10 Must-Have Restaurant Technology Tools
Discover ten essential technology tools that help restaurant owners streamline operations, control costs, improve accuracy, and support better daily decisions.
Jul 31, 2026
Discover ten essential technology tools that help restaurant owners streamline operations, control costs, improve accuracy, and support better daily decisions.
Jul 31, 2026
Jersey Mike’s $1 billion IPO highlights big ambitions in franchising and international expansion, although shares dipped on debut. Restaurant owners take note - here’s what the move means for growth strategies ahead.
Jul 31, 2026
Every restaurant owner knows the industry is challenging, but failure is rarely caused by a single issue. From labor management and food costs to cash flow and technology decisions, here's what separates struggling restaurants from successful ones.
Jul 31, 2026
Discover how Chipotle’s Recipe for Growth is driving record sales, operational excellence, and digital innovation - insights for every restaurant leader.
Jul 30, 2026
Learn food cost management strategies to control inventory, reduce waste, improve purchasing, standardize portions, optimize pricing, and protect restaurant profits.
Jul 29, 2026
Grow your restaurant's email marketing list using websites, QR codes, loyalty programs, social media, incentives, events, and customer signups effectively.
Jul 29, 2026
DoorDash is changing how it calculates delivery and service fees, with longer-distance orders likely to cost more and shorter, larger orders set to stay the same or decrease.
Jul 29, 2026
Whataburger welcomes financial veteran Ryan Moore as its new CFO, signaling a strategic focus on national expansion and sustainable growth for the iconic brand.
Jul 29, 2026
Improve kitchen ticket times with practical strategies for better preparation, smoother workflows, stronger communication, smarter staffing, and effective restaurant technology.
Jul 27, 2026
PopUp Bagels welcomes industry veteran Mike Smith as Chief Operating Officer to lead their next phase of growth, putting quality and guest experience at the forefront.
Jul 28, 2026
Explore how Tony Darden's appointment as COO at Portillo's will impact the restaurant's operations and national expansion. Learn about his background and the innovative plans for Portillo's future growth.

Tony Darden's recent appointment as chief operating officer at Portillo's marks a significant milestone for the fast-casual restaurant chain. With a wealth of experience in the restaurant industry, Darden brings a fresh perspective and a proven track record of operational excellence to the table. Before joining Portillo's, Darden held notable positions at prominent restaurant brands like Jack in the Box, Mooyah Burgers, Taco Bueno, Sun Holdings, and Panera Bread. His diverse background makes him a valuable asset in steering Portillo's towards its ambitious growth goals.
One of the key responsibilities Tony Darden will undertake as the COO of Portillo's is driving innovation and efficiency across the company's operations. With the restaurant industry evolving rapidly, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for sustained success. Darden's strategic vision and operational acumen will play a pivotal role in streamlining processes, optimizing resources, and ensuring Portillo's maintains its competitive edge in the market.

Effective leadership is not just about implementing strategies but also about building high-performing teams. Tony Darden's leadership style focuses on fostering innovation, collaboration, and a culture of excellence within the organization. By championing talent development and nurturing a positive work environment, Darden is set to empower Portillo's teams to deliver exceptional guest experiences and drive operational excellence.
Portillo's upcoming 'Restaurant of the Future' in Grapevine, Texas, symbolizes the brand's commitment to innovation and adaptability. With a smaller, more efficient design and features like kiosks and a Grab and Go area, this new concept marks a significant shift towards modernizing the guest experience. Tony Darden's leadership will be instrumental in ensuring the successful implementation of this innovative concept and paving the way for future expansion and growth opportunities.
As Portillo's looks to expand its footprint nationally, Tony Darden's appointment comes at a crucial juncture. His expertise in scaling operations and driving strategic growth aligns perfectly with the company's vision for expansion. With more than 80 restaurants across 10 states, Portillo's is poised for further growth, and Darden's leadership will undoubtedly play a key role in navigating the challenges and opportunities that come with expanding into new markets.