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.

Why the 'new' food pyramid is choosing opinion over evidence

by Suzy Badaracco — President, Culinary Tides Inc

Suzy Badaracco's imagined dialogue between a registered dietitian and the personification of whole grains reveals how the "inverted" government food pyramid…

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.

Do Americans prefer bagels or doughnuts?

January 9, 2026

Over half of Americans believe bagels are superior to doughnuts, according to a report by Einstein Bros. Bagels ahead of National Bagel Day, which is Jan. 15.

Smoothie King, Tropical Smoothie Cafe join the 'proteinization' of the fast casual industry

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

Both beverage brands join Starbucks, Nekter Juice Bar and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf in the focus on protein

The 'proteinization' of the fast casual industry: Starbucks, Nekter, Coffee Bean & Tea bulk up winter menus

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

While the "New Year, New Me" resolution season often focuses on restriction, smart brands are leaning into satiety and muscle recovery to drive traffic.

Cava enters 2026 with elevated menu

January 5, 2026

Washington D.C.-based Cava has launched its largest menu expansion to date, headlined by the return of white sweet potatoes following a persistent years-long…

Shake Shack launches 'Good Fit' menu

December 30, 2025

The brand is also highlighting its Gluten-Free Double ShackBurger, which features two patties on a dedicated gluten-free bun, providing 47 grams of protein.

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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Chipotle jumping on high protein trend

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

The 4,000-unit chain is launching a menu next week featuring items with protein content ranging from 15 to 81 grams

Cheba Hut introduces limited-time holiday cocktail

December 11, 2025

Cheba Hut has launched the holiday drink, "Sleigh'd and Confused," available at its locations through Dec. 31.

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…

Straight up with a twist: A cocktail’s reality check

by Suzy Badaracco — President, Culinary Tides Inc

Gallup found drinking still hasn't returned to pre-pandemic levels — only 62% of adults drink now, down from 65% before COVID. Morning Consult says 59% kept at…

Chef Michael Symon serving holiday LTOs at Kitchen Works

November 20, 2025

James Beard Award-winning Chef Michael Symon is bringing a taste of gourmet holiday cheer to workplaces nationwide with his limited-edition Festive Dark…

From café to national movement: Clean Eatz Founders on scaling wellness without losing heart

by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Connect Media

Clean Eatz is a franchise co-founded by Don and Evonne Varady that solves the time vs. health dilemma by offering convenient, macro-balanced meals, from…

Hungry Howie's differentiates itself with flavored crust, fresh dough, ingredients

by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Connect Media

VP of Public Relations Jennifer Jackson discusses the Hungry Howie's pizza brand's strategic marketing and operational planning, including cross-functional…

Dave & Buster's adds 100 menu items

November 12, 2025

Dave & Buster's is debuting its most extensive menu revamp in company history, rolling out over 100 food and beverage items alongside the return of several…

Barry Bagels expands with major deal in Texas, uses hub-and-spoke model for growth

by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Connect Media

Barry Bagels' history dates back to 1972. Today, the brand has locations in Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio,

Graze Craze launches 'Wine Pairing Board' with sommelier collaboration

November 6, 2025

Graze Craze, a fast casual charcuterie franchise, has launched a Wine Pairing Board in collaboration with certified sommelier and wine educator Warner Boin…