While bento boxes may have a reputation in the US of A as a creative way to pack a kid’s lunchbox, the history (and future) of bento boxes goes much further than that. Starting in Japan nearly a thousand years ago, bento boxes have been used to take food to work, to serve food on trains, bring lunch to school, then purchased at convenience stores and bento shops — yes, there are shops solely dedicated to selling bento boxes. Bento boxes are so big in Japan, you can even get them out of vending machines. Continue reading
In many parts of the world, there is a stronger convenience store culture than we see in most parts of the US, especially as it relates to food. That’s not to say there aren’t standout c-stores in some states (We see you Wawas and Buc-ee’s.), but we think there is much to learn from our international counterparts. Here are some of the global c-store trends we’ve taken note of.
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With chain restaurants like Maggiano’s, Bonefish Grill, and True Food Kitchen holding strong with their brunch menus, and with at least two other large restaurant brands currently testing brunch menu options (that we know of), some might think brunch continues to be a lucrative daypart for large brands. However, Mintel recently reported that restaurant brunch orders are on the decline.
Which is it? Are consumers still inspired by brunch menus or is the trend fading? Continue reading
FDR’s Co-Founder Scott Randolph has a longstanding relationship with the IHOP restaurant brand and has recently been serving as head of culinary for the organization. Because of that, Scott was featured in a recent production of A&E’s “Tiny House Nation,” which showcased the production of the “Tiny IHOP,” something that’s better seen than explained. Check out this video to see what we mean. Continue reading
For over 25 years, FDR’s Richard Keys has prepared the same Thanksgiving Day menu for his family. It includes at least ten items and is followed by a family-wide dessert contest.
The rest of the FDR team is a little jealous we are not invited. However, we are delighted that Richard has finally shared a recipe for his Spicy Italian Sausage and White Cheddar Cheese Stuffing.
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