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Farmheads, the growing hospitality collective responsible for hyper-local, farm-fare concepts Farmhouse Chicago and Farmhouse Evanston, opened Farm Bar, a "little sister" concept in the heart of Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood.

In many instances, a new restaurant design prompts the operator to update its packaging. But Tropical Smoothie Cafe plans to turn this process upside down.

The fast-casual segment has thrived in recent years by offering food that rivals sit-down establishments in combination with the speed and convenience of a quick-serve restaurant. That's a powerful value proposition.

Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. opened a completely redesigned concept store in its hometown of Dallas with plans to roll out the new look nationwide to all future locations. Dickey's Barbecue Pit plans to retrofit many of its locations with aspects of the new model.

Those who can, do.

The old adage about talent vs. talk applies well to John Paul Valverde and Miguel Vicens. The two are partners in Coevál Studio, a retail and hospitality design firm that has made a name for itself in the Dallas area in recent years.

Buffet chain Cici's Pizza has changed its name as part of a rebranding effort.

“Everyone is drawn to fire,” says Tim Byres, the executive chef and partner of Smoke in Plano, Texas. “Everyone has memories of fire, so there’s a nostalgia element to it.”

Originally a pattern designer, Stacy Garcia founded LebaTex in 1999. The company produces commercial-grade textiles.