Top 10 Companies in the Global Fast Casual Restaurant Market

The global fast casual restaurant market reached a value of about USD 211.52 billion in 2023. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.5% in the forecast period of 2024-2032 to reach around USD 563.41 billion by 2032. As per the analysis by Expert Market Research, the market is expected to be driven by the increasing adoption of creative production strategies.

Fast casual restaurants, commonly found in North America, offer high-quality food without full table service. Unlike fast food chains, they prepare fresh ingredients and prioritise speed of service akin to fine dining establishments. This market segment focuses on quick, standardised menu items such as salads, sandwiches, and limited alcoholic beverages. Fast casual dining provides a comfortable atmosphere with modern or rustic decor, often featuring amenities like free Wi-Fi, catering to diverse customer segments seeking convenient yet satisfying dining experiences.

Amid rising fast food consumption, food joints are intensifying efforts to innovate and meet evolving consumer demands. Leading players in the fast casual restaurant market are deploying inventive production methods to craft enticing dishes, aiming to expand their consumer base and stay competitive in the market.

Rapid urbanisation, coupled with a rising appetite for convenience and continuous innovation in the food and beverage sector, drives market dynamics in the region. The escalating demand for flavourful cuisine accompanied by swift, premium service is expected to fuel fast casual restaurant market expansion.

In January 2022, Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) unveiled a limited-time offering of Plant-Based Chorizo and new Lifestyle Bowls. The protein, crafted from real, farm-grown ingredients, debuted nationwide following successful tests in Denver and Indianapolis in August 2021. Utilising its stage gate process, Chipotle heeded consumer feedback to refine its launch strategy, culminating in the national rollout. The introduction of its second vegan protein garnered enthusiastic fan engagement and marked a milestone in the brand's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.

Top 10 Fast Casual Restaurant Companies in the World:

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) distinguishes itself by serving responsibly sourced, wholesome fare free from artificial additives across over 3,250 locations in North America and Europe. Recognised for its ethical practices, Chipotle is listed on the Fortune 500 and featured on Fortune's 2023 Most Admired Companies and Time Magazine's Most Influential Companies. With a workforce of over 110,000, Chipotle leads in digital innovation and sustainability, championing accessibility and purpose-driven initiatives while upholding high standards for ingredient sourcing and preparation.

Qdoba Restaurant Corporation

Since its inception in 1995, QDOBA Mexican Eats has expanded to over 740 locations across the U.S. and Canada, prioritising flavour and authenticity. Embracing diversity, QDOBA values its workforce and emphasises hiring from local communities, providing opportunities for over 16,000 individuals. With a commitment to quality ingredients and meticulous preparation, QDOBA offers freshly-made, Mexican-inspired cuisine tailored to contemporary tastes. Championing inclusivity, they extend their philosophy to suppliers, fostering minority-owned businesses through a vendor-inclusion process, fostering a united and flavourful brand experience.

BurgerFi International, Inc.

Established in 2011, BurgerFi is a prominent multi-brand restaurant corporation, boasting fast-casual and premium-casual dining concepts worldwide. With 114 BurgerFi restaurants, their chef-founded concept emphasises fresh, all-natural ingredients like 100% American Angus Beef and high-quality wagyu beef. Recognised for excellence, BurgerFi acquired Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza & Wings in 2021 and has received accolades including QSR Magazine's Breakout Brand of 2020 and Fast Casual's 2021 #1 Brand of the Year. Their commitment to quality extends to Consumer Reports' praise for serving "no antibiotic beef" and an "A-Grade Angus Beef" rating for three consecutive years.

DMI, Inc. (Jason's Deli)

Jason’s Deli, a family-owned American fast-casual chain established in 1976, operates 250 delis across 28 states. With a focus on wholesome ingredients sourced from trusted partners, they offer a diverse menu including sandwiches, wraps, salads, and desserts, along with catering options. Committed to integrity, Jason’s Deli has removed artificial trans fats and other additives from their food since 2005. Upholding their values, they prioritise customer satisfaction and community engagement, setting a standard for quality in the industry for over four decades.

The Halal Guys

The Halal Guys epitomise the American Dream, originating in 1990 as a hot dog cart in NYC before transitioning to selling halal food, filling a gap in the market. Their unique offerings quickly gained popularity among diverse demographics, propelling them to become the #1 most Yelped and Siri-searched restaurant in NYC by 2017. With over 100 global locations and 400+ in development, their journey symbolises success and expansion, fuelled by a commitment to fresh, delicious food and warm hospitality, making American Halal Food accessible worldwide.

Greek Xpress

Founded in 2014 by Greek-American friends longing for authentic Greek cuisine, Greek Xpress brings the flavours of Greece to New York. With catering services across Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and Nassau County, their menu features beloved dishes like gyros, souvlaki, and baklava, all prepared by executive chefs. Using imported ingredients from Greece and the finest local produce, Greek Xpress prioritises authenticity, quality, and health consciousness in every meal. Their mission is to provide delicious, budget-friendly Greek cuisine to guests, ensuring a taste of Greece in every bite.

Panera Bread

Originating in 1987 as St. Louis Bread Company, Panera Bread began with a sourdough starter and a vision. Though expanding nationwide, the commitment to fresh bread remains. Panera's menu, curated by chefs and bakers, offers comforting dishes with innovative twists. Valuing sustainability and community, Panera prioritises responsible practices and charitable endeavours. Technology investments enhance convenience, offering mobile ordering and rapid pick-up. Now part of Panera Brands under JAB Holding Company, Panera operates in 48 states and Canada, epitomising wholesome, quality dining with a focus on service and sustainability.

Jersey Mike's Franchise Systems, Inc

Jersey Mike’s, a fast-casual sub franchise boasting over 2,400 locations nationwide, blends sandwich-making with community impact. Founded in 1956, its commitment to authentic, freshly sliced subs extends to philanthropy, raising over USD 65 million for local charities in the past decade. Recognised as a top franchise by Entrepreneur Magazine and Nation's Restaurant News, Jersey Mike’s emphasises quality ingredients and customer satisfaction. CEO Peter Cancro, who launched the business at 17, instils a culture of giving back. With initiatives like the Annual Month of Giving, Jersey Mike’s serves up more than just subs it serves communities.

Schlotzskys

Schlotzsky’s®, a fast-casual franchise established in 1971, offers The Original® oven-baked sandwich inspired by Austin's culinary scene. With over 320 locations, they serve made-to-order sandwiches, pizzas, salads, and Cinnabon cinnamon rolls. Part of the Focus Brands® family, Schlotzsky’s® prides itself on bold flavours and fresh ingredients. Each bite evokes moments and memories, crafted with care and made-to-order. Despite the wait, Schlotzsky’s® delivers comfort and satisfaction, earning praise from devoted fans for their flavourful offerings like jalapeño chips and homemade hot sauce.

Zaxby’s SPE Franchisor LLC

Established in 1990, Zaxby's delights customers with flavourful chicken fingers, wings, sandwiches, and salads in a vibrant, friendly setting. Their Signature Sandwich earned Thrillist's Fasties Award for Best Fried Chicken Sandwich for two consecutive years. With over 900 locations across 18 states, Zaxby's journey from humble beginnings in Statesboro, GA, to nationwide success showcases its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Founded by childhood friends, Zaxby's continues to expand, offering franchise opportunities and spreading its story of delicious food and business ownership.