Fast Casual Nation

The legacy glow-up: How Paul Damico is tech-enabling Perkins, Huddle House

February 25, 2026

In this episode of Fast Casual Nation, hosts Paul Barron and Cherryh Cansler sit down with Paul Damico, president and CEO of Ascent Hospitality Management, to discuss his bold strategy for reinventing two iconic legacy brands — Perkins Restaurant & Bakery and Huddle House.

Damico shares how cutting-edge Toast POS technology is transforming operations across 600 units, why extended hours are driving 20-40% sales increases at select locations, and how the new Perkins Griddle and Go fast casual format is designed to win over a younger generation of diners — all while keeping the legendary value that loyal guests have counted on for over 65 years.

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