Fast Casual's Top 100 Movers and Shakers

It wasn't long ago that you had to look up the definition of "fast casual" to understand the meaning of this unique restaurant concept that is a hybrid of the fast-food and traditional sit-down eating experiences.

Not only is fast-casual food delivered in a fast, high-quality dining experience, but fast casuals also have been in the fast lane of growth — the entire segment is expected to exceed $70 billion in 2006, with more than 300 brands fueling a new restaurant explosion.

With our first Top 100 list, we highlight leaders in the restaurant industry. What you will find unique about our Top 100 is that it focuses not only on brands, but people and menu items as well. We believe these elements are the true movers and shakers of the industry, sure to lead the fast casual restaurant segment into the future.

The list was highly scrutinized by four experts in restaurant brand quality, food innovation, concept development and operations. They understand just what will and what won't work. The list began with more than 300 of the best in the industry. We're pleased to bring you the 100 best of the best.

The Top 100 is in no way based on sales volume comparison or even total units. It is based on what is known as thin-slicing, the psychological method of experts developing an opinion on a subject based on small amounts of immediate information and a large amount of overall experience in the subject. To learn more about thin-slicing, check out "Blink," a best-selling book by Malcolm Gladwell.

1. Raving Brands, Atlanta

The Raving Brands umbrella tops the list this year because it has expanded so many brands. With the success of its Tour Days, Raving Brands has enjoyed success in number. Renowned for innovative style and a knack for creating turnkey business solutions, Raving Brands is creating raving fans nationwide.

2. Panera Bread, Richmond Heights, Mo.

The bad boys of bread, Panera Bread excelled in a market pressured by the low-carb craze, proving that Americans choose quality and value in this market.

3. Starbucks, Seattle

With 5,886 locations (as of this writing), Starbucks has always believed that putting people before products just made good common sense. Firmly established as an American icon, they continually challenge the concept of branding and have influenced mass culture in a way few others have in the history of the restaurant industry.

4. Kahala Corp., Scottsdale, Ariz.

Kahala Corp. is a brand engine offering the largest selection of high-quality, quick-service restaurants in North America. With eight world-class, proven restaurant concepts, Kahala is experiencing explosive growth and is a true leader.

5. Chipotle, Denver

Chipotle shares some claim to innovation in the area of Fresh Mex as it was one of the true platform developers of the burrito bar. Now with a spin-off from McDonald's, Chipotle could become a super brand.

6. Moe's Southwest Burrito, Atlanta

Though Moe's is not the segment leader, it knows how to build a brand that people love. Brand science is something very special, and Moe's — a concept of Raving Brands, the brainchild of Martin Sprock — understands it very well.

7. Steve Ells, CEO, Chipotle

Chipotle, named after a smoked jalapeno pepper, was founded in 1993 by CEO and professional chef Steve Ellis. He is one of those creative types who can blend food, fun and experience into one very successful package.

8. California Pizza Kitchen, Los Angeles

When it comes to pizza in fast casual, California Pizza Kitchen has to be considered a top player. Innovation in menu and store design is what separates it from the rest of the pizza players that attempt to make a splash in fast casual.

9. Bear Rock Salads Menu Development

New menu development is what makes good restaurants great. Bear Rock proves this with its awesome salad development plan. The company is as creative with its menu as it is with its brand.

10. Buffalo Wild Wings Grill & Bar

Buffalo Wild Wings Grill & Bar helps you understand just how much wings and sauce can mean to the average sports fan. Built around a sports bar theme, this brand knows how to deliver. With approximately 200 locations, the company is one of the top 10 fastest growing restaurant chains in the country.