Jollibee, Bun Slut, Wahlburgers, Outlaw Light Beer, and Famous Dave’s lead RestaurantNews.com’s Top 20 stories for the week ending March 16, 2025.
1) Jollibee Launches Its Franchising Program in the U.S.
The global restaurant brand is seeking high-caliber, multi-unit franchisees who not only see an outstanding business opportunity but who also believe in its mission to spread the joy of eating to everyone.
2) Urban Bird Hot Chicken Owners Acquires Bun Slut, Expanding Culinary Empire
With this expansion, the new ownership aims to scale Bun Slut’s operations, explore new markets, and introduce innovative menu items while maintaining the authenticity that has made it a fan favorite.
3) Zouk Group Las Vegas and Wahlburgers Reveal Sizzling Collaboration at Ayu Dayclub
The renowned burger brand is set to bring its bold flavors to the vibrant dayclub, adding a delicious twist to the ultimate summer party destination.
4) Outlaw Light Beer Unveils Investment Partnership with Country Music Powerhouse Koe Wetzel
Known for his rebellious energy and genre-blending country-rock sound, Wetzel is joining forces with Outlaw Light Beer to bring fans closer to the music, the moments and the beer he loves.
5) Famous Dave’s Unveils Exciting New Prototype Model for 2025, Expanding Its Reach With More Affordable, Convenient and Quality Dining Options
After years of development, this new format reimagines the classic barbecue experience while embracing consumer trends and offering a streamlined, cost-effective solution for both franchise partners and guests.
6) Bobby’s Burgers By Bobby Flay Introduces First-Ever Limited Time Menu Items
Chef Bobby Flay, the culinary expert behind the brand’s signature flavors, has personally crafted two new additions that showcase his passion for bold ingredients and culinary innovation.
7) Mountain Mike’s Pizza Elevates Steven Adyani to Chief Operations Officer
With 30+ years of experience in the restaurant industry, including a half-decade at Mountain Mike’s Pizza and previous leadership roles at Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, The Cheesecake Factory and with celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, Adyani brings a wealth of operational expertise to the position.
8) Restaurant Marketing Ideas for April
Restaurant owners and operators are always on the lookout for special events they can use in their online and offline marketing efforts.
9) National Restaurant Association Show Announces 24 Kitchen Innovations Award Recipients for 2025
These award-winning products address critical industry challenges, from streamlining kitchen workflows to improving sustainability and consistency, setting new standards for efficiency and performance.
10) Farmer Boys Introduces the Farmstand Fresh and Affordable Menu
Packed with bold flavors and high-quality, farm-sourced ingredients, this lineup delivers seven mouthwatering meals – all starting at $9.99!
11) New Report Reveals Concerning Trends with Restaurant Guest Retention
Analyzing behaviors of more than 60 million guests across 2,000+ restaurant locations and millions of transactions, the DataDelivers’ 2025 Guest Engagement Report reveals that customers might not love brands as much as the brands hope.
12) Firehouse Subs and Hot Ones Turn Up the Heat with Exclusive New Subs – and The Last Dab Dill Pickle
Two iconic, heat-obsessed brands team up to launch two new flavor-packed subs – Spicy Dill Hook & Ladder and Zesty Garlic Hook & Ladder – for a limited-time only.
13) Rotolo’s Craft & Crust Continues Further Expansion in Texas with New Carrollton Location
Rotolo’s Craft & Crust, the Louisiana-based pizza chain known for its handcrafted pizzas and community-driven mission, has announced the grand opening of its newest location in Carrollton, Texas.
14) Restaurant Franchise News from Bonchon, Salsarita’s, Perkins, and More!
Catch up on the latest restaurant franchise news from Bonchon, Salsarita’s Fresh Mexican Grill, Perkins American Food Co., Mountain Mike’s Pizza, Cheba Hut, Shawarma Press, Golden Corral, Nick the Greek, Boba Cucue, Teriyaki Madness, Bonchon, Chocolate Bash, and WaBa Grill.
15) New Restaurant Menu Offerings from Bennigan’s, Ono Hawaiian BBQ, Shoney’s, and More!
Here’s what’s On The Menu at Bennigan’s, Ono Hawaiian BBQ, Shoney’s, Sammy’s Sliders, Krystal, Chick-fil-A, Perkins American Food Co., Taco John’s, SAJJ Mediterranean, TooJay’s Deli, BIBIBOP Asian Grill, Tacodeli, PJ’s Coffee, Soulman’s Bar-B-Que, and Lime House Sushi and Ramen.
16) Goldbergs Group Expands Culinary Horizon With Addition of Pasta Mami to the Mix
The strategic partnership underscores Goldbergs Group’s commitment to providing exceptional food solutions across its restaurants, manufacturing plants, and catering services, particularly within its award-winning airline catering sector.
17) New Report from CHART + Opus Reveals Restaurant Training Trends for 2025
The study compiled insights from over 120 hospitality training leaders, with 78% representing restaurant operations spanning QSR, fast casual, and full-service segments.
18) Juice It Up! Debuts in Greater Phoenix Region With Tempe Opening
Juice It Up! is now serving its full menu of deliciously flavorful, handcrafted açaí bowls, blended-to-order smoothies and fresh-squeezed raw juices to Tempe-area guests seeking convenient, whole food-packed options.
19) City Barbeque Unveils Bold, Smoky Goodness with New Limited-Time Pastrami
Smoked to perfection, this pastrami lineup is the latest addition to City Barbeque’s commitment to delivering authentic, craft-cooked barbecue.
20) Florida Restaurants Can Now Attract More Diners with The Birthday CLUB’s Proven System
Florida restaurants now have a game-changing solution to drive more traffic and increase revenue, thanks to The Birthday CLUB.