Datassential revels top emerging foodservice chains

CHICAGO — The top emerging foodservice chains are specializing in focused concepts and tapping into trends like global cuisine, according to new data from Datassential.

The market researcher’s top emerging chains report is comprised of companies that “achieved meaningful scale while also demonstrating consistent multi-year growth, innovation, and strong alignment with the consumer trends shaping today’s US restaurant landscape,” according to Datassential. Top chains included those that focus on specialized menus that are easily scalable, offer international flavors and experiential dining, center on indulgent shareable menu items, or utilize visually appealing drinks and streamlined formats.

“Emerging chains are where we see the future of the foodservice industry take shape,” said Jim Emling, chief executive officer of Datassential. “These brands are not just growing quickly, they’re often the earliest adopters of the flavors, formats, and menu innovations that eventually influence the broader restaurant landscape.”

The report’s No. 1 emerging chain is Toastique, a fast casual cafe company founded in 2018. Toastique markets a “clean label” menu of gourmet toast, smoothie bowls, cold-pressed juices, coffee beverages and more. The company has 47 units and saw 119% 1-year growth, according to Datassential.

The second top emerging chain is Kyuramen. The ramen operator aims to expand American palettes beyond Kyushu shio-style ramen, the most common ramen style offered in the United States, to include Japan’s other two major ramen styles: shoyu and miso. Kyuramen currently operates 46 units and saw 118% 1-year growth.

The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill, the report’s No. 3 chain, was started in 2016 and specializes in producing authentic Greek recipes utilizing fresh ingredients. The chain operates 78 units, with 84% growth in the last year.

The Peach Cobbler Factory occupies the report’s fourth spot. The chain, which opened in 2013, seeks to “evoke the feeling of grandma’s kitchen” with its dessert menu that includes cobblers, cinnamon rolls, pudding, brownies, cookies, shakes and more. The Peach Cobbler Factory now has 115 units, with an 82% 1-year growth rate.

7 Brew ranked fifth among the top emerging chains. The company was founded in 2017 and specializes in drive-thru beverages. The convenience-focused chain operates 548 units, with 78% growth in the last year.

Other emerging chains in the top include KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot, Summer Moon Coffee, Parlor Doughnuts, Savvy Sliders and The Halal Shack.