Emerging Brands

New brands and soon-to-open concepts worth watching

Emerging Brands

Meet Diafa, a company that aspires to be the largest operator of luxury restaurants in the world

 By Lisa Jennings on Sep. 30, 2026

Buzzworthy Brands: In the K-shaped economy, this Abu Dhabi- and London-based group sees a world of opportunity, in the U.S. and globally.

Emerging Brands

Goop Kitchen co-CEO on growth ahead for actress Gwyneth Paltrow's restaurant brand

 By Lisa Jennings on Sep. 24, 2026

After opening the first dine-in unit for the mostly virtual brand in August, Donald Moore said there are plans for more. But the company behind the concept is taking it slow.

Emerging Brands

In the bakery-cafe race, 85°C Bakery could be the brand to watch

By Lisa Jennings on Sep. 22, 2026

This Taiwanese chain recently passed the 100-unit mark in the U.S., with plans to hit 150 by 2028. The beverage side is proving to be a powerhouse.

Emerging Brands

Pura Vida Miami captures health-minded diners with fast-casual hybrid

By Lisa Jennings on Sep. 18, 2026

Expecting to hit 65 units by the end of the year, this beach-inspired all-day cafe believes consumers are willing to pay a bit more for quality and in-store experience.

Emerging Brands

Canada's Shark Club makes waves in Texas

By Joe Guszkowski on Sep. 16, 2026

The elevated sports bar concept just opened its second location in the Lone Star State and is part of a growing U.S. footprint for Vancouver-based Northland Properties.

Emerging Brands

Meat N' Bone finds specialty niche in America's protein obsession

By Lisa Jennings on Sep. 16, 2026

This retailer-turned-restaurateur sees opportunity in the elite world of wagyu, picanha, and kokusan-gyu.

Emerging Brands

Big Pizza might be having a problem. But emerging pizza brands are riding a wave of growth

By Lisa Jennings on Sep. 09, 2026

Out of San Diego comes Mr. Moto, a quirky by-the-slice and whole pie brand that is growing northward. Founder Gibran Fernandez has shaved the mustache to focus on great pizza.

Emerging Brands

Angry Chickz heats up expansion amid crowded chicken category

By Alicia Kelso on Sep. 08, 2026

The fast-growing chain grew sales by nearly 50% last year as it leverages a fairly new franchising program and plants its flag far beyond its home state of California.

Emerging Brands

How former Krispy Kreme president Maria Rivera plans to help female- and minority-led restaurant concepts grow

By Lisa Jennings on Sep. 02, 2026

This industry veteran has launched RC Hospitality Group, which specializes in helping emerging brands flourish.

Emerging Brands

New York City sandwich shop Alidoro plans its expansion

By Bret Thorn on Sep. 01, 2026

The cult favorite has put systems in place that could bring it to more transit hubs and entirely new markets.

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