fast-casual

adjective

fast-ca·​su·​al ˈfast-ˈkazh-wəl How to pronounce fast-casual (audio)
-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 fast-casual West African restaurant in Houston’s Montrose neighborhood, brings West African flavors to the forefront. Shelby Stewart, Essence, 1 Oct. 2024 With a natural in-person presence across the county, the fast-casual restaurant found its opportunity in building a digital-first platform that communicated its commitment to quality ingredients and ethical sourcing practices – values that deeply resonate with its customers. Brad Simms, Forbes, 26 Sep. 2024 Protein Bar & Kitchen is coming to Naperville, with a franchise of the fast-casual eatery slated to open in town by early 2025. Tess Kenny, Chicago Tribune, 24 Sep. 2024 The fast-casual restaurant chain has long been known for its fresh ingredients and seasonal menu items, so the addition of these warm, flavorful soups feels like the perfect kick-off to the season of comfort food. Abigail Wilt, Southern Living, 23 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for fast-casual 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'fast-casual.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1995, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fast-casual was in 1995

Dictionary Entries Near fast-casual

Cite this Entry

“Fast-casual.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fast-casual. Accessed 9 Oct. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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