Author: Javie Morales
In the ever-evolving realm of culinary entrepreneurship, the 2025 “100 Under 100” list shines a spotlight on restaurant chains demonstrating remarkable growth and innovation. These burgeoning brands, each with fewer than 100 locations, are redefining the dining landscape with their dynamic approach and commitment to quality. This curated collection celebrates the essence of ingenuity, capturing the imagination of food lovers and industry insiders alike, showcasing how smaller chains are making waves in the competitive food sector. The emergence of these fast-growing brands is a testament to the shifting tides of consumer preferences, where diners increasingly seek unique, localized experiences over…
Nation’s Restaurant News July 2025 issue brings a refreshing perspective to the bustling restaurant industry with its third annual 100 Under 100 report. This captivating feature shines a spotlight on 100 emerging restaurant concepts with fewer than 100 locations, poised to challenge the giants in the market. It’s a testament to the dynamic nature of the food scene, where innovation and entrepreneurial spirit meet to create unforgettable dining experiences. This list is not just about numbers but about telling the story of growth and resilience in a competitive landscape. The issue also delves into the third edition of the Signature…
KFC is setting the stage for a significant revival, serving up a bold strategy that promises to tickle the taste buds of fried chicken aficionados everywhere. A free bucket of chicken stands at the forefront of their comeback plan, a move that marries nostalgia with innovation. As the brand reintroduces Colonel Sanders with a fresh twist, it’s clear that this is more than a simple menu update—it’s a reimagined foray into the competitive fried chicken arena. The limited-time offer underscores KFC’s ambition to reclaim its throne amidst the intensifying fried chicken turf war. This strategic campaign isn’t just about freebies;…
The competitive landscape of fast food is morphing as the pizza value wars intensify, signaling a seismic shift in how brands vie for consumer attention. As price sensitivity remains a significant factor for diners, pizza chains are redefining their value propositions to capture a larger slice of the market. This trend could pave the way for innovative pricing models and promotional strategies, compelling brands to rethink their approach to customer engagement and retention. Meanwhile, Burger King is reinventing its iconic Whopper, demonstrating an acute awareness of consumer demands for fresh and exciting offerings. This move towards innovation within a classic…
National French Fry Day is a delightful occasion that brings communities together in a shared celebration of an iconic comfort food. Across the United States, this day is marked with enticing deals and freebies that invite people to indulge in their love for crispy, golden fries. Whether you find yourself in Tennessee, Michigan, or Delaware, the allure of complimentary fries from beloved fast-food chains like McDonald’s and Wendy’s is enough to warm the hearts—and taste buds—of many according to Google Trends. This annual celebration not only offers a chance to enjoy free or discounted fries but also serves as a…
The fast-food landscape is sizzling with a renewed rivalry as McDonald’s and Taco Bell intensify their competition. Both giants are focusing on enhancing their value menus, refreshing beverage selections, and innovating chicken offerings. This isn’t just about keeping loyal customers; it’s about capturing the fleeting attention of a fast-paced market. McDonald’s reintroduction of the snack wrap has sparked a culinary war, with Taco Bell responding in kind. These offerings are becoming battlegrounds for consumer dollars, and the stakes have never been higher. The buzzword here is “wrap,” as both companies vie for supremacy in this popular segment. McDonald’s snack wrap…
Every year, the 11th of July marks a day of icy delight and tradition as people across the nation flock to their local 7-Eleven stores for a complimentary frozen treat. Known affectionately as 7/11 Day, it’s a celebration that has become synonymous with the brand’s iconic Slurpee. This ritual invites people from all walks of life to indulge in a sweet, icy beverage, bringing a refreshing pause to the midsummer heat. It’s not just about the drink; it’s about the shared experience, a tradition passed down and cherished by generations. In addition to the beloved Slurpee, this year’s celebration offers…
Chef Curtis Duffy’s journey from a tumultuous upbringing to commanding the Michelin-starred kitchen of his Chicago restaurant, Ever, is nothing short of inspiring. With a past that could easily have derailed his ambitions, Duffy’s story is a testament to resilience and focus. Ever, which recently gained attention for its cameo in the hit show “The Bear,” serves as more than just a dining establishment; it’s a narrative of transformation and redemption, all encapsulated in the art of haute cuisine as reported by The New York Times. Duffy’s evolution as a chef is mirrored in the meticulous dishes he crafts, each…
In the ever-evolving landscape of food delivery, New York City and Seattle find themselves at the center of a regulatory tug-of-war. New York City’s recent decision to ease caps on delivery platform fees marks a significant shift, potentially influencing the dynamics of third-party delivery services across major urban centers according to Nation’s Restaurant News. This regulatory adjustment may signal an era where delivery platforms wield greater influence, but it also raises concerns about the potential impact on local eateries and consumers alike. Meanwhile, Seattle is experiencing its own challenges as DoorDash raises its prices, labeling it the most expensive delivery…
Kura Sushi has experienced a remarkable turnaround, with its traffic seeing an upswing in May. This positive momentum marks a significant shift for the company, as it aligns its strategic goals with ambitious targets. With plans to achieve $281 million in sales and a 20% increase in unit growth, Kura Sushi is positioning itself as a formidable player in the culinary landscape according to Nation’s Restaurant News. This strategy is not just about numbers; it’s about redefining what success looks like in the casual dining sector. The unexpected profit posted in the third fiscal quarter has further bolstered Kura Sushi’s…