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 how recent sales are reshaping the operations of SPB in the restaurant industry, focusing on core brands like Krystal and strategies for growth.
Photo by alexey turenkov on Unsplash
Photo by alexey turenkov on Unsplash
The recent strategic shift at SPB towards focusing on core brands like Krystal, Logan's Roadhouse, J. Alexander's, Stoney River, Amada, and Village Whiskey signals a crucial operational restructuring aimed at streamlining resources and maximizing brand potential. By consolidating efforts and resources into these key brands, SPB can allocate more attention, innovation, and marketing initiatives towards driving growth and enhancing customer experiences.
Old Chicago, although a valued part of SPB's portfolio, underwent a significant repositioning effort to stabilize and revitalize the brand. The transition to a new ownership group with a fresh vision is poised to propel Old Chicago towards sustained success. Through strategic investments, operational refinement, and a focus on consumer trends, the brand is well-positioned to thrive in the competitive restaurant market.
SPB's acquisition of Old Chicago and brewery concepts, alongside the planned expansion of Krystal and Amada, exemplifies the company's commitment to strategic growth initiatives. The targeted expansion of Krystal to 500 units and the growth plans for Amada in the Sun Belt states indicate a forward-looking strategy to capitalize on market opportunities and cater to evolving consumer preferences.
As SPB continues to open new units and expand its footprint, operational excellence remains a key focus. By leveraging synergies across its core brands and implementing efficient operational practices, the company is well-positioned to navigate the dynamic restaurant industry landscape. The emphasis on market expansion, such as Krystal's debut in Tyler, Texas, showcases SPB's commitment to strategic growth and customer-centric initiatives.