Casual Dining Chains

Casual dining chains are a corporate-owned segment of the restaurant food service industry characterized by sit-down table service, a standardized menu of moderately priced food, and a range of alcoholic beverages. They fall into categories defined by cuisine type such as American bar and grill, steak, seafood, family dining, or ethnic cuisines such as Italian, Mexican, or Chinese. These themes extend beyond the menu to restaurant decor, graphics, uniforms, and logo. Food is prepared mostly off-site in commissary kitchens and delivered to individual locations to be reheated and finished by kitchen staff. Entrées prices start around $10 and average about $16 to $18.

Casual dining chains can be corporate owned, operated as franchises or licensed properties, or a combination. Chains are typically owned by large restaurant ...