This week on the Extra Serving podcast from the Last Bite Network, a production of Nation’s Restaurant News and Restaurant Hospitality, NRN editors Ron Ruggless, Holly Petre and Sam Oches discuss the second week of earnings. The long list of brands that reported since the last podcast taping on Friday included Cheesecake Factory, Starbucks, Wingstop, Papa John’s and Ruth’s Chris to name a few. The NRN editors analyze what the earnings could mean for the industry including the potential for a casual-dining renaissance and what it means that some brands that saw pandemic growth are still growing in sales.
Also, the team discusses the acquisition of Fazoli’s by FAT Brands and what it means that the company appears to be on a buying hot streak.
Finally, the episode rounds out with Ron Ruggless’ interview with the CEO of Portillo’s, Michael Osanloo. The two spoke just after Portillo’s went public and rang the bell at the NYSE.