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
Learn about the appointment of Jack Hartung, former Chipotle executive, to Portillo's board and its implications for the fast-casual restaurant's growth and expansion plans.


Portillo’s Inc. announcing the appointment of Jack Hartung to its board marks a strategic move geared towards fortifying the fast-casual restaurant's leadership team. As an esteemed figure in the industry, with a rich background at Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. and McDonald's Corp., Hartung brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table.
Jack Hartung carries a reputation as a pioneer in the fast-casual dining sector, having played pivotal roles in renowned establishments such as Chipotle. His accomplishments as the former president and chief strategy officer at Chipotle underscore his profound impact on the industry's landscape, making his addition to Portillo's board a significant development.

Mike Miles, Portillo’s chair, emphasized the invaluable experience that Jack Hartung brings to Portillo's, particularly highlighting his expertise in driving operating excellence and achieving best-in-class cash-on-cash returns. Hartung's track record of success in spearheading growth strategies and operational efficiency aligns seamlessly with Portillo's goals to accelerate expansion and enhance customer experience.
Having held key positions at Chipotle and McDonald's, including serving as CFO in both organizations, Jack Hartung has successfully navigated the complexities of the restaurant industry. His instrumental role in Chipotle's growth from a modest number of restaurants to a widespread network demonstrates his strategic acumen and ability to drive sustained success amidst industry transformations.
With a background rooted in the Chicago suburbs, Jack Hartung's admiration for Portillo's commitment to quality food and exceptional service reflects a shared vision for elevating the dining experience. This alignment of values and vision between Hartung and Portillo's sets a promising foundation for collaborative growth strategies that resonate with the brand's heritage and ethos.