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Fundraising Farm To Table Dinner

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This Saturday night you’ve got the opportunity to attend an exclusive fundraising farm dinner celebrating the power of community partnership and impact.  Held outside  at Oak & Ember Farms this  multi-course culinary experience is designed to showcase the powerful impact of community partnerships.

The evening will feature a 7-course tasting menu with expertly curated wine pairings, prepared by some of the region’s most celebrated culinary talents:

• Chef Jorge Guzmán — Executive Chef and Partner at Sueño & Three Birds, . A three-time James Beard “Best Chef: Midwest” finalist (including a semi-finalist nod in 2022), Jorge brings influences from Yucatán and Mexico City, reimagined with inventive technique and deep-rooted authenticity . His cooking is deeply personal, inspired by memories of family meals—like frijol con puerco, the Yucatecan pork and bean stew he says “reminds me of home” .

• Chef Sarah Kirnon — A visionary West Indian chef (born in England, raised in Barbados) known for her Afro‑Caribbean cuisine and soulful culinary storytelling. She founded Miss Ollie’s in Oakland, CA—named after her grandmother—which became a beloved institution celebrated for its fried chicken, saltfish and ackee, and community roots . Kirnon’s food channels the Caribbean’s rich cultural diaspora, offering warm, soulful dishes deeply tied to family and heritage .

• Chef Zack Weiner — Co‑owner and co‑executive chef of Jollity and Koji Burger in Dayton’s Fire Blocks District. Zack honed his skills at Miami Valley CTC and The Midwest Culinary Institute, then trained under James Beard Award–winner Anne Kearney at Rue Dumaine in Dayton before launching the vibrant, seasonally driven Jollity—a name that reflects its spirit: “lively or cheerful activity or celebration” .

Together, these three chefs form a dynamic ensemble—each rooted in tradition yet pushing culinary boundaries—set to craft a memorable tasting menu that reflects their shared commitment to creativity, community, and connection.

Special Guest: Floyd Adams brings over 15 years of experience in the beverage industry, beginning his career in fine dining and advancing through roles as a bartender and sommelier at the esteemed restaurant Sardinia in Nashville, TN. His deep knowledge of wine and hospitality laid the foundation for a transition into the business side of the industry, where he developed expertise in both distribution and supply chain operations. This comprehensive understanding of the market led to his current role as National Sales Manager at Laureate Imports. A passionate advocate for wine education, Floyd is especially dedicated to highlighting lesser-known regions. Through his leadership, he plays a key role in introducing American audiences to the rich winemaking heritage of Slovenia.

Your participation directly furthers the Oak & Ember Foundation Foundation’s mission to build sustainable community partnerships that fuel meaningful, lasting impact—well beyond the evening itself.

Their flagship program is a weekly partnership with the Kettering Alternative Program (K.A.P.), a division of Fairmont High School. This program engages reluctant learners and at-risk students through nature and regenerative farming immersion. Students can also earn an Environmental Science Seal and a Local Community Service Seal, which can be applied towards graduation credits. In just a few short years, they have interacted with several hundred students through their pilot program with Fairmount High School.

Throughout the night, attendees will have multiple opportunities to contribute—whether through capital gifts, pledges, or conversations about becoming long-term strategic partners.

Oak & Ember Farms

2645 Olt Road
Dayton, OH 45417

Get tickets for Saturday, October 11 · 6 – 10pm, $250/person

Can’t make Saturday’s event, you can still support the Oak & Amber Foundation
with a donation, or volunteer at the farm. Also stay tuned for four events in 2026 including a Wine & Culture Festival being planned for Fall 2026.

 

National Taco Day Deals

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The earliest version of an official Taco Day originated in San Antonio in the 1960s, according to L.A. Taco, when a city councilman named Roberto L. Gomez promoted a Taco Day as part of Mexican heritage celebrations — a community effort to recognize the cultural impact of tacos.

Over time, other cities adopted it, and eventually, big fast-food chains piggybacked on the idea and began using October 4 as the unofficial date. However, in 2024, Taco Bell partnered with National Day Calendar to officially move National Taco Day to the first Tuesday in October, aligning it with Taco Tuesday.

  • Azul Agave: $1.50 hard or soft shell tacos

  •  Bubbakoo’s Burritos:Through Oct. 7 loyalty members can enjoy a buy one, get one free deal on the chain’s Dos Tacos entrée.

  • Chiapas Mexican Grill Moraine: Hard & Soft Tacos – just $1.99 each, 16 oz Regular Margaritas – $4.99 all day!
  • Chuy’s: The Tex-Mex chain with more than 100 locations across the U.S. offers National Taco Day deals that include a $1 taco with any entrée purchase and $1 tequila or rum floaters added to your margarita order. And if you dress like a taco – or wear any “taco-inspired costume” – you get a free entrée.

FUSIAN Serves Pink Sushi Rolls to Support Breast Cancer Awareness Month

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This October, FUSIAN is inviting guests to turn their rolls pink for a purpose. For every sushi roll made with a pink soy wrap, the brand will donate $1 to the Breast Cancer Fund of Ohio (BCFO).

In partnership with BCFO, one hundred percent of donations collected by FUSIAN will go to breast cancer treatment, keeping patients focused on healing while ensuring assistance stays local. Inside restaurants, guests can also share that same spirit of support by leaving handwritten messages on pink post-it notes, creating a wall of encouragement that honors survivors and loved ones while giving a visible voice to the cause.

“We want to do something that feels authentic to FUSIAN and is genuinely impactful, as everyone knows someone who has been affected by breast cancer,” said Stephan Harman, co-founder of FUSIAN. “By choosing a pink roll, our guests have the power to support the strength and resilience of patients right here in Ohio.”

FUSIAN is known for its quality-forward, signature 10-piece rolls like Spicy Tuna, Crispy Shrimp and the creative PB+J, as well as a build-your-own menu of rolls, bowls and salads made with directly sourced proteins, vibrant veggies and house-made sauces like creamy togarashi and chili ponzu. The menu offers gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options, making sushi accessible to all tastes and lifestyles.

FUSIAN

The Mall at Fairfield Commons
2733 Fairfield Commons
Beavercreek, OH 45431
937.999.2772

1200 Brown St.
Dayton, OH 45409

937.223.5173

Hours:
Daily 10:40am – 10:05pm

 

New Mexican Restaurant in Miamisburg

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Azul Agave opened the last week of September in the spot that was formerly home to Ta’Quiyo Tortilleria & Taco Shop in the Miamisburg Plaza near ACE Hardware. Owned by Gregorio Rosales and his business partner Hugo Sanchez, who is the manager. Hugo’s brother Carlos runs the kitchen.

Lunch Specials:

Azul Agave
1238 E. Central Ave
Miamisburg, OH 45342

937- 388-8003

Sun – Thurs 11am – 9pm
Fri & Sat 11am – 10pm

Available via Door Dash

Dayton at Work and Play: Mad River Pulp & Paper

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Mad River Pulp & Paper at Carillon Historical Park
I’ve haven’t been to Carillon for a year or two. In the past I visited regularly and took lots of photos. I thought it would be fun to get to know the place again and take some new photos. Thought I’d start with their new paper mill exhibit.
I knew that this region was one of the country’s most important paper manufacturing areas. I assumed that was because of the availability of inexpensive wood, but that’s not it. Early mills made paper out of rags.
The rags were put into a tub of water and then beat to a pulp. A screen was put into the vat to collect some of the pulp. Then it was dried and eventually pressed to make paper sheets. The sheets were hung from the ceiling until they were dry enough to sell.
I think the reason this area became a leading paper manufacturer was because of the area’s water. There was waterpower to beat rags to a pulp and water gave access to markets via the rivers and canals. Later, as the importance of waterpower and water transportation declined, the area still had an important asset – a workforce that understood paper making.
The new Paper Mill is next to the Marie Aull Tribute Garden, which reminded me that I have personally benefited from Dayton’s early papermaking history. Marie’s husband owned a very successful business, Aull Brothers Paper and Box Company. The profits from that business allowed them to own property north of Dayton. Marie Aull was an avid environmentalist and her expertise, and her gifts of land and money, gave us two of my favorite Dayton places, Aullwood Garden MetroPark and Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm.

KFC Brings Back Original Honey BBQ

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After winning hearts with the return of fan-obsessed Wedges and Wings, the fried chicken icon is turning up the flavor once again by answering one of the most requested menu demands of all time: the return of Original Honey BBQ, starting October 6th

Original Honey BBQ Combo
Original Honey BBQ Combo

First introduced in the late 1990s, Original Honey BBQ quickly became a cult classic thanks to its perfect balance of sweet and smoky flavor that made KFC chicken even more finger lickin’ good ®. Over time, fans have taken to social media begging for its comeback, trading copycat recipes, and reminiscing about the one-of-a-kind sauce. Now, after years of anticipation, KFC is finally giving the people what they want.

 

And this time, it’s bigger than ever. For the first time, fans can now enjoy the iconic sauce on all of their KFC favorites -– from classic pieces of chicken to the beloved KFC Chicken Sandwich and even tenders.

With all that sweet, tangy, sticky glory, you’ll be thankful the Colonel was ahead of the game — introducing a wet napkin to his chicken lovers over 60 years ago, making KFC the first restaurant chain to offer a handy, moist towelette. So naturally, we had to go even bigger. Just like Original Honey BBQ, these napkins got the comeback glow-up as well. The brand surprised some of its most obsessed fans with a wet napkin large enough to clean their hands, their table…and probably their entire family.

“KFC’s Original Honey BBQ wasn’t just a menu offering, it became a cultural touchstone that fans have been craving and asking us to bring back for years,” said Catherine Tan-Gillespie, President, KFC U.S. “What better way to continue our KFC comeback than to bring back this legendary flavor and reintroduce it in a bigger and bolder way — on everything.”

Throwback Pricing for KFC’s Chicken Sandwich
KFC is also offering fans a throwback deal: its Chicken Sandwich for just $3.99 With a price like that, you’ll think you’ve traveled back in time. Don’t let the small price fool you — hungry patrons get big value with their choice of Classic or Spicy, each made with an Extra Crispy™ chicken breast filet on a toasted brioche bun, topped with pickles and the Colonel’s real mayo (or spicy mayo). What’s more, KFC is proud to say that their Chicken Sandwich is bigger than Chick Fil A®’s AND available on Sundays.***

Scary Good Deals
But that’s not all — just in time for Halloween, KFC is delivering Scary Good Deals exclusively for Rewards members via the KFC app and website, making value as craveable as flavor. For 13 days leading up to October 31, members can unlock special offers on some of their favorite menu items, such as: a Free Classic Chicken Sandwich w/ $10 purchase, 50% off 12pc chicken only bucket and 50 Pc Nuggets for $20.****

 

New Take & Serve Sliders from Honey Baked Ham

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This football season, The Honey Baked Ham Company® is kicking off with something new: Take & Serve Tavern Club Sliders. Ready to serve straight from the package with no prep required, they’re perfect for hosts looking to grab and go straight to their tailgate or homegate.

New Take & Serve Tavern Club Sliders

“As someone who lives and breathes football, I know how much food brings people together on game day,” said Laura Rutledge, host and reporter for ESPN. “Sliders are always a fan favorite, and HoneyBaked’s new Take & Serve Sliders make it easy for me to show up with something everyone will love—they save me time, make it look like I went all out and are delicious.”

HoneyBaked’s Take & Serve Sliders feature the brand’s iconic sweet and savory flavors that fans know and love, with Honey Baked Ham® and Smoked Turkey Breast with Bacon and Cheddar Cheese, all piled high on soft, fluffy King’s Hawaiian® Rolls.

Now through the end of October, fans can score any two slider 12-packs for just $44.99 at participating locations. Each 12-pack comes with sides of mayonnaise and honey mustard so tailgate guests can customize to their taste preferences.

For hosts who want to score with winning spreads this football season, HoneyBaked® delivers with crave-worthy sides like Double Cheddar Mac & Cheese, Smoky HoneyBaked Beans, and Loaded Smashed Potatoes, plus fan-favorite condiments including Hickory Honey Mustard and Tantalizing BBQ Sauce.

“At HoneyBaked, we’re all about premium, delicious flavors for life’s best moments, like game day,” said Chef Tim, Culinary Expert at The Honey Baked Ham Company. “We do the work for you – crafting Take & Serve Sliders with hearty portions of meat and cheese that pair perfectly with convenient Heat & Serve sides –so you can elevate your spread without spending hours in the kitchen.”

HoneyBaked’s Take & Serve Sliders and more gameday offerings are available at your nearest HoneyBaked location. Or visit honeybaked.com to order online and pick up in store before your next gathering.

 

RIP Franco The Foodie

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It is with heavy hearts that share the news no one ever wants to deliver,  Franco Gallo  passed away last night at The Christ Hospital in Cincinnati.
As many of you know, he had been bravely fighting for his life, waiting for a second heart transplant. Despite his strength and determination, Franco’s other organs began to fail, and he was no longer eligible to be relisted for a new heart. His body fought until the very end.
The family  is devastated by this loss. Right now, they don’t know what this means for The Foodie moving forward. The Gallos had temporarily close their family-owned Italian restaurant at 120 W. Jefferson St. in  New Carlisle.  The couple’s two daughters, Jess Gallo and Alexa Gallo, also work full-time at the restaurant but have been in Cincinnati to be close to their father during his illness.

The Gallos, Franco (bottom left) Karen (bottom right), Jess (top left) and Alexa (top right)

Karen Gallo shared, “these are uncertain times, and we ask for your patience as we take the time we need to grieve, process, and make decisions as a family. We want to thank you all for the overwhelming love and support you showed Franco. Your kindness meant the world to him and to our family. He loved this community deeply, and we know many of you loved him just as much.
Please keep Franco in your heart. We are forever grateful for the memories for the outpouring of love and support.  ❤️
The Gallo Family”
Revisit his 10? Chef interview Franco did with us back in 2023 right after the restaurant opened.
Tributes to Franco and the family are already coming in on the restaurants facebook page:
 “All of us who met Franco were not only impacted by his food but his infectious enthusiasm and joy seen every time any of our paths crossed.”  -Kris Maxwell

“Franco was a great man, always put a smile on my face and made me laugh.” – Drew Campisano

“What a passionate vibrant person who shared his love and skills of cooking. ” – Sheryl Kramer
“Franco was a true light in this world. He was so welcoming to everyone who came through the door and always had a smile to share.” – Hannah Funderburg
“Your family has been through a difficult time prayers for peace in your heart, mind and soul.”  – Nancy Aldridge
“Every time I came to the restaurant I was treated like family. I feel like I lost one of my own.’ – Kent Myers
” He had such a passion for sharing his food and the country he came from. I count myself very lucky to have met him and to have enjoyed his food. 🙏🏻💔🇮🇹🍝“. – Elizabeth Anne
” What a wonderful man. I will truly miss him and his stories. Your family has been a blessing to the community. God bless you and Franco.”  – Curtis Sumner

Drink Pink for Breast Wishes in October

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Throughout the month of October, local bars, restaurants, and cafes are turning their drinks pink in support of the Breast Wishes Foundation. Every time you order a featured Drink Pink beverage, a portion of the proceeds helps grant wishes to individuals living with breast cancer.

Founded in 2017 by Elesha Snyder and Mandi Snyder-Moore, Breast Wishes Foundation was created in memory of their sister Kelli James. Kelli’s joyful spirit continues to inspire our work and mission.

To date, they have granted over 400 wishes and raised $1,000,000 to support breast cancer patients. Their ongoing goal is to expand our reach and provide even more assistance to those in need. They  serve the greater Miami Valley region, specifically Montgomery County and the seven surrounding counties of Butler, Clark, Darke, Greene, Miami, Preble and Warren.

Founding member Elesha Snyder says this idea came up last year when talking with Emily Mendenhall of Lily’s, talking about how they could turn the Oregon District Pink for October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the idea grew bigger, and they’ve got about 30 partners on board for this first year promotion.

Visit participating locations, order a drink and from cocktails to mocktails, every sip supports a wish.

Centerville:
BravoHidden Gem Music Club
Mack’s Tavern
Manna
Thai Village
Beavercreek/Fairborn
Black Rock Bar & Grill
Courtyard Bistro in Marriott Beavercreek
Double Tree Hilton The Wright Place
Knollwood Tavern
Packy’s Restaurant and Sports Lounge
Dayton
Belle of Dayton
Blind Bob’s
Carmichael’s Pub
Joui Wine
Lily’s
Lucky’s Taproom & Eatery
Tender Mercy
Wheat Penny Oven and Bar
Eaton
Fraternal Order of Eagles #2022
Kettering
The Phone Booth Lounge
Liberty Township/Mason/West Chester
Brio Liberty Center
Bravo West Chester
Bravo Deerfield
Springboro
Heather’s Coffee & Cafe
Troy
Crafted & Cured
Haren’s Market
Speakeasy Miso
Xenia
            Country Club of the North
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Win While You Give

Can’t make it out to a location, You can still participate.  For every $10 donated you’ll get  1 entry into the Drink Pink giveaway, featuring a basket full of gift certificates to  participating bars and restaurants.


You can also text DRINKPINK to 53-555 to donate.

Skyline Chili Re-Releases Skyline Spice Ice Cream for National Chili Month

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After making national headlines, sparking heated debates online, selling out in record time, and becoming Dairy Foods Magazine’s “2025 Dairy Product of the Year,” the ice cream flavor everyone wanted to hate but quickly became a fan favorite is back for a limited time. Graeter’s Ice Cream, America’s oldest family-owned and operated craft ice cream maker, and Skyline Chili, the 76-year-old Cincinnati-style chili restaurant famous for its Cheese Coneys and Ways, announced today the return of Skyline Spice Ice Cream to celebrate National Chili Month.

The viral flavor returns for a limited time after record-setting success. Graeter's Skyline Spice Ice Cream is available online for nationwide shipping and in all Graeter’s scoop shops and Skyline restaurants..

Part sweet, part savory, part “wait, did they really do that?” – Skyline Spice Ice Cream combines Graeter’s ultra-small batch French Pot ice cream with crunchy oyster crackers and Skyline’s legendary chili spice blend. The wacky-yet-wonderful creation became Graeter’s most talked-about and fastest-selling flavor in Graeter’s history

“We thought this collaboration with Skyline Chili was going to be popular, but we were blown away by the overwhelming demand and how many people genuinely loved this flavor,” said Richard Graeter, fourth-generation president and CEO, Graeter’s. “Our scoop shops and grocery stores couldn’t keep pints in stock longer than a couple hours and online orders poured in from across the country. When Skyline Spice Ice Cream completely sold out in just over a week’s time, we knew we had to bring it back for more people to enjoy.”

“We’re incredibly excited to bring back this unexpected flavor sensation that captured hearts and taste buds across the country. Timing the re-release with National Chili Month felt like the perfect opportunity to celebrate both our legendary flavor and this incredible partnership with Graeter’s,” said Dick Williams, CEO, Skyline Chili. “Who would have thought that our 76-year-old secret spice recipe would find its way into ice cream and become such a beloved treat? It just goes to show that great flavors know no boundaries.”

As of today,  ice cream and chili lovers can get their hands on the iconic Skyline Spice Ice Cream collaboration once more. The limited-edition flavor is available for nationwide shipping at Graeters.com, as well as by the pint and by the scoop at all Graeter’s scoop shops and in 5 ounce scoops in all Skyline restaurants. Pints can also be found at select grocery retailers including Kroger stores in Cincinnati and Dayton, Dorothy Lane Market and  Jungle Jim’s.

 

DAI Director & President Steps Down

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The Board of Trustees of the Dayton Art Institute, with deep appreciation and gratitude, announces that Michael R. Roediger will be stepping down from his role as Director & President on Friday, October 31, 2025. Michael has loyally served the museum for 14 years and will leave a legacy of servant leadership and a dedication to inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility. He has also fostered the care of his team, strong relationships, community service and an extraordinary commitment to making the collection more inclusive of marginalized artists.

Michael is a member of the Association of Art Museum Directors and is the first Director to be born and raised in Dayton. In his time at the DAI, he has led the organization in the retiring of $16 million in debt and raised an additional $19 million in capital and endowment funding. He has overseen the renovation of the museum’s historic grand staircases, fountains, galleries, the Rose Auditorium and the education floor, as well as making the museum more accessible for guests with different abilities. In addition, with his oversight, the DAI has worked to have numerous works conserved for the preservation of the collection for generations to come.

Michael’s deep commitment to community shines through the honors he’s earned. In 2024, the National Conference for Community and Justice presented him with its Humanitarian Award for championing inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility both at DAI and beyond. In addition, the Greater Dayton Region Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals named him Outstanding Fundraising Executive, one of many distinctions that testify not only to his impact on the museum, but to the vibrant, welcoming community his leadership has helped to create.

“Leading the DAI has been a privilege and a highlight of my career. The staff are incredible, and the collection is one of the finest in the country if not the world. I will miss my DAI family, but I will be cheering them on from the sidelines,” said Michael.

Michael is leaving to pursue other opportunities and to honor the Dayton Art Institute, per his request, there will be no farewell celebration. Rather, he requests gifts be made to the museum in his honor. For more information about donating, contact Membership & Individual Giving Officer Kaytee Yantis-Houser, at [email protected] or 937-223-5277, ext. 264.

As we begin our next chapter, Michael’s deep institutional expertise and wide-ranging industry contacts will remain invaluable. His collaborative nature, fundraising prowess and unwavering dedication to our mission have set the groundwork for everything we will build moving forward.

Mark Shaker, Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees, will function as the Interim Director and President. As the former President and CEO of Miami Valley Hospital, Mark brings a wealth of leadership knowledge and experience to the DAI during this transition. Together, we will build on a strong heritage as we plan for the next chapter for one of Dayton, Ohio’s most treasured institutions for generations to come.

Dickey’s Barbecue Celebrating 84 Years

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Dickey’s Barbecue Pit started in Dallas, Texas, in 1941 when World War I veteran Travis Dickey opened the first location. The restaurant is family-owned and has grown into the world’s largest barbecue franchise, still serving authentic Texas barbecue using hickory. Dickey’s  84th birthday celebration kicks off today, with a full month of barbecue offers, deals, and contests. Let’s raise a Big Yellow Cup to the next 84! Here are the specials you can enjoy now:

$8.84 Combo – Pulled Pork Sandwich, Barbecue Beans, & iconic Big Yellow Cup for $8.84

Party Pack – 1lb. of Pulled Pork, Large Side of Barbecue Beans, & Texas Toast for $19.41

Ric and Carla Wren  purchasing the Springboro franchise in 2018, and  along with their son Chris, have turned their restaurant into a thriving operation that reflects their dedication to teamwork, quality food, and strong ties with the community.

“Our business operates like a three-legged stool,” said Ric Wren. “Carla, Chris, and I each bring unique strengths to the table. Carla and I run the operations together, with Carla also overseeing food quality—especially the meats—ensuring everything meets Dickey’s high standards. Chris handles day-to-day management. We rely on each other to keep things running smoothly—it’s truly a team effort.”

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
752 Gardner Road
Springboro, OH 45066

937-550-4826

Open 11am – 9pm daily

 

CHEEZ-IT® Reinvents Snakcking with Bold Flavors

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See It. Taste It. Crunch It. Cheez-It® is unleashing its biggest innovation in three years, something unlike anything fans have ever crunched before. Enter Cheez-It Crunch, a bold new snack lineup that combines 100% real cheese with a more satisfying crunch and a 3D shape designed to deliver edge-to-edge bold flavor in every bite. The new innovation will begin rolling out in October, with the Kick’n Nacho Cheese and Zesty Jalapeño Cheddar Cheez-It Crunch set to hit stores first.. Following the soft launch this fall, Cheez-It Crunch Sharp White Cheddar and full-sized bags of all three varieties will be available on the shelves of major retailers nationwide beginning in January.

Cheez-It Crunch unleashes a crave-worthy taste for the perfect multisensorial snacking experience
Cheez-It Crunch unleashes a crave-worthy taste for the perfect multisensorial snacking experience

Cheez-It recognizes the shift toward sensory snacking experiences – a trend confirmed by a 55% increase in crunchy snack social videos over the past year1. Cheez-It Crunch answers that demand with three new irresistible, multisensorial flavors that satisfy cravings anytime, anywhere.

“We’ve taken everything fans love about the original Cheez-It cracker and reimagined it with a new, irresistible snacking experience,” said Cara Tragseiler, Senior Brand Director for Cheez-It. “As the name indicates, Cheez-It Crunch has a bold, craveable crunch, delivering a satisfying bite and making it a must-have for all snack lovers.”

Cheez-It Crunch comes in three deliciously daring flavors, each made with 100% real cheese:

  • Cheez-It Crunch Kick’n Nacho Cheese: Imagine the taste of tangy nacho cheese, now in one crunchy, cheesy bite. Classic cheddar cheese is layered with a kick of nacho spice, for a satisfyingly spicy and savory flavor.
  • Cheez-It Crunch Zesty Jalapeno Cheddar: Combines the iconic Cheez-It cheddar taste with a bold kick of spicy jalapeno. The initial cheesy flavor is followed by a zesty heat that builds with each bite.
  • Cheez-It Crunch Sharp White Cheddar: Hitting shelves nationwide in Jan. 2026 – experience sharp white cheddar cheese with a satisfying crunch. A complex cheddar taste with buttery notes in every irresistible bite.

Fans can get an early taste starting in October when Cheez-It Crunch Kick’n Nacho Cheese and Cheez-It Crunch Zesty Jalapeno Cheddar hit 7-Eleven stores in single-serve, 2.25oz bags for an MSRP of $2.79. In January 2026, these two flavors, plus the Cheez-It Crunch Sharp White Cheddar flavor, will roll out at retailers nationwide in full-size, 6.5oz bags sold for an MSRP of $4.49.

Panera’s fall menu highlights

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Panera Bread is celebrating the flavors of fall with a lineup of comforting, crave-worthy dishes, available at cafes nationwide.

At the heart of the menu is the Fall for Your Favorites Meal, featuring the return of three signature soups perfect for the season, including Black Bean Soup, a beloved classic making its comeback by guest demand after seven years. To celebrate the revival of cozy seasonal rituals, Panera has launched a new campaign starring Gilmore Girls stars Jared Padalecki and Matt Czuchry, a duo forever tied to small-town charm, endless coffee refills, and one of television’s most beloved fall rewatches.

Panera’s fall menu includes:

  • NEW Harvest Medley Chicken Salad – Mixed greens and fresh arugula tossed in balsamic vinaigrette, topped with whole grain blend, grilled chicken, mandarin oranges, feta, dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds, toasted pecans, and crunchy beet strips.
  • NEW Crème Brûlée Latte – Freshly brewed espresso, foamed milk and naturally flavored crème brûlée syrup, topped with whipped cream and salted caramel sugar.

  • Black Bean Soup – Returning to menu after 7 years, this guest favorite is a hearty vegetarian soup featuring black beans, onion, celery, red bell pepper, carrots, lima beans, potatoes, lemon juice, and garlic.
  • Autumn Squash Soup – A Panera seasonal classic featuring butternut squash and pumpkin blended with vegetable broth, honey, apple juice, and warm spices like cinnamon and curry, finished with sweet cream and topped with roasted pumpkin seeds.
  • Hearty Fireside Chili – A rich chili made with beef, kidney beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and green chili peppers, simmered in a flavorful broth with chili spices and cilantro.
  • Plus, the return of Panera’s seasonal Pumpkin Cookie.

Much like a warm bowl of soup, nostalgic TV marathons are a cherished hallmark of fall. In Panera’s new digital campaign, actors Jared Padalecki and Matt Czuchry reunite to highlight the personalities of Panera’s iconic soup lineup – each variety reflecting the traits of a different kind of “favorite.” Fireside Chili is the dependable classic, Autumn Squash Soup the sophisticated choice, and Black Bean Soup the brooding favorite making a long-awaited comeback after seven years. Together, these flavors anchor the Fall for Your Favorites Meal, proving that nothing pairs better with cozy traditions than the return of a true fan favorite.

“Fall is one of our favorite seasons at Panera, when we get to spotlight warm, comforting classics alongside fresh, seasonal flavors,” said Mark Shambura, Chief Marketing Officer, Panera Bread. “This year, we’re celebrating not just with the return of guest-favorite soups, but also with playful content that personifies them in a way fans will instantly recognize. It’s all about delivering the cozy, craveable flavors our guests love – and yes, that includes the long-awaited return of Black Bean Soup.”

 

Chipotle debuts Red Chimichurri

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Chipotle Mexican Grill  announced the debut of Red Chimichurri, a chef-driven sauce that complements any Chipotle entrée. Prepared in-restaurant daily, this new take on the classic and premium chimichurri delivers tangy and bright flavor notes, complemented by chili peppers and fresh hand-cut cilantro. Red Chimichurri will be available across the U.S. and Canada for a limited time starting today. Chipotle Rewards members can try it for free on launch day.

Red Chimichurri: Drizzling Bright and Tangy Flavor Onto Every Bite
Sauces are a core factor for Gen Z’s cravings. Ninety two percent of Gen Z consumers say they would visit a restaurant just for a sauce.2 Building off the success of Adobo Ranch, Chipotle’s first new dip in five years that helped acquire new guests and drive incremental transactions, the brand is unlocking Red Chimichurri. Made with roasted garlic, fresh cilantro, chili peppers and citrus juice, Red Chimichurri packs irresistible flavor into every bite. Made each day, Red Chimichurri is prepared with only real ingredients and no artificial preservatives, colors or flavors and is served on the side to drizzle onto any entrée.

“Red Chimichurri unlocks an all-new flavor profile that is unlike any menu item we introduced before,” said Chris Brandt, President, Chief Brand Officer. “This is more than a new sauce – it’s a new way for our fans to get creative and build the ultimate flavor combination.”

Nevielle Panthaky, Vice President of Culinary recommends three curated entrée pairings to enjoy with Red Chimichurri:

  • Carne Asada Burrito
    • White rice, black beans, Carne Asada, fresh tomato salsa, guac, cheese, romaine lettuce and Red Chimichurri
  • Chicken Bowl
    • White rice, black beans, chicken, roasted chili-corn salsa, guac, cheese and Red Chimichurri
  • Sofritas Bowl
    • Brown rice, pinto beans, Sofritas, fajita veggies, roasted chili-corn salsa, fresh tomato salsa, guac, romaine lettuce and Red Chimichurri

 

In response to guest passion around its dips and sauces, Chipotle is introducing Red Chimichurri on Tuesday, September 30 as a limited-time menu item in the U.S. and Canada.

 

Free Red Chimichurri Offer For Rewards Members
Chipotle Rewards members can try Red Chimichurri for free on Tuesday, September 30. Guests enrolled in Chipotle Rewards will receive a free Red Chimichurri offer in their account on the next day.

New members will instantly get a free guac offer after enrolling. The best way to Chipotle is in the app. Track points, redeem rewards and score free Chipotle.

Carne Asada Meets Red Chimichurri
Earlier this month, Chipotle brought back Carne Asada, the brand’s most-searched menu item and the second-most searched limited time offering among all national restaurant brands in 2024. Known for its bold flavor and loyal following, Carne Asada is marinated, then seasoned on the grill with a signature spice blend including cumin, coriander, garlic and oregano and sliced into perfect tender, juicy bites. The protein is finished with fresh-squeezed lime and hand-chopped cilantro for a deeply rich, satisfying flavor. Red Chimichurri pairs deliciously with Carne Asada and is an entirely new way to enjoy one of Chipotle’s most beloved limited time offerings.