Identifying Sources of Inspiration
Restaurant designers are always looking for creative sparks, and 33% find inspiration in their...
The Latest
Identifying the Most Creative Part of the Restaurant Design Process
Early concept development is the part of the design process that sparks the most creativity from 53% of restaurant development + design readers, according to a survey fielded in December 2025.
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.
Featured
Identifying Sources of Inspiration
Restaurant designers are always looking for creative sparks, and 33% find inspiration in their client’s brand and story, per a restaurant development + design reader survey fielded in December 2025.
Restaurant Designers Reveal Top Influences in Material Selection
In a survey fielded in December, readers of restaurant development + design magazine detailed what most influences their material and finish selections.
How to Get Unstuck — Creatively
When asked what they do when they’re stuck, creatively speaking, 34% of readers of restaurant development + design magazine said they go visit restaurants and other hospitality spaces for inspiration.
Nostalgia Named Top Design Driver for 2026
Nostalgia-driven aesthetics will be the most influential restaurant design style for 2026, according to 36% of restaurant development + design readers participating in a December 2025 survey.
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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Identifying the Most Creative Part of the Restaurant Design Process
Early concept development is the part of the design process that sparks the most creativity from 53%...
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