How to Calculate the Right Menu Price for Each Item
Learn how to calculate menu price by analyzing ingredient costs, labor, overhead, demand, and contribution margin for stronger restaurant profits.
Jun 17, 2026
Learn how to calculate menu price by analyzing ingredient costs, labor, overhead, demand, and contribution margin for stronger restaurant profits.
Jun 17, 2026
Explore best Areas in Chicago to open a restaurant by matching neighborhood demand, concept type, costs, traffic, and customer behavior.
Jun 17, 2026
BJ's Restaurants has appointed Monika Saxena as brand president, bringing over two decades of experience from LongHorn Steakhouse and Darden Restaurants, where she helped drive 20 consecutive quarters of positive comparable sales growth.
Jun 17, 2026
Blue Bottle Coffee has introduced Kyoto-Style Espresso, a slow-drip cold espresso made without machines, launching across its 152 global locations on June 16 with seven new cold drinks designed specifically for the way modern customers order coffee.
Jun 17, 2026
Hungry Howie's has appointed Jimmy Simonte as Executive Vice President of Marketing, bringing more than 25 years of Domino's experience to the Michigan-born pizza brand as it undergoes a major technology overhaul and prepares to launch a new loyalty programme.
Jun 17, 2026
Starbucks CFO Cathy Smith is transferring her principal accounting officer role to Val Bauduin, who will continue serving as SVP of corporate finance and development while reporting to Smith amid the chain's ongoing turnaround.
Jun 17, 2026
Yum Brands has agreed to sell Pizza Hut through two separate transactions totalling $2.7 billion, with Long Range Capital acquiring the global business for $1.5 billion and Yum China Holdings purchasing the China operations for $1.2 billion.
Jun 16, 2026
Scooter's Coffee is running a buy-one-get-one drink offer from June 19 to 21, available exclusively through its mobile app after 11 a.m.- giving customers three days to treat dad to a free drink this Father's Day weekend.
Jun 16, 2026
A group of Twin Peaks franchisees has been named strategic advisor to the chain's new owners following its sale out of bankruptcy, with a clear path to acquiring the brand outright within the next 12 to 16 months.
Jun 16, 2026
Denny's is launching The Clock's Off Menu on June 24, combining breakfast, lunch, and dinner favorites available any time of day, alongside new Slammin' Meal Deals Under $10 and exciting rewards for new members.
Jun 16, 2026
Explore how top restaurant brands like McDonald’s, Wingstop, Raising Cane’s, Chipotle, and Starbucks are attracting Gen Z consumers and leveraging marketing strategies to tap into their spending power.
Photo by Marco Chilese
Photo by Marco Chilese
McDonald’s success in attracting Gen Z consumers stems from strategic brand collaborations and engaging viral campaigns. By partnering with popular brands like Genshin Impact and Crocs, McDonald’s stays relevant and resonates with the younger demographic. The chain's $5 Meal Deal and innovative offerings like the Grandma McFlurry and Collector’s Meal have also contributed to its appeal among Gen Z.
Photo by Marco Chilese
Wingstop's rise in Gen Z popularity can be attributed to its focus on digital channels and menu innovation. With a significant portion of sales coming from digital platforms, Wingstop has embraced the digital native generation effectively. The introduction of chicken sandwiches and strategic partnerships like becoming the Official Partner of the NBA have propelled its brand awareness among younger consumers.
Raising Cane’s success in appealing to Gen Z lies in its simplicity and focus on the popular chicken category. The chain's strategic partnerships with celebrities like Post Malone and Snoop Dogg have helped elevate its brand and increase awareness. By expanding into flagship locations and offering a straightforward menu, Raising Cane’s has positioned itself as a go-to choice for young consumers.
Photo by Marco Chilese
Chipotle's strategy of engaging with Gen Z through gaming partnerships and influencer collaborations has significantly boosted its magnetism among the demographic. By aligning with popular gaming titles like Tekken 8 and collaborating with social media influencers and Olympians, Chipotle has stayed relevant and appealing to younger consumers. Promotions tied to events like fantasy football have further enhanced its brand visibility.
Despite facing setbacks, Starbucks aims to re-establish itself as a favored destination for Gen Z consumers. With declining same-store sales and evolving consumer preferences, the brand has recognized the need for a marketing overhaul. By shifting focus to brand experience and everyday value, Starbucks is working towards creating a more engaging and less transactional environment to attract younger audiences.
Understanding the significance of user-generated content (UGC) is vital for brands targeting Gen Z. Younger audiences value authenticity and genuineness in content, making UGC a powerful tool for influencing their purchasing decisions. Platforms like TikTok play a crucial role, with brands leveraging UGC to connect with Gen Z on a more personal level.
Photo by Marco Chilese
As Gen Z continues to shape consumer trends and spending habits, brands must adapt their marketing strategies to resonate with this influential demographic. Embracing digital channels, fostering authentic brand experiences, and staying attuned to evolving preferences are key to capturing Gen Z's attention and loyalty in the competitive restaurant landscape.