The final buzzer has sounded on Ops Summit 2026. It was a full three days of operators bringing their A-game. From the opening session, it was clear: this wasn’t just another event. It was a chance to share and learn game-winning plays and MVP insights.
At Ops Summit, restaurant operators, innovators, and industry leaders came together for something more than just sessions and networking. This was a space for honest conversations about what’s actually working in restaurant operations today and what it really takes to scale, simplify, and succeed.
Across every panel, breakout, and hallway conversation, a few key themes rose to the top:
1. Simplicity wins, and connected systems are how you get there
Disconnected tools are yesterday’s game plan. Operators are ready for a more unified offense. The shift toward a fully connected ops suite is helping brands simplify the complexity of daily operations by bringing everything into one place and giving teams the clarity they need to execute with confidence.
2. Real-time data is the new standard
The brands pulling ahead aren’t playing defense; they’re making real-time calls with confidence. With real-time visibility into performance, they’re making faster, smarter decisions that protect margins and improve execution at every level.
3. AI is moving from hype to hands-on impact
AI is no longer on the bench. It’s actively helping teams move faster and execute smarter. One standout example: voice-based inventory counting. By enabling teams to use natural language to complete tasks faster and more accurately, we’re removing friction from one of the most time-consuming parts of the job.
4. Trust, but verify is becoming an operating principle
Consistency at scale requires more than good intentions. Operators are leaning into tools that ensure accuracy, accountability, and alignment, without adding more manual work.
One of the most powerful moments of the week was recognizing the brands setting the standard for operational excellence. Voted by their peers, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema took home this year’s top honor, and for good reason, given the complexity of their operations (no two theaters operate the same way, each with scratch kitchens). Their transformation from managing 35+ manual spreadsheets per venue to a single stream of real-time intelligence is a masterclass in modern restaurant operations. The result? Managers freed up to focus on what matters most: the guest experience.
We were equally proud to celebrate this year’s outstanding finalists:
MSC Cruises: Reclaiming 25,000+ hours in stock handling every month and proving that even the most established operations can lead in digital innovation.
P.F. Chang’s: Demonstrating that clarity is a form of care, using data to eliminate guesswork and protect margins.
Gong cha: Building a structure for scale that supports consistency across 2,200+ locations worldwide.
Panini Kabob Grill: Driving a 7-point gain in labor efficiency through disciplined, scratch-kitchen execution.
Each of these brands is a powerful example of what’s possible when the right systems, strategy, and mindset come together.
Of course, Ops Summit isn’t just about what happens on stage. Some of the best plays of the week happened on the sidelines, between sessions and conversations. The shared challenges. The “how are you solving this?” moments. From the pre-con certifications earned to the customer-led panels, this year’s event was packed with tangible results and meaningful connections. And yes, there may have been a mechanical bull involved. We’ll just say: respect to everyone who gave it a shot (or two). And of course, to our newest friends, Fred and Tony, the adorably sweet beverage burros in sneakers.
Restaurant operations are evolving fast, but the brands that win won’t be the ones chasing every new trend. They’ll be the ones who simplify, connect, and execute with clarity. Because in this industry, winning brands don’t rely on highlight reels; they execute, shift after shift.
We’re grateful to every customer, partner, and team member who made this event what it was. And we’re already looking forward to planning the next Ops Summit! Stay tuned.