Twists and toppings can up the salad experience for diners
Salads aren’t just for dieters anymore. Consumers who are looking for healthier and functional dining options are adding salads to meals, or opting for salads as meals when dining out at restaurants. A few twists on salads can take them to the next level. The difference between a ‘salad” and a ‘bowl” can be in their size, and the amount of protein, rice or grain ingredients relative to greens and vegetables. In functionality, protein is a big winner and “protein bowls” have become more widespread.
Sonic adds LTO Breakfast Slingers to morning lineup
Sonic Drive-In has added a limited-time lineup of lighter-sized breakfast sandwiches to keep its customers on the move. The new Breakfast Slingers start at just $1.49 and 250 calories... Breakfast Slingers come in three options that are served on a buttery, brioche bun: egg and melted cheese and also either crispy bacon or savory sausage.
Creative menu ideas from Mexico inspire breakfast excitement way beyond Taco Tuesdays, breakfast burritos
Experimental diners don’t have to look too far to be inspired. Grain and Bakery Innovation, a culinary research report from Packaged Facts, a well-respected research firm, is spotlighting several takes on foods that are emerging or still developing. These creative insights look promising for foodservice application, including south-of-the-border foods in the form of globally-inspired tacos, chilaquiles and migas.
Macaroni Grill introduces new brunch menu, brunch drinks
omano’s Macaroni Grill continues to build on its sales momentum with a new brunch menu, on the heels of launching its Mix and Match and Unlimited Soup lunch specials. The new brunch menu was communicated through an email blast to customers in late July. The new Macaroni Grill brunch menu is being served until 4 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday. Diners can get a jump on weekend brunch on Sundays, when the Italian-style chain is opening at 10 a.m.
Emerging spice blends offer culinary opportunity: Mintel
Research firm Mintel identified emerging flavor trends that have potential for application in foodservice. In its 2018 U.S. Flavor Trends Report, global spice blends were identified as having unique potential for restaurants and foodservice organizations.Berbere is a blend of several spices, including ginger, basil, chili peppers, and garlic. It’s been used in stews, notes Mintel…. Ras el hanout is a variable and evolving spice, typically including cardamom, cumin, and ginger. Togarashi is added to soups and proteins and saw a 9 percent increase in mentions on menus from 2015 to 2017.
2018 Food, dining, restaurant trends with staying power
Here are the trends that appeared in our "2018 Food and Dining Trends Report" earlier this year that have staying power: Plant-based foods going mainstream; off-premise food poularity; local gives way to regional attribution; manifestation...overuse of term “local” dilutes meaning, significance, say experts regional global territories: “Southern Low Country, Ozarks, Appalachia, Cuba, India and the Middle East.”
Amid growing demand for plant-based proteins, Beyond Meat triples production capacity of meat alternatives
Beyond Meat indicates it has tripled production in Columbia, Missouri, with a second plant. Its new plant will expand production capacity from 30,000 to 100,000 square feet and add 250 new jobs....Beyond Meat produces plant-based proteins for a variety of customers. Beyond Meat has also recently added Beyond Sausage.
Macaroni Grill releases new menu, limited-time specials from chain’s history
Romano’s Macaroni Grill is getting a menu makeover, releasing a new menu with several new dishes to add to its offering. Macaroni Grill is also bringing back favorites from its 30-year history at participating locations...Seafood Cioppino, San Marino Chicken, grilled bone-in pork chop, said Holly Wagstaff-Bellomo.
