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Welcome to the latest episode of the Food & Beverage Magazine Podcast, the trusted industry authority for leaders, operators, and decision-makers in global hospitality. Hosted by the Editors of Food & Beverage Magazine, this episode explores the strategic leadership shifts, brand partnerships, and culinary innovations currently shaping the modern food service landscape. Discover the latest B2B industry trends to elevate your guest experience, and for daily news, trends, and tools, always visit fbmagazine.com.
Comprehensive Episode Summary In this episode, we break down the most critical updates and strategic innovations across the hospitality sector. We begin with major executive moves, highlighting Whitney Leavitt’s new role as Chief Creative and Brand Officer at Cool Sips, and The Legacy Companies unveiling their new strategic vision and executive leadership. We also discuss Savona Communications taking the lead for Marussia Beverages USA, and Christina Kuypers ushering in a new era at Chop Steakhouse Bar. To dive deeper into these leadership profiles, head over to fbmagazine.com.
Next, we analyze strategic partnerships that are redefining guest experiences and back-of-house operations. We look at the Omni Hotels pairing with Peter Millar, and how Gordon Food Service is partnering with RELEX to enhance fresh food forecasting. We also cover dynamic new venue openings, including the Mediterranean culinary gem Del Mar in West Palm Beach, and the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa’s launch of Seven & Olive Gastropub alongside Topgolf Swing Suites.
Finally, we touch on product and brand growth, exploring how Sugarlands Distilling has built a robust house of brands rooted in family craft, and how operators can elevate their menus with Brew City Beer Battered Potato Waves.
For more in-depth articles on all these topics, exclusive interviews, and operator insights, visit our website at fbmagazine.com and subscribe to the Food & Beverage Magazine newsletter so you never miss what's next.

Welcome to another episode of the Food & Beverage Magazine Podcast! Today, the Editors of Food & Beverage Magazine bring you a comprehensive look at the boldest flavor collaborations, major industry events, and exciting brand expansions shaping the global hospitality landscape.
In this episode, we celebrate 40 years of innovation at the Bar & Restaurant Expo, and highlight upcoming culinary gatherings like Vegas Unstripped 2026 and The Venetian Resort's new storytelling-driven program, Culinary Crossroads. We also explore the newest hospitality concepts hitting New York, including Sushi by Bou's rock 'n' roll omakase experience and the ritualistic cocktail ceremonies debuting at The Eighth. On the product and flavor front, we discuss the "swicy" candy trend with Huer Foods and Cholula, the wellness applications of premium Mānuka honey, and Louisiana Fish Fry's new Cajun cooking series with Emeril Lagasse and Trombone Shorty. Finally, we take an inside look at Sugarlands Distilling's family-crafted brand growth and SUNSET's sustainable new tomato packaging.
Today’s episode is brought to you by the CPG Awards® by Food & Beverage Magazine. If you’re building a shelf-stable brand and want to get in front of real retail buyers who are looking for what's next, head over to cpgawards.com and submit your products today.
For more in-depth articles on all of these industry innovations, visit fbmagazine.com. Be sure to subscribe to the newsletter so you never miss a beat. Head over to fbmagazine.com today, and tell them we sent you!

Welcome to another episode of the Food & Beverage Magazine Podcast! Today, the Editors of Food & Beverage Magazine bring you a high-level overview of the most exciting restaurant expansions, executive chef appointments, and agricultural technology shifts shaping the industry.
In this episode, we explore dynamic new culinary footprints, including Sushi by Bou's rock 'n' roll-inspired East Village location and The Eighth Cocktail Lounge's New York debut. We also highlight exceptional resort dining at the reimagined Bodrum Edition, the World Equestrian Center's new Equestrian Manor, and welcome Executive Chef Robert Angelo Jr. to The Newbury Boston. On the product and agriculture front, we discuss the sweet new Häagen-Dazs and Vicky Bakery collaboration, Sugarlands Distilling's growth, and Taylor Farms' strategic acquisition of Equinox Growers.
Today’s episode is brought to you by the CPG Awards® by Food & Beverage Magazine. If you’re building a shelf-stable brand and want to get in front of real retail buyers who are looking for what's next, head over to cpgawards.com and submit your products today.
For in-depth articles on all of these spring travel destinations and industry innovations, visit fbmagazine.com. Be sure to subscribe to the newsletter so you never miss a beat. Head over to fbmagazine.com today, and tell them we sent you!

New Culinary Destinations & Leadership
Caña at Hyatt Centric Brickell Miami: Executive Chef William Milian is anchoring the property's culinary identity with elevated, communal Cuban flavors and an award-winning menu.
Luma at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne: Following a $100 million resort transformation, Executive Chef Patrizio La Gioia is showcasing authentic Italian cuisine cooked over a signature Josper oven, alongside a vibrant "La Dolce Vita" brunch experience.
Leadership Updates: Chef Joaquin Estolano takes the helm at Grand Hyatt Indian Wells, bringing ingredient-driven cuisine to the Coachella Valley. Meanwhile, the industry celebrates the legacy of Culinary Director Franz W. Faeh, who is retiring from Gstaad Palace after a near 50-year career defining traditional Swiss cuisine.
Industry Innovations & Technology
AI ROI in F&B: Operator Mamatha Chamarthi breaks down the billions being spent on AI in the food and beverage space, emphasizing that AI must be "decisively profitable" through cost savings and operational efficiency to be worthwhile.
Foodservice Trends: A look into leveraging restaurant technology, guest data, and shifting beverage preferences like low-ABV drinks and functional beverages to enhance profitability.
Global Competitions, Awards & Philanthropy
Bocuse d'Or Europe 2026: Denmark takes home the gold in Marseille, led by chef Christian Wellendorf, securing their spot in the Grand Final.
Golden Taco Awards: TacoTuesday.com has launched a nationwide, community-driven search to crown America's local "Taco Legends".
Aspen Snow Ball Gala: Highlights from the 4th Annual Gala supporting the Children's Oncology Support Fund (COSF), featuring honors for Goldie Hawn and critical fundraising for pediatric cancer research.
Seasonal Retail: Crumbl drops its limited-edition Easter Bundl, driving communal, shareable dessert trends

Welcome to another episode of the Food & Beverage Magazine Podcast! Today, the Editors of Food & Beverage Magazine bring you the latest innovations bridging business strategy and the hospitality lifestyle.
In this episode, we dive into the booming daytime cocktail trend with Patrick Schwarzenegger's new Ketel One Vodka campaign, and explore the high seas with Virgin Voyages' groundbreaking Indian culinary sanctuary, Ariya, featuring Chef Maneet Chauhan. Back on land, we examine the intersection of luxury and culture with Wynn Las Vegas' exclusive art collaboration at Zero Bond. We also highlight the industry's philanthropic impact through Pittsburgh's "Taste of the Draft" event supporting GENYOUth, and wrap up with seasonal retail strategies via Crumbl's new shareable Easter Bundl.
For more in-depth articles, interviews, and resources on everything we're talking about today, visit fbmagazine.com. Stay ahead of the next major movement in global dining by subscribing to the Food & Beverage Magazine newsletter. Head over to fbmagazine.com today, and tell them we sent you!