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Financing

A tale of two casual-dining chains

 By Jonathan Maze on Feb. 02, 2026

The Bottom Line: This week’s episode of the restaurant finance newsletter contrasts news about Chili’s and rival Ruby Tuesday, which are going in different directions.

Technology

As third-party delivery booms, some restaurants pump the brakes

 By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 30, 2026

Many operators say they are trying to reduce their reliance on services like DoorDash and Uber Eats as they look to improve their profit margins. But the apps can be difficult to quit.

Financing

Starbucks' focus on its in-café experience isn't just about its dine-in customers

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 30, 2026

The Bottom Line: Most of the coffee chain’s customers still come into its shops, even if they have no intention of sticking around. That makes it important for those shops to be inviting.

Technology

Amazon’s grocery retreat is a warning to restaurants chasing full automation

By Heather Lalley on Jan. 29, 2026

Retail Watch: The retail giant is closing all of its Amazon Fresh grocery stores and Amazon Go convenience stores. It’s a lesson that technology can’t replace human interaction.

Emerging Brands

How to turn a regional concept into a national chain

By Lisa Jennings on Jan. 28, 2026

Former Panera Bread and Tatte Bakery executive Shawn Utke has joined The Friendly Toast as CEO. His plan is to grow this New England brunch-all-day restaurant without killing its welcoming spirit and unconventional vibe.

Financing

Andy Wiederhorn made a big bet on Fat Brands. It did not pay off

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 28, 2026

The Bottom Line: The fast-food restaurant chain collector took a huge risk in buying up restaurant chains at peak value and with higher interest rates. Then the market turned south.

Beverage

A wine bar where the bottles do the talking

By Patricia Cobe on Jan. 28, 2026

Behind the Menu: Emmy Lou’s in Charlotte is half bottle shop, half restaurant, where the retail shelves work as the wine list and the food is much more than an afterthought.

Financing

Key lessons from Chili's success

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 28, 2026

The Bottom Line: The casual-dining chain’s same-store sales have been on an unbelievable trajectory over the past two-plus years. Here are some key learnings from that performance.

Financing

McDonald's franchisees send a message with a 'bill of rights'

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 27, 2026

The Bottom Line: The National Owners Association, an independent group of the fast-food chain’s operators, has approved a list of 15 standards it considers vital to fair franchising, including the right to set prices.

Technology

As restaurants push to digitize, there's opportunity in the analog

By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 26, 2026

Tech Check: Consumers fed up with tech are craving old-fashioned experiences. Restaurants stand to benefit, if they're willing to go against the grain.

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