Restaurant Business Quarterly | Q2 2026

COVER STORY

CHRISTINE BARONE WAS MADE FOR THIS MOMENT The Dutch Bros CEO provided a steady hand, helping the drive- thru beverage chain to become one of the country’s hottest brands, earning her the title of Restaurant Leader of the Year.

BY JONATHAN MAZE

JONATHAN.MAZE@INFORMA.COM

THE DUTCH BROS EMPLOYEE ENTRANCE. | PHOTO BY JONATHAN MAZE

26

RESTAURANT BUSINESS APRIL 2026

Powered by