In 1921, Billy Ingram and Walter Anderson scraped together $700 to open a small hamburger stand in Wichita, Kansas. 90 years later, it still serves up a mean slider. White Castle helped make the hamburger America’s favorite food, and changed the dining habits of a nation.
Wendy’s new chicken sandwiches aren’t nationally available yet, but customers in Columbus, Ohio can sample the new recipe early as the chain tests consumer response. New flavor profiles include the Bistro Cheddar Chicken and the Bruschetta Chicken. The sandwiches use whole white meat chicken breasts that are gently breaded and fried and Wendy’s signature potato bread buns.
While Chinese cuisine may have been the first Asian restaurant category to grow popular in America, modern diners are just as comfortable with Vietnamese, Thai and Indian food. The growing interest in Asian cuisines indicate that this niche is growing exponentially according to Technomic. Despite economic problems, many Asian franchises have seen their highest growth and sales in the past two years.
Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s are beginning a new campaign to help veterans and military families. The Stars for Troops fundraiser will encourage guests to all Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s locations in the U.S. to purchase a paper star for $1. The dollar will go directly to the military charities USA Care and Homes for Our Troops.
As Cinco De Mayo arrives, Chili’s is gearing up for the celebration by offering all guests through today a free order of Chips & Queso. Chili’s Skillet Queso is flavored with seasoned ground beef and served with fresh tortilla chips and salsa. The free appetizer requires the purchase of at least one full priced adult entree.
Smashburger is a fast casual chain offering a higher quality burger alternative to fast food chains, and they’ve just opened their sixth location in Phoenix, Arizona. The company plans to open at least 30 locations in the city in the next six years. Smashburger intends to become the favorite burger chain of Phoenix.
FastCasual.com has released a new report on the upcoming food and beverage trends named “Restaurant State of the Industry 2011, Part 1: Food and Beverage”. Restaurant owners and business owners interested in purchasing a new franchise will find the trend information useful. The report covers the fast casual, quick service and casual categories of the restaurant industry.
Dunkin’ Donuts offers the Coolatta drink for the summer months, which combines great coffee or other flavors with finely chipped ice. The newest flavor for 2011 combines the citrus of Mountain Dew with the Coolatta brand. The drink is currently in limited release, but if it proves popular the chain may add it to the national menu.
Mimosa Grill is inviting all families to celebrate Mother’s Day in style on Sunday, May 8th by enjoying their brunch. Chef Jon Fortes has created a number of quality dishes, including traditional brunch items like fresh pastries and shrimp cocktail. A number of small plates will also be on the buffet, such as pecan crusted trout and Eggs Benedict.