AI Playbook for Restaurant Owners
This AI playbook covers restaurant tools for voice ordering, staffing, compliance, menu pricing, inventory, marketing, ChatGPT prompts, and SEO.
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
Opening a coffee shop in 2026 requires careful cost planning across rent, equipment, labor, technology, menu strategy, marketing, and sustainability.
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
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
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
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
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
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!
Explore the operational improvements and turnaround strategy implemented at Dave & Buster's under new leadership, driving positive results and growth.
Photo by Osman Rana
Tarun Lal's extensive background in restaurant operations, both domestically as the KFC U.S. president and internationally as the managing director for KFC in diverse regions, brings a wealth of experience to Dave & Buster's. His successful track record of growing and improving businesses positions him as a key leader in the brand's turnaround efforts.
Photo by Osman Rana
Under Lal's leadership, Dave & Buster's initiated a 'back to basics' strategy focused on rectifying past mistakes and implementing targeted changes across marketing, menu offerings, operations, and game investments. By reintroducing popular combos like the Eat & Play deal, adjusting media spending, and simplifying messaging, the brand aimed to reconnect with its customers and boost engagement.
To enhance customer experience and drive footfall, Dave & Buster's introduced the Summer Pass, offering guests unlimited gameplay and discounts on food and beverages. By addressing pricing issues, revising menu layouts, and planning the launch of a new menu, the brand demonstrated its commitment to evolving with consumer preferences and demands.
Recognizing the importance of operational efficiency, Dave & Buster's focused on streamlining processes and listening to its employees' insights. By implementing a store manager incentive program tied to same-store sales growth, the brand empowered its frontline staff to take ownership and drive positive results.
The operational changes and strategic initiatives led by Lal yielded positive outcomes, with Dave & Buster's reporting encouraging sales improvements during critical periods like Memorial Day weekend. As the brand continues its trajectory of growth and innovation, the outlook for sustained success in the competitive restaurant landscape appears promising.