3+ day, 19+ 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…...

1+ week, 4+ day ago   (977+ words) Coffee is in, pizza is out, and some legacy QSR chains are struggling with much-needed turnarounds. The first half of 2026 saw multiple major brand turnarounds pick up steam, as well as a sales surge at steakhouse chains. But pizza chains…...

2+ week, 5+ day ago   (917+ words) CEO Elizabeth Williams said the chain is doubling its pace of development relative to last year and considering adding more fried chicken. As a turnaround takes shape, El Pollo Loco's CEO is preparing for the next stage of growth. Earlier…...

3+ week, 3+ 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…...

4+ week, 1+ day ago   (213+ words) Chicken Flatbreads helped increase July same-store sales by 9%, marking the brand’s best month this year to date. Smoothie King saw a similar boost in same-store sales following its launch of Smoothie Bowls in 2023. In the months following that launch, the…...