{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"What Today\u2019s Data Says About Tomorrow\u2019s Restaurant Part 1","description":"What Today\u2019s Data Says About Tomorrow\u2019s Restaurant   Episode Description: What if \u201cflat\u201d traffic isn\u2019t bad news \u2014 but a wake-up call? In this episode of Restauranttopia, Brad and David break down fresh industry insights from a recent Circana (formerly NPD) foodservice conference and translate national data into real-world strategies for independent restaurant operators.   From shifting consumer behavior and third-party delivery fatigue to protein-forward menus, mocktails, gaming culture, and the rise of fast casual and fine dining, this conversation cuts through the noise and focuses on what actually matters as we head toward 2026.   If you\u2019re wondering how to win in a \u201cflat is the new normal\u201d environment, this episode is packed with ideas you can actually use.   Key Topics Covered: Why restaurant traffic is expected to remain flat through 2027 \u2014 and why that\u2019s an opportunity How consumer spending habits are changing (and what they\u2019re still willing to splurge on) What the rise of gaming, influencers, and digital culture means for food marketing Why fast casual and fine dining are winning while mid-scale struggles Protein-forward menus, healthier labeling, and the impact of GLP-1 drugs Mocktails, alcohol shifts, and smarter beverage profitability Third-party delivery fatigue and the return of on-premise dining Menu innovation: when to cut underperforming items and when to evolve Creating experiences worth choosing when guests dine out less often Actionable Takeaways for Operators: Double down on what makes your restaurant unique Engineer menus for weekday speed and weekend splurges Treat takeout and pickup guests like dine-in customers Use data \u2014 not emotion \u2014 to make menu decisions Lean into value and innovation (yes, both) Why This Matters: When guests are dining out less often, every visit has to count. This episode helps you rethink how to attract, serve, and retain today\u2019s more selective customer.   \ud83d\udc49 Whether you run a full-service restaurant, fast casual concept, or neighborhood favorite, this conversation will challenge you to adapt \u2014 and compete smarter. ","author_name":"Restauranttopia: A Show for Local Independent Restaurants","author_url":"https:\/\/www.restauranttopia.com","html":"