FAT Brands CEO, Darden performance, MCL closures

Andy Wiederhorn is out at FAT Brands. Darden continues to outperform the casual-dining segment. And a Midwest buffet chain is shrinking its footprint.

Maggiano’s is looking for big eaters. Chipotle has another new sauce. And El Pollo Loco is upgrading its rewards program.

Small businesses affected by ICE crackdowns could get relief, Applebee’s is shifting its marketing strategy, and agentic AI is cropping up more in restaurants

Burger King wins the Oscars, Fat Brands is headed toward a sale, and a Popeyes franchisee is closing more restaurants.

Some Kona Grills will soon be converted to other brands. El Pollo Loco is ready to grow again. And Sweetgreen wants to be a lifestyle brand again.

Papa Johns is staying mum on takeover rumors. The big bite taken by Burger King’s president has juiced traffic. And the co-founder of Noma stepped down. 

Papa Johns is apparently weighing yet another offer. McDonald’s is introducing a new value offer.  And rising gas prices are likely to impact restaurant spending. 

Taco Bell is finally unveiling its menu lineup for 2026. Jimmy John's has a new brand president. And the Noma popup in Los Angeles could be in trouble.

Applebee’s is focusing on its off-premises business with its latest promotion. A Taiwanese-style boba tea chain is gunning for 1,000 U.S. locations. And California Pizza Kitchen is expanding its retail business for the first time ever.

February’s jobs report paints a gloomy picture for the restaurant industry. Texas Roadhouse added a high-profile new board member. And full-service restaurants could be in trouble, according to a new report.