On this week’s Extra Serving, NRN editor in chief Sam Oches and executive editor Alicia Kelso discuss the never-ending news cycle that is Starbucks, where new CEO Brian Niccol has welcomed some familiar faces into the executive suite and instituted several operational changes designed to improve sales and traffic. Plus they talk about Chili’s, which announced a staggering 31.4% same-store sales increase in its most recent quarter, the direct result of massively popular campaigns like the Triple Dipper appetizer and the company’s commitment to social media influencer marketing. And Chuck E. Cheese seems to be reaping the rewards of a $350 million turnaround investment; what does this mean for the future of eatertainment? In this week’s extra serving, senior food and beverage editor Bret Thorn joins to talk about new menu items around the industry, particularly collaborations between organizations like Wendy’s and Girl Scouts with the Thin Mint Frosty. Finally, hear from more experts at the recent ICR Conference in Orlando, as senior editor Joanna Fantozzi shares some insights from executives at Dutch Bros, Shake Shack, and Cracker Barrel.

For more on these stories:  

Starbucks announces more executive changes ahead of earnings call

Chili’s 31.4% same-store sales increase in Q2 allows for investments

Chuck E. Cheese reaps the rewards of its investments