Sept. 8 - Waffle House takes late-night delivery national | Starbucks’ PSL launch broke records

Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte broke records. Is that enough?; Portillo’s hires Marco’s Pizza exec as CMO; Why Checkers and Rally’s are keeping the pedal to the metal on value

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Daily Dive

Sept. 8, 2025 | Today’s news and insights for restaurant leaders

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Waffle House expands DoorDash delivery partnership nationwide

While delivery will be available from 9 p.m. to 8 a.m. from Waffle House’s digital channels, a handful of restaurants will offer delivery 24/7 from DoorDash’s app.

Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte broke records. Is that enough?

CEO Brian Niccol said the chain had its strongest sales Tuesday ever, and Placer.ai data showed the launch outpaced rivals’ fall LTO debuts.

Portillo’s hires Marco’s Pizza exec as CMO

Denise Lauer will help enhance the fast casual chain’s digital capabilities and boost guest engagement and brand awareness.

Phodega’s journey from bridging the gap to building a booming business

With the right restaurant tech, Asian American noodle shop Phodega grew its menu offerings, foot traffic and staff.

Why Checkers and Rally’s are keeping the pedal to the metal on value

CMO Scott Johnson explains how the sister chains built on a new brand platform via a partnership with rapper GloRilla as the QSR value wars persist.

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