Best Restaurant Marketing Ideas for 2026
This guide outlines restaurant marketing ideas that help operators attract nearby customers, convert demand faster, and strengthen long-term retention.
Apr 16, 2026
This guide outlines restaurant marketing ideas that help operators attract nearby customers, convert demand faster, and strengthen long-term retention.
Apr 16, 2026
A clear host training process helps restaurants manage greetings, waitlists, reservations, seating decisions, and guest communication more consistently.
Apr 15, 2026
Chipotle reshapes loyalty with Rewards on Repeat, blending in-store promotions, staff incentives, and simpler redemption to boost traffic.
Apr 16, 2026
Photo by Salah Ait Mokhtar on Unsplash
A refined look at Papa Murphy’s strategy as MTY guides a cautious turnaround amid a crowded pizza landscape—digital play, local marketing, and a new Detroit-style offering.
Apr 16, 2026
Photo by Sergio Mena Ferreira on Unsplash
Mo’ Bettahs leaves Kansas City as it pivots to a PE-backed national expansion to Phoenix, Indianapolis, and Minneapolis.
Apr 16, 2026
Photo by Kate Trysh on Unsplash
Applebee’s O-M-Cheese Burger fuses spectacle with value, driving social buzz and foot traffic—a signal for the skillet-cheese moment in casual dining.
Apr 16, 2026
Photo by Diego Mattevi on Unsplash
GoTo Foods taps Misra and Lambert to harmonize digital momentum with disciplined development across seven brands, aiming for stronger guest experiences and franchisee economics.
Apr 16, 2026
Bojangles launches Bo’s Chicken Rippers in an eight-week pilot, turning bites into a hands-on, sauce-forward experience with interactive, tear-apart slabs.
Apr 16, 2026
Photo by Jim Sosengphet on Unsplash
Popeyes teams with One Piece for a limited menu and merch drop, blending bold flavors with anime fandom to boost traffic and loyalty.
Apr 16, 2026
Photo by dedy kurniawan on Unsplash
A close look at Jersey Mike’s rapid expansion, leadership shift, and international push under Blackstone’s ownership.
Apr 16, 2026
Discover the winners of the Hot Concepts awards and the upcoming CREATE event for emerging restaurateurs.
Photo by Patrick Tomasso on Unsplash
The Nation’s Restaurant News (NRN) Hot Concepts awards are a prestigious recognition that celebrates emerging chains in the foodservice industry. Powered by The Coca-Cola Company, these awards highlight brands with significant growth potential and the promise to become household names. Each year, NRN identifies a select number of brands that show remarkable growth momentum and the ability to captivate a mainstream audience.
This year's Hot Concept honorees represent a diverse range of innovative brands that are making waves in the restaurant industry. These emerging chains have demonstrated impressive growth and are poised to leave a lasting impact on the culinary landscape. The honorees will be recognized at the CREATE: The Event for Emerging Restaurateurs, providing a platform to share their unique stories and experiences.
Photo by Patrick Tomasso on Unsplash
The Hot Concepts awards not only celebrate success but also inspire future restaurateurs to pursue their dreams of entrepreneurship. By showcasing the innovative spirit and forward-thinking approach of these brands and their leaders, the awards encourage creativity and bold initiatives in the competitive restaurant market. The recognition highlights the dedication and passion of individuals driving the industry forward.
Photo by Patrick Tomasso on Unsplash
Past winners of the Hot Concepts awards include renowned chains like Panda Express, Raising Cane’s, The Cheesecake Factory, Jamba, and CAVA. These brands have successfully transitioned from emerging chains to household names, setting a powerful example for the current honorees. They serve as beacons of achievement and inspiration for aspiring restaurateurs looking to make a significant impact in the industry.
The restaurant industry continues to witness a diverse range of brands, menus, and leaders emerging across the country. The Hot Concepts winners represent the vibrant tapestry of innovation and creativity that defines the culinary landscape. With a focus on uniqueness and excellence, these brands showcase the evolving preferences of consumers and the dynamic nature of the foodservice sector.
CREATE, hosted at the Omni Nashville Hotel, is a premier event that brings together restaurant leaders and innovators to explore the latest trends and insights shaping the industry. The event serves as a platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration among industry professionals. By uniting established brands with emerging concepts, CREATE fosters a culture of growth and excellence in the restaurant business.
Restaurant leaders have the opportunity to register for CREATE for free, gaining access to a wealth of valuable sessions, discussions, and interactions with industry experts. This event provides a unique chance to connect with like-minded professionals, gain strategic insights, and uncover new opportunities for growth and success. By participating in CREATE, attendees can gain valuable knowledge and inspiration to propel their businesses forward.