Häagen-Dazs launches updated Sorbet Smoothie Collection

January 21, 2026

Häagen-Dazs has released a new-and-improved Sorbet Smoothie Collection. The drinks are made with the brand's signature sorbet, real fruit and juices, according…

The Beverage revolution: Why drinks are the new dining destination

Fast Casual Nation explores how Taco Bell, craft innovators and the sober-curious movement are reshaping restaurant revenue.

Papa Johns testing protein-infused dough

January 16, 2026

Papa Johns is testing dough infused with protein. The Protein Crust Pizza is a limited, one-day-only release exclusive for Papa Rewards Members at one select…

Sonic kicks off All-American Sonic Smasher

January 15, 2026

Sonic has released the All-American Sonic Smasher, according to a press release.

Little Caesars launches Detroit-style Slices-N-Stix box

January 14, 2026

Little Caesars has launched Detroit-style Slices-N-Stix, a single-serve meal option that includes two slices of Detroit-Style Deep Dish Pepperoni Pizza, four…

Riko's Pizza's unique style sets it apart as brand grows on East Coast

by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Connect Media

Riko's Pizza's unique thin-crust pizza sets it apart from the heavy competition on the East Coast. The brand is growing and now has 12 locations.

Great American Cookies launches 2 cookie flavors in time for Valentine's Day

January 13, 2026

Great American Cookies has released two cookie flavors in time for Valentine's Day. The Red Velvet Cookie Cake and Strawberry Crinkle Cookie Cake are available…

HTeaO closes out 2025 with 36 openings, focus on beverage innovation

January 12, 2026

Iced-tea chain HTeaO closed out 2025 with 35 new locations, including 14 openings in Q4 alone, according to a press release.

Subway releases protein menu

January 8, 2026

Subway is offering Protein Packets packed with more than 20g of protein, fresh veggies and fan-favorite sauces for $3.99. The brand also has a six-inch Sub of…

Whataburger launches Whatadeal Menu

January 6, 2026

Whataburger is launching a small value menu called the Whatadeal Menu for the new year. Beginning today, the brand is rolling out fan-favorite eats priced…

Taco Bell bringing back Quesarito

December 22, 2025

Taco Bell has brought back the Quesarito. The menu item is available for a limited time, according to a press release.

QSR Operators Report Staffing Shortages as 70% Cite Unfilled Positions Heading into Busiest Season

Industry Turns to Kitchen Automation as Permanent Solution After Breaking Point Year. As restaurants enter their busiest weeks of the year, 70% of operators…

Pizza Brands to Watch in 2026

Dominating the landscape is a shift toward “experiential” and “fusion” dining, where classic pepperoni is being challenged by global flavors like…

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How a Mooyah franchisee moved into chicken with Layne's Chicken Fingers

by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Connect Media

After tapping out the Madison, Wisconsin area with a burger concept, Lucas Bergeson, along with his family and a partner, brought Layne's Chicken Fingers to…

White Castle tests Cheddar Smoked Sausage Slider, Pretzel Nibblers in select markets

December 9, 2025

White Castle is testing the Cheddar Smoked Sausage Slider and Pretzel Nibblers in the Cincinnati, Ohio, Louisville, Kentucky and New Jersey markets, according…

Domino's celebrating milestone birthday with free orders of lava cakes

December 8, 2025

Domino's Pizza is turning 65 on Dec. 9. In celebration, the Michigan-based pizza company is offering customers a special deal: free Chocolate Lava Crunch Cakes…

Emerging Sports, Emerging Restaurant Opportunities

Sports that may have been overlooked in the past are capturing the public’s imagination and creating fresh opportunities for restaurant operators. These new…

Sonic tests iced coffee drinks in select markets

December 5, 2025

Sonic is testing a cold coffee lineup in select markets. It's available for a limited time at participating locations in: Denver, Colorado; Grand Junction…

McDonald's launches The Grinch Meal

November 20, 2025

McDonald's is launching its The Grinch Meal. The meal features . Available with a Big Mac, nine Chicken McNuggets, or McPlant sandwich, it features new…

Little Caesars launches Stuffed Crunch Crust Pizza

November 19, 2025

Little Caesars will release the Stuffed Crunch Crust Pizza on Nov. 24 featuring a toasted, cheese-stuffed crust. It's brushed with buttery garlic flavor and…