McDonald’s, Velvet Taco, Chipotle

McDonald’s new prototype is see-through. Restaurant Business received an early look at the concept the chain is working on in Chicago. It features a glass exterior and an open kitchen that enables customers to see from the parking lot into the restaurant and into the kitchen. Digital is fully integrated, with a temperature controlled, outdoor pickup area for delivery drivers and one inside for mobile order customers. The kitchen, meanwhile, is 40% devoted to beverages and features a wide range of technology, including equipment connected to a central operating system.

Velvet Taco is the latest chain to jump into value, launching a 2 for $10 deal that includes the choice of any two tacos and a drink. Guests can mix and match from 16 different tacos, including the brand’s signature French Dip, Spicy Tikka Chicken, and Beer Battered Cauliflower tacos. For $3 more, guests can add any side, including queso, guac, elote, buttery cilantro rice or tots. Coinciding with this launch, Velvet Taco is also introducing new protein cups, hitting on several accelerating trends.

Less than a month after Chipotle launched a branded lobby inside Riot Games’ 2XKO, the fast-casual chain is making its appearance in another video game. Chipotle announced an integration with Season 7 of PGA TOUR 2K25 that includes the chance for players to earn free food and unlock exclusive in-game gear tied to their performance. As part of the integration, Chipotle has launched a series of challenges that reward players based on their gameplay.

Players can compete in the Chipotle Hot Streak Quest to earn rewards like foil-inspired golf pants and a Chipotle pepper bucket hat. Not only does this partnership expand Chipotle’s footprint within the gaming community, it also builds on the chain’s presence in golf. Earlier this year, for instance, Chipotle was named the Official Mexican Restaurant of the PGA Tour.