Vicious Biscuit has introduced the Secret (Not So Secret) Menu through its Rewards app, offering two limited-time dishes, "Lord of the Fries" and "Old Country Reboot," at all locations until Nov. 23. Since its August launch, the app has driven omnichannel growth by providing digital convenience, personalized rewards and early access to new offerings -- now including the secret, limited-time menu to further incentivize downloads and restaurant visits. COO Amanda Kahalehoe said the secret menu move is a "fun, innovative way to drive engagement and give our loyal fans something fresh, while staying true to the sense of community and Southern hospitality that defines our brand."

The Dave's Hot Chicken app soared to the top of the iOS App Store, briefly becoming the most downloaded app overall after a promotional event tied to Drake's birthday. Customers who downloaded the app were eligible for a free chicken tender or slider, which boosted downloads and increased in-store visits during the two-day campaign. The promotion raised the app's visibility and introduced new customers to the brand, with the potential for repeat business.

Chain restaurants are rolling out a variety of limited-time offers (this week, including the return of Jimmy John's Picklewich and Pickle Ranch sauce, Culver's Cheese and Mac and Taco Cabana's brisket-focused items. Potbelly and Chip City are debuting seasonal cookies, while North Italia and Newk's Eatery introduce hearty, beef-centric dishes. Other LTOs feature innovative items like Frito Pie Dilla at Dillas Quesadillas and new chicken wraps at Long John Silver's, giving diners a wide range of flavors for fall and winter.

Chili's is set to bring back its Skillet Beef Queso after removing it from the menu earlier this month in favor of a new Southwestern Queso. The original queso, a blend of melted cheese and chili, was discontinued due to low sales but will return alongside the new version following a wave of customer demand on social media.

Convenience store coffee programs have advanced from traditional drip offerings to more customizable, multi-option experiences in response to consumer demand for quality, variety and value. Chains like Casey's and Kwik Trip are investing in new equipment, expanding flavor profiles and adding options such as cold brew and seasonal drinks to remain competitive with independent coffee shops and attract younger customers.

October is National Cybersecurity Month, and the National Restaurant Association is aiming to educate everyone about online threats and promote tech-based best practices to protect your business. Follow these tips to help keep your businesses and customers safer from cyber harm.

Auburn University doctoral student Jill Sower is making an impact on the Gulf Coast oyster farming scene through her research and community-building efforts. Sower's work focuses on the aftermath of a 2019 freshwater influx that devastated Mississippi's oyster reefs, and she has built relationships with farmers and other stakeholders while developing the first Gulf Coast oyster industry community of practice. Her work combines scientific study with policy analysis, drawing on 62 stakeholder interviews to develop strategies for addressing industry challenges such as hurricanes and flooding.

This year's New York Wine Experience Chefs' Challenge starred culinary luminaries José Andrés, Eric Ripert, Emeril Lagasse and Danny Meyer, joined by Wine Spectator senior editor Bruce Sanderson. Each chef brought their distinctive style to the table, preparing dishes such as Andrés' leek mosaic