Restaurant traffic, McDonald’s hiring, Luckin Coffee U.S.

Restaurant chains are getting creative when it comes to generating traffic. McDonald’s has plans to hire a lot of people this summer. And Luckin Coffee is making its debut in the U.S.

Here’s yet another indication that 2025 is shaping up to be a brutal year for restaurants. Texas Roadhouse, though, says it is bouncing back from earlier struggles. But Burger King’s parent is feeling the consumer uncertainty.

Krispy Kreme is pausing its McDonald’s rollout. Burger King is changing out franchisees to improve operations. And Papa Johns’ focus on pizza is paying off.

Two casual-dining chains are rethinking their value messages. Burger King is facing some scrutiny over the size of its Whoppers. And Caribou Coffee is hoping a new celebrity chef partnership will drive traffic.

Portillo’s is deciding whether to expand breakfast. Denny’s has pulled the trigger on an aggressive value deal. And Nothing Bundt Cakes is going all-in in San Diego.

KFC and McDonald’s are duking it out in the latest iteration of the chicken wars. McDonald’s is hoping the third time’s a charm when it comes to chicken tenders. And Washington, D.C.’s mayor is calling for the return of the tip credit.

Chili’s success may benefit Applebee’s. Wendy’s is making changes to resist consumer pressure. And the long battle over New York City’s delivery fee cap is over.

Someone wants to buy Olo. McDonald’s sales took a hit. And get ready for Shake Shack combo meals. Welcome to Restaurant Daily, a look at the most important restaurant news of the day from the editors of Restaurant Business and Nation’s Restaurant News. I’m Jonathan Maze, editor in chief of RB.

Panera is getting out of the fresh-dough business. Wingstop is seeing a sales slowdown. But Chili’s continues its upward trajectory.

Subway closed more restaurants last year. Portillo’s is making nice with its activist investor. And Sweetgreen has a new COO.