Kristen Hawley

It was never Danny Trejo’s goal to open a chain of Mexican restaurants, but when the opportunity presented itself, he jumped at the chance. Now with only two other partners, he has a string of Trejo’s Tacos, Cantinas and Coffee & Donuts shops around Los Angeles, with more cities targeted for 2019.

Fresh off a year of two James Beard Awards and accolades from local and national press, Seattle’s Edouardo Jordan settles in to what happens next: More customers, new expectations and building a future.

Growth of delivery can be measured in leaps and bounds across the industry as companies expand their national footprints, restaurant partners, and technology to cover increased demand at a time when the limits feel boundless.

As consumer interest in sustainability and ingredient sourcing grows, for these two Southern beverage-makers, eco-conscious creation doesn't stop with their products.

The reservations landscape has changed significantly over the past year. While the big players are (mostly) the same, new technology, new leadership, and new strategies keep the game interesting.

The deal consolidates two young players in the market, each touting a strong roster of restaurants.

Starbucks hopes digital loyalty plus face time with in-store employees will help continue its turnaround. Earlier access to egg nog lattes and other holiday drinks — available a full week earlier than last year — won't hurt, either.

This specific product launch is targeted more toward businesses than employees, but it does highlight a solid opportunity for restaurants and delivery providers alike: workday orders.

Call us traditional — because we are on some matters — but we'd rather be greeted and check in with a human. Then we're happy letting the computer program run its course.

This is hardly a wave of vote enabling by big restaurant brands, but it's at least a sign that some operators think it's a good thing if its workers participate in the democratic process.