Restaurant SmartBrief
DoorDash builds a restaurant made of sand
Created for np3kckdy@niepodam.pl | Web Version
 
December 10, 2025
 
 
Restaurant SmartBrief
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On the Front Burner
 
How Zaxbys topped its franchise goals this year
Zaxbys has surpassed its 2025 target of signing 100 new franchise commitments, projecting to close the year with 120 agreements, nearly double the previous year's total. The growth is attributed to the brand's strategic initiatives, including smaller prototypes, some of which are drive-thru-only options, the flexible Modern Farmhouse design of its traditional units and strong average unit volumes, which have made it an attractive option for multi-unit operators. Zaxbys is also expanding into non-traditional locations, such as military bases, and plans to open about 50 new restaurants in 2025 and over 60 in 2026.
Full Story: Nation's Restaurant News (free registration) (12/8)
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Enhance Any Menu with Honey
Honey is the most menued sauce—and for good reason. Its versatility perfectly complements everything from sweet to savory, desserts to steaks, and fast food to fine dining. See how honey is the incredible ingredient with incredible possibilities.
 
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Restaurant News
 
DoorDash, MikeTeevee build a restaurant made of sand
 
DoorDash, MikeTeevee build a restaurant made of sand
(DoorDash/Instagram)
DoorDash, with MikeTeevee, opened "The Sand CastleDonna," a temporary restaurant made from 100 tons of sand in Miami's Design District. The restaurant, open Thursday through Sunday, marks the debut of DoorDash Reservations in Miami and offers free three-course lunches and four-course dinners that must be booked via the DoorDash app.
Full Story: DesignRush (12/8)
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In-N-Out skips order No. 67 due to mayhem from viral trend
In-N-Out Burger has removed order No. 67 from its ticketing system in response to the viral "6-7" trend, which has led to chaotic scenes at its restaurants. The trend, which involves saying "six seven" while making a juggling motion, led to crowds of teens visiting In-N-Out locations hoping to hear their order called as "67."
Full Story: The Hill (12/9), Foodbeast (12/9), The Post-Standard (Syracuse, N.Y.) (12/10)
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Raising Cane's to debut in Mexico via Alsea partnership
Mexican restaurant operator Alsea has partnered with Raising Cane's to bring the popular US chicken chain to Mexico, with the first outlets set to open in late 2026. This collaboration is part of Alsea's broader strategy to expand its portfolio of international brands, following its recent agreement with Chipotle to launch Taco Bell in Mexico. Alsea CEO Christian Gurria emphasised the significance of this partnership in enhancing Raising Cane's global presence.
Full Story: Reuters (12/8)
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Captain D's unveils walk-up format tailored for city living in first NYC unit
Chain Store Age (12/9)
 
 
Chain fashions a Claw Purse for Dave & Buster's based on arcade game
DesignRush (12/9)
 
 
In-N-Out opens first Tenn. locations as part of eastward expansion
Nation's Restaurant News (free registration) (12/9)
 
The 2025 Improving Career Transition Report
Sometimes layoffs are necessary, but brand damage isn't. Discover how top companies use career transition services to protect morale, culture, and reputation. Get the 2025 Improving Career Transition report and lead with empathy and impact. Download now »
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ICYMI: Yesterday's most popular story
 
 
Bearista cups are back as Starbucks for Life game prize
Nation's Restaurant News (free registration) (12/8)
 
Enhance Retail and CPG Data with Governance
Navigating data challenges in retail and CPG demands strong governance to tackle insights inconsistency, security issues, and rising costs. A governance-first approach ensures seamless data integration and management. Read more in this whitepaper.
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Leading Voices
 
Coss's unconventional dance from ballet to fine dining
 
Coss's unconventional dance from ballet to fine dining
(Restaurant Business)
Isabel Coss began her journey in the arts with ballet and filmmaking in Mexico City before discovering her true passion for cooking. At the young age of 17, Coss transitioned to culinary school, where an externship at the acclaimed Pujol introduced her to the world of pastry and bread baking. Her career took her from Mexico City to New York, where she refined her craft at Empellón and Cosme, and eventually led her to Washington, D.C., where she currently leads the kitchen at Pascual.

"I remember seeing the whole kitchen (at Pujol) and I was just like this is like a ballet or play. There's energy, there's movement, there's music, there's personalities -- all in one little room -- and I was like I'm where I want to be." -- Isabel Coss, executive chef, Pascual
Full Story: Restaurant Business (12/9)
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Domino's CMO: Aligning customer, franchisee needs is key to growth
Kate Trumbull draws from her early experiences in neuro-linguistics and data-driven consumer insights at a consulting firm and Procter & Gamble to blend empathy and analytical rigor in her role as Domino's CMO. Her leadership style emphasizes the importance of owning one's voice, building cross-functional trust and celebrating innovative wins, especially for women in leadership.

"I showed up at Domino's, and suddenly it's not just the consumer that is so critical -- it's the consumer and the franchisee. When you understand the insights and what's important to both, and you align the two, it drives powerful growth." -- Domino's CMO Kate Trumbull
Full Story: QSR (12/7)
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Turn NRF ideas into store action
Heading to NRF 2026? Swing by Zipline at Booth #5251 to connect HQ strategy to frontline action. Meet real retailers driving 90%+ execution, grab a legit NYC bagel, and book a booth demo to tackle your toughest execution gaps.
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