Readers Predict Moderate Growth for 2026
When asked what their company’s growth outlook is for 2026, 49% of restaurant development + design...
The Latest
The Red Chickz Enters Maryland
The Red Chickz is bringing its Nashville hot chicken concept to the East Coast with a new 3-unit franchise deal in Maryland.
Jersey Mike’s Founder Takes Chain to UK, Ireland
Jersey Mike’s Subs announced a franchise deal with JM Submarines UK LTD to open 400 stores in the UK and Ireland in the coming years. It marks the first European expansion for the company, and the first location is set to open later this year.
Salt & Straw Brings Experiential Ice Cream Retail to the Las Vegas Strip
The theme-driven ice cream shop opened two new locations at the base of the Eiffel Tower replica at Paris Las Vegas and within Flamingo Las Vegas.
bite-sized buzz for January 7, 2026
From localized branding initiatives to milestone openings, foodservice operators continue to lean into community connection and brand storytelling as growth strategies.
Featured
Maximalism Takes Miami: Inside Mary Lou’s Animal-Print-Driven Supper Club at W South Beach
Mama Hospitality has opened Mary Lou’s Miami, the third location of its supper club and nightlife concept, inside the W South Beach. The venue operates as a seasonal residency, occupying the former WALL lounge, which has been closed since 2020.
bite-sized buzz for January 21, 2026
Menu Matters’ newly released 2026 Consumer Needs report reveals a growing demand for authenticity, with consumers increasingly wary of AI-generated content and unsure where to find information they can trust. Meanwhile, Popeyes made headlines as Megan Thee Stallion opened her first franchise in Miami. Plus, we break down the latest 2025 chain development news by the numbers. Here’s what’s happening across the industry.
Trend: Indian Restaurants
Indian food is finally starting to receive the recognition it deserves in the United States. From New York City to Scottsdale, Ariz., we look at some outstanding designs.
Project Profile: Panda Inn
In 1973, Andrew Cherng opened the first Panda Inn restaurant, now the brand readies for 50 more years.
Fresh Designs
Fleming’s Unexpected Turn
With its new flagship location in Tampa, Fla., the chain is embracing the opposite of what guests expect. Brighter lighting, lighter tones and a variety of experiences under one roof is just some of what they offer.
KFC Gets Saucy
Saucy isn’t just about the sauces, despite the investment Yum! made in developing flavors like spicy mango chutney and jalapeno pesto ranch. Instead, Saucy is about the experience and the feelings it evokes in guests.
Fab Studio Unveils Art-Driven, Sustainable Design for Garnet in Mumbai
A new restaurant and nightclub opened in the heart of the Andheri neighborhood in Mumbai. The space seamlessly transitions from a serene daytime dining environment to an energetic nightlife destination.
Form Meets Function
Peer to Peer: Brian Seitz, Director of Store Design & Construction, Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken
As a long-time retail branding and design guy, Brian Seitz felt strongly that Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken had a great story to tell, as well as solid growth potential.
Form + Function: Implementing Automation
With a tight labor market and minimum wage rising in some states, new technology can be a game-changer for food and beverage brands, particularly in the QSR space.
Form + Function: The New Steakhouses
The steakhouse, a distinctive market segment, has been traditionally defined as a formal, somewhat dimly lit, white-tablecloth venue suitable for business meetings and celebrations. Some restaurateurs have turned that concept on its head.
Original Research
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Which Design Trend Had the Greatest Impact on Restaurant Projects in 2025?
In a reader survey fielded in October, restaurant development + design magazine asked readers what...
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