Flavor Experience 2025

Top row, left to right: Jaimi St. John, VP of Sales, National Restaurant Chains, Cuisine Solutions (far right), moderated a lively discussion on innovation today with panelists (right to left) Evelyn Wah, VP of Brand Innovation, Panda Restaurant Group; Brett Pluskalowski, Sr. Manager Food Innovation, Taco Bell; and Donald Moore, Partner, DFG Ventures and CEO of goop Kitchen. Shane Schaibly of First Watch took in the beautiful setting with FGF Brands’ Bonnie Bisignano. Bottom row, left to right: Renowned menu analyst Nancy Kruse took the stage to share critical elements needed to create a truly memorable flavor experience for today’s customer. Unilever Food Solutions featured a crispy and craveable tortilla stuffed with scrambled eggs, chorizo, potatoes and a melted cheddar blend; served with queso fresco and salsa verde. Celebrated chef, TV personality, author and restaurateur Edward Lee sat down with Flavor & The Menu’s Katie Ayoub for a candid conversation on translating culture through food. 

The 2025 Flavor Experience took place in August in Newport Beach, Calif., showcasing three days of flavor trends and consumer insights, along with food and beverage inspiration—all aimed at giving high-volume menu developers a roadmap to menu success in 2026 and beyond. Presented by Flavor & The Menu magazine, this singular annual event explores the ever-evolving world of flavor, marking more than two decades of inspiring innovation in foodservice.