Miscellaneous

🍴 Bret Thorn, senior food & beverage editor for Nation’s Restaurant News since 1999, is known for his expertise in food trends and French cuisine. Educated at Tufts University and Le Cordon Bleu, he has written for the New York Sun (2005-2008) and Asia Times (1995-1997). Winner of the 2006 Jesse H. Neal Award, he also served as IFEC president in 2005. Thorn resides in Brooklyn, NY, and hosts "In the Kitchen with Bret Thorn" podcast.

🍖 Ryan discussed Chick-fil-A's culture emphasizing service and excellence over nearly 15 years. The company focuses on people, not just chicken. Leadership drives a giving culture with high expectations. In 2017, Ryan led a team to develop a drive-thru consulting methodology across approximately 2,000 restaurants. Despite lacking direct experience, they had 90-120 days to learn industry practices, which proved crucial when COVID-19 prompted a shift to 99% drive-thru operations by 2020.

🌼 In the 1960s or 1970s, a century-old farmhouse underwent modernization, hiding its original charm. After removing faux paneling and vinyl siding, original features like floors, beams, and brick were restored. Located at Morning Glory Farm, named for the abundant wildflowers and memorable sunrises, this project saw contributions from the author's brothers and a mural sketch by the author, who was simultaneously working on Live Oak Lake in Texas.

📈 France’s DSNA, in collaboration with SITA, trialed real-time weather tools at Reims ACC during summer 2025. Over 21 days between July and October 2025, they used eWAS and Mission Watch, saving up to 105,000 minutes of delays (65% reduction) and enabling 2,700 extra flights. This resulted in €2.02 million additional revenue. No safety incidents were reported. The trial emphasized precise weather handling and shared data for improved air traffic management.

✈️ Emirates Airways is retrofitting 60 A380s and 51 Boeing 777s by August 2026, introducing new cabins and a lounge. Collaborating with Airbus, Panasonic, and others, Emirates enhances comfort and entertainment. Business Class gets upgraded seating with wireless charging and 4K entertainment. Premium Economy features advanced seating, while Economy introduces lightweight seats. The Astrova inflight system offers 4K OLED displays and Spatial Audio. Starlink connectivity will be installed across the fleet, enriching the passenger experience.

🚀 Emirates will implement Starlink Wi-Fi across its fleet by mid-2027, starting with Boeing 777s in November 2025. The rollout encompasses 232 aircraft, including A380s starting February 2026, with 14 installations monthly. Passengers will enjoy free, high-speed internet, streaming, and calls. The initiative complements Emirates' extensive cabin refurbishments. The first Starlink-equipped commercial flight launches post-Dubai Airshow. Notable figures include 6,500 entertainment channels and a 220-aircraft retrofit program, with 76 aircraft refurbished so far.

✈️ Nov 19, 2025, American Express Global Business Travel anticipates 2026 airfares to mirror 2025, with steady prices in North America and notable rises on Middle East and European routes. North American fares remain flat, with airlines focusing on premium offerings. Notably, Middle East business class fares are expected to see the highest global increases. European business fares will rise, particularly on intra-Europe and Europe–Asia routes. Within Asia, business class fares increase, while economy fares dip slightly.

🍳 November 19, San Diego, California—Bonne Vie Brasserie & Bar opens at the Westgate Hotel, blending French and coastal California flavors. 🎨 Designed by Jacoi Mann, it features stylish European influences. 👨‍🍳 Executive Chef Fabrice Hardel, with 30+ years of global experience, leads the kitchen alongside Food & Beverage Manager Mary Watson. 🍽️ The menu includes Burgundy Escargot, French Onion Soup, and Icelandic Cod Meunière, using local ingredients from Vesta Produce and Santa Monica Seafood.

🎨 Robert and Mary Quick, owners of Western Addition in Texas, have transformed their four Dallas and Houston restaurants into art galleries, displaying $400,000 in contemporary art. Founded in 2018, the group includes il Bracco, Bobbie’s Airway Grill, and Balboa Surf Club. Notable pieces include John Baldessari's 2015 artwork and Roy Lichtenstein’s 1964 piece. A fifth restaurant in Scottsdale, Arizona, is set to open this winter, showcasing 1960s Italian pop art.