Photo by Unseen Histories on Unsplash
Franchise Frenzy: Cross-Border Growth
A look at how U.S. brands expand through multi-unit deals, cross-border partnerships, and seasoned operators in 2026.
Apr 29, 2026
Photo by Unseen Histories on Unsplash
A look at how U.S. brands expand through multi-unit deals, cross-border partnerships, and seasoned operators in 2026.
Apr 29, 2026
Photo by Erik Mclean on Unsplash
McDonald’s unveils six beverages across 14,000 restaurants on May 6, expanding McCafé with Refresher and crafted sodas and a new store-level beverage specialist role.
Apr 29, 2026
Learn how to write a coffee shop business plan that covers concept, location, menu, finances, branding, marketing, and risk planning.
Apr 27, 2026
Explore marketing strategies for food businesses using reviews, professional photos, SEO, social media, partnerships, events, and catering.
Apr 28, 2026
Photo by shen wenjie on Unsplash
Holiday-driven menu drops fuse nostalgia with wellness, turning menus into living calendars for fast-casual brands.
Apr 28, 2026
Photo by Abdul Raheem Kannath on Unsplash
Susannah Frost named Chick-fil-A President, joining Cliff Robinson as COO to guide domestic expansion and international growth.
Apr 28, 2026
Photo by Moon Bhuyan on Unsplash
Ghost pepper-led promotions redefine autumn menus as chains blend heat, storytelling, and seasonal collaborations to drive foot traffic.
Apr 28, 2026
Photo by Noah Martinez on Unsplash
CAVA rolls out Garlic Ranch Pita Chips with a Steak + Harissa Bowl and a refreshed Rewards program, tying flavor innovation to personalized guest experiences.
Apr 28, 2026
Photo by Kate Trysh on Unsplash
Applebee’s launches Pick 6 Mondays, offering free wings with a $10 purchase when a Pick 6 occurs on Sundays, driving game-day momentum across dine-in and To Go.
Apr 28, 2026
Photo by Stu Moffat on Unsplash
Beatrice Nguyen explores how leadership blends speed, loyalty, and standardized operations to grow Shake Shack while preserving its signature experience.
Apr 28, 2026
Discover the spicy and savory world of chili crisp, the trending condiment transforming restaurant menus. Learn how chefs are incorporating this flavorful topping into various dishes.
Photo by iMin Technology on Unsplash
Photo by iMin Technology on Unsplash
Chili crisp, a tantalizing blend of heat, crunch, and savory notes, has taken the culinary world by storm. Leveraging its origins from the Mandarin term 'spicy oil,' chili crisp infuses oil with crispy chiles, garlic, onion, Sichuan peppercorns, and umami-boosting ingredients like mushroom powder. This explosive combination has not only tantalized taste buds but has also rapidly gained popularity in restaurant kitchens.
Photo by iMin Technology on Unsplash
Chefs and food establishments are exploring the versatile nature of chili crisp, incorporating it into a wide array of dishes. From drizzling it over Brussels sprouts hash to using it as a sauce for wings and stir-fries, the adaptability of chili crisp knows no bounds. Its ability to enhance flavors and add a unique spicy kick has made it a sought-after condiment for both traditional and fusion cuisines.
Photo by iMin Technology on Unsplash
With a surge in menu mentions of chili crisp, outpacing the growth of other condiments like hot honey, it's evident that customers are craving more adventurous flavors. Restaurant chains like First Watch, Honeygrow, and Moe's Southwest Grill have successfully integrated chili crisp into their offerings, amplifying the dining experience with its complex profile. This trend underscores the importance of innovation in menu development to cater to evolving consumer preferences.
Photo by iMin Technology on Unsplash
Renowned chefs like Jet Tila have championed the use of chili crisp, further propelling its mainstream acceptance. Collaborations with brands like Mr. Bing have streamlined the accessibility of quality chili crisp products, making it easier for restaurants to experiment with this fiery condiment. The endorsement of celebrity chefs and partnerships with established names have cemented chili crisp's position as a culinary staple.
Beyond its taste appeal, chili crisp also aligns with sustainability efforts in the culinary industry. Restaurants such as P.J. Whelihan's and Pret a Manger have leveraged chili crisp in innovative ways, reducing waste by using it across multiple dishes. Its ability to add spice, savoriness, and crunch makes it a versatile and eco-conscious choice for chefs looking to optimize ingredient usage.