Restaurant News
18th-century coffeehouse to open in Colonial Williamsburg
Don't expect soy lattes or Internet access for your laptop, but your next visit to Colonial Williamsburg could include a stop in a coffeehouse. Visitors will be able to experience an 18th century-style coffeehouse when R. Charlton's Coffeehouse opens Nov. 20 on Duke of Gloucester Street at the historic site. Free coffee, tea and hot chocolate inspired by 18th-century recipes will be served in demitasse cups at R. Charlton's. Costumed re-enactors will discuss with visitors how the consumption of these drinks related to colonial society, hospitality and political issues of the day, including trade and taxes.
Don't expect soy lattes or Internet access for your laptop, but your next visit to Colonial Williamsburg could include a stop in a coffeehouse. Visitors will be able to experience an 18th century-style coffeehouse when R. Charlton's Coffeehouse opens Nov. 20 on Duke of Gloucester Street at the historic site. Free coffee, tea and hot chocolate inspired by 18th-century recipes will be served in demitasse cups at R. Charlton's. Costumed re-enactors will discuss with visitors how the consumption of these drinks related to colonial society, hospitality and political issues of the day, including trade and taxes.
At McDonald's, Time is Money
At a McDonald's Corp. test kitchen in an unmarked Illinois warehouse, next year's menu plan for the U.K. has hit a snag. When the visiting British team adds wrap sandwiches, service slows. "This is the place to find out," said Jeff Stratton, McDonald's chief restaurant officer, as he considered the wrap's fate, which will be decided by U.K. executives. It's among dozens of new products being tested at the Innovation Center. "We will probably not recommend they add this one until the bugs are worked out," he said. Speed is increasingly the focus, as McDonald's tries to increase customer satisfaction and gain market share amid an economic slowdown that's driving people to eat at home. The company is banking on innovations tested here, including warming trays that hold 50 percent more burgers and software that streamlines ordering, to shave seconds off food delivery.
At a McDonald's Corp. test kitchen in an unmarked Illinois warehouse, next year's menu plan for the U.K. has hit a snag. When the visiting British team adds wrap sandwiches, service slows. "This is the place to find out," said Jeff Stratton, McDonald's chief restaurant officer, as he considered the wrap's fate, which will be decided by U.K. executives. It's among dozens of new products being tested at the Innovation Center. "We will probably not recommend they add this one until the bugs are worked out," he said. Speed is increasingly the focus, as McDonald's tries to increase customer satisfaction and gain market share amid an economic slowdown that's driving people to eat at home. The company is banking on innovations tested here, including warming trays that hold 50 percent more burgers and software that streamlines ordering, to shave seconds off food delivery.
Burger King franchisees sue over $1 burger deal
Burger King's franchisees are taking their fight with the company over sandwich pricing to court. The National Franchisee Association filed a suit this week in U.S. District Court in Miami against Burger King, arguing that the company does not have the authority to "dictate maximum pricing." The suit comes after Burger King forced all franchisees to sell its double cheeseburger for $1, starting in October. Franchisees had twice during the summer voted against the promotion.
Burger King's franchisees are taking their fight with the company over sandwich pricing to court. The National Franchisee Association filed a suit this week in U.S. District Court in Miami against Burger King, arguing that the company does not have the authority to "dictate maximum pricing." The suit comes after Burger King forced all franchisees to sell its double cheeseburger for $1, starting in October. Franchisees had twice during the summer voted against the promotion.
McDonald's Espresso-based Coffee Gaining Steam
McDonald's big new beverage blitz -- espresso-based coffee drinks, smoothies and frappes -- is on track in test markets to exceed its sales goals, the head of McDonald's U.S. operations told a gathering of stock analysts Thursday.
McDonald's big new beverage blitz -- espresso-based coffee drinks, smoothies and frappes -- is on track in test markets to exceed its sales goals, the head of McDonald's U.S. operations told a gathering of stock analysts Thursday.
Starbucks Just 2% Past Pivot After Breakout
Starbucks broke out of a flat base in fast trade last Friday. The base was 11% deep and seven weeks long. Volume was generally subdued within the base. These elements are typical of a flat base.
Starbucks broke out of a flat base in fast trade last Friday. The base was 11% deep and seven weeks long. Volume was generally subdued within the base. These elements are typical of a flat base.
Female Executive Chefs Reveal Their Ingredients for Success
THE KITCHEN is still a man's world. But that's changing, at least in Philadelphia. While women may do most of the cooking at home, in restaurant kitchens across America, more often than not, the top toque is a man. According to an industry report by the National Restaurant Association, women account for just 17 percent of the chefs and head cooks in professional kitchens today (about 1 in 5), with ownership of 25 percent of eating and drinking establishments nationwide. Why this is so is up for debate. But the kitchen as a macho bastion is something most women chefs have to deal with early on in their career. "Generally speaking, kitchens are very male-dominated places that thrive under powerful, no-nonsense leadership," said Erin O'Shea, executive chef at the about-to-open Percy Street Barbecue. "It can be especially challenging, as a woman, to earn the respect necessary to lead people in this environment." While doyennes like Susanna Foo and Margaret Kuo have long led the way in their respective restaurants, a bumper crop of women is now leading the charge in kitchens from Manayunk to Center City to Lansdowne. Here are 15 - count 'em, 15 - women executive chefs, some of whom also own their restaurants.
THE KITCHEN is still a man's world. But that's changing, at least in Philadelphia. While women may do most of the cooking at home, in restaurant kitchens across America, more often than not, the top toque is a man. According to an industry report by the National Restaurant Association, women account for just 17 percent of the chefs and head cooks in professional kitchens today (about 1 in 5), with ownership of 25 percent of eating and drinking establishments nationwide. Why this is so is up for debate. But the kitchen as a macho bastion is something most women chefs have to deal with early on in their career. "Generally speaking, kitchens are very male-dominated places that thrive under powerful, no-nonsense leadership," said Erin O'Shea, executive chef at the about-to-open Percy Street Barbecue. "It can be especially challenging, as a woman, to earn the respect necessary to lead people in this environment." While doyennes like Susanna Foo and Margaret Kuo have long led the way in their respective restaurants, a bumper crop of women is now leading the charge in kitchens from Manayunk to Center City to Lansdowne. Here are 15 - count 'em, 15 - women executive chefs, some of whom also own their restaurants.
Investors Now Bullish on Bigger Companies
For Wall Street's bulls, bigger now has been a better idea. Shares of the largest, best-known U.S. companies are spearheading the market's latest advance -- a switch from the first seven months of the rally, when small-company stocks mostly led the charge.
For Wall Street's bulls, bigger now has been a better idea. Shares of the largest, best-known U.S. companies are spearheading the market's latest advance -- a switch from the first seven months of the rally, when small-company stocks mostly led the charge.
McDonald's Crooners Sing Chain's Praises
McDonald's says it's looking for stars among its employees to sing the fast-food chain's praises in a worldwide karaoke contest.
McDonald's says it's looking for stars among its employees to sing the fast-food chain's praises in a worldwide karaoke contest.
CKE Restaurants Reports Q3 Same-Store Sales
CKE Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE: CKR) announced today period ten company-operated same-store sales for the period ended November 2, 2009, for Carl's Jr.®and Hardee's®. "Unemployment rates have continued to worsen while our competitors have escalated the deep discount burger wars. Both of these events are having an adverse impact on same-store sales results for everyone including us," said Andrew F. Puzder, Chief Executive Officer. "We remain focused on same-store sales while maintaining our brand positioning and improving our restaurant operating margins. In this respect, and as discussed more fully below, we are forecasting that our company operated restaurant level margins will improve from 17.9% in the third quarter of fiscal 2009 to between 18.0% and 18.3% for the third quarter of fiscal 2010 despite an increase of approximately 80 basis points in depreciation expense, primarily related to our ongoing remodel program." Mr. Puzder continued, "We continue to move forward with our sales-building initiatives focused on increasing awareness of our excellent value-for-the-money premium products, such as the recently introduced Parmesan Chicken Sandwich at Carl's Jr., and our mid-tier priced items like The Big Carl(TM) and The Big Hardee(TM) burgers."
CKE Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE: CKR) announced today period ten company-operated same-store sales for the period ended November 2, 2009, for Carl's Jr.®and Hardee's®. "Unemployment rates have continued to worsen while our competitors have escalated the deep discount burger wars. Both of these events are having an adverse impact on same-store sales results for everyone including us," said Andrew F. Puzder, Chief Executive Officer. "We remain focused on same-store sales while maintaining our brand positioning and improving our restaurant operating margins. In this respect, and as discussed more fully below, we are forecasting that our company operated restaurant level margins will improve from 17.9% in the third quarter of fiscal 2009 to between 18.0% and 18.3% for the third quarter of fiscal 2010 despite an increase of approximately 80 basis points in depreciation expense, primarily related to our ongoing remodel program." Mr. Puzder continued, "We continue to move forward with our sales-building initiatives focused on increasing awareness of our excellent value-for-the-money premium products, such as the recently introduced Parmesan Chicken Sandwich at Carl's Jr., and our mid-tier priced items like The Big Carl(TM) and The Big Hardee(TM) burgers."
ON RESTAURANTS; Flu precautions a top priority; Vigilance especially important at restaurants
Central Ohio restaurants are fighting H1N1 by enforcing many of the same rules all businesses have been encouraged to follow, especially the dangers of "presenteeism." This refers to employees who keep coming to work despite illness, thus threatening the health of co-workers and customers. Such commitment is falling out of vogue as the H1N1 virus, also known as swine flu, continues to spread. "Administratively, we really discourage presenteeism -- anybody with a small cough or sneezing, we make them go home," said David Wible, executive director of the North Market.
Central Ohio restaurants are fighting H1N1 by enforcing many of the same rules all businesses have been encouraged to follow, especially the dangers of "presenteeism." This refers to employees who keep coming to work despite illness, thus threatening the health of co-workers and customers. Such commitment is falling out of vogue as the H1N1 virus, also known as swine flu, continues to spread. "Administratively, we really discourage presenteeism -- anybody with a small cough or sneezing, we make them go home," said David Wible, executive director of the North Market.
Home Depot Eyes Fast-food Chains to Buy Parcels.
Ever think a Home Depot parking lot is too sprawling and vacant? Home Depot does, too. "A number of stores have barren asphalt, and it's not in anyone's best interest to leave it sitting there," said Mike LaFerle, Home Depot's vice president of real estate. So the Atlanta-based chain has a new strategy: Sell chunks of its parking lots to fast-food chains, pet stores or auto parts outlets.
Ever think a Home Depot parking lot is too sprawling and vacant? Home Depot does, too. "A number of stores have barren asphalt, and it's not in anyone's best interest to leave it sitting there," said Mike LaFerle, Home Depot's vice president of real estate. So the Atlanta-based chain has a new strategy: Sell chunks of its parking lots to fast-food chains, pet stores or auto parts outlets.
Red Mango's Probiotic Iced Teas Win Award
DALLAS, Nov. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Red Mango, the fastest-growing retailer of all-natural nonfat frozen yogurt, and Ganeden Biotech, the largest seller of over-the-counter probiotics in the U.S., are recipients of a SupplySide Scientific Excellence Award for their collaboration and introduction of Red Mango's Probiotic Iced Teas. The award, which recognizes a leading ingredient supplier with a consumer packaged goods manufacturer for delivering an innovative product, will be presented at SupplySide West, on Friday, Nov. 13, at The Venetian & The Sands in Las Vegas. "This is a huge honor as we push the boundaries to deliver health, taste and style to consumers across the country with the very best products in the industry," said Dan Kim, president and CEO of Red Mango. "Adding our line of probiotic iced teas to the menu was a natural extension to our popular all-natural frozen yogurt flavors and another easy way for customers to stay healthy."
DALLAS, Nov. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Red Mango, the fastest-growing retailer of all-natural nonfat frozen yogurt, and Ganeden Biotech, the largest seller of over-the-counter probiotics in the U.S., are recipients of a SupplySide Scientific Excellence Award for their collaboration and introduction of Red Mango's Probiotic Iced Teas. The award, which recognizes a leading ingredient supplier with a consumer packaged goods manufacturer for delivering an innovative product, will be presented at SupplySide West, on Friday, Nov. 13, at The Venetian & The Sands in Las Vegas. "This is a huge honor as we push the boundaries to deliver health, taste and style to consumers across the country with the very best products in the industry," said Dan Kim, president and CEO of Red Mango. "Adding our line of probiotic iced teas to the menu was a natural extension to our popular all-natural frozen yogurt flavors and another easy way for customers to stay healthy."
Granite City Reports Financial Improvement
loss for Q3 2009 Casual restaurant chain Granite City Food & Brewery Ltd (Nasdaq:GCFB) on Monday reported for the third quarter of 2009 a net loss of USD1.7m (USD0.11 per share), compared to a net loss of USD4.3m (USD0.26 per share) last year.
loss for Q3 2009 Casual restaurant chain Granite City Food & Brewery Ltd (Nasdaq:GCFB) on Monday reported for the third quarter of 2009 a net loss of USD1.7m (USD0.11 per share), compared to a net loss of USD4.3m (USD0.26 per share) last year.
Calbi Fusion Tacos and Burritos Takes Residence at Universal Studios
Calbi Fusion Tacos and Burritos, the two mobile-unit LA based Korean taco truck chain, is excited to announce a three month residence at the famous Universal Studios, Hollywood. Focused on growth and recognition, the chain began its residency on Wednesday, October 28thand will continue through Sunday, January 31, 2010.
Calbi Fusion Tacos and Burritos, the two mobile-unit LA based Korean taco truck chain, is excited to announce a three month residence at the famous Universal Studios, Hollywood. Focused on growth and recognition, the chain began its residency on Wednesday, October 28thand will continue through Sunday, January 31, 2010.
McDonald's October Global Comp Sales Up 3.3%
OAK BROOK, Ill., Nov. 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- McDonald's Corporation announced today that global comparable sales rose 3.3% in October. Performance by segment was as follows: U.S. relatively flat at (0.1%)Europe up 6.4%Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa up 4.7% "Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and McDonald's is delivering what they want," said Chief Executive Officer Jim Skinner. "Our everyday, predictable value, outstanding menu and convenience continue to make us the preferred choice for a growing number of customers."
OAK BROOK, Ill., Nov. 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- McDonald's Corporation announced today that global comparable sales rose 3.3% in October. Performance by segment was as follows: U.S. relatively flat at (0.1%)Europe up 6.4%Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa up 4.7% "Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and McDonald's is delivering what they want," said Chief Executive Officer Jim Skinner. "Our everyday, predictable value, outstanding menu and convenience continue to make us the preferred choice for a growing number of customers."
Whataburger Launches Withdrawal Hotline for Customers
SAN ANTONIO, Nov. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Ah, the heartfelt pangs of sadness from those who will miss their Whataburger A.1. Thick & Hearty Burger. Since 1998, Whataburger has heard from legions of loyal fans who have patiently awaited the annual return of one of the company's most popular limited availability burgers. And though some have petitioned Whataburger to keep the burger on menus permanently, the 'love' for the A.1. Thick & Hearty Burger has waned and so it is time to move on. On December 21, the A.1. Thick and Hearty Burger will officially retire for good. The company anticipates fans of the burger will experience an intense period of grieving and withdrawal before being able to celebrate the burger's reign and ultimate farewell.
SAN ANTONIO, Nov. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Ah, the heartfelt pangs of sadness from those who will miss their Whataburger A.1. Thick & Hearty Burger. Since 1998, Whataburger has heard from legions of loyal fans who have patiently awaited the annual return of one of the company's most popular limited availability burgers. And though some have petitioned Whataburger to keep the burger on menus permanently, the 'love' for the A.1. Thick & Hearty Burger has waned and so it is time to move on. On December 21, the A.1. Thick and Hearty Burger will officially retire for good. The company anticipates fans of the burger will experience an intense period of grieving and withdrawal before being able to celebrate the burger's reign and ultimate farewell.
Alien Adventure 'Planet 51' Lands at Burger King
Starting Nov. 16, Burger King Corp. (NYSE:BKC) will help bring the themes of adventure and exploration to kids through a series of Planet 51 premiums available with BK Positive StepsSMKids Meal options, such as a two-pack of BK BURGER SHOTS®, BK® Fresh Apple Fries and HERSHEY'S® fat free milk. The premiums, available through a joint promotion with Columbia Pictures, will be available at BURGER KING® restaurants beginning Nov. 16; the film will be released Nov. 20. Capturing the characters and gadgets from the movie, one of six toys will accompany each BK® Kids Meal while supplies last. Toys such as the film's "Rover" character and "Planet 51 Animator," which features lenticular scenes from the film, all invite interactive play and bring the film to life.
Starting Nov. 16, Burger King Corp. (NYSE:BKC) will help bring the themes of adventure and exploration to kids through a series of Planet 51 premiums available with BK Positive StepsSMKids Meal options, such as a two-pack of BK BURGER SHOTS®, BK® Fresh Apple Fries and HERSHEY'S® fat free milk. The premiums, available through a joint promotion with Columbia Pictures, will be available at BURGER KING® restaurants beginning Nov. 16; the film will be released Nov. 20. Capturing the characters and gadgets from the movie, one of six toys will accompany each BK® Kids Meal while supplies last. Toys such as the film's "Rover" character and "Planet 51 Animator," which features lenticular scenes from the film, all invite interactive play and bring the film to life.
Jack in the Box Antennae Ball Raise Funds for Big Brothers/Sisters
The following information was released by Big Brothers Big Sisters: When it comes to the antenna ball game, Jack in the Box restaurants are in a league of their own with more than 28 million of the popular Jack antenna balls in circulation. The company today unveils its newest antenna ball, which will raise money for Big Brothers Big Sisters, the nation's largest donor-supported network of volunteer mentors of youth.
The following information was released by Big Brothers Big Sisters: When it comes to the antenna ball game, Jack in the Box restaurants are in a league of their own with more than 28 million of the popular Jack antenna balls in circulation. The company today unveils its newest antenna ball, which will raise money for Big Brothers Big Sisters, the nation's largest donor-supported network of volunteer mentors of youth.
Casual Restaurants Treat Veterans to Free Meal
For all the forgettable Veterans Day sales, there's a trio of free-meal deals for military veterans that speak not just to the heart but the stomach.
For all the forgettable Veterans Day sales, there's a trio of free-meal deals for military veterans that speak not just to the heart but the stomach.
Wendy's Outperforms Corporate Sibling Arby's
Wendy's is holding its own in a challenging market, but Arby's continues to face difficulties, according to financial results released Thursday by Atlanta-based Wendy's/Arby's Group.
« Previous
Next »
Wendy's is holding its own in a challenging market, but Arby's continues to face difficulties, according to financial results released Thursday by Atlanta-based Wendy's/Arby's Group.
Advertisement
Advertisements
