Restaurateur Sam Fox and entertainer Justin Timberlake are opening a location of the Twelve Thirty Club in Austin, Texas, in a former post office that is more than 100 years old. The $30 million, 35,000-square-foot project will be larger than the flagship Nashville, Tenn., location. It's set to open in 2027 with a grand main dining room featuring 55-foot ceilings, an underground Speakeasy that incorporates the building's original brick, and a private members' club with an exclusive terrace.

The latest Dunnhumby study underscores the growing role of convenience stores as quickservice restaurant destinations. Five of the top 14 performers in the RPI are c-stores, with Buc-ee's and Kwik Trip taking the top two spots. This shift reflects evolving consumer views, as more shoppers now consider c-stores legitimate and sometimes preferable options for quick meals.

Pura Vida Miami has secured a strategic investment from TSG Consumer, which has previously backed Crumbl Cookies and Dutch Bros Coffee. The fast-casual chain, known for its beach-themed cafes and menu of salads, healthful bowls and wraps, operates upwards of 40 locations in Florida, New York and California. Founders Omer and Jennifer Horev will retain a majority stake, with Omer remaining CEO and Jennifer staying on as chief brand officer. 

Food and beverage revenue has emerged as a key growth driver for US hotels in 2025, compensating for sluggish growth in room revenues. During the first half of the year, F&B revenue per occupied room grew by 3.8%, outpacing the 3% increase in overall hotel revenue. This growth has been fueled by investments in creative dining concepts, revitalized venues and a focus on both in-house and external patrons. Hotels have been able to increase F&B prices due to improved offerings and enhanced guest engagement.

Taco Bell is introducing fire-roasted poblano peppers to its menu for the first time, in the limited-time Steak & Poblano Rolled Quesadilla. The new menu item, which debuts nationwide on Nov. 20, combines marinated steak, fire-roasted poblanos, spicy ranch sauce and melted cheese in a rolled quesadilla that's portable to feed on-the-go customers.

Several major restaurant chains now offer impressive vegan options, making plant-based dining more accessible than ever. Taco Bell stands out as a top quickserve choice for vegans, thanks to its highly customizable menu, certified by the American Vegetarian Association, and staples like black beans and seasoned rice. Chipotle Mexican Grill, Panera Bread, Qdoba, Blaze Pizza, Yard House and Veggie Grill also feature hearty vegan meal options that go beyond side salads or fries. With customizable menus, clearly labeled plant-based choices and a willingness to accommodate dietary needs, these chains provide convenient, affordable and filling vegan meals for diners on the go.

Nouvelle cuisine emerged in France in the late 1970s as a revolutionary approach to French cooking, emphasizing lighter sauces, shorter cooking times and artistic presentation. Initially led by chefs such as Paul Bocuse, the movement quickly became a trend that many chefs emulated, often leading to excessive use of exotic ingredients like kiwi and undercooked duck. While the movement faced criticism for becoming pretentious and expensive, its core principles of freshness and simplicity have endured, leading to a more balanced and evolved French cuisine, writes Justine de Lacy.