Add Row
Add Element
UPDATE
Add Element
  • Home
  • Categories
    • Featured Restaurants
    • Best in Dining Awards
    • Food & Dining Trends
    • Reputation & Reviews
    • Local Flavor Guides
    • Chef & Restaurateur Spotlights
    • Business Growth & Marketing
    • Events & Community
  • Restaurant news
November 20.2025
3 Minutes Read

Michael Symon's Festive Dark Chocolate Bark: A Must-Try for Workplace Indulgence

Chef in kitchen with fruit, smiling joyfully, bright kitchen.

Michael Symon Brings Holiday Joy to Workplaces Nationwide

This holiday season, nationally acclaimed chef and television personality Michael Symon is bringing joy to workplaces across the country with his latest creation: Festive Dark Chocolate Bark. Available exclusively at Kitchen Works by Sodexo, this limited-edition sweet treat is designed to make workdays a little more special for busy employees. The delicacy combines melted dark chocolate with the festive flavors of toasted pistachios, dried cherries, and a sprinkle of salt flakes, making it an ideal indulgence during the hectic holiday season.

Where Culinary Creativity Meets Workplace Dining

Kitchen Works by Sodexo aims to transform workplace dining into a chef-driven experience. As President Joe Ganci explains, "At Kitchen Works, we believe the workplace café can be more than just a place to grab lunch." This approach supports employees in finding nourishment and connection, especially during the festive season when family and community take center stage.

The Story Behind the Bark

Symon, a culinary ambassador for Kitchen Works, infuses his dishes with rich flavors reflective of his Greek and Sicilian heritage, accentuated by his Cleveland upbringing. He explains that many of his inspirations come from family gatherings, where laughter and food are ever-present. His fondness for pistachios, influenced by his mother's baklava recipe, shines in the Festive Dark Chocolate Bark. He hopes that this creation will evoke a sense of family and community in workplaces nationwide.

Elevating On-Site Dining With Seasonal Offerings

The Festive Dark Chocolate Bark is just one of many seasonal dishes developed by Symon since partnering with Kitchen Works in 2024. Past offerings have included Smokey Cherry Pork Grits and the Juicy Lucy Double Cheese and Bacon Burger. This collaboration underscores a growing trend in workplace dining, where gourmet flavors are accessible during the workday. By enhancing workplace meals with quality ingredients and innovative recipes, chefs like Symon are changing how we view dining at work.

What This Means for Restaurant Owners

For restaurant owners, Symon's partnership with Kitchen Works highlights an important trend in the industry. As more corporations seek to enrich their employee experiences, there is a rising demand for gourmet food solutions in on-site dining. This shift opens up new avenues for chefs to partner with organizations to provide high-quality food that fulfills both nutritional and culinary desires. While traditional workplace meals often prioritize convenience, these innovative collaborations aim to marry flavor and wellness—offering an enticing alternative.

Future Trends in Workplace Dining

As upscale dining options become increasingly prevalent in business environments, restaurant owners may want to examine how they can innovate their offerings. Evolution of the food service landscape points toward a need for more seasonal menus and chef-driven experiences in workplaces. The success of Symon’s creations could pave the way for further culinary ventures in corporate spaces, giving chefs the opportunity to align their passion for cooking with expanding market needs.

Conclusion: A Sweet Call to Action

As the holiday season approaches, let us remember the importance of connectivity through food, whether at home or in the workplace. For restaurant owners, this festive season presents an opportunity to get creative with their menus and cater to an audience longing for more than just sustenance at work. Consider how you might integrate festive, chef-inspired dishes into your offerings and transform everyday dining experiences. Embrace this chance to be part of the culinary movement that elevates workplace dining.

Restaurant news

0 Comments

Write A Comment

*
*
Related Posts All Posts
02.21.2026

Supreme Court's Ruling Strikes Down Trump's Tariffs: What It Means for Restaurant Owners

Update The Supreme Court's Landmark Decision: Implications for Restaurant OwnersOn February 20, 2026, the Supreme Court's ruling against President Trump's tariffs has triggered significant waves across various sectors, particularly within the restaurant industry. The decision, reached with a 6-3 majority, holds that the president exceeded his authority when he imposed sweeping tariffs through the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), a statute meant for emergencies. For many restaurant owners who have borne the economic burden of these tariffs, this ruling offers a glimmer of hope amidst an often volatile landscape.The Impact on Pricing and Costs in the Restaurant SectorFor restaurant owners, the implications of this ruling cannot be understated. Trump's tariffs affected a wide range of products, ranging from ingredients to equipment, leading to increased prices for consumers and squeezed profit margins for businesses. With the potential for refunds on tariffs already paid, restaurateurs may find some financial relief, aiding their recovery from the heavy costs associated with these duties.Understanding the Ruling's Wider Economic ContextThe Supreme Court's ruling is not just a setback for Trump’s administration but signals a pivotal point for how future tariffs might be implemented. Chief Justice John Roberts emphasized that the IEEPA does not authorize the imposition of tariffs, stressing the need for congressional approval for such decisive economic measures. This aspect is crucial, as the restaurant industry often relies on imported goods, and stability in pricing can support better budgeting and forecasting for restaurant owners.Future Strategies in Trade and TariffsWhile the Supreme Court ruling curtails the use of IEEPA for tariffs, it does not eliminate all avenues available for imposing tariffs. Other legislative tools remain available under laws like the Trade Act of 1974. Restaurant owners should brace for potential changes in import costs through these alternative measures, and they must stay informed about evolving trade policies that could impact their bottom line.Voice of the Industry: Support and ReliefFeedback from within the industry has been overwhelmingly positive regarding this ruling. Victor Schwartz, a New York-based importer, referred to the tariffs as “arbitrary, unpredictable, and bad business.” Many restaurant owners have echoed his sentiments, advocating for a full refund process that must be efficient and clear, ensuring that businesses are not held hostage by bureaucratic delays.Next Steps for Restaurant OwnersIn the wake of this ruling, restaurant owners should take proactive steps in addressing potential tariff refunds and keeping an eye on future tariff structures. Consulting with trade experts or legal advisors may provide invaluable insights on navigating refund requests and adjusting supply chains accordingly. Understanding these nuances could enhance financial resilience and operational efficiency moving forward.As the dust settles from this Supreme Court decision, the restaurant community stands at a crossroads. Adapting to the aftermath of tariff impacts will require both strategy and support from policy makers, while maintaining an open dialogue with wholesalers and suppliers will help insulate businesses from further economic shocks.

02.21.2026

Subway Ends Free Sub Offer: What Restaurant Owners Should Know

Update Subway's Free Sub Offer: The End of a Popular IncentiveSubway, a staple in the fast-food landscape, has recently made headlines by pulling back on its beloved free sub incentive. After a brief revival of its Sub Club rewards program, which promised customers a free footlong after a series of qualifying purchases, the company announced that customers will no longer be able to earn this perk starting April 1, 2026. In a move that has caused significant backlash among customers, the sandwich giant is shifting to a point-based system, a decision influenced by franchisee concerns over diminishing profit margins.Understanding the Sub Club TransformationOriginally reintroduced in December 2025, the Sub Club was designed to attract diners back to Subway, after many had drifted to competitors. The program had offered a straightforward deal: buy three footlongs or six six-inch sandwiches, and earn a free footlong. However, only two months later, Subway is facing mutiny from franchisees, leading to the discontinuation of this advantageous offer. Franchisees, representing a significant portion of Subway’s locations, felt the original rewards were too generous, threatening their profitability. The changes to the Sub Club are a direct response to these concerns amid an environment where competition for customer loyalty is fierce.The Franchisee Factor: Challenges from WithinFranchisee sentiment is crucial for any franchise-based business, and in this case, it’s clear that Subway's management is heeding these voices. A petition was signed by thousands of franchisees urging the company to reassess the Sub Club's previous generosity. The negative feedback echoes through social media where customers have openly criticized the new direction. The main outcry centers on rising prices of subs alongside a perceived dip in quality.Customer Backlash: A Hard Blow to Brand LoyaltyThe online chatter surrounding Subway’s decision reflects a larger trend in customer dissatisfaction. With mounting complaints that the prices no longer match the quality of the food, many customers are questioning their loyalty to the brand. The Sub Club's removal of the free sub offer has led to frustration among regular diners who may now see making a sandwich at home as a more appealing option. The notion of "why pay more for less" resonates deeply with consumers, potentially steering them away from Subway in favor of more competitive and rewarding offers from other fast-food chains.Looking Ahead: Future of Subway’s Loyalty ProgramThis recent shift away from the free sub towards a point accumulation system may signify a pivot towards navigating the complexities of modern consumer expectations and market dynamics. The planned point system will reward customers with points per dollar spent, essentially offering smaller-than-expected savings that many original Sub Club patrons find unimpressive. Starting with 400 points yielding $2 in Subway Cash, it raises questions about how effectively this new model will stimulate repeat visits.Conclusion: What Does This Mean for Restaurant Owners?For restaurant owners, especially within the franchise model, the situation at Subway highlights the delicate balance between customer loyalty and franchise expectations. As customer preferences evolve, adapting loyalty programs becomes crucial—what work for one franchise may not work for another. Subway's experience serves as a reminder that customer engagement, derived from effective reward programs, can significantly impact a brand's perception and profitability.As the landscape of fast-food chains continues to evolve, staying attuned to customer desires and franchisee feedback is essential in redefining what value truly means in today's competitive marketplace.

02.21.2026

Peach Cobbler Factory's Expansion in Georgia: A Game Changer in Dessert Franchising

Update Why Peach Cobbler Factory is Setting New Standards in Dessert Franchising The Peach Cobbler Factory, a celebrated dessert franchise founded in Nashville in 2013, is expanding rapidly, marking its influence on the dessert landscape. With a new location recently inaugurated in Stone Mountain, Georgia, the franchise exemplifies how a well-executed expansion strategy can lead to category leadership in the dessert market. The Peach Cobbler Factory has become a beacon of dessert innovation, showcasing a menu that includes not only traditional favorites but also unique offerings such as churro sticks and cobbler shakes. The Significance of Georgia as a Growth Market Georgia, often referred to as the Peach State, is crucial for the franchise's expansion strategy. Plans are already underway for up to 20 locations throughout the state, which emphasizes the brand’s commitment to creating a deep market presence. Greg George, Co-Owner of PCF Franchise LLC, notes that "our brand has been well received in Georgia." This strong consumer demand contrasts with many other food franchises that struggle to establish a foothold in competitive markets. Multi-Channel Expansion: Beyond Brick-and-Mortar In addition to traditional storefronts, Peach Cobbler Factory is diversifying its reach through mobile dessert trailers and catering programs. This multi-channel approach allows the brand to cater to a variety of occasions, from family celebrations to large corporate events. According to recent developments, catering has emerged as a promising growth area, allowing the factory to tap into venues such as airports and stadiums. Understanding Peach Cobbler Factory's Menu Appeal The menu at Peach Cobbler Factory is carefully curated to appeal to a broad audience. Signature items like warm fruit cobblers and banana puddings not only evoke nostalgia but are also prepared to high standards that ensure quality. Catering to families and local communities, the brand has created an inviting atmosphere that pairs well with their comfort-focused desserts. This focus on quality has been a cornerstone of their brand identity and serves as an appealing factor for potential franchisees. The Operational Strength Behind the Growth One component of the Peach Cobbler Factory's growth stems from a solid foundation in operational strength. With an effective franchise model in place, new franchisees are equipped with the tools necessary to succeed. This model, fortified by the experience of co-owner Larry Johnston, has allowed the company to scale efficiently, supporting franchise partners who are as invested in long-term brand building as the company itself. Future Predictions: What’s Next for Dessert Franchise Expansion? As Peach Cobbler Factory continues to dominate the dessert franchise market, industry experts predict that its innovative approach could inspire other brands to diversify their offerings. This trend may pave the way for increased competition in niche dessert markets and could lead to a larger movement towards franchising unique culinary experiences rather than traditional fare. The dessert landscape is poised for significant changes as consumer preferences evolve, and brands like Peach Cobbler Factory will likely lead the way in reimagining what dessert shops can offer.

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title

Sorry, no results found

You Might Find These Articles Interesting

T
Please Check Your Email
We Will Be Following Up Shortly
*
*
*