
Everyone in Restaurants Is Saying the Same Thing Right Now
From The Repertoire Podcast by Justin Khanna
May 10, 2026 · 33 min
About this episode
Ray discusses the current state of restaurants, focusing on employee retention and industry updates.
In this episode, Ray breaks down why restaurants feel "slower" and the data backing it up. He also shares how caring for your staff and avoiding turnover is a crucial financial decision. He then gives updates on some QSR/Fast-Casual restaurants, shares with creators how to help those with limited food options, and discusses a looming protein powder shortage. Links: Slow Restaurant Discussion (Reddit) National Restaurant Association Employee Retention Data Restaurant Performance Index Shake Shack Sinks Texas Roadhouse Improves Sweetgreen Declines “Recession Meals” Content Protein Powder Shortage Repertoire Newsletter – Get industry insights, links, and podcast extras delivered weekly.🎙 Share the Podcast – Pass it on to your team, group chat, or fellow chefs.📸 Follow us on Instagram – Behind the scenes, quotes, and quick takes. Affiliate Disclosure: We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through Amazon or other affiliate links provided in this episode. Thanks for listening to Repertoire. 👨🍳🎧
People in this episode
Host: Justin Khanna
Guest: Ray
Topics covered
- restaurant industry
- employee retention
- QSR updates
- fast-casual dining
- food options
- protein shortage
Keywords
- restaurant slowdown
- staff turnover
- QSR
- fast-casual
- recession meals
- protein powder shortage
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: National Restaurant Association, Shake Shack, Texas Roadhouse, Sweetgreen
Products: protein powder
Books & works: Repertoire Newsletter
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