Chipotle to open second ShopHouse, additional international locations

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Company discusses new HR software program that provides enhanced analytics to target potential new employees.

James Greco, former Bruegger's CEO, joins Sbarro

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

Former Bruegger's chief executive James Greco has been named president, CEO of Sbarro Inc.

Commentary: Do higher prices drive customers away?

Talk to your customers before you make the improvements to ascertain that they're willing to pay for the improvement.

Zaxby's to unveil new store design

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Zaxby’s has unveiled a new comprehensive restaurant design that will be rolled out at two Georgia locations, the first one in Valdosta and a second at Lake…

Concept watch: Melthouse Bistro

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

How Milwaukee-based Melthouse Bistro was designed to reflect the "barn to bistro" movement.

Restaurant industry's 2012 trends shaped by demographics, nutrition

by Alicia Kelso — Editor, QSRWeb.com

NPD Group's research also expects retail competition to increase and commodity prices to affect menu offerings.

Fast Casual segment heads into Q1 with new store openings

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

Fast casual chains such as Baja Fresh, Fuddruckers and MOOYAH are among several concepts starting the New Year with new openings across the United States. The…

Starbucks named in patent infringement suit over mobile payment app

by James Wester

Semiconducter company alleges Starbucks, Expedia and others infringed on mobile payment patents.

2012: The five fast casual executives to watch

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

For restaurant operators throughout the industry, 2011 had its fair share of highs and lows. While the industry rebounded slightly from the challenges present…

Foumami Asian Sandwich Bar

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

Foumami Asian Sandwich Bar opened in 2010 in Boston's Financial District. The restaurant was founded by third-genereration restaurateur Michael Wang, whose…

Gluten free goes mainstream

Gluten-free menu claims have grown 114 percent over the last three years, proving that consumers beyond those diagnosed with celiac disease are eating…

Restaurant industry has strong showing in Entrepreneur's top franchise rankings

by Alicia Kelso — Editor, QSRWeb.com

Magazine's annual rankings of top franchised companies weigh stability, growth rate, size of the system, startup costs and more.

Commentary: What restaurant marketing trends will emerge in 2012?

Fast casual players are starting to look like two different groups, perhaps three, including "Fine Fast Casual," "Quick Fast Casual" and "Chain Fast Casual…

2011: The five stories and trends that shaped the year

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

As we look back on 2011, several stories and trends stand out among the rest. Here's a look at our top picks.

Commodity pressure mixed in early 2012

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

As restaurant operators head into 2012, industry forecasters are calling for an increase in food costs, but not every analyst is predicting a commodities…

Beverage innovation becoming a necessity

by Alicia Kelso — Editor, QSRWeb.com

When McDonald's introduced its McCafe concept in 2009, plenty of skeptics thought the burger-and-fry giant was out of its league. But as the coffee line grew…

Service with a Smile: Get your employees & customers through the holiday rush

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

Even though the holiday shopping season has passed with Black Friday, there are still plenty of opportunities for your employees to make a lasting impression.

African cuisine gains consumer appeal

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

How Safari and Safari Express provide key insights into the lives of their owners and the flavors found in East African cuisine.

Restaurants launch holiday menus, promotions

by Valerie Killifer — senior editor, NetWorld Alliance

How fast casual chains are appealing to holiday diners through charity partnerships and limited-time offers.

An American Food Culture: Rising and Thriving

By Mindy Armstrong, Insights Manager, FoodIQ