Chef Grant Tipton of the Polish Center of Wisconsin shared tips on making authentic pierogi during an ACF Chef's Table Webinar, emphasizing the importance of letting the dough rest, using various fillings from leftovers and avoiding over-seasoning. Tipton also highlights traditional techniques and the cultural significance of pierogi in Polish communities, likening their social preparation to other global dumpling traditions.

The launch of Capital One Landing at LaGuardia Airport marks a deepening partnership between the financial services company and renowned chef José Andrés. The lounge features made-to-order tapas and hot dishes, roaming carts offering gourmet treats and a diverse beverage program. Guests can order via QR codes for speedy service, and the menu highlights both Spanish classics and global flavors, all included in the access fee. The space also showcases fresh, prepared breakfast options and specialties sourced from Spain.

Restaurant and foodservice sales are expected to reach a record $1.55 trillion this year, up from $1.4 trillion last year, driven by higher-income consumers and menu price increases, and the industry is projected to create more than 100,000 new jobs, according to the National Restaurant Association's State of the Restaurant Industry 2026 report. Value promotions and loyalty programs will continue to be crucial for attracting diners, and the National Restaurant Association anticipates GDP growth of 2.7% in 2026.

Matcha, a concentrated green tea powder, offers numerous health benefits beyond those of regular green tea, according to registered dietitian nutritionists Mia Syn and Sarah Olszewski. Packed with antioxidants, matcha may help prevent chronic diseases, support heart health by balancing cholesterol levels and improve liver function. It also provides a balanced caffeine boost, enhancing focus without the jitters associated with coffee. While matcha can aid in weight management, they note that its effects are modest and should be combined with a healthy lifestyle.

California state Sen. Steve Padilla has introduced a bill that would require manufacturers of protein products to test for heavy metals and disclose results on their websites. The bill, which was inspired by a Consumer Reports study that found high levels of heavy metals in protein powders and shakes, would prohibit the sale of products that do not comply.

Restaurants are employing unconventional marketing strategies for Valentine's Day to capture consumer attention and drive engagement, with Red Lobster transforming booths into kissing booths in partnership with Vaseline, Dave 26 Buster's offering a chance to win a diamond ring through its Human Crane game, and McDonald's offering a limited-edition McNugget Caviar Kit. "Restaurant brands are doing everything they can to stand out and win awareness right now, because they're hoping it turns into engagement and sales," says Anna Neave, principal at The Good Kind.

Burger King's SpongeBob SquarePants-themed menu, featuring creative items like the Krabby Whopper and Strawberry Shortcake Pie, was a big draw for the chain late last year, contributing to a 2.6% same-store sales increase in the fourth quarter. The campaign was praised for the inventive culinary approach and engaging packaging, which brought families back to the restaurants. This year, Burger King is focused on elevating its offerings, starting with its iconic Whopper, and has hired Amy Alarcon, formerly of Popeyes, as head chef to lead the culinary transformation.