Epic Burger to open third location

March 3, 2011

Epic Burger is opening its third location this summer in the heart of the Chicago’s West Loop. Epic’s inaugural location launched in Chicago’s South Loop…

Saladworks signs first franchise deals of 2011

March 3, 2011

Einstein Noah posts positive Q4 gains

March 3, 2011

Einstein Noah Restaurant Group Inc. has reported financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended Dec. 28, 2010.

Balancing act: How to create a harmonious franchise system

When franchisees and franchisors communicate clearly disagreements can become meaningful.

BUBBA Burger to make retail to restaurant transition

by Kim Williams — Reporter, NetWorld Alliance

March 2, 2011

The burger retailer’s shift from grocery store-only to fast casual concept highlights a new trend for the restaurant industry.

Sodexo partners with Mai Pham to launch Star Ginger

March 1, 2011

Sodexo Inc. has signed a 10-year master retail license agreement with celebrity chef Mai Pham to bring her latest concept, Star Ginger Asian Grill & Noodle…

FreshBerry expands Middle East operations

March 1, 2011

Beautiful Brands International (BBI) has announced the opening of 12 new FreshBerry stores in the Middle East. It’s the biggest overseas expansion for the…

Original SoupMan announces Fisherman’s Wharf opening

March 1, 2011

Original SoupMan has announced a new venture with Lloyd Sugarman and Matt Johnson to open the company’s first West Coast restaurant at Fisherman’s Wharf in San…

Commentary: 13 reasons NOT to open a restaurant

Thinking about opening a restaurant? Consider these 13 points before you jump into unknown territory.

Emerald City Smoothie to open first international locale

February 24, 2011

With more than 60 locations operating across the United States, Emerald City Smoothie is embarking on its first international journey with a new-store opening…

NBC offers free Chipotle for America's Next Great Restaurant promo

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

February 24, 2011

NBC has launched a promotion with Chipotle in anticipation of its new television show, America’s Next Great Restaurant.

Jeffrey Schlosser appointed Freshii COO

February 23, 2011

Industry veteran and former Freshii San Francisco franchise partner Jeffrey Schlosser has been appointed COO of the company. Schlosser headed up Freshii…

UC Hub Group forms new subsidiary, PB Brands

February 21, 2011

UC Hub Group announced today that it has formed a new operating subsidiary, PB Brands. 

Smashburger opens first McAllen, Texas, location

February 20, 2011

Smashburger, a fast-casual "better burger" concept, will open its first McAllen location on March 24. The restaurant will bring 100-percent Angus burgers, an…

Pho expands executive team

February 20, 2011

Vietnamese restaurant group Pho has appointed Zoe Tindall as its first financial director. Tindall is a former finance director of Yo! Sushi.

Sushi bar How Do You Roll? opening in San Antonio

February 20, 2011

The San Antonio Business Journal reports that Austin-based maki sushi bar How Do You Roll? will open in San Antonio this spring.

Tin Star embarks on Texas-sized turnaround

By Steve Coomes

Australian burger concept heads to US shores

February 17, 2011

On Feb. 25, Sydney, Australia-based Oporto will open its first United States location in Rancho Cucamonga, Calif. The restaurant is the first of three…

Shane's Rib Shack celebrates strong 2010

February 17, 2011

Shane´s Rib Shack has signed new franchise agreements totaling more than 50 units and expected to bring 25 new stores to Alabama and 20 new stores to Central…

Food trucks: Taking your brand to the streets

By Tom Smith