How Much Does It Cost to Open a Coffee Shop in 2026?
Opening a coffee shop in 2026 requires careful cost planning across rent, equipment, labor, technology, menu strategy, marketing, and sustainability.
May 15, 2026
Opening a coffee shop in 2026 requires careful cost planning across rent, equipment, labor, technology, menu strategy, marketing, and sustainability.
May 15, 2026
This AI playbook covers restaurant tools for voice ordering, staffing, compliance, menu pricing, inventory, marketing, ChatGPT prompts, and SEO.
May 15, 2026
Hardee’s giant Boddie-Noell inks 31-unit Scooter’s Coffee deal for NC and VA, leveraging drive-thru growth and local roots with rollout over 12–18 months.
May 15, 2026
Wingstop turns match weeks into a multi-sensory festival, aligning bold pop-ups with World Cup energy to build brand affinity and measurable momentum.
May 15, 2026
The parent company behind Dunkin', Buffalo Wild Wings, and Arby's has filed for an IPO a move that could reshape how Wall Street views the restaurant sector.
May 15, 2026
Learn how to develop a memorable restaurant brand identity that stands out in a crowded market, attracts loyal customers, and drives repeat business with actionable strategies and affordable tools.
May 15, 2026
Dirty soda chain Swig is expanding into Colorado through a 10-unit franchise deal, riding a consumer beverage trend that's catching the attention of major QSR players nationwide.
May 15, 2026
Papa Johns has teamed up with Alphabet's Wing for drone delivery of its new sandwich lineup in parts of Charlotte marking the first partnership of its kind between Wing and a national QSR brand.
May 15, 2026
A warm, expert-led look at McDonald’s Q1 results, menu makeover, and the refranchise question shaping its growth.
May 14, 2026
A reflective look at Habit Ranch, its immersive desert activation, and what it signals for brand loyalty and mindful, experiential dining.
May 14, 2026
Unlock Exclusive Access To Webinars, Events, And The Latest News For Free!
Discover the top menu trends in 2024 that shaped the foodservice industry, from sustainable ingredients to bold flavors and exciting textures.
Photo by Samuel Regan-Asante

Photo by Samuel Regan-Asante
In 2024, sustainability took center stage in menu innovation. Ingredients like mushrooms, known for their eco-friendly nature, gained prominence. Mushrooms not only provide a meat alternative but also contribute to sustainable farming practices. Oysters emerged as a regenerative choice, enhancing menus with their ability to improve water quality. This environmental consciousness reflected a growing trend towards responsible sourcing and ethical dining.
The culinary landscape in 2024 saw an exciting blend of flavors. From the classic yet refreshing vanilla-orange combo reminiscent of childhood creamsicles to the savory richness of umami-enhancing mushrooms, chefs played with contrasting tastes to captivate diners' palates. The rise of chicken curry and spicy variants like ghost peppers and Nashville hot chicken mirrored Americans' increasing affinity for bold and diverse flavor profiles, catering to a diversified taste palette.
2024 witnessed a fervor for spice in restaurant menus. Chili crisp, known for its fiery kick, became a staple condiment, offering texture, heat, and umami notes to dishes. The popularity of ghost peppers and the evolution of spiced-up classics like chicken curry signaled a shift towards embracing heat in culinary offerings. This spicy trend catered to adventurous eaters seeking new taste experiences and added a fiery edge to menus nationwide.
Texture played a pivotal role in menu development, with chefs exploring indulgent and creamy elements. Burrata, with its luscious interior, became a go-to ingredient, elevating salads and appetizers with its silky texture. The concept of dirty sodas, known for their frothy and creamy consistency, delighted beverage enthusiasts seeking a decadent twist. Dry-aging fish emerged as a technique to enhance protein texture, offering diners a unique and flavorful dining experience.