Ryan was a hitmaker everywhere he went, from Pizza Hut to Quiznos to McDonald's and beyond.

He explained his R&D process and why he doesn't chase a specific generation's taste or trends. Ryan said focusing on generational trends puts brands on a "teeter totter" of relevance. Don't expect to ...

A week from now, Smashburger-founder Tom Ryan will be elbow-deep in turkey necks. It takes him two days to make the gravy that he will ladle on the turkey, the potatoes, the stuffing and sides. And ...

Tom Ryan has a penchant for bringing big ideas to life. His latest is a sports restaurant chain that made its Indianapolis debut last week. Tom’s Watch Bar opened in the 10,000-square-foot space at ...

Attention, Aurora residents: Your wait for the “better burger” is almost over! Smashburger will open its ninth metro location tomorrow at 2630 South Parker Road. Taking its name from the cooking ...

Tom’s Watch Bar turned 10 years old in 2024 and the concept seems to be having a bit of a coming-of-age moment accordingly. Created by Tom Ryan – one of Smashburger’s co-founders – and Rick Schaden in ...

Smashburger has added a CEO with more than 30 years’ experience after an unannounced search. Already in the role since Jan. 1, Denise Nelsen takes the position previously held by Smashburger ...

Tom Ryan is the co-founder of Smashburger and inventor of many a favorite fast-food item. Tom Ryan still remembers when he was hired by Pizza Hut in 1988 to be its director of new products. Shortly ...