The rise of cider sales in the United States over the past two years has been staggering.

Beer, cocktails, red wine increasingly paired with fish dishes

Chains and independent restaurants alike are developing signature cocktails to sell alongside popular dishes, bolstering sales and reinforcing brand image.

This is part of Nation Restaurant News' special coverage of the 2013 MUFSO conference, which took place Sept. 29-Oct. 1 at the Hyatt Regency at Reunion Tower in Dallas.

The liquor also influences trends in other beverage categories

Raising the Bar

Beer, Wine & Spirits

Beer, Wine & Spirits

Observers say chain could be considering expanding breakfast daypart

For this monthly column, industry experts share their insights into matching food with drinks by giving real-world examples of dishes and the beverages that they serve with them.