5 restaurant resolutions for 2026, plus the explosion in protein and implosion of Sprinkles

Extra Serving: A restaurant industry podcast · Jan 5, 2026 · 37m

On this week’s Extra Serving, NRN editor in chief Sam Oches and executive editor Alicia Kelso discuss the latest restaurant industry news, including the rise in protein menus across the restaurant industry and the news that Sprinkles Cupcakes had shuttered. They also offer their five resolutions for the restaurant industry in 2026. First up is protein, which is surging on menus as more consumers embrace high-protein diets. From Chipotle to CAVA and Shake Shack to Dunkin’, major chains are rolling out new menu items and in some cases entire menus dedicated to protein. Sam and Alicia discuss…