Readers Predict Moderate Growth for 2026
When asked what their company’s growth outlook is for 2026, 49% of restaurant development + design...
The Latest
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.
Konala Signs 25-Unit Franchise Deal Across Utah and Idaho
Konala, a better-for-you fast-food franchise, has signed a new 25-unit development agreement covering 10 locations in Northern Utah and 15 in the greater Boise, Idaho market.
Featured
Project Profile: Panda Inn
In 1973, Andrew Cherng opened the first Panda Inn restaurant, now the brand readies for 50 more years.
Nashville Korean BBQ & Hot Pot Debuts Expansive, Social Dining Concept in West Nashville
The venue includes private dining rooms for group events and incorporates nostalgic entertainment elements such as more than 20 claw machines.
Readers Dish: Jill Ventura, Vice President of Strategic Growth, Harrison
A culinary-trained former restaurant operator with 30 years of experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry, Jill Ventura has served on project teams and been a development leader for firms including Corner Bakery Cafe, Le Duff America and Wasserstrom. She now leads the U.S. business development team as vice president of strategic growth for design firm Harrison.
A Year in Design: Revisiting 2025’s Standout Restaurant Design Stories
Come with us for a trip down memory lane as we revisit some of 2025's top design-driven stories.
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...
Events
restaurant development + design magazine produces several free webinars each year on topics of interest to restaurant chain development executives, hospitality designers, restaurant designers, and others charged with building and remodeling restaurants.