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

Tocaya’s Sweet Corn Tamales and Red Pozole Make Holidays Bright for Restaurants

Tocaya holiday menu featuring tamales, shrimp, and guacamole on a wooden table.

The Comfort of Tradition: A Taste of the Holidays

As the holiday season approaches, Tocaya Organica is stepping up to bring warmth and nostalgia to its menu. Returning after a long absence since 2019, the fan-favorite Sweet Corn Tamales are making a comeback, much to the delight of loyal customers. These house-made delights are crafted with care, mixing sweet corn kernels with roasted poblano peppers and masa, complemented by a bright roasted tomato salsa. Each tamale evokes the comforting essence of holiday traditions and can be enjoyed individually or in quantities, perfect for gatherings.

Introducing Red Pozole: A New Festive Classic

Meanwhile, Tocaya is also introducing the brand new Red Pozole, a hearty dish that replaces the previous Spicy Chicken Soup on the winter menu. This savory option features shredded chicken tinga layered with hominy, radish, cabbage, and finished with a flavorful chicken broth enriched by a hint of chile. It's a meal designed for sharing, yet satisfying enough for a cozy night in. Both new and returning dishes are available at all Tocaya locations, making them accessible for diners wanting to indulge in festive flavors during the chilly months.

Nostalgia in Modern Dining: Why Comfort Food Matters

The revival of tamales and the introduction of pozole underscore a broader culinary trend: the importance of nostalgia-driven cuisine during the holidays. Restaurant operators are increasingly offering menu items that evoke fond memories and cultural connections. For Tocaya, honoring tradition while introducing modern flavors means balancing customer satisfaction with ethical sourcing and seasonal ingredients.

The Role of Seasonal Menus in Restaurant Strategy

Seasonal menus can be a powerful tool for restaurants looking to engage with customers. By tapping into holiday nostalgia, restaurants like Tocaya not only appeal to emotions but also drive sales during a critical time of year. Offering limited-time dishes encourages customers to frequent restaurants and share experiences with friends and family—a key factor during the festive season.

Expert Insights: Crafting Comfort for the Community

Oliver Plust, executive corporate chef of Tocaya, emphasizes the importance of handmade quality in each dish. His perspective not only aligns with consumer preferences for authenticity and craftsmanship, but also highlights the growing demand for plant-based and sustainable options among diners. As restaurants adapt to changing dietary preferences, the spotlight on dishes that cater to varied palates continues to expand.

Community Engagement: The Importance of Local Flavor

Restaurants are not only places to eat but also community hubs during the holidays. Tocaya’s initiative to connect flavors with memories can lead to deeper community bonds, whether it's through special holiday gatherings or the sharing of traditional dishes. Operators should consider collaborations with local farms or producers to further enhance their seasonal offerings, bringing local flavor into the holiday spotlight.

In Conclusion: Embracing Seasonal Offerings

The return of Sweet Corn Tamales and the addition of Red Pozole at Tocaya provide a compelling look into how restaurants can successfully navigate the holiday season by embracing nostalgia while innovating with modern touches. As customers seek comfort and tradition, operators should be strategic in focusing on flavors that resonate, ensuring their menus remain relevant and cherished. With each plate served, Tocaya not only brings delightful experiences to its guests but also strengthens its community ties.

Ready for your restaurant to thrive this holiday season? Explore innovative menu strategies that resonate with your customers.

Events & Community

Write A Comment

*
*
Related Posts All Posts
01.06.2026

Biscuit Belly: Expanding to 20 Restaurants in 2026 — Here’s What You Need to Know!

Update Exciting Growth on the Horizon for Biscuit Belly Biscuit Belly, the rapidly expanding brunch franchise recognized for its scratch-made biscuits and Southern hospitality, is ending 2025 with bullish optimism. With current operational sites reaching 13 and several exciting developments in the pipeline, the brand stands poised to achieve its ambitious goal of 20 locations by the end of 2026. Strategic Expansion Tactics Driving Success Over the past year, Biscuit Belly has strategically focused on solidifying its developmental foundation. With six signed leases and a successful opening of a new location in Summerville, South Carolina, CEO Chad Coulter emphasizes the importance of location. The brand's sites span across North Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Texas, and Ohio, indicating a significant geographical expansion from six to nine states. Key among these developments are highly anticipated openings in Columbus, Ohio, and Houston, Texas. As Coulter notes, competition for these locations was fierce, indicating the brand's growing popularity. The Power of Strong Franchise Partnerships Franchise growth has also been a highlight for Biscuit Belly in 2025, with notable multi-unit agreements emerging in Houston and the Florida Panhandle. The franchise system has attracted experienced operators from diverse fields, including individuals with backgrounds from other successful food franchises like Auntie Anne’s and Cinnabon. The addition of hands-on operators will provide the expertise necessary to navigate the challenges of scaling a successful restaurant chain. Catering as a Growing Revenue Stream Another exciting avenue for Biscuit Belly's growth is its catering services, which now account for over 10% of overall sales—a figure that is continuously growing. With plans to launch a first-party catering ordering service and establish an internal catering sales team in 2026, Biscuit Belly aims to enhance its presence in the catering market significantly. Staying Agile in a Challenging Market Despite the challenges posed by rising inflation and operational costs, Biscuit Belly has managed to maintain robust store-level profitability. The team has diligently reviewed operating expenses, resulting in shifts to more cost-efficient suppliers and improved pricing agreements with major delivery platforms. This focus on efficiency ensures that franchisee profits remain strong, allowing for continuous investment in further growth. A Vision for the Future: Beyond 2026 Looking beyond immediate expansion, Biscuit Belly is already laying groundwork for a highly ambitious 2027, with targets set to reach anywhere from 25 to 30 locations. This planning reflects a thoughtful approach to growth, striving for quality and brand integrity over mere numerical expansion. Conclusion: A Call to Action for Restaurant Owners As Biscuit Belly gears up for an exciting year ahead, the franchise model can serve as an inspiring blueprint for other restaurant owners. Emphasizing strategic planning, strong partnerships, and narrative branding can provide invaluable insights for those looking to expand in this competitive industry. With successful franchises carving a path forward, now is an ideal time to consider growth opportunities and rethink operational strategies for the new year. If you're a restaurant owner seeking to bolster your business model, consider exploring the intriguing opportunities within Biscuit Belly.

01.06.2026

Huddle House Begins New Chapter with Bob Campbell as Brand President

Update Huddle House Welcomes Bob Campbell: A New Era Begins As 2026 unfolds, Huddle House, the celebrated diner known for its comforting meals, is poised for significant transformation under the leadership of its newly appointed Brand President, Bob Campbell. With an extensive career spanning over 25 years in casual dining, Campbell is set to guide Huddle House into its next chapter amid evolving consumer expectations and a competitive market landscape. The Strategic Vision Behind the Leadership Change Bob Campbell's appointment symbolizes a pivotal moment for Huddle House, aligning with the strategic vision of Ascent Hospitality Management's CEO, Paul Damico. This leadership change not only stems from the need for operational excellence but also underscores the brand's commitment to rejuvenating its legacy in the dining sector. Damico expressed, “We are delighted to welcome Bob to our leadership team as we build on the strong foundation of the Huddle House brand.” His confidence in Campbell's expertise in growth planning and brand strategy indicates a clear direction towards enhancing customer experience and expanding the Huddle House market presence. A Track Record of Success: Bob Campbell's Journey Campbell's path to Huddle House began with his role as a franchisee at Taco Mac, where he not only operated multiple establishments but also collaborated closely with the brand's creator to form Tappan Street Restaurant Group. Under his vision, this venture grew into a formidable collection of over 30 locations, showcasing his unparalleled skills in operational management and brand development. His contributions to the restaurant industry have not gone unnoticed; in 2010, he was honored with the Georgia Restaurant Association's Grace Award for Restaurateur of the Year, solidifying his reputation as a leader in the field. These accomplishments will undoubtedly influence his approach at Huddle House, promising a hopeful trajectory for the brand. Responding to Changing Dining Preferences In his own words, Campbell recognizes the need for Huddle House to adapt as the dining landscape evolves. “This is a pivotal moment for the brand to build on its heritage while creating new paths to meet guests where they are,” he noted. With the industry shifting towards a more personalized dining experience, Huddle House is strategically positioned to leverage its legacy while integrating innovative practices that resonate with modern consumers. Grounded in Tradition: The Huddle House Promise Since 1964, Huddle House has been synonymous with homestyle dining, emphasizing a commitment to serving quality meals in a setting that feels like home. With nearly 300 locations, the brand is a testament to the notion that food can bring people together. As Bob Campbell takes the helm, his leadership is expected to not only fortify this message but also enhance the brand's outreach. Looking Ahead: Expansion on the Horizon Part of Campbell's vision includes accelerating the growth of Huddle House. Recent announcements indicate intentions to significantly expand its footprint, with plans for new corporate locations and franchise opportunities that resonate with the brand’s long-standing motto of “Any Meal, Any Time.” This forward-thinking approach reflects a clear understanding of the market dynamics and consumer expectations. Conclusion: What This Means for Restaurant Owners For restaurant owners and stakeholders, Campbell's leadership holds the promise of revitalized energy and strategic growth at Huddle House. As the diner navigates changing preferences and expands its reach, there’s an opportunity for franchisees to align with a brand dedicated to innovation while honoring its rich heritage. Restaurant owners should take note of Campbell’s transformative vision—adapting to market changes while staying true to the core values that make Huddle House a cherished dining establishment. To explore franchise opportunities and be part of this exciting journey, visit HuddleHouseFranchising.com and join the Huddle House community committed to serving quality from the heart.

01.06.2026

The Secret Behind Papa Murphy's Ranking as No. 1 Pizza Chain for Customer Service

Update Celebrating Excellence in Customer Service In a remarkable achievement that underscores the importance of outstanding customer service within the restaurant industry, Papa Murphy's has been honored as the No. 1 pizza chain for customer service in America by Newsweek. This recognition highlights the value of prioritizing customer experience, setting a standard for other restaurants to aspire to. Understanding the Significance of This Award Customer service remains a pivotal component of any successful restaurant, especially in an environment where consumers have countless options. The Newsweek award is founded on a comprehensive consumer survey, ensuring that the results genuinely reflect the sentiments of everyday customers. Papa Murphy's triumph over industry rivals like Marco's and Domino's showcases a commitment to exceeding customer expectations, a key element for any restaurant's success. The Role of Quality Ingredients in Customer Satisfaction As noted by Dallas Massey, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Papa Murphy's, the company doesn’t just focus on the pizza; it actively fosters an environment where customer interactions are valued. Their dedication to using fresh, high-quality ingredients in their take ‘n’ bake format not only makes for delicious meals but enhances customer experiences by promoting trust in the brand. How This Recognition Affects Franchise Success For franchise owners and aspiring restaurateurs, Papa Murphy's achievement serves as a valuable case study. It demonstrates the tangible benefits of focusing on customer service, as positive customer interactions can translate directly into repeat business and loyalty. This recognition not only bolsters brand reputation but also offers current and potential franchisees a competitive edge in attracting new customers. Cultivating a Customer-Centric Culture Creating an effective customer service strategy requires more than just good food; it necessitates a culture that values each interaction. From training employees to emphasize the importance of treating customers with respect and care, to ensuring that feedback loops are in place to continually improve service, the lessons learned from Papa Murphy's success are invaluable. Future Trends in Restaurant Customer Service Looking ahead, the restaurant industry is likely to see an even greater emphasis on customer experience as a differentiating factor. With increasing competition and changing consumer expectations, the best-performing brands will be those that not only deliver quality products but also cultivate personal, meaningful interactions that turn first-time customers into loyal patrons. By examining what works at Papa Murphy's, restaurateurs can glean insights that may be vital for sustained success in a rapidly evolving market. Conclusion: Learning from the Best The recognition that Papa Murphy's has received affirms the critical role that customer service plays in the restaurant business. As other brands strive to meet or exceed this benchmark, restaurant owners are encouraged to take note of the successful practices highlighted by Papa Murphy's. Implementing similar strategies can foster an environment where exceptional service becomes the norm, ultimately benefiting both customers and the bottom line. In the competitive landscape of the restaurant industry, learning from those who have been recognized for their excellence can provide helpful, actionable insights that lead to improved performance and customer satisfaction.

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
*
*
*