LOUISVILLE, Ky. (November 24, 2025) – Flavorman, a leading custom beverage development company, has released its 2026 Beverage Trends Forecast, continuing the company’s eight-year streak of accurately predicting the flavors and innovations that will shape the industry for the upcoming year. 

Drawing from extensive client project data, insights from industry partners, year-over-year consumer behavior patterns, and historical trend analysis, Flavorman’s Beverage Architects identified several key shifts expected to influence product development in the year ahead. 

For the coming year, Flavorman projects that consumers will lean even more heavily into classic, enduring flavors such as mango, strawberry, lemon-lime, and vanilla. This aligns with a trend that the Beverage Architects predicted last year, where consumers have gravitated toward what is most familiar when choosing what to drink. Flavorman also notes growing interest in emerging fruits and decadent flavors, such as guava, sumac berry, churro, and huckleberry cobbler, signaling that innovation will continue to thrive alongside the classics. 

“Our Flavor Laboratory has noticed that brands are beginning to capture unique variations of classic flavor profiles. For example, we’ve received an increasing number of requests for yuzu, which evokes a fusion of different citrus notes,” says Flavorman’s Chief Flavorist, Tom Gibson, “Consumers are still craving the familiar favorites; beverage brands are simply finding creative ways to deliver that.” 

Reflecting on its 2025 predictions, Flavorman once again demonstrated its accuracy, particularly in predicting the surge of “sober curious” consumers and the rapid rise of Non-Alcoholic Spirits and mocktail categories. With demand continuing to accelerate, the Beverage Architects anticipate even greater innovation in 2026, including elevated mocktails with added adaptogens and more flavor profiles replicating the taste of traditional spirits.

Flavorman’s 2026 outlook also indicates that renewed consumer focus on functional ingredients centered around wellness. Flavorman’s Beverage Architects expect to see growth in clean-label, naturally energizing options, especially caffeinated alternatives to conventional energy drinks and coffee. Ingredients such as cascara, yerba mate, and other functional tea blends are positioned to break through as brands look to meet the rising demand for beverages that support both energy and well-being. 

As consumers increasingly prioritize wellness and vitality, Flavorman notes that shifting regulatory dynamics are shaping the beverage industry. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Food and Drug Administration recently announced plans to phase out certified color additives – a move already reflected in industry behavior. Flavorman’s Beverage Architects have already observed this shift among clients, noting a decrease in new projects utilizing FD&C colors. 

Regulatory uncertainty is also rippling through the fast-growing hemp-derived THC category, despite a growing market for such products. This comes in tandem with the recent changes to the 2018 Farm Bill that will ban hemp-derived THC products in the U.S. by late 2026. Flavorman anticipates that this shift will influence development strategies as brands navigate compliance, consumer demand, and the evolving legal landscape. 

“The regulatory landscape for hemp-derived THC has always been uncertain, and we anticipated changes like these would eventually come,” says Flavorman’s Director of Quality Systems, Matthew Fuller. “Hemp companies now have a unique opportunity to rally support from their consumer base that helped grow a $28 billion industry. So, a lot can change in a year.” 

On the branding side, Flavorman previously predicted a wave of customization – from flavor cartridges to variety packs – as consumers sought greater control and personalization in their beverage experiences. For 2026, the company expects this momentum to evolve into “premium products through convenience” as brands increasingly lean into bulk unit sales, expanding their presence in e-commerce channels, and prioritizing distribution strategies that ensure products are available wherever consumers choose to shop.

Flavorman, headquartered in Louisville, Ky., partners with brands of all sizes to bring innovative beverage ideas to market. From formulation and ingredient selection to production planning and quality control, Flavorman has been instrumental in developing more than 85,000 unique beverage formulations across every major category.

For more information about Flavorman and its services, visit .

Winkler, Man, November 21, 2025 – Jimmy John’s, the sandwich chain known for its fresh ingredients and “Freaky Fast” service, opened its newest Canadian location today, this time in Winkler, Manitoba. First introduced in Canada in 2024, and now with seven locations in cities like Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa and Vaughan, Jimmy John’s hopes to woo Winkler residents thanks to its menu built around speed, quality, and freshly sliced meats and cheeses.

“We are delighted to bring Jimmy John’s to Winkler and serve this vibrant community,” said Kim Slongo, Director of Operations at Foodtastic, the company behind Jimmy John’s expansion in Canada. “Our team is ready to deliver the quality, speed and freshness that Jimmy John’s fans expect. We look forward to welcoming our neighbours and becoming part of the local fabric of Winkler.”

Located at 701 Provincial Trunk Highway 14, Unit 4, Winkler, the new restaurant will offer Jimmy John’s lineup of made-to-order sandwiches, including favourites such as the Italian Night Club® and Chicken Bacon Ranch, along with classics like the Turkey Tom®.

“Jimmy John’s continues to grow its footprint in Canada, and we are proud to bring our distinctive flavours and culture to more communities across the country,” says Peter Mammas, CEO of Foodtastic. “Our expansion into Winkler is another step in our mission to serve great sandwiches made with real ingredients and contagious passion.”

For more information, follow Jimmy John’s on Instagram at instagram.com/jimmyjohns.ca, visit JimmyJohns.ca or come into the new location at 701 Provincial Trunk Highway 14, Unit 4.

November 19, 2025 (Winnipeg, MB) Fairmont Winnipeg proudly unveils the returning of its enchanting Santa Suite, an annual tradition brought to life once again through its esteemed partnership with The Dream Factory. This thoughtfully curated festive experience transforms the The Royal Alexandra Suite (the hotel’s most premier suite, located on the 20th floor) into a luxurious seasonal sanctuary, where timeless holiday charm meets impeccably crafted design.

The collaboration underscores the hotel’s ongoing dedication to creating meaningful moments for guests while supporting The Dream Factory’s inspiring mission to bring joy to children and families in need.

Fairmont Winnipeg and The Dream Factory are excited to be welcoming families to the hotel on Friday, November 21 to launch The Santa Suite in celebration of the holiday season. Media are welcome to join from 3 to 5 pm in the main lobby.

Friends and family are invited to gather for their private slot to take photos with Santa himself.

With every slot, guests will receive one (1) printed 6” x 8” photo, 3-5 digital photos, and full access to Santa’s Village, hosted in the main lobby of the hotel and complete with cookie decorating, hot chocolate, holiday crafts, and plenty of seasonal cheer.

“The Santa Suite is one of our most cherished traditions at Fairmont Winnipeg. Each year, we are humbled to partner with The Dream Factory to bring a little extra magic to families during the festive season. This collaboration allows us to create special memories for our guests while supporting a cause that truly embodies the spirit of giving,” said Ian Taylor, general manager of Fairmont Winnipeg.

“At the heart of The Dream Factory is our commitment to Manitoba families, and The Santa Suite exemplifies the spirit of that mission. The remarkable $75,000 raised last year through our collaboration with Fairmont Winnipeg enabled us to bring joy and unforgettable dreams to children across the province. Our work could not be possible without the generosity of Manitobans, and that generosity is on full display at The Santa Suite,” said Andrew Kussy, executive director of The Dream Factory.

The Santa Suite will run from November 22 to December 7. Availability is limited so visitors and are encouraged to reserve their spot early to make sure the holidays live up to the magic of their dreams! Visit santasuite.raiselysite.com to book today!

MONTRÉAL, Nov. 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Air Canada unveiled its 2025 Top 10 Best New Restaurants in Canada today at a Toronto celebration, with Halifax restaurant Mystic earning first-place honours. Led by Chef Malcolm Campbell and his team, Mystic’s immersive tasting menus marry local Maritime terroir with global technique in a beautiful waterfront setting.

In second, Montreal’s Le Violon, led by chef Danny Smiles, pays homage to the city’s French culinary heritage with a hyper-seasonal menu fusing bold flavours and refined plating. Taking third place, Toronto’s aKin celebrates the city’s multicultural identity with globally inspired dishes pushing the boundaries of modern Canadian dining.

“This year’s winners remind us of the bold creativity shaping the Canadian culinary scene today,” said Andy Shibata, Vice President, Brand at Air Canada. “Whether it is the reinvention of Canadian classics or a chef pouring their heart into an omakase experience, each restaurant reflects its community in a different way. And together they show the incredible range of flavour and culture across the country. We are proud to shine a spotlight on their work and inspire more people to explore Canada through its food.”

The Top 10 Air Canada Best New Restaurants of 2025 are:

1. Mystic (Halifax, NS): This waterfront gem blends coastal warmth with refined elegance, delivering a seafood-forward menu rooted in Nova Scotia’s rich waters. Signature dishes highlight sustainable, locally sourced ingredients and maritime-inspired flavours, marrying inventive technique with timeless tradition.
2. Le Violon (Montreal, QC): A maestro of Quebec’s culinary traditions, Le Violon pays homage to Montreal’s French influence while carving out its own bold identity. This intimate fine dining destination presents a hyper-seasonal menu built on locally sourced ingredients, with artful plating and bold flavour combinations that reflect the province’s rich gastronomic heritage.
3. aKin (Toronto, ON): Celebrating Toronto’s multicultural identity, aKin presents globally inspired dishes with bold, unexpected flavour combinations. From its vibrant atmosphere to its chef-driven dishes, aKin creates an experience that redefines modern Canadian dining.
4. Sushi Hyun Omakase (Vancouver, BC): Known for its meticulous preparation, Sushi Hyun Omakase offers a masterful omakase experience featuring sustainable Pacific Northwest seafood. Each course pays tribute to Japanese culinary craftsmanship with a distinct West Coast twist.
5. Maven (Toronto, ON): Maven blends nostalgia and modernity by drawing inspiration from traditional Jewish and Eastern European dishes. Chef Shauna Godfrey’s recipes create a warm, neighbourhood vibe with a sophisticated twist, inviting diners to feel at home while enjoying her take on comforting flavours.
6. Nero Tondo (Vancouver, BC): Handmade pastas, bold sauces, and curated wine pairings define Nero Tondo’s contemporary spin on Italian cuisine. Infused with regional influences, the restaurant’s menu offers a seamless balance of traditional techniques and innovative flavour profiles.
7. Yan Dining Room (Toronto, ON): “Yan,” meaning banquet feast in Chinese, inspires this exclusive eight-course dining experience created by Chef Eva Chin. Neo-Chinese cuisine comes to life through local, seasonal ingredients and elevated reinterpretations of traditional culinary techniques.
8. Sumibiyaki Arashi (Vancouver, BC): This 14-seat omakase spot elevates the art of yakitori, with each skewer cooked over binchotan charcoal for precise, clean flavours. Seasonal fish, vegetable-forward plates, and innovative textures add depth to the menu, while respecting the practice of balance and restraint.
9. Pasta Pooks (Montreal, QC): A counter-service eatery with a youthful edge, Pasta Pooks combines the comfort of handmade pastas with creative twists. Bold flavours and playful presentation make this Montreal hotspot a must-visit for food lovers.
10. Niwa (Vancouver, BC): Niwa merges the elegance of nature with culinary sophistication, offering dishes inspired by Pacific Northwest ingredients and Asian techniques. From serene plating to refined flavour combinations, Niwa creates a memorable dining experience that embraces simplicity and artistry.

Celebrating Canadian Culinary Excellence

This year’s Top 10 restaurants were revealed at a special event held in Toronto on November 17, 2025. Chefs and teams from the Top 10 restaurants were invited to receive their awards and share dishes from their winning menus with industry professionals, Air Canada guests and invited members of the public.

The Air Canada's Best New Restaurants Top 10 event is generously presented by Amex, a multi-year National Partner of the program. Air Canada thanks Amex for their ongoing commitment to enriching Canada's culinary landscape.

“Our collaboration with Air Canada continues to champion the creativity and innovation that define Canada’s culinary landscape,” said Kim Kuzmak, Vice President of Lifestyle Benefits, Partnerships and Brand at American Express Canada. “At American Express, we’re passionate about connecting Cardmembers with experiences that highlight Canada’s culinary talent. We’re proud to support Air Canada’s Best New Restaurants program and the chefs who make Canada a world-class dining destination.”

Culinary Tourism and Beyond

Now in its 24th year, Air Canada’s Best New Restaurants program continues to inspire Canadians to explore through food. From Mystic in Halifax’s flourishing dining scene to the artistry of Sushi Hyun Omakase in Vancouver, the list highlights destinations worth visiting as much for their unforgettable meals as for the journeys themselves.

For more details about the 2025 Best New Restaurants program and the Top 10 winners, visit https://enroute.aircanada.com/best-new-restaurants.