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December 08.2025
3 Minutes Read

Ascent Hospitality Management’s New Leadership: A Game Changer for Family Dining

Ascent Hospitality Management logo with Perkins and Huddle House.

Ascent Hospitality Management Redefines Family Dining with Innovative Leadership

Ascent Hospitality Management is embarking on an exciting new chapter, bolstered by the strategic appointments of industry veterans under the leadership of CEO Paul Damico. The family-dining franchisor, known for its prominent brands Perkins American Food Co. and Huddle House, is poised for innovation and operational enhancement. At the forefront of this transformation are Jon Gordon, Chief Creative Officer, and Jenifer Perrett, Vice President of Marketing for Huddle House. Their industry expertise and fresh perspectives are anticipated to play a crucial role in revitalizing brand identity and driving growth.

Assessing the Fresh Leadership Injection

Damico recognizes the significance of bringing seasoned talent on board, emphasizing the importance of innovation and collaboration in a competitive market. “Our new lineup of leaders brings proven track records and extensive industry expertise,” Damico stated. The transformation is not just about filling roles; it's about accelerating the brands' evolution within the fast-paced family dining sector. As both Perkins and Huddle House adapt to contemporary consumer preferences, this leadership evolution aims to sharpen operational efficiencies while enhancing guest experiences.

Understanding the Impact of Jon Gordon and Jenifer Perrett

Jon Gordon, with a commendable record in brand strategy and creativity, understands how to translate consumer insights into impactful marketing campaigns. His role as Chief Creative Officer symbolizes Ascent's commitment to establishing an in-house Creative Agency, aimed at fostering greater control over marketing efforts and enhancing brand equity. Meanwhile, Jenifer Perrett’s extensive experience in brand marketing comes at a time when a renewed marketing approach is essential for Huddle House's growth trajectory.

Connecting the Dots Between Culture and Performance

The exceptional talent being brought into Ascent Hospitality Management isn’t solely focused on innovation; it is equally about cultivating a thriving work environment. As highlighted by O'Reilly, the company's CEO, a culture of collaboration is fundamental. This culture is expected to translate directly into improved performance and guest satisfaction, reinforcing the notion that engaged employees lead to delighted guests.

Looking Ahead: What This Means for Restaurant Owners

For restaurant owners, the evolution of Ascent Hospitality Management represents more than just internal changes; it encapsulates a greater trend in the hospitality sector. Investing in leadership talent and fostering a strong company culture are pivotal moves that could be instructive for independent restaurant owners seeking growth. Owners can draw insights from Ascent's commitment to modernizing operations and expanding development avenues, adapting their strategies to meet the ever-changing dining landscape.

Could Innovations Shape the Future of Family Dining?

As the industry progresses, it remains to be seen how these leadership changes will impact the broader family dining market. Trends towards quick-service options and meal customization are growing. Ascent's recent adaptations, including the introduction of faster service models like Perkins Griddle & Go and Huddle House Express, demonstrate a proactive approach to catering to these shifts. Owners should consider how meeting customer needs through similar strategies can revitalize their dining experiences.

In conclusion, the leadership shifts at Ascent Hospitality Management set the stage for significant industry innovations. As the story unfolds, there’s plenty to learn from the initiatives being taken by Damico and his team. Restaurant owners would do well to keep a close eye on these developments as they may offer valuable lessons for enhancing their own ventures!

To learn more about franchising with Huddle House or Perkins American Food Co., visit AscentHM.com/franchising.

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12.24.2025

Discover Hawaiian Comfort Food with Ono Hawaiian BBQ's New Location in Porterville

Update Ono Hawaiian BBQ Opens a New Chapter in Porterville Aloha! The island vibes are coming to Porterville, California, with the grand opening of Ono Hawaiian BBQ, a beloved fast-casual dining brand specializing in Hawaiian-inspired plate lunches. Set to officially launch on December 30, 2025, at 497 W. Vandalia Ave, this location marks the first for the brand in Porterville, signaling a commitment to sharing the rich culinary traditions of Hawaii with the locals. Grand Opening Festivities to Connect the Community The opening day is expected to be a festive occasion, featuring a Grand Opening Luau complete with traditional Hawaiian dance performances, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and exciting giveaways. Patrons can partake in a special one-day promotion, offering a Buy One, Get One Free deal for their favorite dishes, making it a perfect outing for families and food enthusiasts alike. Additionally, attendees will have the chance to enter a raffle from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for a chance to win one of 25 $100 promotional cards. Ono Hawaiian BBQ: A Commitment to Quality and Freshness Founded in 2002, Ono Hawaiian BBQ prides itself on delivering generous portions of fresh and flavorful Hawaiian cuisine. With a menu boasting favorites like Chicken Katsu, Hawaiian BBQ Chicken, and Kalbi Ribs, each dish is carefully prepared using high-quality ingredients and house-made sauces. As the restaurant continues to expand its footprint across California and Arizona, the Porterville location will allow more visitors to enjoy the “Aloha” spirit through vibrant, wholesome meals. Significance of Island Cuisine in California's Culinary Landscape The opening of Ono Hawaiian BBQ is more than just a new restaurant; it’s a reflection of California's growing appreciation for diverse culinary offerings. As dining becomes an integral part of cultural exchange, establishments like Ono not only satisfy cravings but also educate patrons about Hawaiian tradition and community values. With trends increasingly leaning towards fast-casual dining, particularly among younger generations seeking quick yet wholesome options, Ono Hawaiian BBQ is strategically positioned to thrive. Looking Ahead: Community Impact and Growth Ono's expansion to Porterville is a strategic response to a growing dining corridor that accommodates commuters and local residents alike. It reflects a broader trend of eateries focusing on convenience without sacrificing quality. This move could promote economic growth in the area, providing new job opportunities and stimulating local commerce. As other brands consider opening in Porterville, Ono’s success may inspire a culinary renaissance in the region. Conclusion: Making the Most Out of Your Visit For restaurant owners, the launch of Ono Hawaiian BBQ in Porterville serves as both an inspiration and a lesson in community engagement. As you explore the festivities and indulge in Hawaiian cuisine, consider the unique ways you can cultivate a sense of belonging in your own establishments. Embrace the spirit of local flavors and traditions—after all, food is a universal connector that brings us all together. Plan to visit Ono Hawaiian BBQ on December 30 and experience the warmth of island hospitality first-hand!

12.24.2025

Mellow Mushroom's Exciting Innovations Set for 2026 Growth

Update The Future is Bright for Mellow Mushroom As we venture into 2026, Mellow Mushroom, the vibrant pizza franchise, showcases its dynamic evolution in the restaurant industry. With a well-rounded focus on operational excellence and innovative development, the brand is setting the stage for a robust growth trajectory. Diving into Digital: The Kitchen Revolution In 2025, Mellow Mushroom took a significant leap towards modernizing its operations by migrating approximately one-third of its locations to a digital kitchen platform. This transformation has not only improved customer experience but has also shown remarkable gains in operational efficiency. Ahsan Jiva, the executive vice president of strategy and transformation, noted that this system has enhanced key metrics like speed, accuracy, and overall food quality, all crucial in the competitive restaurant environment. Moreover, locations that have embraced this technology are seeing an impressive average unit volume (AUV) of over $2.7 million, with the top-performing restaurants elevating to approximately $3.8 million. This strategic upgrade underscores the franchise's commitment to not just surviving but thriving in a complex market. Fast-Fine: Invest in Innovations Another noteworthy development is the introduction of the 'Fast-Fine' prototype model. Launched at the Grant Park location near Atlanta, this new dining concept marries convenience with quality, featuring counter-service aesthetics while leveraging technology for an improved guest experience. As restaurants evolve, models like this encapsulate the need for flexibility and responsiveness to changing consumer preferences. The rapid success of this prototype model, which has performed exceptionally in sales and EBITDA, has prompted Mellow Mushroom to plan a second Fast-Fine restaurant in Newnan, GA, further building on its successful pilot. Enhancing Guest Engagement With consumer expectations continuously shifting, Mellow Mushroom recognizes the importance of understanding and anticipating customer needs. The brand has initiated the rollout of sophisticated guest engagement systems, including a centralized customer data platform dedicated to enhancing personalization in guest communications. This level of comprehension concerning guest preferences directly correlates with loyalty and repeat visits, essential metrics for any restaurant's long-term viability. Expanding engagement through a unified app and loyalty program set to launch in late 2026 aims to streamline customer interactions, further cultivating a loyal customer base. Charting the Course for 2026 Looking ahead, Mellow Mushroom's development strategy for 2026 focuses on strategic growth with ambitious yet realistic goals. The franchise aims for a growth rate of about 5-8% through new openings and has more than 20 renewals in motion, boasting an impressive renewal rate exceeding 98%. This not only highlights franchisee satisfaction but reflects the robust model that Mellow has fostered over the decades. By prioritizing markets such as Florida, the Carolinas, Virginia, and Tennessee, alongside emerging Rust Belt areas, Mellow Mushroom is thoughtfully positioning itself for strategic expansion that fosters community and enhances brand loyalty. Final Thoughts As Mellow Mushroom heads into a promising 2026, its blend of technology, culinary innovation, and strategic growth sets a strong foundation for continued success in the pizza industry. For restaurant owners and potential investors, staying attuned to such developments not only provides insight into market trends but can also inform business decisions that align with emerging consumer demands. To explore franchise opportunities or learn more about how you can partake in Mellow Mushroom's exciting journey, visit their official site today!

12.23.2025

How Saucy by KFC’s Loaded Tendy Burrito is Shaping Late-Night Dining

Update Late-Night Dining ReinventedThe late-night culinary scene is witnessing a renewal, and Saucy by KFC is at the forefront with its innovative offerings specifically tailored for night owls. The recently launched Kitchen Sink Grand’ito—a massive burrito loaded with chicken tenders, crispy fries, queso, and a fried egg—is already making waves. This inventive dish aligns with the tastes of the younger crowd, particularly Gen Z, who crave exciting, customizable food options late into the night. As more establishments adapt to these shifting consumer preferences, Saucy's approach provides valuable insights into how restaurants can successfully capture this niche market.Customization and Innovation Take Center StageAt the heart of Saucy’s model is the emphasis on customization. Chef Diana Gahagen, responsible for the brand's food innovations, has articulated a clear vision: to obsess over a single core protein—chicken tenders—and explore various formats and flavor combinations that allow guests to make their meals unique. In just a year, Saucy has introduced an impressive 23 new items, including twists on favorites and wholly new creations like the Egg Chick’ito and the Egg Sammie, reflecting the ever-evolving demands of today's diners.What Gen Z Wants: Flavor and FunWhy has Saucy chosen to focus on late-night dining? The answer lies in understanding Gen Z's behaviors and preferences. This demographic is not only more likely to order food late at night but also shows a preference for bold flavors and unique combinations. As noted by Gahagen, “Gen Z is always looking for something a little different.” This observation drives the restaurant's continual experimentation with flavor profiles and ingredient pairings, ensuring they keep their menu fresh and appealing.A Sneak Peek into the FutureThe late-night menu is just the beginning for Saucy by KFC. The brand plans to roll out even more unique offerings in 2026. Insights into upcoming items suggest a continued emphasis on bold flavors, innovative sauces, and creative combinations. As the restaurant continues to grow—both in terms of physical locations and menu diversification—the future looks bright for those willing to embrace a dynamic approach to dining.Cross-Utilization of IngredientsAnother significant factor in Saucy's success is the efficient cross-utilization of ingredients across their menu, which reduces complexity in the kitchen while maintaining quality. By reimagining traditional offerings with versatile ingredients like their famous tenders and integrating healthier options like Brussel Bites, the restaurant demonstrates that flipping classic fare into something new doesn’t have to mean sacrificing on taste or quality. This strategic focus could serve as a potential roadmap for other emerging restaurant concepts aiming for both efficiency and customer satisfaction.Competing in a Taste-Driven MarketAs Saucy by KFC carves a niche in the fast-food landscape, it's crucial to recognize the competitive environment. Other brands are also innovating with bold flavors and unique combinations to appeal to shifting consumer preferences. Taco Bell's recent revival of the Quesarito, for instance, reflects a response to customer demand for nostalgia combined with contemporary tastes. Thus, for restaurant owners, remaining vigilant about menu trends and consumer appetite is essential for growth.

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