Potbelly AvoToast LTO debuts
Cold Brew Coffee Shake, AvoToast added to spring menu as LTOs A Potbelly AvoToast and Cold Brew Coffee Shake are two new products coming from Ryan LaRoche, Potbelly Sandwich Shop […]
Food trends for 2019 and beyond
Food and beverage trends are usually based on more than just flavor profiles. What becomes popular is often based on the mood of the market. The attitude of the consumer is decided by the perceived strength of the economy, collective fears and anxiety, or other often hard to predict factors. On the topic of predicting up-and-comers, top forensic trendologist, Suzy Badaracco, president of Culinary Tides, explains that consumers are not feeling particularly grounded or confident... 2019 food trends
Qdoba adds Pulled Pork and Queso Burrito to U.S., Canadian stores
Qdoba has introduced a Pulled Pork and Queso Burrito. The 750-unit fast-casual says its pulled pork is the leanest protein on the menu. Inside the burrito, guests will find the pulled pork, slow braised with a seasoning blend infusing it with tomatoes, onion, garlic and mild chile flavors, nestled in a warm flour tortilla with a cilantro-lime white rice and seasoned with black beans, cilantro, and topped with pico de gallo, shredded cheese and Qdoba’s 3-Cheese Queso.
Macaroni Grill adds fall comfort menu as LTO, Braised Lamb Shank, Pumpkin Cheesecake
Romano's Macaroni Grill is focusing on classic comfort foods as it introduces its fall 2018 seasonal menu. The 108-unit Italian-style casual-dining restaurant chain is rolling out eight fall dishes as limited-time offerings: Prosciutto and Cheese Board, Osso Bucco, Braised Lamb Shank, Porterhouse Steak, Pumpkin Cheesecake, and Sea Salt Caramel Gelato.
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
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.
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.”
