June 15, 2001

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Cover Story: Blooming Tomatoes
Unlike other foods that slip in and out of vogue, the tomato has gracefully adapted to the changing culinary landscape by availing itself as a versatile component in a chef's never-ending pursuit of creativity. To that end, the tomato has become a vital ingredient for elevating a menu item from ordinary to noteworthy.

Big Shot
Once A Specialty In Italian and Find-Dining Concepts, Espresso Drinks are Flowing into Mainstream Casual Restaurants

SPECIAL REPORT

No Kidding Around
Pleasing children can be as important to independent restaurants as it is to the major quick-service chains. Many single-unit and small-chain operators are surpassing the marketing prowess of QSR giants by developing programs that involve kids in the preparation of their meals or that introduce them to the foodservice business.

BUSINESS

Layered Ascent
The compound annual sales growth for sandwich-menu restaurant chains was 12.4% between 1979 and 1999, while the burger segment grew only 3.9%. Chains such as Briazz, Jersey Mike's Subs, Panera Bread, Penn Station East Coast Subs and Quizno's are keeping that momentum going with ambitious unit-expansion plans.

OPERATIONS

Do Process
Discipline, Ritual Keep Equipment Humming

FDA Egg-Labeling Regulation Criticized
Producers, Suppliers and National Restaurant Association Say Mandate Unnecessary

EDITORIAL

Viewpoint