations]]></title><description><![CDATA[JRI Hospitality purchased franchisee HCI Hospitality&rsquo;s restaurant operations and now owns almost 25% of Freddy&rsquo;s portfolio]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jri-hospitality-acquires-43-freddyrsquos-frozen-custard-ampamp-steakburgers-locations/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 20:10:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jri-hospitality-acquires-43-freddyrsquos-frozen-custard-ampamp-steakburgers-locations/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Big Arch, big buzz: McDonald’s turns viral moment into marketing opportunity]]></title><description><![CDATA[Competitors have also seized the moment to put their own &lsquo;products&rsquo; in the spotlight]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/big-arch-big-buzz-mcdonalds-turns-viral-moment-into-marketing-opportunity/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 19:30:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/big-arch-big-buzz-mcdonalds-turns-viral-moment-into-marketing-opportunity/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Tampa area restaurant group Pineapple Hospitality leans into art of great hospitality]]></title><description><![CDATA[Founder Jim Rehm and VP of culinary Jessica Tomlinson share how hospitality and creativity are at the core of the group&rsquo;s ethos]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tampa-area-restaurant-group-pineapple-hospitality-leans-into-art-of-great-hospitality/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 19:12:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tampa-area-restaurant-group-pineapple-hospitality-leans-into-art-of-great-hospitality/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks plans to open a Nashville corporate office to support supply chain expansion]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company confirmed that Seattle will remain Starbucks&rsquo; North America and global support headquarters]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-plans-to-open-a-nashville-corporate-office-to-support-supply-chain-expansion/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 18:24:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-plans-to-open-a-nashville-corporate-office-to-support-supply-chain-expansion/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Olo launches first consumer-facing digital ordering app]]></title><description><![CDATA[The tech platform touts the new app within Olo Network as a zero-commission &ldquo;second-party&rdquo; alternative to third-party delivery apps]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/olo-launches-first-consumer-facing-digital-ordering-app/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 17:19:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/olo-launches-first-consumer-facing-digital-ordering-app/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks invites customers to stay longer with upgraded chairs and mugs]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, the Starbucks spring menu has dropped, including the new chai recipe]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-invites-customers-to-stay-longer-with-upgraded-chairs-and-mugs/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 21:51:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-invites-customers-to-stay-longer-with-upgraded-chairs-and-mugs/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Next-gen restaurant tech: practical, profitable, and back-of-house focused]]></title><description><![CDATA[As operators mature in their tech investment strategy, data optimization and operational AI take priority over customer-facing tech]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/next-gen-restaurant-tech-practical-profitable-and-back-of-house-focused/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 19:55:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/next-gen-restaurant-tech-practical-profitable-and-back-of-house-focused/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Visiting Steve Ells’ newest restaurant venture, Counter Service]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Chipotle founder started the deli after the closure of his robot-forward restaurant Kernel]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/visiting-steve-ells-newest-restaurant-venture-counter-service/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 19:50:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/visiting-steve-ells-newest-restaurant-venture-counter-service/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Trending this week: McDonald’s is bringing its Big Arch Burger to the U.S.]]></title><description><![CDATA[See which stories readers couldn't get enough of]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-mcdonalds-is-bringing-its-big-arch-burger-to-the-us/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 19:15:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-mcdonalds-is-bringing-its-big-arch-burger-to-the-us/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jack in the Box shareholders re-elect board, rejecting activist investor’s proxy fight]]></title><description><![CDATA[The quick-service chain was mostly successful against Sardar Biglari&rsquo;s board challenge by leveraging a &ldquo;poison pill&rdquo; strategy]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-shareholders-re-elect-board-rejecting-activist-investors-proxy-fight/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 18:48:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-shareholders-re-elect-board-rejecting-activist-investors-proxy-fight/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chef Sungchul Shim infuses Korean flavor into a Times Square steakhouse]]></title><description><![CDATA[Menu Talk: Gui Steakhouse has all the bells and whistles of a traditional restaurant in this genre, but it&rsquo;s the Korean accents that set it apart.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chef-sungchul-shim-infuses-korean-flavor-into-a-times-square-steakhouse/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 18:15:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chef-sungchul-shim-infuses-korean-flavor-into-a-times-square-steakhouse/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Fat Brands closures, RBI value, Domino’s]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today's Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-closures-rbi-value-dominos/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 18:04:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-closures-rbi-value-dominos/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Slutty Vegan founder Pinky Cole files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy]]></title><description><![CDATA[The &lsquo;Real Housewives&rsquo; star and vegan burger chain founder owes $1.2 million to the U.S. Small Business Administration]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/slutty-vegan-founder-pinky-cole-files-for-chapter-11-bankruptcy/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 17:45:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/slutty-vegan-founder-pinky-cole-files-for-chapter-11-bankruptcy/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell launches dessert empanadas]]></title><description><![CDATA[They include chocolate fudge and caramel flavors]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-launches-dessert-empanadas/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 16:00:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-launches-dessert-empanadas/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[George Felix promoted to executive vice president, CMO at Brinker]]></title><description><![CDATA[In his expanded role, he will oversee marketing at both Chili&rsquo;s and Maggiano&rsquo;s Little Italy]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/george-felix-promoted-to-executive-vice-president-cmo-at-brinker/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 15:33:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/george-felix-promoted-to-executive-vice-president-cmo-at-brinker/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Red Lobster appoints Brad Hill as chief financial officer and executive vice president]]></title><description><![CDATA[Hill previously served as CEO of P.F. Chang&rsquo;s; Kristen Briede also joins the company as chief global development officer]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/red-lobster-appoints-brad-hill-as-chief-financial-officer-and-executive-vice-president/</link><pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 21:51:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/red-lobster-appoints-brad-hill-as-chief-financial-officer-and-executive-vice-president/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Panera adds new in-store role focused exclusively on guest hospitality]]></title><description><![CDATA[Other chains like Starbucks and Cava are also adding new store level roles as labor needs and hospitality expectations change]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/panera-adds-new-in-store-role-focused-exclusively-on-guest-hospitality/</link><pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 21:29:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/panera-adds-new-in-store-role-focused-exclusively-on-guest-hospitality/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[FAT Brands and investors clash over demands amid bankruptcy restructuring]]></title><description><![CDATA[Investors push for depositions of CEO Andy Wiederhorn and others, while FAT Brands calls bondholders&rsquo; demands &lsquo;burdensome and irrelevant&rsquo;]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-and-investors-clash-over-demands-amid-bankruptcy-restructuring/</link><pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 19:06:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-and-investors-clash-over-demands-amid-bankruptcy-restructuring/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Popeyes turnaround is ‘light in touch and scope’]]></title><description><![CDATA[President Peter Perdue is encouraged by the newer asset base and menu simplification efforts]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/popeyes-turnaround-is-light-in-touch-and-scope/</link><pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 18:44:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/popeyes-turnaround-is-light-in-touch-and-scope/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Fat Brands, Wienerschnitzel-beef tallow, beverage equipment]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today's Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-wienerschnitzel-beef-tallow-beverage-equipment/</link><pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 18:43:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-wienerschnitzel-beef-tallow-beverage-equipment/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s ‘Big’ new menu item, Domino’s pizza dominance, and a fast casual’s no-good-very-bad quarter]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, good news for casual dining]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-big-new-menu-item-dominos-pizza-dominance-and-a-fast-casuals-no-good-very-bad-quarter/</link><pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 17:31:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-big-new-menu-item-dominos-pizza-dominance-and-a-fast-casuals-no-good-very-bad-quarter/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How Domino’s pulled ahead in an increasingly turbulent pizza segment]]></title><description><![CDATA[Pizza Hut and Papa Johns could both be sold off in the future as they deal with faltering sales, while Domino&rsquo;s continues to grow]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-dominos-pulled-ahead-in-an-increasingly-turbulent-pizza-segment/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 23:32:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-dominos-pulled-ahead-in-an-increasingly-turbulent-pizza-segment/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Scooters Coffee reaches 900 stores nationwide with 83 new locations added in 2025 across 32 states]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: The drive-thru chain expanded its footprint by 10% last year, opening a major distribution center in Indianapolis to support continued growth]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/scooters-coffee-reaches-900-stores-nationwide-with-83-new-locations-added-in-2025-across-32-states/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 22:14:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/scooters-coffee-reaches-900-stores-nationwide-with-83-new-locations-added-in-2025-across-32-states/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why chef Marc Spitzer is moving to the suburbs with new Japanese concept Okaru]]></title><description><![CDATA[The BondSt chef launched the new concept in the Long Island town of Roslyn]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-chef-marc-spitzer-is-moving-to-the-suburbs-with-new-japanese-concept-okaru/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 21:44:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-chef-marc-spitzer-is-moving-to-the-suburbs-with-new-japanese-concept-okaru/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: Clam chowder and meatloaf get upgrades]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus tempura mushrooms, cajeta flan, and a spirit-free Gin Sour]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-clam-chowder-and-meatloaf-get-upgrades/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 20:49:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-clam-chowder-and-meatloaf-get-upgrades/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: Clam chowder and meat loaf get upgrades]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus tempura mushrooms, cajeta flan, and a spirit-free Gin Sour]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-clam-chowder-and-meat-loaf-get-upgrades/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 20:49:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-clam-chowder-and-meat-loaf-get-upgrades/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[El Pollo Loco launches a protein menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[The lineup includes 24 items priced under $15]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/el-pollo-loco-launches-a-protein-menu/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 20:27:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/el-pollo-loco-launches-a-protein-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[IHOP has developed a proprietary coffee blend]]></title><description><![CDATA[The upgraded beverage was created in response to customer feedback]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ihop-has-developed-a-proprietary-coffee-blend/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 19:20:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ihop-has-developed-a-proprietary-coffee-blend/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Grubhub agrees to pay $5 million lawsuit settlement over misleading customer fees]]></title><description><![CDATA[The pending class-action lawsuit benefits California customers who ordered from Grubhub or Seamless between 2019 and 2026]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/grubhub-agrees-to-pay-5-million-lawsuit-settlement-over-misleading-customer-fees/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 19:18:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/grubhub-agrees-to-pay-5-million-lawsuit-settlement-over-misleading-customer-fees/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[BJ’s Restaurants finds a sweet spot with its Pizookie Meal Deals]]></title><description><![CDATA[The casual-dining chain registered its sixth consecutive quarter of same-store sales and traffic growth]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bjs-restaurants-finds-a-sweet-spot-with-its-pizookie-meal-deals/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 19:04:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bjs-restaurants-finds-a-sweet-spot-with-its-pizookie-meal-deals/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Sweetgreen moves with ‘urgency’ as same-store sales plummet 11.5%]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual company reported a double-digit traffic decrease driven by loyalty program changes, and customers choosing other options]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sweetgreen-moves-with-urgency-as-same-store-sales-plummet-115/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 17:00:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sweetgreen-moves-with-urgency-as-same-store-sales-plummet-115/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from McDonald’s, Bojangles, and Sweetgreen]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at Applebee&rsquo;s, Baskin-Robbins, Buffalo Wild Wings, Firehouse Subs, Hardee&rsquo;s, Logan&rsquo;s Roadhouse, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-mcdonalds-bojangles-and-sweetgreen/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 16:23:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-mcdonalds-bojangles-and-sweetgreen/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King Whopper, Papa Johns sales, Schlotzsky’s Deli]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-whopper-papa-johns-sales-schlotzskys-deli/</link><pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 15:30:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-whopper-papa-johns-sales-schlotzskys-deli/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Red Robin gains traffic traction from its value, marketing shifts]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Big Yummm barbell menu has created momentum and generated higher average check sizes]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/red-robin-gains-traffic-traction-from-its-value-marketing-shifts/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 23:52:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/red-robin-gains-traffic-traction-from-its-value-marketing-shifts/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Krispy Kreme announces further refranchising plans after Q4 revenue declines]]></title><description><![CDATA[The doughnut chain is refranchising both in Japan and the Western U.S. and has plans to grow stores]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/krispy-kreme-announces-further-refranchising-plans-after-q4-revenue-declines/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 23:11:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/krispy-kreme-announces-further-refranchising-plans-after-q4-revenue-declines/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Operational improvements lead to robust 2025 for Shake Shack]]></title><description><![CDATA[Same-store sales grew by 2.1% in Q4, the 20th consecutive quarter of improvement]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/operational-improvements-lead-to-robust-2025-for-shake-shack/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 21:16:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/operational-improvements-lead-to-robust-2025-for-shake-shack/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[GoTo Foods announces former Roark Capital executive Brett Ubl as new CFO]]></title><description><![CDATA[Former Uber executive Francisco Bram also joins the Auntie Anne&rsquo;s and Jamba portfolio company as chief growth officer]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/goto-foods-announces-former-roark-capital-executive-brett-ubl-as-new-cfo/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 18:58:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/goto-foods-announces-former-roark-capital-executive-brett-ubl-as-new-cfo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Maru San is Washington, D.C.’s first Nikkei-style handroll concept]]></title><description><![CDATA[Casual counter-service meals are joined by a four-person, fine-dining tasting experience each night]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/maru-san-is-washington-dcs-first-nikkei-style-handroll-concept/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 18:51:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/maru-san-is-washington-dcs-first-nikkei-style-handroll-concept/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Applebee’s strategy: fewer promotions, more manager visibility]]></title><description><![CDATA[CEO John Peyton said it&rsquo;s hard to break through the noise with a busy cadence of menu launches]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-strategy-fewer-promotions-more-manager-visibility/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 18:43:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-strategy-fewer-promotions-more-manager-visibility/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Papa Johns announces 300 store closures and 7% corporate layoffs]]></title><description><![CDATA[The pizza chain is also phasing out the Papadias and Papa Bites menu platforms as the company looks to implement cost savings]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-announces-300-store-closures-and-7-corporate-layoffs/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 18:28:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-announces-300-store-closures-and-7-corporate-layoffs/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King is launching an AI-powered employee assistant]]></title><description><![CDATA[&lsquo;Patty&rsquo; is a voice AI system that exists inside cloud-connected headsets]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-is-launching-an-ai-powered-employee-assistant/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 16:54:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-is-launching-an-ai-powered-employee-assistant/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[National Restaurant Association Show Names  20 Kitchen Innovations Award Recipients for 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[Labor pressures and operational efficiency define this year&rsquo;s Kitchen Innovations selections]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/national-restaurant-association-show-names-20-kitchen-innovations-award-recipients-for-2026/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 16:45:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/national-restaurant-association-show-names-20-kitchen-innovations-award-recipients-for-2026/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[National Restaurant Association CEO: ‘Cautious optimism’ for growth in 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[Michelle Korsmo discusses tech, service, and labor trends, and the association&rsquo;s three main priorities]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/national-restaurant-association-ceo-cautious-optimism-for-growth-in-2026/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 16:37:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/national-restaurant-association-ceo-cautious-optimism-for-growth-in-2026/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Outback Steakhouse, Noodles &amp;amp; Company, CAVA]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/outback-steakhouse-noodles-ampamp-company-cava/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 16:30:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/outback-steakhouse-noodles-ampamp-company-cava/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King has upgraded its signature Whopper]]></title><description><![CDATA[The changes were inspired by guest feedback]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-has-upgraded-its-signature-whopper/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:24:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-has-upgraded-its-signature-whopper/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Schlotzsky’s Deli returns to its roots with new identity and rebrand]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual restaurant chain is leaning into GoTo Foods&rsquo; digital focus with a new prototype]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/schlotzskys-deli-returns-to-its-roots-with-new-identity-and-rebrand/</link><pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 14:00:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/schlotzskys-deli-returns-to-its-roots-with-new-identity-and-rebrand/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Shake Shack names Peter Herpich interim principal financial officer]]></title><description><![CDATA[He has been the company&rsquo;s controller since 2023]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/shake-shack-names-peter-herpich-interim-principal-financial-officer/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 23:14:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/shake-shack-names-peter-herpich-interim-principal-financial-officer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bloomin’ Brands CEO Mike Spanos shares progress in Outback Steakhouse turnaround]]></title><description><![CDATA[Same-store sales were down, but traffic and guest metrics improved]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bloomin-brands-ceo-mike-spanos-shares-progress-in-outback-steakhouse-turnaround/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 22:12:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bloomin-brands-ceo-mike-spanos-shares-progress-in-outback-steakhouse-turnaround/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[James Beard Foundation names 6 America's Classics Award winners for 2026 across diverse regions]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: The prestigious honor recognizes locally owned establishments with timeless appeal that serve quality food and are beloved by their communities]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/james-beard-foundation-names-6-americas-classics-award-winners-for-2026-across-diverse-regions/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 22:09:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/james-beard-foundation-names-6-americas-classics-award-winners-for-2026-across-diverse-regions/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Freddy’s targets older consumers with new Senior Meals]]></title><description><![CDATA[The menu includes the choice of four entr&eacute;es alongside a small drink and small fries or tots]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/freddys-targets-older-consumers-with-new-senior-meals/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 22:02:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/freddys-targets-older-consumers-with-new-senior-meals/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Applebee’s progress in 2025 ‘validated its strategy’]]></title><description><![CDATA[The casual-dining chain adjusted its value proposition in 2025, which has resonated with existing and new guests]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-progress-in-2025-validated-its-strategy/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 20:39:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-progress-in-2025-validated-its-strategy/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[UK bakery Bread Ahead to open in the U.S. this summer]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain known for its cr&egrave;me Br&ucirc;l&eacute;e doughnut is gearing up for a New York City opening]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/uk-bakery-bread-ahead-to-open-in-the-us-this-summer/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 19:43:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/uk-bakery-bread-ahead-to-open-in-the-us-this-summer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Sweetgreen debuts wraps as the trend heats up in 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual salad chain is testing out three types of high-protein wraps alongside other brands like KFC and Wendy&rsquo;s]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sweetgreen-debuts-wraps-as-the-trend-heats-up-in-2026/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 18:51:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sweetgreen-debuts-wraps-as-the-trend-heats-up-in-2026/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[CAVA adds assistant general managers, zone leaders]]></title><description><![CDATA[Locations with AGM coverage are outperforming those without, and the entire system is expected to have this role in place by mid-2026]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cava-adds-assistant-general-managers-zone-leaders/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 17:55:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cava-adds-assistant-general-managers-zone-leaders/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[CAVA sustained same-store sales growth in Q4]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain is targeting new Midwest markets in 2026 with a goal of reaching 1,000 restaurants nationwide by 2032]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cava-sustained-same-store-sales-growth-in-q4/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 15:49:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cava-sustained-same-store-sales-growth-in-q4/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s new burger, Domino’s franchisee, Portillo’s development]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-new-burger-dominos-franchisee-portillos-development/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 15:46:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-new-burger-dominos-franchisee-portillos-development/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Buffalo Wild Wings offers new menu, merch, and a sampler in the run up to March Madness]]></title><description><![CDATA[The casual-dining chain is the official sports bar of the college basketball tournament]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/buffalo-wild-wings-offers-new-menu-merch-and-a-sampler-in-the-run-up-to-march-madness/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 15:11:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/buffalo-wild-wings-offers-new-menu-merch-and-a-sampler-in-the-run-up-to-march-madness/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Panera launches first-ever value menu with new &ldquo;Mix &amp;amp; Match&rdquo; lineup]]></title><description><![CDATA[Value plays a key role in the fast-casual brand&rsquo;s multiyear turnaround plan called Panera Rise, announced at the end of 2025]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/panera-launches-first-ever-value-menu-with-new-ldquomix-ampamp-matchrdquo-lineup/</link><pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 12:00:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/panera-launches-first-ever-value-menu-with-new-ldquomix-ampamp-matchrdquo-lineup/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[KFC brings back its signature Twister]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain has also debuted a $20 Build a Bucket for groups to customize]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfc-brings-back-its-signature-twister/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 22:07:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfc-brings-back-its-signature-twister/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Galloway Capital Partners increases stake in Noodles &amp;amp; Company]]></title><description><![CDATA[The activist investor expresses support for current management but says the chain&rsquo;s share price is still undervalued after reverse stock split]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/galloway-capital-partners-increases-stake-in-noodles-ampamp-company/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 22:03:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/galloway-capital-partners-increases-stake-in-noodles-ampamp-company/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Daniel del Olmo promoted to CEO of Sage Hospitality]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company&rsquo;s founders are transitioning to board roles]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/daniel-del-olmo-promoted-to-ceo-of-sage-hospitality/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 21:41:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/daniel-del-olmo-promoted-to-ceo-of-sage-hospitality/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[First Watch’s record 2025 restaurant openings helped drive 3.1% Q4 sales growth]]></title><description><![CDATA[The casual-dining breakfast company opened 64 restaurants last year &mdash; the most in the brand&rsquo;s history]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/first-watchs-record-2025-restaurant-openings-helped-drive-31-q4-sales-growth/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 20:58:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/first-watchs-record-2025-restaurant-openings-helped-drive-31-q4-sales-growth/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s is bringing its Big Arch Burger to the U.S.]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain&rsquo;s &ldquo;biggest burger yet&rdquo; is performing well in several international markets]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-is-bringing-its-big-arch-burger-to-the-us/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 20:29:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-is-bringing-its-big-arch-burger-to-the-us/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Danny Lledó shares the nuances of paella]]></title><description><![CDATA[Menu Talk: The chef of Xiquet and Taller de Xiquet offers Valencian cuisine to Washington, D.C.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/danny-lled-shares-the-nuances-of-paella/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 19:38:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/danny-lled-shares-the-nuances-of-paella/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Portillo’s faces continued fallout from growing too quickly in new markets]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual Chicago company will depend on incoming CEO, Brett Patterson, to guide it through this growth pullback]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/portillos-faces-continued-fallout-from-growing-too-quickly-in-new-markets/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 18:37:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/portillos-faces-continued-fallout-from-growing-too-quickly-in-new-markets/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The independent restaurant sector shrunk by 2.3% in 2025]]></title><description><![CDATA[The total number of chain restaurant locations increased by 1.4%, according to preliminary data from Technomic]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-independent-restaurant-sector-shrunk-by-23-in-2025/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 17:43:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-independent-restaurant-sector-shrunk-by-23-in-2025/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Kelli Valade’s career comes full circle]]></title><description><![CDATA[The industry veteran is ready to take the Women&rsquo;s Foodservice Forum stage and lead the organization that helped forge her own career]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kelli-valades-career-comes-full-circle/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 17:12:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kelli-valades-career-comes-full-circle/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Domino’s, a Panera data breach, Noble 33]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dominos-a-panera-data-breach-noble-33/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 16:49:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dominos-a-panera-data-breach-noble-33/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell’s annual Live Más Live event heads to Hollywood]]></title><description><![CDATA[It will be hosted by musical artist Vince Staples and, for the first time, will be streamed on Peacock]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bells-annual-live-ms-live-event-heads-to-hollywood/</link><pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:06:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bells-annual-live-ms-live-event-heads-to-hollywood/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How NGMA Group’s cofounder journeyed from China’s rice fields to owning a rare whiskey bar]]></title><description><![CDATA[Cofounder and Chinese-American immigrant Jack Ng now owns and operates the Washington-based five-unit restaurant group]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-ngma-groups-cofounder-journeyed-from-chinas-rice-fields-to-owning-a-rare-whiskey-bar/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:51:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-ngma-groups-cofounder-journeyed-from-chinas-rice-fields-to-owning-a-rare-whiskey-bar/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King’s president on speed dial, Wingstop’s sales hit a wall, and LTOs aren’t working like they used to]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, is there anything to learn about the full-service category from The Cheesecake Factory and Texas Roadhouse?]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-kings-president-on-speed-dial-wingstops-sales-hit-a-wall-and-ltos-arent-working-like-they-used-to/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 20:52:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-kings-president-on-speed-dial-wingstops-sales-hit-a-wall-and-ltos-arent-working-like-they-used-to/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Zaxbys launches a dry rub lineup]]></title><description><![CDATA[The flavors include lemon pepper, garlic parmesan, and Nashville Hot]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/zaxbys-launches-a-dry-rub-lineup/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 19:48:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/zaxbys-launches-a-dry-rub-lineup/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Applebee’s Big Easy Menu returns with two new dishes]]></title><description><![CDATA[The casual-dining chain is also celebrating 25 years of its Mucho Cocktails]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-big-easy-menu-returns-with-two-new-dishes/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:41:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-big-easy-menu-returns-with-two-new-dishes/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Domino’s defies industry-wide consumer spending slowdown with 3.7% Q4 same-store sales growth]]></title><description><![CDATA[&lsquo;We grew sales across all income cohorts in Q4,&rsquo; the pizza chain said, even as competitors struggled with lower-income consumers]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dominos-defies-industry-wide-consumer-spending-slowdown-with-37-q4-same-store-sales-growth/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:28:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dominos-defies-industry-wide-consumer-spending-slowdown-with-37-q4-same-store-sales-growth/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[IHOP goes analog to celebrate National Pancake Day]]></title><description><![CDATA[The family-dining restaurant chain is giving away free Short Stacks and partnering with social media personality Mr. Fantasy]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ihop-goes-analog-to-celebrate-national-pancake-day/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 17:33:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ihop-goes-analog-to-celebrate-national-pancake-day/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Texas Roadhouse, tariffs, Del Taco]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/texas-roadhouse-tariffs-del-taco/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:53:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/texas-roadhouse-tariffs-del-taco/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[KFC is piloting two value platforms]]></title><description><![CDATA[The restaurant company said the tests explore whether everyday formats, versus single promotional days, can better align with how consumers are currently spending]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfc-is-piloting-two-value-platforms/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 16:53:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfc-is-piloting-two-value-platforms/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[KBP Brands acquires 78 Sonic Drive-In restaurants]]></title><description><![CDATA[The franchisee first added the quick-service chain in 2024, joining KFC, Taco Bell, and Arby&rsquo;s restaurants in its expanding portfolio]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kbp-brands-acquires-78-sonic-drive-in-restaurants/</link><pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 15:55:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kbp-brands-acquires-78-sonic-drive-in-restaurants/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[‘Le Petit Chef’ returns as 3D projection mapping dinner experience at Grand Hyatt Atlanta]]></title><description><![CDATA[The multicourse tasting menu and dinner theater event showcases a virtual cooking competition across Spain, Italy, France, and Japan]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/le-petit-chef-returns-as-3d-projection-mapping-dinner-experience-at-grand-hyatt-atlanta/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 20:59:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/le-petit-chef-returns-as-3d-projection-mapping-dinner-experience-at-grand-hyatt-atlanta/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: South African mussels and a lamb pastrami sandwich]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus a cocktail benefiting reefs, a fat-washed Old Fashioned, and a toasted marshmallow dessert]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-south-african-mussels-and-a-lamb-pastrami-sandwich/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 20:01:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-south-african-mussels-and-a-lamb-pastrami-sandwich/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Supreme Court strikes down President Trump’s tariffs]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Supreme Court ruled that Trump did not have the power to impose tariffs that have affected seafood, beef, and produce prices]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/supreme-court-strikes-down-president-trumps-tariffs/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 19:26:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/supreme-court-strikes-down-president-trumps-tariffs/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Does technology improve hospitality? Restaurant operators and consumers disagree]]></title><description><![CDATA[The National Restaurant Association&rsquo;s 2026 State of the Industry Report revealed gaps between consumer and restaurant tech perceptions]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/does-technology-improve-hospitality-restaurant-operators-and-consumers-disagree/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 17:58:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/does-technology-improve-hospitality-restaurant-operators-and-consumers-disagree/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Del Taco closes all its Georgia locations]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain is also down to one location in Alabama following franchisee Matadoor Restaurant Group&rsquo;s bankruptcy in July]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/del-taco-closes-all-its-georgia-locations/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 17:39:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/del-taco-closes-all-its-georgia-locations/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wendy’s hosting a chili giveaway for digital orders]]></title><description><![CDATA[The promotion coincides with National Chili Day and requires a $5 food or drink purchase]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-hosting-a-chili-giveaway-for-digital-orders/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 17:36:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-hosting-a-chili-giveaway-for-digital-orders/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle giving away chips and queso blanco]]></title><description><![CDATA[The digital promotion coincides with National Tortilla Chip Day]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-giving-away-chips-and-queso-blanco/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 17:34:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-giving-away-chips-and-queso-blanco/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jack in the Box launches matcha]]></title><description><![CDATA[The lineup includes an iced latte and an Oreo shake]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-launches-matcha/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 17:31:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-launches-matcha/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from Taco Bell, Popeyes, and Jack in the Box]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at Applebee&rsquo;s, Condado Tacos, Culver's, Gong Cha, 7 Brew, Taco Cabana, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-taco-bell-popeyes-and-jack-in-the-box/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 16:46:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-taco-bell-popeyes-and-jack-in-the-box/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Subway, Cheesecake Factory, Jack in the Box]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/subway-cheesecake-factory-jack-in-the-box/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 15:42:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/subway-cheesecake-factory-jack-in-the-box/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Texas Roadhouse continues to navigate high beef costs]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain&rsquo;s fourth quarter same-store sales were up 4.2%, including 1.9% traffic growth]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/texas-roadhouse-continues-to-navigate-high-beef-costs/</link><pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 01:04:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/texas-roadhouse-continues-to-navigate-high-beef-costs/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Noodles &amp;amp; Company executes 8-for-1 reverse stock split]]></title><description><![CDATA[Shares fell 1.54% on first day of trading before rebounding on Thursday]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/noodles-ampamp-company-executes-8-for-1-reverse-stock-split/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 22:06:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/noodles-ampamp-company-executes-8-for-1-reverse-stock-split/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Flower Child remains Cheesecake Factory’s high performer]]></title><description><![CDATA[Same-store sales for the fast-casual chain were up 4% while they fell at Cheesecake Factory and North Italia]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/flower-child-remains-cheesecake-factorys-high-performer/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 21:38:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/flower-child-remains-cheesecake-factorys-high-performer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Subway scraps free footlong perk just two months after Sub Club relaunch]]></title><description><![CDATA[The sandwich chain is already tweaking its revamped digital loyalty program, which was originally discontinued in 2005]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/subway-scraps-free-footlong-perk-just-two-months-after-sub-club-relaunch/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 21:36:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/subway-scraps-free-footlong-perk-just-two-months-after-sub-club-relaunch/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Adventure Time Bar opens in Denver with rotating themes and menus]]></title><description><![CDATA[First up is &ldquo;Neon City,&rdquo; which imagines a futuristic world with an interactive design and high-tech drinks]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/adventure-time-bar-opens-in-denver-with-rotating-themes-and-menus/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:31:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/adventure-time-bar-opens-in-denver-with-rotating-themes-and-menus/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Topgolf appoints David McKillips CEO]]></title><description><![CDATA[The executive previously served in the same position at Chuck E. Cheese]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/topgolf-appoints-david-mckillips-ceo/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:16:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/topgolf-appoints-david-mckillips-ceo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Smoothie King is doubling down on food]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain&rsquo;s toast launch was so successful, it is now rolling out ovens across the system to support a broader rollout]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/smoothie-king-is-doubling-down-on-food/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 16:14:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/smoothie-king-is-doubling-down-on-food/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[TGI Fridays dips into a cheese fondue platform]]></title><description><![CDATA[Customers can upgrade five menu items to the &lsquo;Fondue-It experience&rsquo; for an extra $3]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tgi-fridays-dips-into-a-cheese-fondue-platform/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 16:06:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tgi-fridays-dips-into-a-cheese-fondue-platform/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell adds a Chicken Bacon Ranch Street Chalupa]]></title><description><![CDATA[The flavor combination is also available as part of a limited-time Nacho Fries option]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-adds-a-chicken-bacon-ranch-street-chalupa/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 15:36:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-adds-a-chicken-bacon-ranch-street-chalupa/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wingstop sales dip, Wendy’s relevance, Habit Burger menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wingstop-sales-dip-wendys-relevance-habit-burger-menu/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 15:30:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wingstop-sales-dip-wendys-relevance-habit-burger-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jack in the Box’s performance improved in January]]></title><description><![CDATA[CEO Lance Tucker said the chain has made &lsquo;visible progress&rsquo; after several tough quarters, including a same-store sales decline of 6.7% in Q1]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-boxs-performance-improved-in-january/</link><pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 00:53:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-boxs-performance-improved-in-january/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chef-curated bowls are the star at Roots Natural Kitchen]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Virginia-based fast casual has 19 locations in the eastern U.S.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chef-curated-bowls-are-the-star-at-roots-natural-kitchen/</link><pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 22:07:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chef-curated-bowls-are-the-star-at-roots-natural-kitchen/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why Los Angeles poke fast casual chain Sweetfin gave its menu a big facelift]]></title><description><![CDATA[Cofounder Seth Cohen explains why the brand partnered with a Michelin-starred chef to evolve its menu]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-los-angeles-poke-fast-casual-chain-sweetfin-gave-its-menu-a-big-facelift/</link><pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 22:05:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-los-angeles-poke-fast-casual-chain-sweetfin-gave-its-menu-a-big-facelift/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Common Man group of restaurants in New Hampshire promotes Sean Brown to CEO]]></title><description><![CDATA[The former chief operations officer has been with the company since 1995]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-common-man-group-of-restaurants-in-new-hampshire-promotes-sean-brown-to-ceo/</link><pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 21:56:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-common-man-group-of-restaurants-in-new-hampshire-promotes-sean-brown-to-ceo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Nelson Peltz believes Wendy’s is undervalued]]></title><description><![CDATA[In an SEC filing, the activist investor said he is discussing strategic transactions]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nelson-peltz-believes-wendys-is-undervalued/</link><pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 19:47:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nelson-peltz-believes-wendys-is-undervalued/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Habit Burger &amp;amp; Grill has upgraded its menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[The new offerings include core items and &lsquo;reimagined&rsquo; signatures, as well as limited-time promotions]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/habit-burger-ampamp-grill-has-upgraded-its-menu/</link><pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 19:43:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/habit-burger-ampamp-grill-has-upgraded-its-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why Donatos is investing in pizza vending machines]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company&rsquo;s &lsquo;Pepptron&rsquo; recently debuted at the Columbus, Ohio, airport]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-donatos-is-investing-in-pizza-vending-machines/</link><pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 19:39:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-donatos-is-investing-in-pizza-vending-machines/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wingstop eyes growth despite another quarter of same-store sales decline]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual chain plans to reverse Q4&rsquo;s 5.8% same-store sales decline with smart kitchens, loyalty program, and new ad campaign]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wingstop-eyes-growth-despite-another-quarter-of-same-store-sales-decline/</link><pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 18:45:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wingstop-eyes-growth-despite-another-quarter-of-same-store-sales-decline/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Night Rooster, an upscale modern Chinese restaurant, is now open in Dallas]]></title><description><![CDATA[Chef Shirley Chung is taking a Texas-inspired approach to Chinese cuisine]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/night-rooster-an-upscale-modern-chinese-restaurant-is-now-open-in-dallas/</link><pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 18:23:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/night-rooster-an-upscale-modern-chinese-restaurant-is-now-open-in-dallas/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How Wendy’s plans to reclaim relevance]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company recently completed a consumer segmentation study to clarify marketing and better connect with customers]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-wendys-plans-to-reclaim-relevance/</link><pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 18:09:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-wendys-plans-to-reclaim-relevance/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King, Mike’s Red Tacos, Burgerville]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-mikes-red-tacos-burgerville/</link><pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 15:23:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-mikes-red-tacos-burgerville/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[KFC’s secret weapon in U.S. comeback could be its strength in global markets]]></title><description><![CDATA[The European market may especially hold clues to how the U.S. business can reassert its iconic status back home]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfcs-secret-weapon-in-us-comeback-could-be-its-strength-in-global-markets/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 21:46:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kfcs-secret-weapon-in-us-comeback-could-be-its-strength-in-global-markets/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Vibey steak and seafood restaurant, The Guest House, is now open in Scottsdale, Ariz.]]></title><description><![CDATA[It&rsquo;s the brand&rsquo;s third location, with more openings in the works]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/vibey-steak-and-seafood-restaurant-the-guest-house-is-now-open-in-scottsdale-ariz/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 21:01:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/vibey-steak-and-seafood-restaurant-the-guest-house-is-now-open-in-scottsdale-ariz/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burgerville names board member Kyle Welch CEO]]></title><description><![CDATA[He replaces Ed Casey, who joined the chain in 2022]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burgerville-names-board-member-kyle-welch-ceo/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 20:21:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burgerville-names-board-member-kyle-welch-ceo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New York City-based Little Ruby’s just opened in Dallas, its first out-of-state expansion in 24 years]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Australia-inspired all-day caf&eacute; serves avocado toast, salads, burgers, and pastas]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-york-city-based-little-rubys-just-opened-in-dallas-its-first-out-of-state-expansion-in-24-years/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 19:53:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-york-city-based-little-rubys-just-opened-in-dallas-its-first-out-of-state-expansion-in-24-years/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wendy&rsquo;s brutal sales, McDonald&rsquo;s big momentum, and Dutch Bros' infinite runway]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, a conversation with the culinary director of Bravo Italian Kitchen and Brio Italian Grille]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendyrsquos-brutal-sales-mcdonaldrsquos-big-momentum-and-dutch-bros-infinite-runway/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 19:37:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendyrsquos-brutal-sales-mcdonaldrsquos-big-momentum-and-dutch-bros-infinite-runway/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The chef behind the only Turkish restaurant in Hawaii]]></title><description><![CDATA[Menu Talk: Ahu Hettema, chef-owner of Istanbul Hawai&rsquo;i in Honolulu, introduces residents and tourists alike to the cuisine of her homeland, modernized with artful presentations and local ingredients]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-chef-behind-the-only-turkish-restaurant-in-hawaii/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 19:08:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-chef-behind-the-only-turkish-restaurant-in-hawaii/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Landry’s Seafood House crowned winner of Nation’s Restaurant News’ Seafood Showdown]]></title><description><![CDATA[The original Landry&rsquo;s concept remains the cornerstone of the company&rsquo;s expertise]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/landrys-seafood-house-crowned-winner-of-nations-restaurant-news-seafood-showdown/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 18:05:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/landrys-seafood-house-crowned-winner-of-nations-restaurant-news-seafood-showdown/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chick-fil-A is giving away Chicken Biscuits to loyalty members]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain will also roll out its final Classic Cup design Feb. 23, featuring the Cow Billboard]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chick-fil-a-is-giving-away-chicken-biscuits-to-loyalty-members/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 16:56:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chick-fil-a-is-giving-away-chicken-biscuits-to-loyalty-members/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Long John Silver’s commits to $6 baskets]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain will rotate full basket meals throughout 2026, starting with shrimp]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/long-john-silvers-commits-to-6-baskets/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 16:32:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/long-john-silvers-commits-to-6-baskets/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wendy’s, Dutch Bros, restaurant optimism]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today's Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-dutch-bros-restaurant-optimism/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-dutch-bros-restaurant-optimism/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Applebee’s creates Still Together Sips with Dre and Snoop]]></title><description><![CDATA[The limited-time cocktails are made with premium Still G.I.N. and are available exclusively at the casual-dining chain]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-creates-still-together-sips-with-dre-and-snoop/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 14:59:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-creates-still-together-sips-with-dre-and-snoop/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King president Tom Curtis to take calls from customers]]></title><description><![CDATA[He will spend hours a day receiving calls and texts from customers with input on how to improve the business]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-president-tom-curtis-to-take-calls-from-customers/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 14:46:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-president-tom-curtis-to-take-calls-from-customers/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King doubles down on customer feedback with new initiative]]></title><description><![CDATA[President Tom Curtis will spend hours a day receiving calls and texts from customers with input on how to improve the business]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-doubles-down-on-customer-feedback-with-new-initiative/</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 14:46:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-doubles-down-on-customer-feedback-with-new-initiative/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Has the pendulum swung too far toward menu innovation?]]></title><description><![CDATA[Lackluster performances from Wendy&rsquo;s and Popeyes have the chains scrambling to re-focus on their core offerings]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/has-the-pendulum-swung-too-far-toward-menu-innovation/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 21:29:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/has-the-pendulum-swung-too-far-toward-menu-innovation/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Tech Tracker: Toast and Instacart team up to tackle emergency restaurant supply challenges]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, Par Technology announces an acquisition, LoopAI announces funding, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tech-tracker-toast-and-instacart-team-up-to-tackle-emergency-restaurant-supply-challenges/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 21:22:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tech-tracker-toast-and-instacart-team-up-to-tackle-emergency-restaurant-supply-challenges/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Popeyes shifts focus to operations to turn around negative trends]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain has expanded field engagement teams by 75%]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/popeyes-shifts-focus-to-operations-to-turn-around-negative-trends/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 19:37:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/popeyes-shifts-focus-to-operations-to-turn-around-negative-trends/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu inflation moderated in January]]></title><description><![CDATA[Food-away-from-home prices ticked up just 0.1% month-over-month after a big jump in December]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-inflation-moderated-in-january/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 19:33:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-inflation-moderated-in-january/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[2026: The year of personalized dining experiences]]></title><description><![CDATA[Personalized dining experiences mean something different for every restaurant, but it all starts with the right technology]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/2026-the-year-of-personalized-dining-experiences/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 19:04:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/2026-the-year-of-personalized-dining-experiences/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wendy’s takes sharp U-turn back to its core business]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain&rsquo;s same-store sales fell 11.3% in Q4 as executives embark upon a turnaround plan focused on menu, marketing, and operations]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-takes-sharp-u-turn-back-to-its-core-business/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 18:45:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-takes-sharp-u-turn-back-to-its-core-business/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: Brisket poutine and a caviar sandwich]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus cauliflower piccata and two cocktails &mdash; one yellow, and one pink]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-brisket-poutine-and-a-caviar-sandwich/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 18:09:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-brisket-poutine-and-a-caviar-sandwich/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dutch Bros drives Q4 momentum with 7.7% same-store sales growth and rising brand penetration]]></title><description><![CDATA[The coffee chain expanded its food program and CPG line while debuting its first walk-up store, now a top-performing location]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dutch-bros-drives-q4-momentum-with-77-same-store-sales-growth-and-rising-brand-penetration/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 17:04:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dutch-bros-drives-q4-momentum-with-77-same-store-sales-growth-and-rising-brand-penetration/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from Burger King,  Sonic Drive-In, and Wendy’s]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at Captain D&rsquo;s, Fazoli&rsquo;s, Jack in the Box, Smashburger, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-burger-king-sonic-drive-in-and-wendys/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 16:35:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-burger-king-sonic-drive-in-and-wendys/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Grinch, Spongebob, Popeyes]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-grinch-spongebob-popeyes/</link><pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 15:01:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-grinch-spongebob-popeyes/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Restaurant industry faces modest growth amid cost pressures in 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[The National Restaurant Association projects 1.3% real sales growth and an uncertain labor market]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurant-industry-faces-modest-growth-amid-cost-pressures-in-2026/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 22:02:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurant-industry-faces-modest-growth-amid-cost-pressures-in-2026/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How 6 restaurant brands are rethinking loyalty for a new customer era]]></title><description><![CDATA[From instant gratification rewards to lifestyle and fitness partnerships, loyalty programs are evolving]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-6-restaurant-brands-are-rethinking-loyalty-for-a-new-customer-era/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 21:47:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-6-restaurant-brands-are-rethinking-loyalty-for-a-new-customer-era/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How McDonald’s plans to win in beef, chicken, and beverages]]></title><description><![CDATA[Executives provided a look at what we can expect from the company&rsquo;s Restaurant Experience Team, created less than a year ago]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-mcdonalds-plans-to-win-in-beef-chicken-and-beverages/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 19:23:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-mcdonalds-plans-to-win-in-beef-chicken-and-beverages/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[bb.q Chicken Deploys Deliverect to Modernize Digital Operations Across All US Locations]]></title><description><![CDATA[Digital platform connects online ordering channels and centralizes menu management to help US restaurants scale with ease]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bbq-chicken-deploys-deliverect-to-modernize-digital-operations-across-all-us-locations/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 18:34:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bbq-chicken-deploys-deliverect-to-modernize-digital-operations-across-all-us-locations/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King U.S. Q4 lifted by SpongeBob Meal, value offerings]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain&rsquo;s same-store sales grew 2.6%, however franchisee profitability took a hit from beef inflation]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-us-q4-lifted-by-spongebob-meal-value-offerings/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 16:49:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-us-q4-lifted-by-spongebob-meal-value-offerings/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jobs numbers, Red Lobster, Chili’s margaritas]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jobs-numbers-red-lobster-chilis-margaritas/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 15:42:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jobs-numbers-red-lobster-chilis-margaritas/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Marketing and value fuel McDonald’s strong Q4]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company&rsquo;s domestic same-store sales grew 6.8%, while the Grinch Meal set a single-day sales record]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/marketing-and-value-fuel-mcdonalds-strong-q4/</link><pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 00:40:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/marketing-and-value-fuel-mcdonalds-strong-q4/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Portillo’s appoints Brett Patterson as new president and CEO]]></title><description><![CDATA[The former Miller&rsquo;s Ale House CEO will succeed Michael Osanloo as head of the Chicago-based fast-casual brand]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/portillos-appoints-brett-patterson-as-new-president-and-ceo/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2026 23:15:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/portillos-appoints-brett-patterson-as-new-president-and-ceo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How exclusive restaurant experiences are helping The h.wood Group fuel portfolio growth]]></title><description><![CDATA[Cofounders John Terzian and Brian Toll share how they&rsquo;ve built their business through exclusive experiences customers can&rsquo;t help but want to be a part of]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-exclusive-restaurant-experiences-are-helping-the-hwood-group-fuel-portfolio-growth/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2026 21:24:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-exclusive-restaurant-experiences-are-helping-the-hwood-group-fuel-portfolio-growth/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz promises relief to Twin Cities restaurants and other businesses as ICE surge continues]]></title><description><![CDATA[44% of Latino businesses in St. Paul have temporarily closed amid unprecedented immigration enforcement, survey finds]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/minnesota-gov-tim-walz-promises-relief-to-twin-cities-restaurants-and-other-businesses-as-ice-surge-continues/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2026 18:21:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/minnesota-gov-tim-walz-promises-relief-to-twin-cities-restaurants-and-other-businesses-as-ice-surge-continues/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chili's launches a Margarita of the Month Club]]></title><description><![CDATA[The club includes a passport so customers can keep track of the Margaritas they&rsquo;ve tried, as well as a new merch lineup]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-launches-a-margarita-of-the-month-club/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2026 17:53:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-launches-a-margarita-of-the-month-club/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wendy’s is adding a Chicken Tenders Ranch Wrap]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain will also roll out a Cheesy Bacon Cheeseburger for a limited time]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-is-adding-a-chicken-tenders-ranch-wrap/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2026 17:49:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-is-adding-a-chicken-tenders-ranch-wrap/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Long John Silver’s tartar sauce hits retail shelves]]></title><description><![CDATA[One of the chain&rsquo;s most requested menu items expands beyond restaurants in time for Lent]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/long-john-silvers-tartar-sauce-hits-retail-shelves/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2026 17:45:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/long-john-silvers-tartar-sauce-hits-retail-shelves/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Full-service restaurants led industry’s job growth in 2025]]></title><description><![CDATA[The segment added a net 55,000 jobs during the year, however, it remains below pre-pandemic levels]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/full-service-restaurants-led-industrys-job-growth-in-2025/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2026 17:41:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/full-service-restaurants-led-industrys-job-growth-in-2025/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Paris Hilton returns to Carl’s Jr. ads to promote a burger deal]]></title><description><![CDATA[The celebrity&rsquo;s appearance is part of a wave of nostalgia-oriented marketing]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/paris-hilton-returns-to-carls-jr-ads-to-promote-a-burger-deal/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2026 17:30:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/paris-hilton-returns-to-carls-jr-ads-to-promote-a-burger-deal/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[FAT Brands calls investor group’s request to suspend CEO Andy Wiederhorn a ‘personal attack’]]></title><description><![CDATA[The bankruptcy court denied the ad hoc group&rsquo;s emergency motion, with the objection citing &lsquo;no actual emergency&rsquo;]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-calls-investor-groups-request-to-suspend-ceo-andy-wiederhorn-a-personal-attack/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2026 17:03:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-calls-investor-groups-request-to-suspend-ceo-andy-wiederhorn-a-personal-attack/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[5 risks restaurants can’t afford to overlook in 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[Top insurance claim liabilities restaurants might be overlooking, from equipment breakdowns to AI-related issues]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/5-risks-restaurants-cant-afford-to-overlook-in-2026/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2026 16:33:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/5-risks-restaurants-cant-afford-to-overlook-in-2026/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle prices, Wonder acquisition, Jack in the Box]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-prices-wonder-acquisition-jack-in-the-box/</link><pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2026 15:43:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-prices-wonder-acquisition-jack-in-the-box/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dunkin’ spoofs ‘Good Will Hunting’ and ’90s sitcoms in Super Bowl ad]]></title><description><![CDATA[The commercial features Ben Affleck with period stars Jason Alexander, Matt LeBlanc, Jennifer Anniston, Jaleel White, Jasmine Guy, Alfonso Ribeiro, and Ted Danson, as well as football legend Tom Brady]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dunkin-spoofs-good-will-hunting-and-90s-sitcoms-in-super-bowl-ad/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 22:33:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dunkin-spoofs-good-will-hunting-and-90s-sitcoms-in-super-bowl-ad/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[SBE Entertainment Group opens new Pan-Asian concept, Katsuya Ko]]></title><description><![CDATA[The new restaurant at Westfield UTC in La Jolla, San Diego is a spinoff of sushi concept Katsuya]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sbe-entertainment-group-opens-new-pan-asian-concept-katsuya-ko/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 20:46:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sbe-entertainment-group-opens-new-pan-asian-concept-katsuya-ko/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Trending this week: Darden to end its Bahama Breeze brand]]></title><description><![CDATA[See which stories readers couldn't get enough of]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-darden-to-end-its-bahama-breeze-brand/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 20:34:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-darden-to-end-its-bahama-breeze-brand/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jack in the Box accuses Biglari of ‘volatile behavior’]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain has doubled down on its support for board chair David Goebel ahead of its shareholders meeting Feb. 27]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-accuses-biglari-of-volatile-behavior/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 20:29:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-accuses-biglari-of-volatile-behavior/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[WFF announces 2026 Board of Directors with Dawn Rasmussen as Chair to advance foodservice leadership]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: Industry veterans join nonprofit's board to strengthen talent development and drive organizational performance across foodservice sector]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wff-announces-2026-board-of-directors-with-dawn-rasmussen-as-chair-to-advance-foodservice-leadership/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 20:23:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wff-announces-2026-board-of-directors-with-dawn-rasmussen-as-chair-to-advance-foodservice-leadership/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dutch Bros launches new CPG products, expands retail presence]]></title><description><![CDATA[The coffee chain now sells ground coffee, ready-to-drink lattes, and more, available via Amazon, Walmart, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dutch-bros-launches-new-cpg-products-expands-retail-presence/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 19:37:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dutch-bros-launches-new-cpg-products-expands-retail-presence/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Ziggi’s Coffee expands food offerings to meet evolving consumer habits]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain added a food-and-drink pairing to support more dayparts, driving near double-digit sales increases]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ziggis-coffee-expands-food-offerings-to-meet-evolving-consumer-habits/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 19:33:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ziggis-coffee-expands-food-offerings-to-meet-evolving-consumer-habits/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s adds Ford CEO to its board of directors]]></title><description><![CDATA[His election brings the board&rsquo;s total to 12, half of whom have joined since 2022]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-adds-ford-ceo-to-its-board-of-directors/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 19:29:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-adds-ford-ceo-to-its-board-of-directors/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Restaurateur Billy Dec prepares to open Sunda New Asian in Detroit]]></title><description><![CDATA[Menu Talk: The advocate for Philippine culture and hospitality is also getting ready for the PBS debut of his documentary]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurateur-billy-dec-prepares-to-open-sunda-new-asian-in-detroit/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 18:21:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurateur-billy-dec-prepares-to-open-sunda-new-asian-in-detroit/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Pizza Hut, Backstreet Boys team up for ‘Shape of My Heart-Shaped Pizza’ Valentine’s Day promo]]></title><description><![CDATA[Two of the &lsquo;90s boy band members &mdash; Nick Carter and Howie Dorough &mdash; have put together a nostalgic ad for the pizza chain this February]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pizza-hut-backstreet-boys-team-up-for-shape-of-my-heart-shaped-pizza-valentines-day-promo/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 18:18:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pizza-hut-backstreet-boys-team-up-for-shape-of-my-heart-shaped-pizza-valentines-day-promo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Freddy&rsquo;s Frozen Custard &amp;amp; Steakburgers names Todd Paladini as company&rsquo;s first chief information officer]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: New executive role emphasizes Freddy&rsquo;s focus on technology-driven scalability and service]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/freddyrsquos-frozen-custard-ampamp-steakburgers-names-todd-paladini-as-companyrsquos-first-chief-information-officer/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 18:01:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/freddyrsquos-frozen-custard-ampamp-steakburgers-names-todd-paladini-as-companyrsquos-first-chief-information-officer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wonder makes its first restaurant acquisition with Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken in New York City]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Marc Lore-owned Grubhub parent company acquired the award-winning Manhattan restaurant from Blue Ribbon Restaurants]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wonder-makes-its-first-restaurant-acquisition-with-blue-ribbon-fried-chicken-in-new-york-city/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 17:23:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wonder-makes-its-first-restaurant-acquisition-with-blue-ribbon-fried-chicken-in-new-york-city/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[No, Chipotle isn’t raising prices just for wealthier consumers]]></title><description><![CDATA[The rumor stemming from the chain&rsquo;s recent earnings call illustrates the challenges of earning consumer trust in an inflationary environment]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/no-chipotle-isnt-raising-prices-just-for-wealthier-consumers/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 17:20:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/no-chipotle-isnt-raising-prices-just-for-wealthier-consumers/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[T-Pain is the latest celebrity to promote Buffalo Wild Wings’ Pick 6 promotion]]></title><description><![CDATA[The rapper is in a Valentine&rsquo;s Day themed video promoting the meal deal]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/t-pain-is-the-latest-celebrity-to-promote-buffalo-wild-wings-pick-6-promotion/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/t-pain-is-the-latest-celebrity-to-promote-buffalo-wild-wings-pick-6-promotion/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Minneapolis restaurants, delivery, FAT Brands]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/minneapolis-restaurants-delivery-fat-brands/</link><pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 15:58:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/minneapolis-restaurants-delivery-fat-brands/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[CEC Entertainment names Nathan Hunstable as new chief information officer]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: Leader joined company as CISO leading cybersecurity, network operations, and IT Infrastructure]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cec-entertainment-names-nathan-hunstable-as-new-chief-information-officer/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 19:59:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/cec-entertainment-names-nathan-hunstable-as-new-chief-information-officer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[35 restaurant executives on the move in January, including new CEOs at Dave’s Hot Chicken, Blaze Pizza, and the Women’s Foodservice Forum]]></title><description><![CDATA[New top leaders were named at 9 foodservice companies last month]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/35-restaurant-executives-on-the-move-in-january-including-new-ceos-at-daves-hot-chicken-blaze-pizza-and-the-womens-foodservice-forum/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 19:45:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/35-restaurant-executives-on-the-move-in-january-including-new-ceos-at-daves-hot-chicken-blaze-pizza-and-the-womens-foodservice-forum/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle’s in a funk, Taco Bell cannot be stopped, and snacks are all the rage]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, a look into Pizza Hut]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotles-in-a-funk-taco-bell-cannot-be-stopped-and-snacks-are-all-the-rage/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 18:47:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotles-in-a-funk-taco-bell-cannot-be-stopped-and-snacks-are-all-the-rage/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[FAT Brands investor group demands immediate suspension of CEO Andy Wiederhorn in new lawsuit]]></title><description><![CDATA[The lawsuit claims that Wiederhorn&rsquo;s sale of 9 million shares of Twin Peaks equity on Jan. 30 is a violation of Ch. 11 bankruptcy rules]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-investor-group-demands-immediate-suspension-of-ceo-andy-wiederhorn-in-new-lawsuit/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 18:41:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-investor-group-demands-immediate-suspension-of-ceo-andy-wiederhorn-in-new-lawsuit/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New CEO Chris Schultz’s vision for Velvet Taco’s next chapter]]></title><description><![CDATA[The industry veteran is pulling his experience from Starbucks, MOD Pizza, and Voodoo Doughnuts to create a strategy that includes &lsquo;sustainable, repeatable, consistent&rsquo;]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-ceo-chris-schultzs-vision-for-velvet-tacos-next-chapter/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 18:13:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-ceo-chris-schultzs-vision-for-velvet-tacos-next-chapter/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jack in the Box’s Hot Mess Burger returns]]></title><description><![CDATA[The item debuted in 2013 as a limited-time offer and is back for the chain&rsquo;s 75th anniversary celebration]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-boxs-hot-mess-burger-returns/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 18:10:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-boxs-hot-mess-burger-returns/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Social media influencer shares tips for restaurant content in 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[Belle founder Kate Finley and influencer Jordan Posner offer their thoughts on what&rsquo;s trending for restaurant content this year]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/social-media-influencer-shares-tips-for-restaurant-content-in-2026/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 18:07:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/social-media-influencer-shares-tips-for-restaurant-content-in-2026/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Proxy advisor adds more pressure to Jack in the Box board]]></title><description><![CDATA[Egan-Jones Proxy Services recommends that company shareholders withhold their votes from several directors, including chair David Goebel]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/proxy-advisor-adds-more-pressure-to-jack-in-the-box-board/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 18:04:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/proxy-advisor-adds-more-pressure-to-jack-in-the-box-board/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[HTeaO appoints Chris Phillips to CFO role]]></title><description><![CDATA[He has senior leadership experience with Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen and Darden Restaurants]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/hteao-appoints-chris-phillips-to-cfo-role/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/hteao-appoints-chris-phillips-to-cfo-role/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bob Evans, Fogo de Chão, Starbucks]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bob-evans-fogo-de-cho-starbucks/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 15:31:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bob-evans-fogo-de-cho-starbucks/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Nation's Restaurant News February 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[In NRN&rsquo;s first-ever Beverage Issue, we&rsquo;re diving into the exploding beverage trend &mdash; and the massive opportunity that restaurants have to capitalize on it.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nations-restaurant-news-february-2026/</link><pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 15:18:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nations-restaurant-news-february-2026/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[What will happen to FAT Brands post-bankruptcy?]]></title><description><![CDATA[Experts believe the company could change ownership, or brands could be sold to pay off debt]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/what-will-happen-to-fat-brands-post-bankruptcy/</link><pubDate>Fri, 06 Feb 2026 22:04:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/what-will-happen-to-fat-brands-post-bankruptcy/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: A Thai cocktail, a Thai curry, and a starchy Mexican sandwich]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus a Corsican pasta dish and a simple swordfish]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-a-thai-cocktail-a-thai-curry-and-a-starchy-mexican-sandwich/</link><pubDate>Fri, 06 Feb 2026 20:40:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-a-thai-cocktail-a-thai-curry-and-a-starchy-mexican-sandwich/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Culver’s is planning a bevy of new menu items this year]]></title><description><![CDATA[The cadence will include four pub burgers and pumpkin desserts]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/culvers-is-planning-a-bevy-of-new-menu-items-this-year/</link><pubDate>Fri, 06 Feb 2026 19:52:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/culvers-is-planning-a-bevy-of-new-menu-items-this-year/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Expect more menu innovation from KFC, including beverages]]></title><description><![CDATA[The restaurant company launched a global innovation hub in September and plans to pick up the pace of menu launches]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/expect-more-menu-innovation-from-kfc-including-beverages/</link><pubDate>Fri, 06 Feb 2026 19:22:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/expect-more-menu-innovation-from-kfc-including-beverages/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How Chipotle plans to win back value-seeking consumers]]></title><description><![CDATA[The restaurant company will ramp up its value messaging, underprice inflation, and increase the pace of limited-time offers]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-chipotle-plans-to-win-back-value-seeking-consumers/</link><pubDate>Fri, 06 Feb 2026 18:27:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-chipotle-plans-to-win-back-value-seeking-consumers/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Philadelphia-based chef Tyler Akin on the benefits of hotel dining]]></title><description><![CDATA[Tyler discusses how he juggles projects and what he's looking for next]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/philadelphia-based-chef-tyler-akin-on-the-benefits-of-hotel-dining/</link><pubDate>Fri, 06 Feb 2026 18:17:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/philadelphia-based-chef-tyler-akin-on-the-benefits-of-hotel-dining/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Sweetgreen launches ‘build your own bowl’ catering bar]]></title><description><![CDATA[The salad chain joins other brands like Five Guys and Chipotle in offering more flexible, customizable catering options]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sweetgreen-launches-build-your-own-bowl-catering-bar/</link><pubDate>Fri, 06 Feb 2026 18:16:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sweetgreen-launches-build-your-own-bowl-catering-bar/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from Starbucks, Potbelly, and Shake Shack]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at &amp;pizza, Baskin-Robbins, Cousins Subs, Dutch Bros, Fatburger, McAlister&rsquo;s Deli, Moe&rsquo;s Southwest Grill, Wayback Burgers, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-starbucks-potbelly-and-shake-shack/</link><pubDate>Fri, 06 Feb 2026 16:52:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-starbucks-potbelly-and-shake-shack/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Little Caesars promotes Sally Rampersad to director of non-traditional and development services]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: The third-largest pizza chain worldwide elevates Rampersad after her success driving franchise growth across Canadian markets and U.S. global support initiatives]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/little-caesars-promotes-sally-rampersad-to-director-of-non-traditional-and-development-services/</link><pubDate>Fri, 06 Feb 2026 16:22:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/little-caesars-promotes-sally-rampersad-to-director-of-non-traditional-and-development-services/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jack in the Box, Noodles &amp;amp; Company, Zaxbys]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-noodles-ampamp-company-zaxbys/</link><pubDate>Fri, 06 Feb 2026 15:48:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-noodles-ampamp-company-zaxbys/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why is First Watch so popular with its employees?]]></title><description><![CDATA[It all traces back to this]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-is-first-watch-so-popular-with-its-employees/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2026 22:15:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-is-first-watch-so-popular-with-its-employees/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[2026 is the year limited-service restaurants must win back the middle-class consumer]]></title><description><![CDATA[Placer.ai data reveals fast-casual restaurants losing middle-income customers to casual dining and grocery competitors]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/2026-is-the-year-limited-service-restaurants-must-win-back-the-middle-class-consumer/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2026 21:20:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/2026-is-the-year-limited-service-restaurants-must-win-back-the-middle-class-consumer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Iconic Las Vegas restaurant, Golden Steer, is now open in New York City]]></title><description><![CDATA[This is its first expansion in 68 years, but the owners say there&rsquo;s more to come]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/iconic-las-vegas-restaurant-golden-steer-is-now-open-in-new-york-city/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2026 20:04:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/iconic-las-vegas-restaurant-golden-steer-is-now-open-in-new-york-city/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jack in the Box urges shareholders to reject Biglari’s proxy fight]]></title><description><![CDATA[The activist investor has launched a campaign to oust board chair David Goebel amid turnaround plan]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-urges-shareholders-to-reject-biglaris-proxy-fight/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2026 19:03:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-urges-shareholders-to-reject-biglaris-proxy-fight/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Denny’s is covering costs for Valentine’s Day weddings in Vegas]]></title><description><![CDATA[On Feb. 14, the family-dining chain is inviting couples to tie the knot at its wedding chapel for free if they agree to a &lsquo;Toast-nuptial&rsquo; agreement]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dennys-is-covering-costs-for-valentines-day-weddings-in-vegas/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2026 19:00:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dennys-is-covering-costs-for-valentines-day-weddings-in-vegas/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Zaxbys surpasses 1,000-restaurant milestone]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chicken chain now operates in 22 states and recently debuted in Las Vegas and Phoenix]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/zaxbys-surpasses-1000-restaurant-milestone/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2026 18:58:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/zaxbys-surpasses-1000-restaurant-milestone/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wendy’s targets singles with $1 burger deal]]></title><description><![CDATA[The offer is good for purchase Feb. 15 through the chain&rsquo;s app]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-targets-singles-with-1-burger-deal/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2026 18:54:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-targets-singles-with-1-burger-deal/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[5 traits that helped New Orleans based breakfast chain Ruby Slipper become a fan favorite]]></title><description><![CDATA[Cofounder Jennifer Weishaupt shares how the brand&rsquo;s DNA has helped it connect so well with guests]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/5-traits-that-helped-new-orleans-based-breakfast-chain-ruby-slipper-become-a-fan-favorite/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2026 17:20:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/5-traits-that-helped-new-orleans-based-breakfast-chain-ruby-slipper-become-a-fan-favorite/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle, Yum earnings, Cracker Barrel]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-yum-earnings-cracker-barrel/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2026 15:53:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-yum-earnings-cracker-barrel/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bob Evans Restaurants acquired by 4X4 Capital]]></title><description><![CDATA[Golden Gate Capital announced the sale of the 400-unit family-dining chain Thursday]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bob-evans-restaurants-acquired-by-4x4-capital/</link><pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2026 15:29:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bob-evans-restaurants-acquired-by-4x4-capital/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Red Lobster teams up with Vaseline for a kissing booth in New York City]]></title><description><![CDATA[Guests can reserve dinner for two there starting at $140 Feb. 10-12]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/red-lobster-teams-up-with-vaseline-for-a-kissing-booth-in-new-york-city/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 23:59:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/red-lobster-teams-up-with-vaseline-for-a-kissing-booth-in-new-york-city/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[LongHorn Steakhouse offers steak commitment rings]]></title><description><![CDATA[The silver bands feature colors based on how customers like their meat cooked]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/longhorn-steakhouse-offers-steak-commitment-rings/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 23:39:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/longhorn-steakhouse-offers-steak-commitment-rings/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Noodles &amp;amp; Company approves 1-for-8 reverse stock split]]></title><description><![CDATA[The transaction will take place Feb. 18]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/noodles-ampamp-company-approves-1-for-8-reverse-stock-split/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 23:25:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/noodles-ampamp-company-approves-1-for-8-reverse-stock-split/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Winter chill hits restaurants: Foot traffic drops 3.6% amid harsh weather]]></title><description><![CDATA[Fiserv&rsquo;s Small Business Index shows that restaurant traffic and sales were hugely impacted by winter storms in the second half of January]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/winter-chill-hits-restaurants-foot-traffic-drops-36-amid-harsh-weather/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 23:03:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/winter-chill-hits-restaurants-foot-traffic-drops-36-amid-harsh-weather/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dine Brands adds Rick Silva and Amanda Clark to the board]]></title><description><![CDATA[The industry veterans&rsquo; addition brings the board&rsquo;s membership from nine to 11 members]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dine-brands-adds-rick-silva-and-amanda-clark-to-the-board/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 22:53:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dine-brands-adds-rick-silva-and-amanda-clark-to-the-board/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jimmy John’s partners with Hellmann’s Mayonnaise for meal deal promotion]]></title><description><![CDATA[The condiment company&rsquo;s Meal Diamond parody character gets his name on the menu]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jimmy-johns-partners-with-hellmanns-mayonnaise-for-meal-deal-promotion/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 22:06:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jimmy-johns-partners-with-hellmanns-mayonnaise-for-meal-deal-promotion/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Vicinity opens in California with a $200, 13-course tasting menu inspired by the chef’s life]]></title><description><![CDATA[The tasting menu-only dining experience in Los Gatos, California is led by chef Julian Silvera]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/vicinity-opens-in-california-with-a-200-13-course-tasting-menu-inspired-by-the-chefs-life/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 21:36:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/vicinity-opens-in-california-with-a-200-13-course-tasting-menu-inspired-by-the-chefs-life/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The beverage revolution is here]]></title><description><![CDATA[From coffee and tea to dirty soda, juice, and energy drinks, beverages are increasingly catching consumer attention and driving restaurant innovation. Here&rsquo;s how your brand can capitalize.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-beverage-revolution-is-here/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 20:34:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-beverage-revolution-is-here/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle sharpens its focus on emerging technology, loyalty]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain is hiring a new chief digital officer and a vice president of emerging technologies]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-sharpens-its-focus-on-emerging-technology-loyalty/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 20:34:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-sharpens-its-focus-on-emerging-technology-loyalty/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[THC drinks are a growing, buzzy segment]]></title><description><![CDATA[Hemp-derived beverages have been making a splash in the foodservice and retail industries despite impending ban]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/thc-drinks-are-a-growing-buzzy-segment/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 20:30:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/thc-drinks-are-a-growing-buzzy-segment/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Flavored sodas shine across restaurant segments]]></title><description><![CDATA[As consumers seek out non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic options, operators go back to basics]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/flavored-sodas-shine-across-restaurant-segments/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 19:43:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/flavored-sodas-shine-across-restaurant-segments/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[A ‘Fresh’ take on the beverage trend]]></title><description><![CDATA[Coffee and soda may be hogging the headlines, but Sip Fresh founder Sharon Arthofer is finding plenty of beverage opportunity with fresh juice]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/a-fresh-take-on-the-beverage-trend/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 19:33:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/a-fresh-take-on-the-beverage-trend/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The rise of energy drinks at restaurants]]></title><description><![CDATA[Colorful, customizable, and cool; coffee shops embrace energy drinks as the go-to afternoon pick-me-up for younger customers]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-rise-of-energy-drinks-at-restaurants/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 19:10:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-rise-of-energy-drinks-at-restaurants/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Grubhub drops delivery fees on $50+ orders: Could Wonder be eyeing more market share?]]></title><description><![CDATA[As the longtime third-place player in delivery, Grubhub has been &lsquo;quietly strengthening its foundation&rsquo; in recent years, CEO says]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/grubhub-drops-delivery-fees-on-50-orders-could-wonder-be-eyeing-more-market-share/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 18:50:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/grubhub-drops-delivery-fees-on-50-orders-could-wonder-be-eyeing-more-market-share/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Casual dining chains are navigating lower alcohol consumption]]></title><description><![CDATA[An increase in spirits orders is offsetting a decline in beer and wine, creating an opportunity to get more creative with the cocktail menu]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/casual-dining-chains-are-navigating-lower-alcohol-consumption/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 18:49:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/casual-dining-chains-are-navigating-lower-alcohol-consumption/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[British concept Farmer J brings its trays to New York City]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual concept focuses on vegetable-forward seasonal meals]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/british-concept-farmer-j-brings-its-trays-to-new-york-city/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 18:39:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/british-concept-farmer-j-brings-its-trays-to-new-york-city/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burgers go back to basics — with a twist]]></title><description><![CDATA[Simple builds but creative presentations attract restaurant customers]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burgers-go-back-to-basics-with-a-twist/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 18:20:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burgers-go-back-to-basics-with-a-twist/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Coffee and juice still dominate beverage sales at breakfast]]></title><description><![CDATA[Cold coffee is also gaining steam, and the morning daypart also has space for cocktails]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/coffee-and-juice-still-dominate-beverage-sales-at-breakfast/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 18:15:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/coffee-and-juice-still-dominate-beverage-sales-at-breakfast/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Pizza Hut is closing 250 U.S. locations in the first half of 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[The closures are part of parent company Yum Brands&rsquo; strategic review of the brand]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pizza-hut-is-closing-250-us-locations-in-the-first-half-of-2026/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 17:21:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pizza-hut-is-closing-250-us-locations-in-the-first-half-of-2026/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bahama Breeze, Starbucks strawberries, new CEOs]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bahama-breeze-starbucks-strawberries-new-ceos/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 16:16:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bahama-breeze-starbucks-strawberries-new-ceos/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell is taking market share from just about everywhere]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain generated a 7% increase in same-store sales on top of a 5% gain during the same period last year]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-is-taking-market-share-from-just-about-everywhere/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 16:08:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-is-taking-market-share-from-just-about-everywhere/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Loek Beckers named CFO of McDonald’s USA]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain also promoted Luis Quintiliano to U.S. National Field president, while Tom Dillon will rotate into the senior vice president, corporate finance role]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/loek-beckers-named-cfo-of-mcdonalds-usa/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 02:07:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/loek-beckers-named-cfo-of-mcdonalds-usa/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle unveils plan to ‘accelerate growth’ after another negative quarter]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain reported negative same-store sales of 2.5% in Q4, while its traffic fell a fourth straight quarter]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-unveils-plan-to-accelerate-growth-after-another-negative-quarter/</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:12:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-unveils-plan-to-accelerate-growth-after-another-negative-quarter/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Ask Jill! Why the Future of Restaurants Is More Human Than Ever]]></title><description><![CDATA[In the age of technology, culture drives performance]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ask-jill-why-the-future-of-restaurants-is-more-human-than-ever/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 22:41:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ask-jill-why-the-future-of-restaurants-is-more-human-than-ever/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dunkin’s latest star-studded commercial features Ben Affleck, Jennifer Aniston, Matt LeBlanc, and Jason Alexander]]></title><description><![CDATA[The ad, which aired during the Grammy Awards, foreshadows a disastrous video scheduled for the Super Bowl]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dunkins-latest-star-studded-commercial-features-ben-affleck-jennifer-aniston-matt-leblanc-and-jason-alexander/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 22:17:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dunkins-latest-star-studded-commercial-features-ben-affleck-jennifer-aniston-matt-leblanc-and-jason-alexander/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Ben Affleck is joined by Jennifer Aniston, Matt LeBlanc, and Jason Alexander in Dunkin’s latest star-studded commercial]]></title><description><![CDATA[The ad, showed during the Grammy Awards, foreshadows a disastrous video scheduled for the Super Bowl]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ben-affleck-is-joined-by-jennifer-aniston-matt-leblanc-and-jason-alexander-in-dunkins-latest-star-studded-commercial/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 22:17:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/ben-affleck-is-joined-by-jennifer-aniston-matt-leblanc-and-jason-alexander-in-dunkins-latest-star-studded-commercial/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Italy’s acclaimed pizzaiolo, Francesco Martucci, just opened his first U.S. restaurant in Miami]]></title><description><![CDATA[It&rsquo;s a partnership with Toronto-based Liberty Entertainment Group, which is planning further expansion into the U.S.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/italys-acclaimed-pizzaiolo-francesco-martucci-just-opened-his-first-us-restaurant-in-miami/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 21:17:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/italys-acclaimed-pizzaiolo-francesco-martucci-just-opened-his-first-us-restaurant-in-miami/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Trending this week: FAT Brands and Twin Hospitality file for Ch. 11 bankruptcy]]></title><description><![CDATA[See which stories readers couldn't get enough of]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-fat-brands-and-twin-hospitality-file-for-ch-11-bankruptcy/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 20:17:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-fat-brands-and-twin-hospitality-file-for-ch-11-bankruptcy/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Greg Levin named CEO of Starbird]]></title><description><![CDATA[He held the same position at BJ&rsquo;s Restaurants for over three years]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/greg-levin-named-ceo-of-starbird/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 20:03:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/greg-levin-named-ceo-of-starbird/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How Technomic’s 2026 trend predictions are panning out]]></title><description><![CDATA[Menu Talk: A month into the new year, Lizzy Freier, Senior Director of Menu Research &amp; Insights at Technomic, revisits the team&rsquo;s top trends]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-technomics-2026-trend-predictions-are-panning-out/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 18:56:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-technomics-2026-trend-predictions-are-panning-out/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why Starbucks' profitability growth might take a while]]></title><description><![CDATA[Starbucks pinpoints 2028 as a realistic timeline for significant margins improvements after upfront Back to Starbucks investments weighed on short-term profitability]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-starbucks-profitability-growth-might-take-a-while/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 18:39:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-starbucks-profitability-growth-might-take-a-while/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bojangles makes its debut in Michigan]]></title><description><![CDATA[The expansion comes on the heels of several other market expansions, including in Texas, Ohio, and New York]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bojangles-makes-its-debut-in-michigan/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 17:52:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bojangles-makes-its-debut-in-michigan/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Darden to end its Bahama Breeze brand]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company will close half of the remaining restaurants and convert the rest to other concepts]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/darden-to-end-its-bahama-breeze-brand/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 17:32:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/darden-to-end-its-bahama-breeze-brand/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle emphasizes ‘real ingredients’ to recover from tough 2025]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain has a new ad, called &ldquo;Choices,&rdquo; and is calling out AI-generated commercials during the Super Bowl]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-emphasizes-real-ingredients-to-recover-from-tough-2025/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 17:16:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-emphasizes-real-ingredients-to-recover-from-tough-2025/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Scott Drake named CEO of Chuck E. Cheese]]></title><description><![CDATA[He succeeds David McKillips, who held the role for the past six years]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/scott-drake-named-ceo-of-chuck-e-cheese/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 16:21:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/scott-drake-named-ceo-of-chuck-e-cheese/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Magnolia Bakery announces Nathan Louer as new CEO]]></title><description><![CDATA[The former Jamba and Jimmy John&rsquo;s executive is succeeding Bobbie Lloyd, who will take on the role of chief brand officer]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/magnolia-bakery-announces-nathan-louer-as-new-ceo/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 16:20:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/magnolia-bakery-announces-nathan-louer-as-new-ceo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Subway, Burger King-China, Chipotle traffic]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/subway-burger-king-china-chipotle-traffic/</link><pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 15:56:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/subway-burger-king-china-chipotle-traffic/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chili’s secret ingredient, Starbucks’ solid quarter, and more]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, what operators can learn from the FAT Brands' mistakes]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-secret-ingredient-starbucks-solid-quarter-and-more/</link><pubDate>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 22:32:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-secret-ingredient-starbucks-solid-quarter-and-more/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[For CEO Ray Blanchette, TGI Fridays’ turnaround is personal]]></title><description><![CDATA[During a recent interview, he said the chain is starting to generate higher traffic and frequency, as well as positive same-store sales from its new initiatives]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/for-ceo-ray-blanchette-tgi-fridays-turnaround-is-personal/</link><pubDate>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 21:48:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/for-ceo-ray-blanchette-tgi-fridays-turnaround-is-personal/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How Starbucks is redefining its future by learning from the competition]]></title><description><![CDATA[Starbucks is adding more customizable and colorful non-coffee beverages as the popularity of 7Brew and Dutch Bros continues to grow]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-starbucks-is-redefining-its-future-by-learning-from-the-competition/</link><pubDate>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 21:43:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-starbucks-is-redefining-its-future-by-learning-from-the-competition/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Subway franchisee MTF Enterprises files for bankruptcy]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company, which operates 43 Subway locations in Pennsylvania, Maine, New Hampshire, and Virginia, has filed for Ch. 11]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/subway-franchisee-mtf-enterprises-files-for-bankruptcy/</link><pubDate>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:49:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/subway-franchisee-mtf-enterprises-files-for-bankruptcy/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Burger King targets over 4,000 restaurants in China by 2035]]></title><description><![CDATA[Parent company Restaurant Brands International and investment firm CPE finalized their joint venture, announced in November]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-targets-over-4000-restaurants-in-china-by-2035/</link><pubDate>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:42:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/burger-king-targets-over-4000-restaurants-in-china-by-2035/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s jumps on the fried chicken and caviar trend]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain partnered with Paramount Caviar to offer online-only, limited-edition McNugget Caviar kits]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-jumps-on-the-fried-chicken-and-caviar-trend/</link><pubDate>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:39:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-jumps-on-the-fried-chicken-and-caviar-trend/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chick-fil-A turns up the heat with latest sandwich tests]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain is offering an Avocado Sriracha BLT sandwich in Oklahoma City and a Sweet Chili Lime Crunch Sandwich in North Carolina]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chick-fil-a-turns-up-the-heat-with-latest-sandwich-tests/</link><pubDate>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:36:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chick-fil-a-turns-up-the-heat-with-latest-sandwich-tests/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Fuzzy’s Taco Shop launches exclusive drinks with Pantalones Tequila]]></title><description><![CDATA[The organic spirits brand was co-founded in 2023 by actor Matthew McConaughey and his wife Camila Alves McConaughey]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fuzzys-taco-shop-launches-exclusive-drinks-with-pantalones-tequila/</link><pubDate>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:32:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fuzzys-taco-shop-launches-exclusive-drinks-with-pantalones-tequila/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Nation’s Restaurant News announces 2026 MenuMasters winners]]></title><description><![CDATA[The awardees will be honored at a celebration in Chicago on May 16]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nations-restaurant-news-announces-2026-menumasters-winners/</link><pubDate>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 16:57:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/nations-restaurant-news-announces-2026-menumasters-winners/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[FAT Brands delisting, Starbucks updates, third-party delivery]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-delisting-starbucks-updates-third-party-delivery/</link><pubDate>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 15:51:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-delisting-starbucks-updates-third-party-delivery/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Panera, Krispy Kreme contend with security breach lawsuits as data breaches are on the rise]]></title><description><![CDATA[Panera confirmed its second data security incident in two years, while Krispy Kreme agreed to pay a $1.6 million settlement after a 2024 incident]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/panera-krispy-kreme-contend-with-security-breach-lawsuits-as-data-breaches-are-on-the-rise/</link><pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2026 22:24:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/panera-krispy-kreme-contend-with-security-breach-lawsuits-as-data-breaches-are-on-the-rise/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[FAT Brands is being delisted from the Nasdaq less than two weeks after filing for bankruptcy]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Nasdaq warned the company that it will face delisting from the stock market on Feb. 4]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-is-being-delisted-from-the-nasdaq-less-than-two-weeks-after-filing-for-bankruptcy/</link><pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2026 21:12:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-is-being-delisted-from-the-nasdaq-less-than-two-weeks-after-filing-for-bankruptcy/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks upgrades POS and espresso machines to power labor efficiency]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company also introduced low-tech operational investments, like the Grow Program, which rates each Starbucks caf&eacute; operationally]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-upgrades-pos-and-espresso-machines-to-power-labor-efficiency/</link><pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2026 20:05:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-upgrades-pos-and-espresso-machines-to-power-labor-efficiency/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Here’s what the Dignity Act could mean for restaurants]]></title><description><![CDATA[How operators could benefit from an expanded pool of legal immigrant workers]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/heres-what-the-dignity-act-could-mean-for-restaurants/</link><pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2026 19:37:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/heres-what-the-dignity-act-could-mean-for-restaurants/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[7 Brew introduces monthly Featured Drinks program]]></title><description><![CDATA[February marks the program&rsquo;s debut and includes five options such as the new Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Cold Brew]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/7-brew-introduces-monthly-featured-drinks-program/</link><pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2026 19:21:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/7-brew-introduces-monthly-featured-drinks-program/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chick-fil-A’s chief marketing officer Jon Bridges is retiring]]></title><description><![CDATA[Michael Lage will succeed him in the role after 14 years with the company]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chick-fil-as-chief-marketing-officer-jon-bridges-is-retiring/</link><pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2026 19:12:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chick-fil-as-chief-marketing-officer-jon-bridges-is-retiring/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chili’s is exploring a general manager ownership model]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain is training general managers how to better understand the profit-and-loss statement and the &lsquo;principles of extreme ownership&rsquo;]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-is-exploring-a-general-manager-ownership-model/</link><pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2026 19:09:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-is-exploring-a-general-manager-ownership-model/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: Two Indian shareables and a Vietnamese grape dessert]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus lobster pasta and a drink inspired by coffee and cigarettes]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-two-indian-shareables-and-a-vietnamese-grape-dessert/</link><pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2026 18:15:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-two-indian-shareables-and-a-vietnamese-grape-dessert/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from Chipotle, Wendy’s, and Dunkin]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at Del Taco, El Pollo Loco, Friendly&rsquo;s, Johnny Rockets,Portillo&rsquo;s, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-chipotle-wendys-and-dunkin/</link><pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2026 16:45:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-chipotle-wendys-and-dunkin/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks loyalty, Jersey Mike’s, Chili’s]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-loyalty-jersey-mikes-chilis/</link><pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2026 15:55:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-loyalty-jersey-mikes-chilis/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[P.F. Chang’s names Holly Smith chief marketing officer]]></title><description><![CDATA[The restaurant industry veteran comes from Rosa Mexicano]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pf-changs-names-holly-smith-chief-marketing-officer/</link><pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2026 14:30:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pf-changs-names-holly-smith-chief-marketing-officer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Behind Starbucks’ plan to build a more relevant menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[New menu options &mdash; from customizable chai to Energy Refreshers with buildable caffeine levels &mdash; prioritize personalization and trending flavors]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/behind-starbucks-plan-to-build-a-more-relevant-menu/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 22:44:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/behind-starbucks-plan-to-build-a-more-relevant-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Shake Shack offers to teach other operators how to cook in new campaign]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain is launching the &lsquo;School of Shack&rsquo; in Atlanta and sharing recipes online]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/shake-shack-offers-to-teach-other-operators-how-to-cook-in-new-campaign/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 22:14:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/shake-shack-offers-to-teach-other-operators-how-to-cook-in-new-campaign/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Panda Express collaborates with Lofi Girl as part of its Lunar New Year celebration]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Chinese-American restaurant chain is also throwing a live celebration in Los Angeles and participating in gaming and educational platforms]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/panda-express-collaborates-with-lofi-girl-as-part-of-its-lunar-new-year-celebration/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 21:47:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/panda-express-collaborates-with-lofi-girl-as-part-of-its-lunar-new-year-celebration/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks is bringing back tiered rewards for a new era]]></title><description><![CDATA[The coffee chain will roll out the new version of Starbucks Rewards &mdash; with three tiers, and faster, more personalized rewards &mdash; on March 10]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-is-bringing-back-tiered-rewards-for-a-new-era/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 20:36:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-is-bringing-back-tiered-rewards-for-a-new-era/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Candace Nelson named MenuMasters Digital Innovator of the year]]></title><description><![CDATA[The &lsquo;Queen of Cupcakes&rsquo; and founder of Sprinkles and Pizzana was a pioneer in leveraging media]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/candace-nelson-named-menumasters-digital-innovator-of-the-year/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 20:23:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/candace-nelson-named-menumasters-digital-innovator-of-the-year/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chili’s restaurant reimaging starts to take shape]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain has updated four so far and is focused on elements that have a big impact but lower cost]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-restaurant-reimaging-starts-to-take-shape/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 20:15:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-restaurant-reimaging-starts-to-take-shape/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell promotes Michelle Beasley to COO]]></title><description><![CDATA[She joined the chain in 2024 after more than 23 years in various operations roles at Panera Bread]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-promotes-michelle-beasley-to-coo/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 20:11:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-promotes-michelle-beasley-to-coo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Krystal makes its debut in the Northeast]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain is opening its first-ever New Jersey restaurant in early March]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/krystal-makes-its-debut-in-the-northeast/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 20:06:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/krystal-makes-its-debut-in-the-northeast/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chicken concept El Pollo Loco adds Domino’s executive to the board]]></title><description><![CDATA[Frank Garrido joined the pizza giant in 2017 and serves as its chief restaurant officer]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chicken-concept-el-pollo-loco-adds-dominos-executive-to-the-board/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 20:02:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chicken-concept-el-pollo-loco-adds-dominos-executive-to-the-board/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wendy’s is bringing back the Thin Mints Frosty]]></title><description><![CDATA[The flavor debuted last year after the chain signed a licensing deal with Girl Scouts of the USA]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-is-bringing-back-the-thin-mints-frosty/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 19:57:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-is-bringing-back-the-thin-mints-frosty/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Fine dining chain Ocean Prime celebrates 20th anniversary with eye on new growth]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fine-dining seafood and steak concept expects to close the year with $285 million in sales at just 21 locations]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fine-dining-chain-ocean-prime-celebrates-20th-anniversary-with-eye-on-new-growth/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 19:20:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fine-dining-chain-ocean-prime-celebrates-20th-anniversary-with-eye-on-new-growth/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Meet the 6 players in Nation’s Restaurant News’ Seafood Showdown]]></title><description><![CDATA[These growing restaurants are thriving in a tough segment. Which has the most potential?]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/meet-the-6-players-in-nations-restaurant-news-seafood-showdown/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 18:40:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/meet-the-6-players-in-nations-restaurant-news-seafood-showdown/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Landry’s Seafood House is the blueprint for successful seafood]]></title><description><![CDATA[The Gulf Coast restaurants are the foundation for Landry&rsquo;s Inc. as a whole]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/landrys-seafood-house-is-the-blueprint-for-successful-seafood/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 18:34:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/landrys-seafood-house-is-the-blueprint-for-successful-seafood/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Angry Crab Shack redefines seafood with Asian-Cajun flavors]]></title><description><![CDATA[A hands-on dining experience and operating partner model fuel the brand&rsquo;s expansion]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/angry-crab-shack-redefines-seafood-with-asian-cajun-flavors/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 18:23:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/angry-crab-shack-redefines-seafood-with-asian-cajun-flavors/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Hampton Social brings East Coast-style seafood to the Midwest and beyond]]></title><description><![CDATA[This 13-unit, Chicago-based restaurant brand, operated by Parker Hospitality, specializes in seafood rolls and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/hampton-social-brings-east-coast-style-seafood-to-the-midwest-and-beyond/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 18:17:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/hampton-social-brings-east-coast-style-seafood-to-the-midwest-and-beyond/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Meet Ivar’s, the seafood chain that’s fed Seattle for nearly a century]]></title><description><![CDATA[The beloved brand serves fresh-caught fish in both quick-serve and full-serve formats]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/meet-ivars-the-seafood-chain-thats-fed-seattle-for-nearly-a-century/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 18:14:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/meet-ivars-the-seafood-chain-thats-fed-seattle-for-nearly-a-century/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why restaurant marketers should not chase loyalty]]></title><description><![CDATA[Here are the new rules of giving customers the royal treatment through memorable, must-have experiences&mdash;not by tracking points]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-restaurant-marketers-should-not-chase-loyalty/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 18:03:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-restaurant-marketers-should-not-chase-loyalty/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[30 years in, Fish City Grill founders are still ‘pretty darn happy’]]></title><description><![CDATA[Bill and Lovett Bayne have grown the seafood restaurant to 22 locations with a focus on culture]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/30-years-in-fish-city-grill-founders-are-still-pretty-darn-happy/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 18:02:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/30-years-in-fish-city-grill-founders-are-still-pretty-darn-happy/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Pacific Catch brings an affordable seafood-inspired vacation to diners]]></title><description><![CDATA[The 22-year old San Francisco-based chain blends global flavors with sustainable seafood across 15 locations]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pacific-catch-brings-an-affordable-seafood-inspired-vacation-to-diners/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 17:45:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pacific-catch-brings-an-affordable-seafood-inspired-vacation-to-diners/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Vancouver-based Cactus Club Cafe opens its first U.S. restaurants in Boston and Miami, with more coming]]></title><description><![CDATA[The popular Canadian concept has a wide-ranging menu featuring sushi rolls, pastas, and steaks]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/vancouver-based-cactus-club-cafe-opens-its-first-us-restaurants-in-boston-and-miami-with-more-coming/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 17:28:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/vancouver-based-cactus-club-cafe-opens-its-first-us-restaurants-in-boston-and-miami-with-more-coming/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How hospitality focus helps fine dining chain Ocean Prime achieve $14 million AUV]]></title><description><![CDATA[Cameron Mitchell&rsquo;s seafood concept is looking to accelerate growth in the next five years]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-hospitality-focus-helps-fine-dining-chain-ocean-prime-achieve-14-million-auv/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 16:38:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-hospitality-focus-helps-fine-dining-chain-ocean-prime-achieve-14-million-auv/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks, Chili’s, Dunkin’]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-chilis-dunkin/</link><pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 15:49:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-chilis-dunkin/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Gong Cha unveils new 2.0 store design featuring automated &lsquo;Super Wu' technology]]></title><description><![CDATA[The bubble tea brand is rolling out kiosks and beverage automation designed to reduce labor needs]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/gong-cha-unveils-new-20-store-design-featuring-automated-lsquosuper-wu-technology/</link><pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 23:12:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/gong-cha-unveils-new-20-store-design-featuring-automated-lsquosuper-wu-technology/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Carl’s Jr. to celebrate bad choices on the day after the Super Bowl with two giveaways]]></title><description><![CDATA[The quick-service chain is offering a free Hangover Breakfast Burger and a chance for a $20 gift card]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/carls-jr-to-celebrate-bad-choices-on-the-day-after-the-super-bowl-with-two-giveaways/</link><pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 22:08:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/carls-jr-to-celebrate-bad-choices-on-the-day-after-the-super-bowl-with-two-giveaways/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Chili’s menu, marketing, operations flywheel continues]]></title><description><![CDATA[As the chain continues to upgrade its menu offerings, it is attracting new guests while building more sales layers]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-chilis-menu-marketing-operations-flywheel-continues/</link><pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 21:42:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-chilis-menu-marketing-operations-flywheel-continues/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Buffalo Wild Wings annual Super Bowl Wing giveaway comes with a twist this year]]></title><description><![CDATA[The game doesn&rsquo;t have to go into overtime if guests pre-order their game-day meals]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/buffalo-wild-wings-annual-super-bowl-wing-giveaway-comes-with-a-twist-this-year/</link><pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 21:42:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/buffalo-wild-wings-annual-super-bowl-wing-giveaway-comes-with-a-twist-this-year/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Papa Johns brings back pan pizza with a new recipe]]></title><description><![CDATA[The pizza chain is reintroducing pan pizza for the first time in six years, made with six cheeses and garlic sauce-infused crust]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-brings-back-pan-pizza-with-a-new-recipe/</link><pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 21:11:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/papa-johns-brings-back-pan-pizza-with-a-new-recipe/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dunkin’ rolls out Valentine’s Day lineup]]></title><description><![CDATA[The coffee chain is promoting its Refreshers and new protein drinks and also offering special deals for loyalty program members]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dunkin-rolls-out-valentines-day-lineup/</link><pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 19:36:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dunkin-rolls-out-valentines-day-lineup/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks delivers 4% global sales growth as turnaround plan gains momentum]]></title><description><![CDATA[Both Starbucks Rewards and non-Rewards transactions were up for the first time since 2022]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-delivers-4-global-sales-growth-as-turnaround-plan-gains-momentum/</link><pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 19:03:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-delivers-4-global-sales-growth-as-turnaround-plan-gains-momentum/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[FAT Brands bankruptcy, Torchy’s closures, McDonald’s]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-bankruptcy-torchys-closures-mcdonalds/</link><pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 18:45:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-bankruptcy-torchys-closures-mcdonalds/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Douglas Keane named MenuMasters Innovator of the year]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chef and owner of Cyrus in Geyserville, Calif., creates unique dining experiences and ingredient-focused cuisine]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/douglas-keane-named-menumasters-innovator-of-the-year/</link><pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 17:02:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/douglas-keane-named-menumasters-innovator-of-the-year/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Applebee’s Date Night Pass returns for a third year]]></title><description><![CDATA[The pass is available for $100 and discounts up to $50 off food and non-alcoholic beverages on 12 visits throughout the year]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-date-night-pass-returns-for-a-third-year/</link><pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 16:49:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/applebees-date-night-pass-returns-for-a-third-year/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chili’s posts 19th straight quarter of same-store sales growth]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain&rsquo;s second quarter was up nearly 9%, causing parent company Brinker to raise its full-year guidance]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-posts-19th-straight-quarter-of-same-store-sales-growth/</link><pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 15:53:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chilis-posts-19th-straight-quarter-of-same-store-sales-growth/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New Jersey joins the movement to limit plastic cutlery: What restaurants should know]]></title><description><![CDATA[New Jersey recently became the latest municipality to pass a &ldquo;Skip the Stuff&rdquo; law that places limits on single-use plastics in restaurants]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-jersey-joins-the-movement-to-limit-plastic-cutlery-what-restaurants-should-know/</link><pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2026 22:13:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-jersey-joins-the-movement-to-limit-plastic-cutlery-what-restaurants-should-know/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Grant Achatz to be inducted into MenuMasters Hall of Fame]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chef of Alinea and Next restaurants will be honored on May 16 in Chicago]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/grant-achatz-to-be-inducted-into-menumasters-hall-of-fame/</link><pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2026 21:08:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/grant-achatz-to-be-inducted-into-menumasters-hall-of-fame/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Mexican spirits expert Max Reis goes beyond tequila and mezcal]]></title><description><![CDATA[The beverage director of Mirat&eacute; and Daisy Margarita Bar in Los Angeles also delves into rum, gin, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mexican-spirits-expert-max-reis-goes-beyond-tequila-and-mezcal/</link><pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2026 20:32:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mexican-spirits-expert-max-reis-goes-beyond-tequila-and-mezcal/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Pete Davidson and Elsie Hewitt appear in Sonic Drive-In social media video]]></title><description><![CDATA[The new celebrity parents are talking up the new $6 meal]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pete-davidson-and-elsie-hewitt-appear-in-sonic-drive-in-social-media-video/</link><pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2026 19:19:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/pete-davidson-and-elsie-hewitt-appear-in-sonic-drive-in-social-media-video/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Trending this week: Just Salad expects to be one of the largest restaurant chains in the U.S.]]></title><description><![CDATA[See which stories readers couldn't get enough of]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-just-salad-expects-to-be-one-of-the-largest-restaurant-chains-in-the-us/</link><pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2026 18:31:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/trending-this-week-just-salad-expects-to-be-one-of-the-largest-restaurant-chains-in-the-us/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks reinvents chai latte with customizable sweetness, marking a first in 25 years]]></title><description><![CDATA[The news is part of Starbucks&rsquo; spring menu announcement, which includes new and returning trendy flavors like ube and lavender]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-reinvents-chai-latte-with-customizable-sweetness-marking-a-first-in-25-years/</link><pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2026 17:54:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-reinvents-chai-latte-with-customizable-sweetness-marking-a-first-in-25-years/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Why protein and fiber became menu must-haves]]></title><description><![CDATA[Millennials and GLP-1 users are fueling these trends and are willing to switch restaurant brands for more options]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-protein-and-fiber-became-menu-must-haves/</link><pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2026 17:49:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/why-protein-and-fiber-became-menu-must-haves/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chipotle plans to accelerate its menu innovation this year]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain will launch up to four protein offerings, starting with Chicken al Pastor, as well as new sides and dips]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-plans-to-accelerate-its-menu-innovation-this-year/</link><pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2026 17:47:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chipotle-plans-to-accelerate-its-menu-innovation-this-year/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Subway loyalty, Jersey Mike’s, FAT Brands lawsuit]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/subway-loyalty-jersey-mikes-fat-brands-lawsuit/</link><pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2026 16:51:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/subway-loyalty-jersey-mikes-fat-brands-lawsuit/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Torchy’s Tacos is closing several restaurants]]></title><description><![CDATA[The company said the impacted locations &lsquo;no longer align&rsquo; with its long-term vision]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/torchys-tacos-is-closing-several-restaurants/</link><pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2026 16:01:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/torchys-tacos-is-closing-several-restaurants/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[FAT Brands and Twin Hospitality file for Ch. 11 bankruptcy]]></title><description><![CDATA[FAT Brands and its affiliates jointly seek bankruptcy protection, citing mounting &ldquo;liabilities and liquidity&rdquo; issues]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-and-twin-hospitality-file-for-ch-11-bankruptcy/</link><pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2026 14:40:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-and-twin-hospitality-file-for-ch-11-bankruptcy/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Restaurant closures, casual-dining value offerings, and a fast-casual chain’s big aim]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, a conversation about regional chains]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurant-closures-casual-dining-value-offerings-and-a-fast-casual-chains-big-aim/</link><pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 23:07:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/restaurant-closures-casual-dining-value-offerings-and-a-fast-casual-chains-big-aim/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New legislation targets credit card swipe fees: What operators should know]]></title><description><![CDATA[The bipartisan Credit Card Competition Act, reintroduced earlier this month, is supported by the restaurant industry but opposed by credit unions]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-legislation-targets-credit-card-swipe-fees-what-operators-should-know/</link><pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 21:45:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-legislation-targets-credit-card-swipe-fees-what-operators-should-know/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[BJ’s Restaurants promotes Christopher Pinsak to COO]]></title><description><![CDATA[He has been with the casual-dining chain for more than 21 years]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bjs-restaurants-promotes-christopher-pinsak-to-coo/</link><pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:24:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/bjs-restaurants-promotes-christopher-pinsak-to-coo/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jersey Mike’s is ‘not going to change’ under PE leadership]]></title><description><![CDATA[CEO Charlie Morrison is aware of negative perceptions surrounding private equity, but said the chain and Blackstone are aligned]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jersey-mikes-is-not-going-to-change-under-pe-leadership/</link><pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:14:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jersey-mikes-is-not-going-to-change-under-pe-leadership/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Charlie Morrison doesn't plan to change Jersey Mike&rsquo;s playbook]]></title><description><![CDATA[The CEO said the chain is poised for continued growth domestically and internationally because of its consistently strong performance]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/charlie-morrison-doesnt-plan-to-change-jersey-mikersquos-playbook/</link><pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:05:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/charlie-morrison-doesnt-plan-to-change-jersey-mikersquos-playbook/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[FAT Brands’ largest bondholder sues company over Twin Peaks ownership dispute]]></title><description><![CDATA[Investor 352 Fund is seeking $109 million and demands promised stock collateral]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-largest-bondholder-sues-company-over-twin-peaks-ownership-dispute/</link><pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 19:59:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/fat-brands-largest-bondholder-sues-company-over-twin-peaks-ownership-dispute/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Newks Eatery closed 2025 with 10 new franchise deals and five location openings]]></title><description><![CDATA[The fast-casual chain exceeded targets by adding restaurants in four markets including University of Georgia campus while boosting off-premise sales growth.]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/newks-eatery-closed-2025-with-10-new-franchise-deals-and-five-location-openings/</link><pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 17:46:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/newks-eatery-closed-2025-with-10-new-franchise-deals-and-five-location-openings/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Globetrotting chef Eyal Shani’s newest project is Bella, an Italian restaurant in Miami Beach]]></title><description><![CDATA[It opens January 29 at the Liberty Park Hotel, serving antipasti, pastas, and &ldquo;a truly giant schnitzel&rdquo;]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/globetrotting-chef-eyal-shanis-newest-project-is-bella-an-italian-restaurant-in-miami-beach/</link><pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 17:41:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/globetrotting-chef-eyal-shanis-newest-project-is-bella-an-italian-restaurant-in-miami-beach/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Delivery tipping, Live Más Cafés, fast-casual pizza]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/delivery-tipping-live-ms-cafs-fast-casual-pizza/</link><pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 15:53:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/delivery-tipping-live-ms-cafs-fast-casual-pizza/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New York City izakaya Kei hires ramen master Akira Hiratsuka to revamp culinary program]]></title><description><![CDATA[Chef Akira brings Sapporo-style miso ramen to the ramen bar concept in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-york-city-izakaya-kei-hires-ramen-master-akira-hiratsuka-to-revamp-culinary-program/</link><pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 22:27:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-york-city-izakaya-kei-hires-ramen-master-akira-hiratsuka-to-revamp-culinary-program/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How First Watch brews coffee with a purpose through Project Sunrise initiative]]></title><description><![CDATA[The project began in 2017 and aims to support Colombian coffee growers &mdash; especially women &mdash; and sustainability efforts]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-first-watch-brews-coffee-with-a-purpose-through-project-sunrise-initiative/</link><pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 21:21:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-first-watch-brews-coffee-with-a-purpose-through-project-sunrise-initiative/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Deborah Derby named CEO of Honey Baked Ham]]></title><description><![CDATA[Her appointment comes on the heels of Jim Dinkins&rsquo; retirement after five years in the role]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/deborah-derby-named-ceo-of-honey-baked-ham/</link><pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 20:04:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/deborah-derby-named-ceo-of-honey-baked-ham/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Chick-fil-A’s heart-shaped trays of nuggets now available for catering]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain is also debuting its 1967 Classic Cup as part of its broader 80th anniversary campaign]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chick-fil-as-heart-shaped-trays-of-nuggets-now-available-for-catering/</link><pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 19:59:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/chick-fil-as-heart-shaped-trays-of-nuggets-now-available-for-catering/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wendy’s CEO search is ‘progressing well’]]></title><description><![CDATA[In a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the chain said it is evaluating both internal and external candidates]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-ceo-search-is-progressing-well/</link><pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 19:55:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wendys-ceo-search-is-progressing-well/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Jack in the Box launches streetwear collection]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain has teamed up with The Hundreds for a &lsquo;Jack Was Here!&rsquo; collection in celebration of its 75th anniversary]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-launches-streetwear-collection/</link><pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 19:51:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/jack-in-the-box-launches-streetwear-collection/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell’s Live Más Café exceeded growth expectations in 2025]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain surpassed its targeted 30 openings]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bells-live-ms-caf-exceeded-growth-expectations-in-2025/</link><pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 19:46:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bells-live-ms-caf-exceeded-growth-expectations-in-2025/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: Wagyu lumpia and truffled shrimp &amp;amp; grits]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus prosciutto &amp; fig pinsa, octopus with confit tomatoes, and a Margarita-sour mashup]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-wagyu-lumpia-and-truffled-shrimp-ampamp-grits/</link><pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 19:32:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-wagyu-lumpia-and-truffled-shrimp-ampamp-grits/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Blaze Pizza’s new CEO aims to fire up a fast-casual pizza comeback]]></title><description><![CDATA[John Owen will focus on hospitality, personalization, and franchisee growth at the helm of Blaze Pizza]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/blaze-pizzas-new-ceo-aims-to-fire-up-a-fast-casual-pizza-comeback/</link><pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 18:59:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/blaze-pizzas-new-ceo-aims-to-fire-up-a-fast-casual-pizza-comeback/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from McDonald’s, Taco Bell, and Red Lobster]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at Bobby&rsquo;s Burgers, Carl&rsquo;s Jr., Jersey Mike&rsquo;s, Red Robin, Salad and Go, Scooter&rsquo;s Coffee, Velvet Taco, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-mcdonalds-taco-bell-and-red-lobster/</link><pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 16:33:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-mcdonalds-taco-bell-and-red-lobster/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Kelli Valade/WFF, McDonald’s/Taco Bell sauce, Nathan’s Famous acquisition]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kelli-valadewff-mcdonaldstaco-bell-sauce-nathans-famous-acquisition/</link><pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 16:12:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kelli-valadewff-mcdonaldstaco-bell-sauce-nathans-famous-acquisition/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Consolidation in coffee chains? Bet on value dangerous for fast food? 2 editors debate]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus more details on the Sailormen bankruptcy in the latest episode of Quick Bites]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/consolidation-in-coffee-chains-bet-on-value-dangerous-for-fast-food-2-editors-debate/</link><pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 21:59:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/consolidation-in-coffee-chains-bet-on-value-dangerous-for-fast-food-2-editors-debate/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Panera is testing a points-based rewards program]]></title><description><![CDATA[The updated program will feature a new membership tier for Panera&rsquo;s biggest spenders and Unlimited Sip Club members]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/panera-is-testing-a-points-based-rewards-program/</link><pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 19:37:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/panera-is-testing-a-points-based-rewards-program/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[6 take-aways from exclusive interview with First Watch CEO Chris Tomasso]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chief executive of the billion-dollar daytime caf&eacute; concept offers tips on being an inspiring, culture-driven leader]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/6-take-aways-from-exclusive-interview-with-first-watch-ceo-chris-tomasso/</link><pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 19:04:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/6-take-aways-from-exclusive-interview-with-first-watch-ceo-chris-tomasso/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Kelli Valade named CEO of Women’s Foodservice Forum]]></title><description><![CDATA[The industry veteran succeeds Therese Gearhart, who has served in the role since 2019 and is retiring]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kelli-valade-named-ceo-of-womens-foodservice-forum/</link><pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 18:36:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kelli-valade-named-ceo-of-womens-foodservice-forum/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Grubhub parent company Wonder acquires rewards app Claim]]></title><description><![CDATA[This is the fourth acquisition for Wonder in just over a year]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/grubhub-parent-company-wonder-acquires-rewards-app-claim/</link><pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 18:16:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/grubhub-parent-company-wonder-acquires-rewards-app-claim/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[McDonald’s jumps on the hot honey trend]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain is introducing a new sauce that can be ordered with a variety of sandwiches]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-jumps-on-the-hot-honey-trend/</link><pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 17:48:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/mcdonalds-jumps-on-the-hot-honey-trend/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Wingstop expands hot honey lineup with new trio of flavors]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: Three craveable takes on Hot Honey give fans three ways to find their perfect match]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wingstop-expands-hot-honey-lineup-with-new-trio-of-flavors/</link><pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 17:27:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/wingstop-expands-hot-honey-lineup-with-new-trio-of-flavors/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Get to know First Watch CEO Chris Tomasso]]></title><description><![CDATA[Find out his sports obsession, why he admires Jos&eacute; Andr&eacute;s, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/get-to-know-first-watch-ceo-chris-tomasso/</link><pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 16:53:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/get-to-know-first-watch-ceo-chris-tomasso/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Smithfield acquires Nathan’s Famous for $450 million]]></title><description><![CDATA[The deal secures Smithfield&rsquo;s rights to the hot dog brand in retail and foodservice channels in perpetuity]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/smithfield-acquires-nathans-famous-for-450-million/</link><pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 16:35:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/smithfield-acquires-nathans-famous-for-450-million/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Peet’s Coffee closures, Mr. Gatti’s, Red Robin value]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/peets-coffee-closures-mr-gattis-red-robin-value/</link><pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 16:19:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/peets-coffee-closures-mr-gattis-red-robin-value/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Taco Bell brings back Crispy Chicken Nuggets with new sauce]]></title><description><![CDATA[The item&rsquo;s return supports the chain&rsquo;s goal of making its crispy chicken a permanent menu item this year]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-brings-back-crispy-chicken-nuggets-with-new-sauce/</link><pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 14:02:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/taco-bell-brings-back-crispy-chicken-nuggets-with-new-sauce/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[James Beard Foundation names semifinalists for its Restaurant &amp;amp; Chef Awards]]></title><description><![CDATA[Three new categories have been added]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/james-beard-foundation-names-semifinalists-for-its-restaurant-ampamp-chef-awards/</link><pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 21:54:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/james-beard-foundation-names-semifinalists-for-its-restaurant-ampamp-chef-awards/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Women's Foodservice Forum announces 2026 Leadership Conference]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: Register now for immersive professional development, networking and inspiration March 2-4 in Dallas]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/womens-foodservice-forum-announces-2026-leadership-conference/</link><pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 20:39:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/womens-foodservice-forum-announces-2026-leadership-conference/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[OneRyan Global acquires Mr Gatti’s Pizza]]></title><description><![CDATA[The new owners said the restaurant chain&rsquo;s management would remain in place]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/oneryan-global-acquires-mr-gattis-pizza/</link><pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 19:03:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/oneryan-global-acquires-mr-gattis-pizza/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Just Salad expects to be one of the largest restaurant chains in the U.S.]]></title><description><![CDATA[Cofounder Nick Kenner said salad is in the &lsquo;early innings of replacing the sandwich as the default lunch item&rsquo;]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/just-salad-expects-to-be-one-of-the-largest-restaurant-chains-in-the-us/</link><pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 17:35:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/just-salad-expects-to-be-one-of-the-largest-restaurant-chains-in-the-us/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks, Sweetgreen, Five Guys]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-sweetgreen-five-guys/</link><pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 15:40:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-sweetgreen-five-guys/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Red Robin is launching a 6-item value menu]]></title><description><![CDATA[The options include a bottomless side and beverage and start at $9.99]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/red-robin-is-launching-a-6-item-value-menu/</link><pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 15:15:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/red-robin-is-launching-a-6-item-value-menu/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Peet’s Coffee to close dozens of locations this month]]></title><description><![CDATA[The closures come ahead of Keurig Dr. Pepper&rsquo;s expected acquisition of parent company JDE Peets]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/peets-coffee-to-close-dozens-of-locations-this-month/</link><pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 15:10:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/peets-coffee-to-close-dozens-of-locations-this-month/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Red Lobster launches its annual Lobsterfest celebration]]></title><description><![CDATA[The limited-time promotion includes new menu items as well as seasonal cocktails]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/red-lobster-launches-its-annual-lobsterfest-celebration/</link><pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 20:37:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/red-lobster-launches-its-annual-lobsterfest-celebration/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Firebirds Wood Fired Grill poised for growth amid strategic investments]]></title><description><![CDATA[Labor management initiatives, data analytics, and an elevated bar program ensure relevance in a competitive environment]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/firebirds-wood-fired-grill-poised-for-growth-amid-strategic-investments/</link><pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 20:08:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/firebirds-wood-fired-grill-poised-for-growth-amid-strategic-investments/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Starbucks assistant managers are now ‘coffeehouse coaches’]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain&rsquo;s goal is to have at least one of these positions in each location by the end of this year]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-assistant-managers-are-now-coffeehouse-coaches/</link><pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 20:03:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/starbucks-assistant-managers-are-now-coffeehouse-coaches/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Five Guys’ new Las Vegas restaurant includes a full bar]]></title><description><![CDATA[The flagship location also serves all-day breakfast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/five-guys-new-las-vegas-restaurant-includes-a-full-bar/</link><pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 19:58:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/five-guys-new-las-vegas-restaurant-includes-a-full-bar/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Sweetgreen development chief Chris Tarrant is departing]]></title><description><![CDATA[He joined the fast-casual salad chain in late 2024 after serving the same role at Nothing Bundt Cakes]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sweetgreen-development-chief-chris-tarrant-is-departing/</link><pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 19:53:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/sweetgreen-development-chief-chris-tarrant-is-departing/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Dallas-area barbecue joint to launch a monthly supper club with full-service dinners and drink pairings]]></title><description><![CDATA[Crossbuck BBQ chef Tim McLaughlin will flex his fine-dining background over five courses]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dallas-area-barbecue-joint-to-launch-a-monthly-supper-club-with-full-service-dinners-and-drink-pairings/</link><pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 19:43:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dallas-area-barbecue-joint-to-launch-a-monthly-supper-club-with-full-service-dinners-and-drink-pairings/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Kevin Lee is part of a restaurant renaissance in Oklahoma City]]></title><description><![CDATA[Menu Talk: Birdie&rsquo;s and Maht, the Korean-American chef&rsquo;s restaurants, are two of the destinations that are elevating the dining scene]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kevin-lee-is-part-of-a-restaurant-renaissance-in-oklahoma-city/</link><pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 19:02:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/kevin-lee-is-part-of-a-restaurant-renaissance-in-oklahoma-city/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[2026’s dim prospects, Chipotle’s undesirable milestone, and the state of the value wars]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus, a conversation with Chickie&rsquo;s &amp; Pete&rsquo;s head chef]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/2026s-dim-prospects-chipotles-undesirable-milestone-and-the-state-of-the-value-wars/</link><pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 18:38:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/2026s-dim-prospects-chipotles-undesirable-milestone-and-the-state-of-the-value-wars/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Shake Shack names former Sonic president Jim Taylor to the new position of chief commercial officer]]></title><description><![CDATA[He oversees the chain&rsquo;s marketing and culinary departments]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/shake-shack-names-former-sonic-president-jim-taylor-to-the-new-position-of-chief-commercial-officer/</link><pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 17:47:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/shake-shack-names-former-sonic-president-jim-taylor-to-the-new-position-of-chief-commercial-officer/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Popeyes, Olo, Nothing Bundt Cakes]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/popeyes-olo-nothing-bundt-cakes/</link><pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 15:41:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/popeyes-olo-nothing-bundt-cakes/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Denny’s sale to go private has been finalized]]></title><description><![CDATA[The acquisition by TriArtisan Capital Advisors, Treville Capital Group, and Yadav Enterprises was first announced in early November]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dennys-sale-to-go-private-has-been-finalized/</link><pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2026 23:05:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/dennys-sale-to-go-private-has-been-finalized/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Key tailwinds for the restaurant industry in 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[While the expectation is modest growth, some factors such as lower gas prices, tax cuts, and the FIFA World Cup could provide a much-needed boost]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/key-tailwinds-for-the-restaurant-industry-in-2026/</link><pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2026 20:39:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/key-tailwinds-for-the-restaurant-industry-in-2026/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[How Mas Mex concepts are adjusting to lower alcohol consumption]]></title><description><![CDATA[Escalante&rsquo;s and Fat Rosie&rsquo;s have developed mocktails and dirty sodas made with Mexican sodas and house-made creams]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-mas-mex-concepts-are-adjusting-to-lower-alcohol-consumption/</link><pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2026 20:36:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/how-mas-mex-concepts-are-adjusting-to-lower-alcohol-consumption/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[New on the Menu: Fried prosciutto bao and ricotta scrambled eggs]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus seafood with black spaghetti, babaghanoush with beets, and a cocktail that evokes tacos al pastor]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-fried-prosciutto-bao-and-ricotta-scrambled-eggs/</link><pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2026 19:58:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/new-on-the-menu-fried-prosciutto-bao-and-ricotta-scrambled-eggs/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Consistency at scale: Preparing kitchens for peak season performance]]></title><description><![CDATA[How operators can and should prepare for busy times at their restaurant]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/consistency-at-scale-preparing-kitchens-for-peak-season-performance/</link><pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2026 17:44:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/consistency-at-scale-preparing-kitchens-for-peak-season-performance/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Menu Tracker: New items from Taco Bell, Panera, and Arby’s]]></title><description><![CDATA[Plus innovation at BJ's, Jason&rsquo;s Deli, Mellow Mushroom, Noodles &amp; Company, Papa Johns, Rita&rsquo;s, Robeks, Sonic Drive-In, Tijuana Flats, Velvet Taco , Zaxby's, and more]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-taco-bell-panera-and-arbys/</link><pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2026 17:06:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/menu-tracker-new-items-from-taco-bell-panera-and-arbys/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Meet Somedays Bakery, the young chain that just opened its first location in Manhattan]]></title><description><![CDATA[The team behind the bakery includes one of the cofounders of Chip City Cookies]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/meet-somedays-bakery-the-young-chain-that-just-opened-its-first-location-in-manhattan/</link><pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2026 16:20:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/meet-somedays-bakery-the-young-chain-that-just-opened-its-first-location-in-manhattan/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Popeyes franchisee with 130-plus locations files for bankruptcy]]></title><description><![CDATA[Florida-based Sailormen has struggled with debt stemming from several lawsuits, among other challenges]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/popeyes-franchisee-with-130-plus-locations-files-for-bankruptcy/</link><pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2026 16:04:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/popeyes-franchisee-with-130-plus-locations-files-for-bankruptcy/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[ICR Conference, Protein Bar, KFC]]></title><description><![CDATA[Get all the headlines in today&rsquo;s Restaurant Daily podcast]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/icr-conference-protein-bar-kfc/</link><pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2026 15:39:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/icr-conference-protein-bar-kfc/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Tech Tracker: 4 Resolutions for restaurant tech in 2026]]></title><description><![CDATA[Here&rsquo;s what should be on both technology companies&rsquo; and operators&rsquo; tech to-do lists for the year ahead]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tech-tracker-4-resolutions-for-restaurant-tech-in-2026/</link><pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2026 22:25:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/tech-tracker-4-resolutions-for-restaurant-tech-in-2026/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Brandon Batt leaves Savory after 12 years to launch The Tabletop Group executive search firm]]></title><description><![CDATA[PRESS RELEASE: Former Savory executive starts restaurant recruiting company focused on C-suite placements and operational systems consulting]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/brandon-batt-leaves-savory-after-12-years-to-launch-the-tabletop-group-executive-search-firm/</link><pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2026 22:14:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/brandon-batt-leaves-savory-after-12-years-to-launch-the-tabletop-group-executive-search-firm/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[The Roberta’s team has just opened Ezio’s, an Italian-inspired steakhouse in Miami]]></title><description><![CDATA[It&rsquo;s the New York City-based group&rsquo;s first restaurant in Florida]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-robertas-team-has-just-opened-ezios-an-italian-inspired-steakhouse-in-miami/</link><pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2026 20:59:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/the-robertas-team-has-just-opened-ezios-an-italian-inspired-steakhouse-in-miami/</guid></item><item><title><![CDATA[Del Taco expands leadership team following acquisition]]></title><description><![CDATA[The chain has named a new chief transformation officer, chief marketing officer, and vice president of supply chain]]></description><link>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/del-taco-expands-leadership-team-following-acquisition/</link><pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2026 20:09:00 +0100</pubDate><guid>https://www.newslocker.com/en-us/profession/restaurant/del-taco-expands-leadership-team-following-acquisition/</guid></item></channel></rss>