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February 11.2026
3 Minutes Read

Paris Baguette Set to Open New Café in Vinings: A Local Gathering Space

Paris Baguette Vinings Café opening cake display with vibrant cakes.

Opening Pathways: Paris Baguette's Growing Presence in North America

As the aroma of freshly baked goods wafts through the Atlanta suburb of Vinings, Georgia, Paris Baguette prepares to open its newest café on February 12, marking a significant step in the brand's commitment to expanding its footprint in North America. With over 280 locations already established across the continent, this latest venture is owned by Kimberly O’Dell, who is on a mission to create a welcoming community space where neighbors can gather over delicious pastries and artisan coffee.

Community and Experience: A New Café’s Purpose

O'Dell brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles in hospitality and franchise marketing, seeking to leverage her knowledge to enhance the customer experience at Paris Baguette. “Now I get to create something tangible – a space where people can slow down, connect, and enjoy simple moments over coffee and pastries,” she expresses. This sentiment encapsulates the brand's ethos: to re-establish the neighborhood café as a community hub, promising to deliver a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Strategic Growth: Aiming for 1,000 Locations by 2030

Paris Baguette has ambitious plans for growth, aiming to reach 1,000 units in the U.S. and Canada by 2030. As part of its strategy, the company is focusing on partnerships with local entrepreneurs who are passionate about enriching their neighborhoods. This approach not only fuels the brand's expansion but also reinforces its commitment to local communities through various charitable initiatives. Darren Tipton, CEO of Paris Baguette, highlights the brand’s mission: “We’re on a mission to re-establish the neighborhood bakery café as the heart of the community.”

A Unique Offering: The Paris Baguette Experience

What sets Paris Baguette apart is not only the high-quality baked goods and coffee but the overall experience provided to customers. Each café aims to reflect local tastes while maintaining a consistent, quality experience that made the brand a global leader in the bakery café market. The “Love Baked In” initiative further strengthens the café's dedication to social responsibility, emphasizing their role in nurturing local communities with charitable efforts.

The Vinings Location: A Hub for Connection and Culture

The newly opened café at 4687 South Atlanta Road will be the 8th in Georgia, reflecting Paris Baguette's commitment to creating a network of inviting spaces. O'Dell, excited to bring her vision to life, aims to transform the café into a gathering place for the community—where people come not just for food but for connection. She recalls her personal journey as she transitions from a behind-the-scenes player in the food industry to a community-focused entrepreneur. “In our cafés, we like to say, ‘Happy to see you. Happier to serve you,’” O'Dell notes, embodying the nurturing spirit the brand strives to promote.

Conclusion: The Future of Neighbourhood Cafés

The opening of the Vinings café not only marks a crucial point in Paris Baguette's mission to expand but also demonstrates the vital role such establishments play in fostering community ties. With a focus on local partnerships, exceptional customer service, and quality products, Paris Baguette is set to redefine the bakery café landscape in North America. As the brand continues to grow, it stands firm in its promise to be a beloved neighborhood gathering spot.

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03.01.2026

City Barbeque Opens March 2: A New Flavor Hub in Rock Hill

Update City Barbeque Poised to Bring Flavor to Rock Hill Rock Hill, South Carolina, is about to get a taste of authentic barbeque as City Barbeque prepares to open its doors on March 2, 2026. Lauded for its commitment to traditional smoking techniques and community engagement, City Barbeque is a neighborhood joint that has been delighting customers with its slow-smoked meats and homemade sides since its inception in 1999. A Grand Opening with a Community Focus The new location, situated at 5001 Old York Road near Walmart Supercenter, marks the culmination of 25 years of barbeque excellence. On opening day, a fun-filled "Rib’n" cutting event is set to kick off the celebration, attended by local chamber representatives. The first 50 guests will be rewarded with gift bags, which include a City Barbeque T-shirt, signature sauce, and gift cards ranging from $5 to $250, with total giveaways amounting to $1,000. These incentives not only draw in customers but also foster a sense of community cooperation, illustrating City Barbeque's commitment to its new home. A Menu That Celebrates Tradition City Barbeque's menu is a tribute to classic barbecue fare, featuring brisket, pulled pork, ribs, turkey, and chicken. Each meat is smoked over hickory wood, bringing a flavor that has been painstakingly perfected over the years. Locally sourced ingredients enhance the scratch-made sides like macaroni and cheese, baked beans, and coleslaw — ensuring that every bite is as fresh as it is hearty. The restaurant will also offer options for dine-in, carryout, delivery, and full-service catering, making it an ideal choice for various occasions, from office lunches to family gatherings. The Heartbeat of the Community “We’re excited to join the Rock Hill community,” stated Mike Muldoon, president and CEO of City Barbeque. “For more than two decades, we’ve believed that great barbeque brings people together. We’re looking forward to serving our new neighbors and becoming part of the local traditions that make Rock Hill special.” This statement encapsulates the essence of City Barbeque's philosophy — great food served in a welcoming environment fosters community bonds. City Barbeque's Legacy of Craftsmanship Since its humble beginnings as a backyard barbeque dream, City Barbeque has consistently focused on quality and community. Each restaurant maintains its commitment to craftsmanship, smoking meats on-site and preparing sides and desserts daily. This dedication to freshness and flavor has not only established a loyal customer base but has also earned the brand recognition and accolades as a leader in the barbeque industry. Anticipating a Successful Launch As the opening day approaches, excitement is palpable among locals eager for a taste of City Barbeque. The anticipation mirrors the excitement that often accompanies new business openings in town, promising a boost to local dining options and economic growth. For those new to this barbeque haven, it's a chance to indulge in the true flavors of America. City Barbeque invites everyone to explore its delicious menu and join in the festivities on March 2. To stay updated, guests can visit their website or follow City Barbeque on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.

03.01.2026

Roy Rogers Restaurants Embraces Future-Ready Technology with Qu's Unified Commerce Platform

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03.01.2026

Is Banh Mi Ready for National Expansion? Insights from Bun Mee's CEO

Update Understanding Banh Mi's Rise in Popularity Banh mi, a traditional Vietnamese sandwich that melds French baguettes with bold Asian flavors, has steadily grown in popularity across the United States. Once an obscure delicacy, the sandwich is now hailed as a culinary staple within city limits, especially in places like San Francisco. Denise Tran, founder and CEO of Bun Mee, has played a significant role in the rise of this delicious fusion. Since launching her first Bun Mee shop in 2011, she has transformed the perception of banh mi from a niche offering to a mainstream player, comparable to popular fast-casual brands like Shake Shack. From Local Favorite to National Franchise As Bun Mee prepares to open its first franchised location outside of California, Tran aims to replicate her success in New York City. "It's exciting to think our first franchise will open in such a demanding market," she commented, emphasizing the brand's growing recognition. This expansion is a reflection of Bun Mee's carefully calibrated growth strategy, which includes refining the menu and operational practices to ensure quality remains consistent across locations. The venture into New York represents the next step in a much larger vision. With additional units planned for both the Bay Area and the East Coast, Tran is not just selling sandwiches; she is crafting a brand aimed at establishing a legacy in the culinary landscape. Challenges and Opportunities Ahead Despite the optimism surrounding Bun Mee’s expansion, Tran faces challenges typical in the food industry, including rising competition and changing consumer preferences. Other chains like Lee’s Sandwiches and Paris Banh Mi Café are already significant players in this space, and each has its unique offering. However, Tran believes that Bun Mee's distinct approach—melding traditional Vietnamese recipes with fresh, creative interpretations—sets them apart. They remain focused on offering an evolving menu, which now includes lighter, customizable options such as salads alongside their core banh mi sandwiches. Strategic Growth Through Solid Partnerships Looking ahead, Tran is eager to forge strategic partnerships that align with her long-term vision for Bun Mee. She specifically looks for investors who understand the value of patience and brand integrity, eschewing those wanting quick returns. "My goal is to build a legacy brand that thrives over time, not just in short-term profits," she explained. Such partnerships will be crucial as Bun Mee navigates the complexities of rapid expansion while maintaining the core values that have made it a beloved brand to many. Tran’s insights highlight the balance between authenticity and business acumen, a duality vital for success in the crowded food landscape. Conclusion: The Future of Banh Mi The rising popularity of Vietnamese cuisine, coupled with the enduring appeal of Bun Mee, positions the brand for potential national success. With a thoughtful strategy of menu refinement, patient investment, and focused growth, Bun Mee is on its way to possibly redefining what it means to enjoy authentic Vietnamese food in a fast-casual setting. The future certainly looks bright for the banh mi, thanks to pioneers like Tran.

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