Trends & Tidbits

Trends & Tidbits gathers snippets of information that includes trends, spotlights new restaurants, highlights innovations and more.

Bloop Focuses on Special Needs Diets and Charities

In Lynchburg, Va., Bloop, a frozen yogurt chain, has opened two stores.

Chicago Pizza Chain Gets Thinner

Noah Himmel, the third-generation owner of the Chicago-based Edwardo's Pizza chain, introduced a new concept focused on thinner, lighter pizza — a departure from the chain's signature cheesy, calorie-dense, deep dish pies.

Chicago’s Uncommon Ground Named “Greenest” Restaurant in America

Uncommon Ground, located on Chicago's North Side, has been named the Greenest Restaurant in the Country by the Green Restaurant Association (GRA). Each Certified Green Restaurant goes through a thorough process of certification to meet the GRA's environmental standards.

Chipotle’s ShopHouse a Hit

Since unveiling the new Asian-inspired quick-serve concept ShopHouse in September 2011, Chipotle execs say they’ve filled their Washington D.C.-based pilot store on a daily basis and are thrilled that it’s been well-received, though no specific sales numbers were yet available.

Tabletop Trends: Party Inspirations

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Simplicity is the new trend this fall and winter, according to Blue Plate Catering in Chicago.

Camille’s Sidewalk Café Launches iPad Initiative

Going green can help restaurants become more efficient.

Market Research: Cleanliness is…Tastiness?

Cleanliness is just as important as taste when it comes to selecting restaurants, according to foodservice research firm Technomic.

Grillin’ Season: One Restaurant Chef Designs His Own Robata Grill

A new trend in grilling has emerged as a slew of restaurants in Las Vegas, New York, Chicago and other major metropolitan markets experiment with an ancient Japanese technique. Known as robata, this approach uses special charcoal and stones and is known for its powerful heat and low smoke point.

Concept Closeup: Pronto Café & Bakery

Breakfast, lunch or dinner — and a dance — that's the new concept from the owners of the popular Bar Bambino café and wine bar in San Francisco.

McDonald’s Makeover

As part of McDonald's $1 billion makeover, yellow and neutral tones will replace the famed red roofs, vinyl-covered chairs and wooden tables will replace the steel and fiberglass, and earth tones with splashes of red and yellow throughout will replace the once super bright, almost neon color scheme.

Blending Up More Beverages

Expanding beverage menu offerings could satisfy the current increase in customer demand for blended drinks and boost bottom lines, according to a new study conducted by Harris Interactive and commissioned by Vitamix.

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