4+ day, 5+ hour ago   (717+ words) “The goal isn’t to open the cheapest restaurant. The goal is to make the smartest investment,” East Coast Wings + Grill CEO Sam Ballas said. As construction costs climb, more operators are eyeing second-generation restaurant spaces — sites with existing kitchens, hoods…...

5+ day, 10+ hour ago   (403+ words) For quick-service restaurants, sustaining customer frequency has become increasingly difficult. Consumers remain cautious about discretionary spending, competitors continue to promote aggressively and value expectations have risen. Even when restaurant sales grow, the increase can mask a more concerning trend: customers…...

2+ week, 6+ day ago   (741+ words) For restaurant operators, the holiday rush doesn’t arrive all at once. It builds in pockets: a school break that changes lunch traffic, a seasonal market that fills a downtown corridor or a game day that sends delivery orders up before…...

3+ week, 2+ day ago   (489+ words) As the world embraces AI solutions to optimize business, operators need to remember that many diners prioritize authentic, tangible experiences over digitally-powered efficiency, writes James Tice. Ask yourself why anyone actually goes out to eat, because it’s almost never about…...

3+ week, 2+ day ago   (274+ words) A partnership with retail tech company T-ROC Global could help CPK reverse the steady erosion of its storebase by reintroducing the brand to more consumers. This plan could put CPK in front of more consumers, generating brand awareness that could…...

3+ week, 4+ day ago   (1285+ words) Guests don’t just want freebies, they want recognition, personalization and an overall great experience as part of their rewards membership. Editor’s note: This article is based on a virtual event hosted on Aug. 12, 2026 with Restaurant Dive, CX Dive, Hotel Dive…...

1+ mon, 3+ day ago   (688+ words) When hundreds of guests are trying to reach you every day and no one can pick up the phone, you're not just missing calls. You're missing the experience before it even starts. That kind of demand is a good problem....

1+ mon, 3+ day ago   (958+ words) Despite increased marketing, food and development costs, the chain is seeing an uptick in sales, revenue and opportunities to reach new customers. For the past few years, First Watch has been on a growth tear. Not only is the breakfast…...

1+ mon, 6+ day ago   (240+ words) The July 31 reduction was meant to simplify its corporate structure to allow for better focus, nimbler operations and improved restaurant-level support. As part of that initiative, the company is targeting improvements to its foundation and operating discipline that support long-term…...

1+ mon, 1+ week ago   (244+ words) Peter Busse, an alumnus of Torchy’s Tacos and Yum Brands, will help the burger brands plot a turnaround after years of shrinking store counts. New title: Chief development officer, Checkers & Rally’s Previous title: Vice president of development, Torchy’s Tacos Checkers…...