Pizza Patron names Estrada president
DALLAS (Oct. 8, 2009) - Pizza Patron, the 92-unit Latin-focused pizza chain, has named Guillermo Estrada president, replacing Antonio Swad, the chain's founder, who remains chief executive. more...

Taco Bell dodges cupcake blog report
IRVINE, Calif. (Oct. 8, 2009) - Taco Bell has no comment about blogger reports it is offering such snacks or treats as mini empanadas and Red Velvet cupcakes, and has a "Juice Bar" in one or more Southern California restaurants at which patrons reportedly can order smoothies, shake-like drinks and variations on Mexico's fruit-based beverages known as agua frescas. more...

Latest sales signs from casual dining don't deliver
(Oct. 8, 2009) - Casual-dining companies this week continued to highlight cost-saving initiatives that drove profits even as sales remained soft, leading observers to believe a much-hoped-for sales recovery is not in the cards this year.more...

DHS rescinds long-contested 'no-match' rule
WASHINGTON (Oct. 8, 2009) - The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said Wednesday it has rescinded the controversial Social Security "no-match" rule that would have forced employers to fire workers because of discrepancies in their Social Security records.more...

Marcel Desaulniers sells The Trellis
WILLIAMSBURG, Va. (Oct. 8, 2009) - Executive chef and food authority Marcel Desaulniers and his business partner John Curtis have sold their landmark restaurant, The Trellis.more...

Papa Bello to purchase Kebab Cafe
BALTIMORE (Oct. 8, 2009) - Papa Bello Enterprises Inc., operator and franchisor of about 20 Papa Bello Pizza restaurants, said Thursday it has signed a letter of intent to acquire the Kebab Café, a quick-service concept that specializes in Middle Eastern cuisine.more...

Wendy's highlights freshness in new ad push
DUBLIN, Ohio (Oct. 8, 2009) - Wendy's is breaking its biggest ad campaign in years on Friday with a focus on product quality and a new bacon cheeseburger meant to take on competitors' premium burgers. In the "You Know When It's Real" campaign, the chain aims to emphasize fresh ingredients and in-store preparation.more...