Got marketing chops? Prove it: The 2nd Annual Top 30 Movers & Shakers Nominations are live
by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com
Calling all restaurant marketing visionaries!
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Can Dave’s Hot Chicken leaders conjure magic from Mike's Red Tacos?
by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com
Mike's Red Tacos, a beef birria concept born just four years ago, has deals in place to open more than 200 locations. While the rapid expansion is turning heads, the real story is the firepower behind the scenes. The brand's not-so-secret weapon is the executive powerhouse that led Dave's Hot Chicken to become a billion-dollar brand.
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Pinky Cole stripping down Slutty Vegan’s business realities on ‘Real Housewives’
by Cherryh Cansler — Editor, FastCasual.com
By bringing the fast casual world to one of reality TV's biggest stages, Slutty Vegan founder Pinky Cole is betting on the idea that authenticity — not just drama — is what builds a lasting legacy.
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Mendocino launches 'Come Graze a While' menu
Mendocino Farms, a Southern California-founded fast casual chain, will debut its first seasonal menu of the year on Feb. 24, featuring a selection of dishes…
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Strategic sizzle: Why Houston TX Hot Chicken prioritizes smart growth over rapid expansion
by Mandy Wolf Detwiler — Editor, Networld Media Group
Houston TX Hot Chicken is leveraging its "electric" brand energy and massive social media following to drive organic franchise leads and fuel a strategic, nationwide expansion.
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HungerRush
HungerRush brings every part of your restaurant together — orders, guests, data — in one platform built for fast casual and quick-serve multi-location brands ready to grow.
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25 Fast Casual Brands to Watch in 2026
FastCasual’s sixth annual report, “25 Brands to Watch,” identifies the trailblazers poised to become the next household names. These concepts are not just keeping pace with the industry; they are actively redefining it. Congratulations to the class of 2026!
2025 Fast Casual Top 100 Movers & Shakers
This year, the exceptional caliber of leadership across the industry led to a slight adjustment in our numbers—we were compelled to recognize 100 brands and 25 executives instead of our usual 75- 25 split. We also added an extra executive, a testament to the fierce competition and outstanding contributions within the fast-casual arena.
