Fresh Kitchen Hires Veterans to Scale Clean-Label Bowls
Fresh Kitchen names Bill Knopf and Matt Livingston to lead operations and development as the clean-label bowl brand targets growth beyond 100 locations.
Jul 18, 2026
Fresh Kitchen names Bill Knopf and Matt Livingston to lead operations and development as the clean-label bowl brand targets growth beyond 100 locations.
Jul 18, 2026
Hardee’s franchisee Superior Star filed Chapter 11 after a 2023 deal revealed unpaid taxes, costly repairs, and lease burdens; plans to reject leases and refocus.
Jul 18, 2026
Cinnabon posted a net gain of 308 U.S. units in 2025 and launched Seattle’s Best Coffee in 2026 to boost beverage mix, margins, and franchise-driven expansion.
Jul 18, 2026
Craveworthy taps master franchisee Unisan Bowls to launch Genghis Grill and Dirty Dough in India, targeting Hyderabad first amid tight U.S. financing.
Jul 17, 2026
Buffalo Wild Wings launches Poppin’ Ranch, a 99-cent popping-candy ranch add-on, designed to spark sensory buzz and impulse trials ahead of Wing Day.
Jul 17, 2026
Wonder closed a $650M Series D at a $9B valuation to expand locations and invest in robotics, AI, and delivery tech, accelerating its automation-first restaurant model.
Jul 17, 2026
Understand sports bar startup expenses, including location, construction, kitchen equipment, televisions, licenses, insurance, staffing, supplies, and cash reserves for operations.
Jul 16, 2026
Learn how to increase restaurant sales during the World Cup final through smarter planning, staffing, promotions, inventory, menus, and operations.
Jul 16, 2026
Mother-daughter duo Ciara Boyce and Tracey Pidge bring Hotworx to Wasilla, the first of four Alaska studios, extending a fast-growing 800+ location brand.
Jul 16, 2026
One of the largest U.S. Cyclospora outbreaks hits 34 states; Taco Bell pulls produce in Michigan as FDA and CDC trace the source.
Jul 16, 2026
Explore how modern restaurants are transforming kids menus to offer more adventurous yet budget-friendly options, catering to the evolving tastes of families.
Photo by Jnr Jose
In an era where children are exposed to a wide range of cuisines and food trends, restaurants are reimagining their kids menus to cater to the sophisticated palates of young diners. Celebrity chefs and industry leaders recognize the need to balance familiarity with innovation, offering favorites like nuggets and pizza alongside more adventurous options such as grilled salmon and fresh sides. This shift reflects the changing landscape of family dining, where children are eager to explore diverse flavors and culinary experiences.
Modern families seek more than just basic dishes on a kids menu. They desire meals that align with their own eating habits – fresh, responsibly sourced, and well-balanced. Restaurants like Loews Hotels & Co. are incorporating non-GMO, organic ingredients in kids' meals, aiming to provide value without compromising on quality. By introducing sections like 'Adventurous Eaters,' establishments are encouraging children to try new foods and expand their culinary horizons.
Photo by Jnr Jose
A successful kids menu isn't just about chicken tenders and fries. Chefs like Jason Stoneburner are redefining children's dining experiences by offering healthier yet appealing options like fried cauliflower or cauliflower wings, proving that kids can enjoy nutritious meals in a fun and interactive way. By striking a balance between traditional favorites and globally-inspired dishes, restaurants can engage young diners while meeting parents' expectations for variety and nutritional value.
Photo by Jnr Jose
Flexibility is key when designing kids menus to accommodate dietary preferences and portion sizes that work for each child. Brands like Thompson Restaurants are leveraging customization to cater to picky eaters, offering variations of adult menu items in smaller portions on the kids menu. By giving children the freedom to choose and explore different flavors, restaurants enhance their dining experience and encourage them to be more adventurous with their food choices.
Empowering children to make their menu choices fosters a sense of independence and engagement with the dining experience. Encouraging children to explore beyond conventional kids menu items not only broadens their palate but also establishes a positive relationship with food. By respecting children's preferences and interests, restaurants can create a welcoming and inclusive environment that resonates with families seeking memorable dining outings.
Some restaurants are going beyond culinary experiences by incorporating charitable partnerships into their kids menu offerings. By donating a portion of proceeds from kids' meals to organizations like Boston Children's Hospital, establishments demonstrate a commitment to giving back and supporting the community. This approach not only differentiates the dining experience but also resonates with families who value socially responsible establishments, driving repeat business and loyalty.