This month’s newsletter covers the broad trends that Restaurant brands face in 2026, as well as some pointed examples of how popular national chains are kickstarting the year with product and menu adaptations.
Six Key Restaurant Trends to Watch in 2026
As restaurants navigate new changes in 2026 driven by supply chain demands and evolving menu options, Restaurant Dive has identified six key trends that the industry is expected to face this year.
Expectations for QSR Brands
Restaurants of all categories face headwinds as consumer spending pulls back, food costs rise, and traffic growth remains weak, forcing operators to get creative to maintain sales and profitability. Cost-saving measures and nimble supply chain strategies will be critical in the coming year, with many brands focusing more on controlling expenses than on expanding revenue. Menu trends point to continued dominance of chicken over expensive beef, bold sauces, and customizable flavor options. A concurrent trend to watch is that demand for healthy alternatives will warrant brands to provide high-protein and fresher choices to appease health-conscious diners. Value will take on broader meaning beyond low prices, as restaurants look for ways to deliver perceived worth through innovation rather than just discounts. Finally, labor retention emerges as a priority in 2026 as operators work to stabilize turnover and safeguard service quality amid ongoing workforce challenges.
Source: Restaurant Dive
How Key Brands are Changing in Q1 2026
From AI-powered ordering to elevated fried chicken programs and revamped value menus, top brands are reshaping their strategies in Q1 2026 to boost convenience, differentiation, and customer engagement.
Papa John’s Adopts AI-Powered Ordering Opportunity
Papa John’s is overhauling its digital ordering experience by launching an AI-powered ordering assistant built with Google’s technology to make online ordering faster, easier, and more personalized for customers.
Folding Thoughtful Recommendations into the Recipe
The new tool uses conversational AI across channels like the app, website, phone, kiosks and in-car systems to guide users through orders, suggest the right quantities, handle preferences, apply deals, and even recognize loyalty rewards. Papa John’s is the first major restaurant brand to adopt this omnichannel AI food-ordering solution, aiming to remove friction and boost order value through smart recommendations. This move reflects the company’s broader push to innovate its tech stack and elevate customer experience in a competitive quick-service landscape.
Source: QSR Magazine
How Brands Continue to Innovate Amidst the Fried Chicken Wars
Fried chicken continues to be a popular food choice among consumers, and brands are being tasked with innovating more to stand out in the competitive convenience store market.
Standing Out in a Hyper-Competitive Product Category
Some brands opt for using unique flavors and new product offerings to attract customers. McLane launched a new premium fried chicken program called HiBird, while Krispy Krunchy Chicken introduced new menu items as it expands into more c-store locations. Chester’s Fried Chicken rolled out a “Chester’s 2.0” system to improve cooking speed, holding times, and overall food quality for operators. Industry experts say chicken’s versatility and broad appeal make it a strong growth driver across different dayparts and customer tastes. These developments reflect how convenience stores and quick-service brands are adapting operations and menus to meet consumer demand and differentiate themselves.
Source: Restaurant Dive
Taco Bell to Roll Out Luxe Value Menu Nationwide
Taco Bell has rolled out its new Luxe Value Menu nationwide as of January 22nd, featuring 10 items all priced at $3 or less to appeal to budget-conscious customers.
The budget-friendly product lineup includes five new offerings — like a Mini Taco Salad, Beefy Potato Loaded Griller, and Salted Caramel Churros — as well as five returning fan favorites from its previous value menu. This updated value menu replaces the Cravings Value Menu and aims to deliver more flavorful, affordable choices across dayparts. Taco Bell has leaned into value as a driver of traffic and same-store sales, with early access to the menu available for Rewards members through the app.
Source: Restaurant Dive
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