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 story behind Hot 'n Now's comeback in the fast-food industry. Learn about its history, challenges, and plans for expansion.


Hot 'n Now, the iconic fast-food burger concept founded in Kalamazoo, Michigan in 1984, is poised for a remarkable comeback, thanks to Gun Lakes Investments' strategic acquisition of the brand name. With plans to open two new locations in Michigan this year and a vision for further expansion in the future, Hot 'n Now is ready to reclaim its position in the hearts of fast-food enthusiasts.
The journey of Hot 'n Now has been a rollercoaster ride, marked by ownership changes, acquisitions, and setbacks. After being acquired by Taco Bell in 1990 and eventually sold in 1996, the chain faced turbulent times, leading to a bankruptcy filing in 2004. However, true to its resilient spirit, Hot 'n Now persevered, survived, and is now gearing up for a remarkable resurgence.
Hot 'n Now's plan to focus on drive-thru and walk-up-only locations with modular buildings signifies a strategic move towards catering to modern consumer preferences for convenience and speed. By partnering with Jeff Konczak's B Cubed Manufacturing, the brand is embracing innovation while staying true to its roots, setting the stage for a successful renaissance.
With the announcement of new Hot 'n Now locations in Michigan, residents and fans of the brand have reason to rejoice. The revival of Hot 'n Now not only brings back nostalgic memories but also represents a beacon of hope in the local fast-food scene, injecting new life and excitement into the industry.
The collaboration between Gun Lakes Investments and developer Jeff Konczak to form HNN Holdings LLC showcases a synergy of vision, dedication, and expertise. Monica King, CEO of GLI, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the shared energy and passion that will drive Hot 'n Now's resurgence. This partnership paves the way for a bright future for the brand.