The latest restaurant franchise news includes The Melt launching a national expansion initiative to partner with multi-unit operators, while Prince St. Pizza teams up with Lawrence Kourie to accelerate its nationwide footprint. Mountain Mike’s Pizza has secured the prestigious 2026 TopScore FUND Award and expanded its Colorado presence with a new location in Colorado Springs. Buffalo Wild Wings GO has debuted a convenient takeout-focused storefront in Lake Zurich, and Robeks recently celebrated a grand opening in Avon, Connecticut. JINYA Ramen Bar is bringing authentic Japanese flavors to Hackensack, while Houston TX Hot Chicken and CaliTacos both heat up the Phoenix market with new regional debuts. Perkins Restaurant & Bakery and Huckleberry’s Breakfast & Lunch have each signed strategic agreements to expand throughout Texas, Nick the Greek has entered the Inland Empire with an Ontario opening, and Bonrue Bakery is preparing for a Northern Utah expansion under the culinary leadership of newly appointed Executive Chef Emily Benson.
The Melt Launches National Franchising Initiative With Enticing Opportunity for Multi-Unit Operators
The Melt is launching a strategic expansion initiative aimed at partnering with experienced multi-unit operators to bring its signature melted sandwiches to new markets nationwide. This franchising program offers a proven business model and high-performance kitchen technology designed to scale the brand’s unique gourmet comfort food concept.
Prince St. Pizza Partners With Lawrence Kourie to Accelerate Nationwide Expansion
Prince St. Pizza has announced a strategic partnership with a seasoned retail developer to accelerate the brand’s footprint across new high-profile markets. This collaboration leverages extensive real estate expertise to bring the legendary New York-style square slices and iconic pepperoni cups to a wider audience through a structured growth plan.
Mountain Mike’s Pizza Wins FRANdata 2026 Topscore Fund Award
Mountain Mike’s Pizza has earned prestigious recognition for its exceptional commitment to franchisee success and financial health with the 2026 TopScore FUND Award. This accolade highlights the brand’s industry-leading support systems and its reputation as a top-tier investment opportunity within the competitive franchise landscape.
Mountain Mike’s Pizza Opens Second Restaurant in Colorado Springs
Mountain Mike’s Pizza has opened its doors in the Cordera community, marking the brand’s second establishment in the Colorado Springs market. This new family-friendly venue offers a spacious dining room and an outdoor patio where guests can enjoy legendary crispy, curly pepperoni pizzas alongside a localized selection of craft beers.
Buffalo Wild Wings GO Opens in Lake Zurich
Buffalo Wild Wings GO has launched its latest location in Lake Zurich, introducing a convenient format focused specifically on takeout and delivery services for local fans. This new Illinois storefront features a streamlined menu of iconic wings and sauces, utilizing innovative heated pickup lockers to ensure a seamless and efficient guest experience.
Robeks Debuts New Avon Location with Grand Opening Celebration on April 11
Robeks has expanded its presence in Connecticut with a community celebration marking the arrival of its newest location in Avon. Local guests can enjoy a diverse menu of nutrient-dense smoothies, fresh-pressed juices, and premium acai bowls designed to provide flavorful and functional meal options.
JINYA Ramen Bar Brings its Signature Japanese Ramen to Hackensack
JINYA Ramen Bar has debuted its latest location in Hackensack, bringing authentic, slow-simmered broths and customizable noodle bowls to the New Jersey dining scene. This new destination features a sophisticated atmosphere where guests can enjoy signature appetizers and craft cocktails alongside traditional Japanese culinary techniques.
Houston TX Hot Chicken Increases Temperature with First Location in Phoenix Proper
Houston TX Hot Chicken is accelerating its growth in the Southwest with the opening of a new storefront in the heart of Phoenix. This latest expansion brings the brand’s signature spice levels and premium organic poultry to Arizona diners seeking a high-quality Nashville-style dining experience.
CaliTacos Heats Up Phoenix Metro with New Franchise Signings and Maryvale Debut
CaliTacos has launched a new location in the Maryvale community, signaling a major development in the brand’s strategic growth across the Phoenix metropolitan area. This expansion brings a fresh menu of authentic coastal flavors and signature Mexican street food to local residents looking for high-quality, vibrant dining options.
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery Is Coming to Texas
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery has secured a significant multi-unit agreement to develop several new locations across the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. This strategic expansion introduces the brand’s iconic breakfast favorites and legendary baked goods to a new generation of diners throughout North Texas.
Nick the Greek Debuts in Inland Empire With Ontario Location
Nick the Greek has introduced its authentic Mediterranean street food to the Inland Empire with a new location now open in Ontario. This latest expansion allows local diners to enjoy a flavorful menu of traditional gyros, souvlaki, and fresh salads crafted with high-quality ingredients and Greek flavors.
Huckleberry’s Breakfast & Lunch Continues Strategic Expansion in Texas
Huckleberry’s Breakfast & Lunch is bringing its unique Southern hospitality and California flair to the Lone Star State through a new multi-unit development agreement. This strategic expansion will introduce Texas diners to the brand’s signature “Creekside” atmosphere and acclaimed menu of soul food-inspired breakfast and lunch classics.
Bonrue Bakery Announces Northern Utah Expansion; Appoints Emily Benson as Executive Chef
Bonrue Bakery has appointed industry veteran Emily Benson as Executive Chef to spearhead the culinary direction and menu innovation for its upcoming Northern Utah expansion. This strategic leadership move ensures the brand’s commitment to high-quality, artisanal baked goods as it prepares to open multiple new storefronts across the region.
