By Shabnam Weber December has always been the season when the beverage program earns its keep. Office parties, family dinners, and festive prix fixe menus fill dining rooms, and the bottles of wine and rounds of cocktails that come with them have long done the heavy lifting on the bill. That equation is changing, though, […]
By Katy O’Donnell Tequila isn’t just showing up in shots and in margaritas anymore – guests are drinking it neat, trying different expressions and becoming more curious about what’s behind the bar. For restaurants, that interest opens up more ways to sell the category, but adding five more bottles to the back bar isn’t much […]
By Pragati Pathrotkar Coffee has always carried a paradox: people love it for the ritual, the flavour, and the jolt of energy – but that same jolt is increasingly what’s driving them away from regular brews. Enter decaffeinated coffee, once dismissed as a flavourless compromise, now emerging as one of the more dynamic corners of […]
While we celebrate the second half of summer, fall flavours are hitting menus long before the first leaf falls. Even though it’s still hot outside, some QSRs are launching warm, cozy fall menu items early. Here is a rundown on the some of the early fall menu adopters: Starbucks’ ever-popular PSL makes its debut on […]
By Jose Chavez For many restaurants, coffee is treated as a simple add-on; it’s poured at breakfast, served after dinner, or offered as a standard beverage alongside the menu. But a well-planned coffee program can do much more than complete a meal – it can increase average order value, encourage repeat visits, create new revenue […]
Make the most of the final stretch of summer by celebrating August’s lineup of food holidays. With seasonal ingredients at their peak and fresh flavours taking centre stage, these occasions offer the perfect opportunity to create memorable dining experiences before the season comes to a close. Limited time offers inspired by these celebrations can entice […]
By Lizzy Freier As operators strive to drive traffic in 2026 by connecting with Canadians’ tastes and values, we’re seeing exciting menu trends and shifts that reflect the evolving preferences of diners. Let’s dive into the movements and creative approaches shaping the Canadian culinary landscape. Exploring uncharted Asia Increased global flavour innovation and a growing […]
Food holidays allow restaurateurs to offer something timely, unique, and to switch up the menu with innovative options. July holidays celebrate everything from blueberries to chicken wings, so start planning for a month to remember! Here’s a look at some of the food holidays to choose from in July: July 5: National Graham Cracker Day […]
With the weather heating up and summer long weekends on the horizon, some QSRs are adding items to the menu that focus on beach days, road trips, and all things summer. Guests can beat the heat with seasonal flavours, fun on-the-go options, and some of their favourite throwbacks that offer a trendy summer feel with […]
By Elizabeth Wessel Chefs and restaurateurs need to stay innovative to set themselves apart from the competition, and adding trendy food items to the menu is one way to attract attention and increase restaurant traffic. This latest edition of Trend Watch focuses on three menu trends that are being seen across Canada right now: quirky gin infusions, […]
