Panera Bread has introduced the RISE strategy, a comprehensive transformation plan designed to revitalize the brand for sustainable growth. The framework is built around four pillars: refreshing menu offerings, igniting value, serving customers and expanding the store network. The chain is doubling down on food quality improvements as part of the turnaround, starting with a return to 100% romaine lettuce in salads and reintroducing practices like cutting cherry tomatoes and avocados fresh in-house. Panera is also revamping its bakery program, moving from daily dough deliveries to in-café finishing of partially baked artisan breads and adopting a barbell menu strategy to offer both low- and high-priced options to attract a wider range of customers.

Leonard Green & Partners LP will acquire a 60% stake in eatertainment chain Topgolf from Topgolf Callaway Brands, in a deal that values the chain at $1.1 billion. Topgolf Callaway, which will rebrand itself as Callaway Golf Company after the deal closes next year, will retain a significant minority stake and remain involved in the brand's future.

Former Famous Dave's CEO Jeff Crivello has secured bankruptcy court approval to acquire 12 shuttered Iron Hill Brewery locations in three states for $12 million. The deal will allow Crivello to take over the properties free of debt or legal complications. Crivello expects to reopen 10 of the units, and at least three will be rebranded under the Three Notch'd Brewing Co. banner.

A holiday campaign from Dunkin'centers on Munchkins and features an animated short voiced by Mindy Kaling and a children's book, "The Little Holiday Munchkin." The campaign, running across online video, web, TV and social media, aims to reposition Munchkins as a festive hero. Proceeds from the book benefit the Dunkin' Joy in Childhood Foundation.

The 2025 Michelin Guide Northeast ceremony recognized several Chicago restaurants, including Feld, which earned its first Michelin star as well as a Green Star for its commitment to sustainability. Kasama, previously a one-star establishment, was promoted to two stars, highlighting its inventive take on Filipino cuisine.

At the Food & Wine Classic in Charleston, S.C., chef Emeril Lagasse reflected on his legacy and the evolution of the culinary industry. Lagasse expressed pride in his son, E.J. Lagasse, who has become the youngest chef to lead a two-Michelin-star kitchen at Emeril's. The pair have worked together to revamp Emeril's, showcasing a blend of tradition and innovation.