Gift cards to boost industry sales

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

Despite modest gains, the National Restaurant Association’s chief economist is predicting the continued tightening of consumer spending.

Exit41 launches Facebook ordering app

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

November 16, 2010

Exit41 has officially launched a new web-based solution that will let Facebook fans of restaurant brands order meals via the social networking site. The app…

Chipotle’s founder explores Asian segment

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

November 3, 2010

A small team from Chipotle Mexican Grill, led by founder, chairman and co-CEO Steve Ells, is working on an Asian restaurant concept set to follow the Chipotle…

UPDATED: Denny’s to open fast casual cafe

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

October 31, 2010

On Nov. 5, Denny's Corporation will open a new fast casual concept, Denny's Café, in Orange, Calif. The restaurant, a separate venture from its Denny's Fresh…

Genghis Grill launches interactive television channel

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

Last week at Genghis Grill's franchise conference, the group unveiled its latest customer-engagement tool: Genghis Grill TV.

Buffalo Wild Wings flies above analyst expectations

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

October 26, 2010

Buffalo Wild Wings Inc. has announced financial results for the third quarter ended September 26, 2010, that have risen above analyst expectations of 43 cents…

Panera Bread Q3 earnings build on leading edge

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

October 26, 2010

Panera Bread's systemwide same-store sales for the company's third quarter, ended Sept. 28, have increased 6.9 percent. Company-owned comps increased 5.…

Killifer: Summit not just business, it's personal

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

The Fast Casual Executive Summit in review.

Slideshow: Fast Casual Executive Summit Food Tour

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

The Fast Casual Executive Summit kicked off Oct. 10 with the second annual Fast Casual Food Tour.

Boston Market CEO leaves post

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

Boston Market's CEO F. Lane Cardwell is stepping down and will be replaced by George Michel, former CEO of Timothy’s Coffees of the World Inc.

Mediterranean diet spurs concept growth

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

How two concepts are providing healthful Mediterranean cuisine to Detroit and Denver diners.

It’s all about today

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

September 18 was a fairly busy day for me. Tasked with the Saturday chores of grocery shopping, laundry and general errand running, it was a day that required…

Bridging the gaps

by Valerie Killifer — Editor, FastCasual.com

When I was in the fifth grade, I had a classmate who was completely obsessed with Prince and the Revolution. When Purple Rain was released in 1984, he watched…