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 fast-casual restaurant offers authentic Greek cuisine. —Elizabeth Marie Himchak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Dec. 2025

Mixed together, the dishes felt elevated and better than the salad I’d typically throw together at home, but not quite as overflowing as a hearty salad from a fast-casual spot like Sweetgreen (and of course, less customizable). —Lizzy Briskin, Bon Appetit Magazine, 22 Dec. 2025

Menu details are limited, but a Google listing describes Hank’s as a fast-casual hangout serving up wings, Nashville-style fried chicken tenders, sandwiches and more. —Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 12 Dec. 2025

On level four, Eataly, Naya, Viva La Crepe, Joe & the Juice and the L’Oréal Academy of Beauty all opened, and additional fast-casual culinary options are expected to debut soon. —David Moin, Footwear News, 10 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1995, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for fast-casual

• casual