Fast-casual eateries winning restaurant wars

A new restaurant industry report tells us something penny-pinching foodies already know: we love fast-casual dining.

The fast-casual restaurant industry generated sales of $23 billion in 2010, up nearly 30 percent since 2006, according to a recent Mintel foodservice report.  The firm, which tracks restaurant industry trends, said the growth in this sector is admirable given the state of the economy.

So, why do diners love fast casual dining? These counter-service restaurants (Panera Bread, Corner Bakery, Beach Pit BBQ) offer diners the quality of casual dining without the wait.  Food is ordered at a counter and served at a fast-food pace. And, there's no tip involved.  (Unless you count the cash register tip jar.)

Prices range from $6 to $12 per person, making it slightly cheaper and more convenient than dining at a sit-down restaurant, Mintel said.

These restaurants are coming on strong at lunch time with foot traffic "levels almost equaling that of casual dining" visitors, according to Mintel's survey.

“The relatively new fast casual category has fared well through the recession as people can see the added value in the food and atmosphere, despite the slightly higher price point,” said Eric Giandelone, director of foodservice research at Mintel. “The majority of restaurant-goers say quality is the most important determinant in their choice of a restaurant, which will continue to help this category grow.”

In Orange County, fast-casual restaurant growth is taking off, especially in the barbecue, Mexican and sandwich categories.

Brands adding counter-service concepts over the last two years in O.C. include Lucille's Rib Shack, Beach Pit BBQ, Cafe Rio, The Counter, Cafe Maiz, Which Wich and Corner Fish Grill.

Many of the concepts are quick-serve versions of casual dining chains that have been hit hardest by the recession as diners trade down to cheaper fast-casual eats.

Irvine-based Mimi's Cafe, for example, is testing a counter-service concept in Arizona. Last year, Lucille's Smokehouse BBQ opened Lucille's Rib Shack in Orange. The Costa Mesa parent company of King's Fish House opened a fast-casual eatery in Huntington Beach called Fish Camp in the summer, while El Cholo is seeing success with its fast-casual taqueria Cafe Maiz in Mission Viejo.

Tell us: Do you find yourself eating more at fast-casual restaurants? If so, write in and let us know why these concepts appeal to you.

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