Independent Operators

FastCasual extends nomination deadline for '25 Brands to Watch: 2026'

Nominations close Jan. 3.

December 29, 2025

The nomination period for the 2026 25 Fast Casual Brands to Watch special report, which highlights the most promising new concepts in the restaurant industry, has been extended to Jan. 3.

Brands poised to become major players are invited to submit entries for consideration. To be eligible, concepts must:

• Be less than five years old.
• Operate at least one brick-and-mortar location, food truck or ghost kitchen.
• Not have made past editions of the list.

The nomination period is now open.

All submissions for the 2026 Fast Casual Brands to Watch report must be received by Jan. 3, 2026

Make Your Nomination Today!

Be sure to check out the 2025 Fast Casual Brands to Watch, too!