While Wendy’s continues to experience growth in the QSR category, a darling of the fast-casual pizza scene in Pie Five experiences a very rough quarter. We also discuss Tops Friendly Markets’ growth plan, and a recent study about hiring levels in the restaurant industry.

We discuss how an unincorporated town next to a “dry” area in Nebraska has sparked protest and controversy when it comes to beer sales, and how craft beer sales at Meijer stores may be helping to fuel the Michigan economy. Additionally, we talk about labeling requirements for nut spreads, and whether or not luxury retailers such as Neiman Marcus and Saks should bother with offering high-priced frozen meals on their ecommerce platforms.

Despite all the negative headlines, we discuss why there were some positive signs in Chipotle’s last earnings release. Also, Sonic clarifies their direction for future expansion, while Veggie Grill seeks to grow beyond their West Coast footprint. Additionally, we discuss a new meat at Arby’s, and a change in Buffalo Wild Wings’ model.

Domino’s reports a massive hike in same store sales, and we explore what is enabling their continued success. Things aren’t so rosy at Red Robin or BJ’s Brewhouse, however…we discuss how their respective management teams aim to improve performance. Finally, a new M&M’s brand extension gets set to hit the shelves in 2017—we’ll talk about what it is, and why it’s important to the candy industry..

As Arby’s rolls out a new pork belly sandwich to add to their Smokehouse line, they continue to win over millennial QSR market share…we discuss their considerable momentum built since 2014. Additionally, we address the WHO’s recommendation on sugary drinks, and how Ruby Tuesday continues to plummet with increasingly negative quarterly results.

Darden Restaurants releases their Q1 numbers, exceeding expectations. We’ll talk this and Yum! Earnings, and glance at Quiktrip’s further movement toward food sales. Additionally, we take a deep dive into a breakthrough in E. coli testing technology, and hear from a researcher that aims to dramatically reduce testing time for foodborne pathogens.

Fast-casual chain Cosi files for bankruptcy to fix their liquidity issues; meanwhile, Fox & Hound has a winning bidder in their Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings. Additionally, Jack in the Box promises to launch a line of “Brunchfast” items targeting what they term an underserved daypart.

In conjunction with their release of the Cheddar Habanero Quesarito, Taco Bell announces their latest cross promotion with Sony’s PlayStation platforms. We also discuss Pizza Hut’s new front office hire, Blue Bell’s latest recall, and Sierra Nevada Brewing’s announcement this week of brand extensions for their iconic Pale Ale and Torpedo IPA.

Burger King releases their latest mash-up with Cheetos, Cheetos Chicken Fries. We discuss this and Olive Garden’s third annual limited offering of “Unlimited Never-Ending Pasta Bowl” passes. Additional topics include Cracker Barrel earnings, Chipotle’s national hiring day, and Dairy Queen’s slew of store openings.

Coca-Cola unveils plans for a Gold Peak cold brew brand extension, and we’ll look at the ramifications for the rapidly crowding RTD coffee and tea market. Additionally, we discuss Wendy’s new grilled chicken sandwich design, Domino’s salads, and whether or not Buffalo Wild Wings’ offer of half-price wings on Tuesdays can win back customers.