Fast_Casual

By Heather Lalley on Feb. 07, 2022

Six things to know about the fast casual’s new “restaurant of the future,” and why it’s so bullish on using technology to sell more chicken wings.

Premium

Operations

Are fast casuals going through a mid-life crisis?

By Heather Lalley on Feb. 04, 2022

They’re adding drive-thrus, taking away dining rooms, letting customers order at the table and more; blurring the lines between their segment, quick service, and even casual dining.

Food

With Chef Jet Tila in the driver’s seat, menu evolution accelerates at Pei Wei

By Patricia Cobe on Feb. 04, 2022

The celebrity chef, now a partner in the fast-casual chain, is energizing and expanding the pan-Asian menu.

Operations

Wingstop opens a cash-less, seat-less restaurant

By Heather Lalley on Feb. 03, 2022

The wing chain’s new “restaurant of the future” will allow the brand to test equipment and layouts to maximize its off-premise business.

Technology

Panera wants you to order at the table

By Heather Lalley on Feb. 01, 2022

Starting Tuesday, diners can sit down at the fast casual and place an order via the chain’s mobile app for dine-in service.

Operations

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop gets into the drive-thru game

By Heather Lalley on Jan. 25, 2022

The fast casual said Tuesday it has signed a 50-store deal with a franchisee, all of which are slated to include drive-thrus.

Marketing

Chipotle gets a PR boost from Korean boy band BTS

By Heather Lalley on Jan. 25, 2022

Members of the band were caught on video enjoying the fast casual’s food for the first time, prompting Chipotle to temporarily change its name on Twitter and hand out 7,000 free meals.

Emerging Brands