With April 15 approaching, restaurant operators hope tax refunds will bring back some customers. Meanwhile, small plates and family-style service continue to prevail over the traditional entrée. Soft drink sales again declined last year, a report finds. Some chefs in New York are taking legal action to protect signature dishes. And kosher food is getting more upscale treatments.

• Restaurants hope tax refunds lure guests. The refunds could help offset rising gas prices and payroll tax increases, bringing back some diners. (Consumer Nation/CNBC)

• Backlash against entrées rages on. Small plates, shared courses and family-style service have been encroaching on the entrée. (Eater)

• Soda sales fizzle in 2012. The declines come amid heavy attention on soda's role in obesity and related health problems. (Associated Press/Cleveland Plain Dealer)

• Chefs cry copycat. While some New York chefs say copying dishes is a form of flattery, others are taking legal measures. (New York Post)

• Kosher food goes gourmet. Interest in kosher products is surging among chefs and non-Jews. (Christian Science Monitor)