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

At full strength, Wyman’s could have the fast-casual burrito option, coffee and pastries as well, Dolfi said. —Max Scheinblum, Denver Post, 25 June 2025

Indian cuisine is on the rise all over the Charlotte area, and a new fast-casual option is coming soon near Concord Mills mall. —Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 24 June 2025

Most restaurants, from fast to fast-casual to sit-down, will be open on Thursday. —Alyssa Cooper, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 June 2025

While fast-casual restaurants don't have a wait staff, servers generally carry food to tables. —John Magsam, Arkansas Online, 16 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1995, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for fast-casual

• casual