Fast Casual DefinedFast casual dining is one of the fastest growing markets in the restaurant industry. The sector currently holds 27.25% of total foodservice sales, with an estimated value of $173.8 billion. But what is fast casual? Fast casual restaurants are defined by the CCIM as “establishments offering a limited-service or self-service format, average checks greater than $9, dishes prepared to order, fresh (or perceived to be fresh) ingredients, cuisine innovative adapted to sophisticated and high-end tastes. interior design. CCIM goes on to say that fast casual restaurants attract more business during lunch hours rather than dinner hours, when older customers seek a different atmosphere. However, to counter this, fast casual chains are now enhancing their services with comfortable dining areas and ever-changing adult beverage menus. Locations Fast casual establishments tend to be in the same areas that high-end restaurants target. The reason is that their fast service, "fresher" ingredients and equally good food will trump the idea of ​​a sit-down meal when people are pressed for time during the work day or are just looking for a quick but quality solution for the family. Since the majority of their customers tend to have a higher household income, fast food companies often attempt to locate their units in areas with high lunch traffic, as well as residents and employees with incomes above $50,000. This, combined with their attractiveness, allows them to thrive in cities, suburbs and small towns. Although fast casual restaurants are usually found near other dining establishments, they can also be seen in most other places – in upscale plazas. moving shopping malls to food courts due to the fact that such restaurant...... middle of paper ......pizzas. McGuire also expects lamb and game meats – from duck to bison – to gain share on menus, but vegetarian alternatives, including mushrooms and soy products, will also continue to occupy the front of the stage. While some consumers are focused on healthy eating, many will indulge and seek out carbs, cheeses, fried appetizers and other extravagant items this year. Starchy foods on the rise include ramen, rice bowls, flatbreads, wraps and waffles. McGuire agreed with Mintel and NPD that technology will be a game-changer for restaurants adopting innovative ways to reach and serve consumers. Examples include sparkling water taps that allow customers to create their own fruity soft drinks and self-serve beer taps controlled by RFID card. “Other technologies on the horizon, including tableside iPads, will make the restaurant experience faster and more precise,” she says.