Restaurant chains bring calorie counting to beverages, too

Restaurant operators are finding creative solutions to problems surrounding rising commodity costs and price-conscious consumers.

The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization reported that world food prices rose 2.2 percent in February to a new record high and could rise further still if drought continues to decimate China’s wheat harvest. The reasons for high prices: drought in Russia and Argentina, floods in Canada and Pakistan, export bans, and panic buying and hoarding. These supply disruptions have led agricultural economists to ask, “If the world can’t properly feed 7 billion people today, how will it feed 9 billion in 2050?” In fact, the FAO estimates food output will have to rise 70 percent by 2050 to keep pace with population growth. 


First new restaurant in the country to debut in Tokyo this year

As the Hanamaru Udon chain eyes growth beyond its home market of Japan, corporate chef Yoshihiro Maeda is charged with marrying the efficiency of a large business with the artisanal methods of its signature product.


Multicultural flavors dominate the menu at French Quarter restaurant

Company looks abroad as U.S. markets become more saturated

13th annual Worlds of Flavor kicks off at institute's Napa Valley campus

China shows most improvement in quarter ending in June

Menchie's is the latest U.S. chain to ramp up international growth plans

Investor discontent has led Benihana to explore a possible sale.