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
Understand how to evaluate a Kiosk system using key criteria including features, POS integration, hardware, pricing, customer experience, and support.
Aug 31, 2026
Learn how to calculate restaurant cost of goods using inventory, purchases, COGS percentage, variance reviews, and regular tracking for profitability.
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
Learn practical ways to reduce labour costs through smarter scheduling, forecasting, productivity, cross-training, automation, overtime control, and performance monitoring strategies.
Aug 26, 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
Create a practical restaurant marketing plan by setting goals, targeting customers, choosing channels, budgeting wisely, scheduling campaigns, and measuring results.
Aug 24, 2026
A payroll advance policy helps restaurant owners define eligibility, limits, repayment, documentation, approval procedures, and compliance requirements for employee advances.
Aug 24, 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
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Explore the evolving landscape of beverage innovation in the restaurant industry with the emergence of dirty sodas and premium crafted drinks.
Photo by Claudio Schwarz
The emergence of dirty sodas, a trend that gained momentum in the 2010s, has transformed beverage menus in the restaurant industry. Initially popularized in Utah by concepts like Swig, dirty sodas are a fusion of traditional sodas with unique additives such as syrups and creamers, offering consumers a customizable and indulgent experience.
As social media drives consumer demand for premium and Instagrammable drinks, major soda makers like Coca-Cola and Pepsi are adapting their beverage lineups. This shift reflects a growing trend where consumers seek innovative and personalized beverage options beyond the traditional offerings.
Photo by Claudio Schwarz
Restaurant operators view dirty sodas as a strategic way to introduce limited-time offerings that set them apart from competitors. By leveraging such innovative beverages, restaurants can drive higher check averages and attract customers looking for unique flavor experiences, thereby enhancing overall sales performance.
Both Coca-Cola and Pepsi are investing in premium crafted drinks to cater to the evolving preferences of consumers, especially the Gen Z demographic. Offering customization and a mixology experience, these brands aim to create unique beverages based on classic products while incorporating new flavors and ingredients to elevate the drinking experience.
Photo by Claudio Schwarz
Despite the visually striking appearance of dirty sodas, flavors that resonate with consumers' palates continue to drive sales growth. Classic flavors like Blue Raspberry and Mango, coupled with innovative ingredient combinations, have proven to be popular choices. Beverage companies are experimenting with new syrups and flavors to create exciting variations, mirroring the success of established favorites.
With the rising popularity of premium beverages, quick-service restaurant chains are diversifying their drink menus to include unique offerings. From lemonades to freezes and refreshers, brands like McDonald’s, KFC, and Taco Bell are exploring novel beverage concepts to stay competitive and capture the interest of discerning consumers.