FSR NextGen Sessions

A deep dive into how chefs, culinary directors, and operators merge trend data, sensory research, seasonality, and storytelling to build craveable, repeatable menus. Where do you spot trends first—and how do you know they fit your brand identity? From long-term trends vs. fads to the phases of the R&D process and the eternal marketing-vs-operations balance, this session breaks down what modern menu innovation really takes.

Forget broad culture talk. This panel goes straight to the “how.” Learn practical programs for understanding your core guest, creating emotional touchpoints, and accelerating guest-driven decisions across menus, marketing, and operations. From brands with big data to those building insight from scratch, we’ll dig into the tools, habits, and cross-functional collaboration that turn guest understanding into loyalty-building action.

The right tech shouldn’t replace hospitality, but amplify it. This panel breaks down how operators are using AI, automation, scheduling tools, and guest data to deliver faster, warmer, more personalized service. From pay-at-the-table and kitchen optimization tools to speed-and-accuracy measurement and smart staffing, we’ll explore the systems that actually move the needle. We’ll also tackle the loyalty dilemma—native POS vs third-party—and how emerging brands can vet partners without costly missteps.

Modeled after QSR Magazine’s CEO to CEO series, this fireside chat-style session will bring together senior leaders from NextGen Casual brands for a candid conversation, giving attendees a direct look into life leading from the top and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

Learn why guests are gravitating back to warm, chaotic, personality-driven environments like diners and other legacy brands, and how restaurants can lean into emotional memory without becoming gimmicky.