Feeding Frenzy

Amy Keller | 7/1/2006

Florida's rapid population growth has made it a breeding ground for franchises in the so-called "fast-casual" dining sector. On the model of national chains like Panera and Atlanta Bread Company, fast-casuals combine the convenience of fast food with higher-quality, healthier fare in a casual setting. More than half a dozen Florida-based chains are actively expanding throughout the state and country, operating mostly from malls and strip centers. One of the most successful, Jacksonville-based Firehouse Subs, has grown to 235 restaurants in 11 states as far west as Texas and as far north as Virginia.

There wasn't even a name for the fast-casual approach until relatively recently, says Mike Schneider of Jacksonville, owner of The Loop, a chain of Chicago-themed taverns serving everything from pizza to gourmet burgers. The sector has generated impressive numbers, growing sales at an average rate of 12.5% per year since 2001, according to a 2004 report from Chicago-based market research group Mintel International. Fast Casual magazine estimates fast-casuals will generate more than $70 billion this year. Restaurant expert Aaron Allen, CEO of Orlando-based Quantified Marketing Group, says his company receives more than a dozen inquiries each month from investors looking to get in on the next Starbucks or Panera. "Really, for the restaurant industry, it's the dot-com boom."

A dwindling supply of suitable real estate and escalating land prices pose the biggest threats to continued growth. Nonetheless, the combination of speed plus better food makes the fast-casuals formidable, says Ralph Desiano, chief operating officer for Mel's Diner, a Bonita Springs-based chain that's playing up the speed of its service to keep pace with the fast-casuals. "As the food continues to get better ... there's no question they're competitors," he says.

On the following pages, you'll find profiles on Crispers, Po' Boys Creole Cafe, Firehouse Subs, Nature's Table Cafe, The Loop Pizza Grill, and more. Use the number links below to proceed.

Tags: Dining & Travel, Around Florida