Smalls Sliders, Taco Bell, Portillo’s, Taco Cabana, and Twin Peaks lead RestaurantNews.com’s Top 20 stories for the week ending March 22, 2026.
1) Smalls Sliders Turns Up the Heat with First-Ever New Slider: BBQ Bacon Jalapeño
Smalls Sliders is heating up the season with the debut of its new limited-time BBQ Bacon Jalapeño Slider featuring a signature beef patty topped with crispy bacon and fresh jalapeños. This zesty new addition is served on a toasted bun with tangy barbecue sauce to deliver a bold and savory flavor profile to guests at all participating locations.
2) Taco Bell Debuts Bold New Chicken Innovations Remixing Two Fan-Favorite Forms
Taco Bell is expanding its menu with a new Cantina Chicken lineup featuring slow-roasted, shredded chicken seasoned with Mexican spices and a vibrant Avocado Verde Salsa. This innovative collection includes several new items like the Crispy Chicken Crunchwrap Slider and Cantina Chicken Rolled Quesadilla, highlighting the brand’s commitment to delivering premium proteins and fresh, bold flavors nationwide.
3) Portillo’s Appoints Jennifer Pecoraro-Striepling as Chief Development Officer
Portillo’s has appointed Jennifer Pecoraro-Striepling as its new Chief Development Officer to oversee the brand’s ambitious growth and real estate expansion strategies. Bringing extensive experience in restaurant development and design, she will lead the company’s efforts to bring its signature Chicago-style street food to new markets across the country.
4) Taco Cabana Launches New El Paso Menu Celebrating Authentic Mexican Flavors
Taco Cabana is launching a new test menu in El Paso featuring authentic Mexican flavors and expanded protein options like Al Pastor and Carne Asada. This strategic regional debut focuses on traditional street-style preparations and handmade tortillas to deliver a more elevated and culturally-inspired dining experience.
5) Twin Peaks Shenandoah Unveils New State-of-the-Art Cigar Bar Experience Featuring Premium Cigars, Rare Spirits and Elevated Pairings
Twin Peaks is elevating its Shenandoah location with the debut of a sophisticated new cigar bar experience featuring premium hand-rolled cigars and rare spirits. This upscale addition offers guests a curated lounge atmosphere designed to complement the brand’s signature lodge environment and extensive beverage program.
6) Boba CuCue Brings More Boba Magic to North Carolina, Signs Second Charlotte Location
Boba Cucue is expanding its North Carolina footprint with the opening of a second location in Charlotte, bringing its signature artisanal boba teas and unique dessert offerings to a new neighborhood. This strategic growth milestone highlights the brand’s increasing popularity and commitment to providing high-quality, customizable beverages to the local community.
7) Pizza Inn Invites Guests to Spend Easter With Their Peeps
Pizza Inn is celebrating the spring season with the return of its limited-time Peeps Pizzert, featuring a marshmallow-infused dessert crust topped with colorful Peeps chicks and a drizzle of icing. This festive treat is available at participating buffet locations through the Easter holiday,