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
Explore the potential impacts of President-elect Donald Trump's policies on the restaurant industry, recap of third-quarter earnings, and insights into performances from public restaurant companies like Red Robin, Dutch Bros, and Sweetgreen.
Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash
Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash
The recent presidential election has left many industries speculating on the potential impacts of President-elect Donald Trump's policies, and the restaurant industry is no exception. With proposed changes in tax policies, immigration laws, and healthcare regulations, there is uncertainty about how these shifts could affect restaurant businesses.
A closer look at down-ballot legislation in certain states reveals discussions on minimum wage increases and tipped wages. These changes could significantly impact restaurant operations, labor costs, and pricing strategies. Restaurant owners and operators must stay informed and adapt to these evolving regulations to sustain their businesses.
As third-quarter earnings reports become available, industry analysts and experts are evaluating the performances of public restaurant companies. Themes emerging from these reports highlight the varying successes and challenges faced by different brands. Understanding these trends is crucial for investors and stakeholders in the restaurant sector.
Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash
Public restaurant companies like Red Robin, Dutch Bros, and Sweetgreen have drawn attention with their recent performances. Red Robin's progress on its loyalty program showcases efforts to enhance customer retention and engagement. Dutch Bros' foray into testing food items reflects a potential diversification strategy, while Sweetgreen's surprising move to test fries indicates innovation in menu offerings.