Restaurant Technology Trends in 2026
Explore restaurant technology trends in 2026, including AI, automation, digital ordering, workforce tools, connected kitchens, personalization, and profitability strategies today.
Aug 28, 2026
Explore restaurant technology trends in 2026, including AI, automation, digital ordering, workforce tools, connected kitchens, personalization, and profitability strategies today.
Aug 28, 2026
Learn how to calculate restaurant cost of goods using inventory, purchases, COGS percentage, variance reviews, and regular tracking for profitability.
Aug 31, 2026
Understand how to evaluate a Kiosk system using key criteria including features, POS integration, hardware, pricing, customer experience, and support.
Aug 31, 2026
Learn the startup costs of opening an ice cream shop, including rent, equipment, renovations, permits, inventory, labor, marketing, and reserves.
Aug 28, 2026
A restaurant P&L statement reveals sales, expenses, and profits, helping owners manage costs, improve margins, and plan finances more effectively.
Aug 26, 2026
RaceTrac has appointed Jill Pemberton as chief financial officer, succeeding Karla Ahlert, who moves into the newly created role of chief administrative officer.
Aug 26, 2026
Learn practical ways to reduce labour costs through smarter scheduling, forecasting, productivity, cross-training, automation, overtime control, and performance monitoring strategies.
Aug 26, 2026
Levain Bakery appoints Lorna Sommerville and Taya Stenson as co-CEOs, blending operational and marketing expertise to power national expansion and innovation while staying rooted in its brand values.
Aug 25, 2026
Blaze Pizza welcomes Tracy Stockard as Chief Marketing Officer, bringing decades of brand and franchise experience to drive strategic growth and guest engagement.
Aug 25, 2026
Create a practical restaurant marketing plan by setting goals, targeting customers, choosing channels, budgeting wisely, scheduling campaigns, and measuring results.
Aug 24, 2026
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Explore how Portillo's is testing a breakfast menu in Chicago to meet strong consumer demand. Learn about the operational challenges and marketing strategies involved.


Portillo's decision to test a breakfast menu in Chicago stems from strong consumer demand in the market. CEO Michael Osanloo highlighted the request for their popular pepper and egg sandwich to be made available in the mornings, indicating a clear desire from customers for breakfast offerings. This move showcases the brand's agility in responding to customer preferences and adapting its menu to cater to evolving consumer needs.
While the decision was made to introduce breakfast, Portillo's initially focused on operational efficiency before aggressive marketing. Ensuring that the test phase runs smoothly is crucial to maintaining service standards and gauging customer responses accurately. By incorporating the breakfast menu into digital boards and selectively advertising it, the brand aims to assess the feasibility and customer reception of the new offerings before widespread promotion.

Despite limited marketing efforts in the initial phase, Portillo's strategically leveraged social media and local outlets to generate buzz about its breakfast menu trial. CEO Osanloo emphasized the importance of perfecting the food quality, operational processes, and its impact on lunch operations before expanding further. This cautious approach reflects the brand's commitment to delivering a seamless customer experience while exploring new avenues for growth.

As feedback trickles in from the test locations, Portillo's remains attentive to both positive and constructive inputs. Acknowledging the need for continuous improvement, the brand aims to refine its breakfast offerings based on customer responses. Additionally, expansion considerations for the Chicagoland area include a more robust marketing strategy, aligning with Osanloo's vision for a well-executed breakfast menu rollout across the region.
Portillo's breakfast menu is currently available from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., providing customers with dine-in, drive-thru, and takeout options. By extending service across multiple channels during morning hours, the brand maximizes accessibility and convenience for patrons, showcasing its commitment to meeting varied customer preferences and enhancing the overall dining experience.