Vegan McFlurry Takes Germany, Passing of Trader Joe, BWW Joins Chicken Sandwich War [3/2/2020 – 3/8/2020]

  • Coronavirus fears have led to the cancellation of many popular events throughout the US this week. Expo West, Inspired Home Trade Show, and even SXSW Festival is among the growing list. And while these cancellations are meant to help, they are hurting the service industry as a whole. Hotels and restaurants that have historically relied on these events to bring in business will have to make do without the crowds this year. Businesses in Chinatowns throughout the US may be the hardest hit of them all, with many restaurants reporting losses of over 50%. There have been around 700 reported cases of COVID-19 (coronavirus) in the US, and some reports have said that a million people around the world may already be infected. 

  • McDonald's throughout Germany is getting a brand new vegan McFlurry option, and we are very jealous. The fresh strawberry sorbet flavor can be made into a sundae, topped with vegan Oreo pieces, or used to create a shake. We have not heard if McDonald’s plans to add this delicious flavor to its American restaurants but will be following this story closely. Fingers crossed! 

  • Rest in peace, Trader Joe. The founder of the popular grocery chain passed away at his home in Pasadena, California, last week – he was 89. Joe Coulombe had a vision for people to have access to high-quality items but at a low cost. His idea prompted the opening of his first Trader Joe’s and since then, things like Two-Buck-Chuck and Everything Bagel Seasoning have become staples in people's kitchens. Discovering new foods and arranging your first charcuterie board was made stress free and even cost-effective because of Joe, and we all can agree that’s a beautiful thing. Thank you, Trader Joe.

  • The chicken sandwich wars aren't over by a long shot as Buffalo Wild Wings rolls out two new sandwiches of their own. Executive Chef, Jamie Carawan believes his Southern Style Chicken Sandwich and his Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich are better than both Chick-fil-A and Popeyes. He believes Buffalo Wild Wings have the edge when it comes to the breading. Both sandwiches can be found on Buffalo Wild Wings’ newly revamped menu.

  • We couldn't get through the Lenten season without mentioning fish Fridays! Delish.com has put together a list of the best fast food fish sandwiches for those of you who practice this tradition (or for anyone looking for something other than a burger). Hopefully, this list gives you more options than heading to your local parishes' weekly fish fry.