fast-casual

adjective

fast-ca·​su·​al ˈfast-ˈkazh-wəl 

-ˈka-zhə-wəl, 

-ˈka-zhəl

variants or less commonly fast casual

: of, relating to, or being a restaurant that combines elements of fast-food service (such as counter ordering) with other elements (such as made-to-order food) that are typical of a full-service restaurant

The fast-casual restaurants typically offer fresh, hand-prepared burgers and fries in an atmosphere that might feature plush chairs and a fireplace but no kiddie playland.

—Karen Robinson-Jacobs

Not content to merely upgrade their menus, some chains are looking at overhauling their entire concept to match the fast-casual approach, whereby meals typically are prepared to order and there is limited table service.

—Julie Tamaki

fast-casual noun

or fast casual

plural fast-casuals or fast casuals

… fast-casuals became the darling of the last decade, driven in part by the effects of the Great Recession, skyrocketing rents and rising food costs.

—Tim Carman

Examples of fast-casual in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The taco brand’s aggressive expansion comes at a time when some restaurants in the fast-casual genre — a step up from conventional fast-food chains — are showing signs of weakness. —Lori Weisberg, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Mar. 2026

Local fast-casual concept Wyld Child plans to join the neighborhood. —Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 4 Mar. 2026

Many of Atlanta’s latest restaurant openings are choosing to lean toward a fast-casual, counter-service format instead of the full-service style of dining out. —Henri Hollis, AJC.com, 3 Mar. 2026

Unlike Leven’s fast-casual sister concepts, Leven Downtown will be a full-service restaurant with a bar, expanded wine program and an Italian menu centered on pasta, pizza and sandwiches. —Patricia Kaowthumrong, Denver Post, 3 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1995, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for fast-casual

• casual