Romano's Macaroni Grill is making full-service restaurant history by adding a little fast-casual flair with its new lunchtime Kitchen Counter ordering options.

The Italian restaurant chain recently announced the new $7 menu items, which are available at more than 130 Macaroni Grill locations nationwide. These made-to-order meals are guaranteed in seven minutes or the meal is free. With a wide array of options like fresh salads, classic dishes-turned-sandwiches, pasta, and specialty Calzonettos—handheld pockets filled with Italian ingredients and baked in a brick oven—the new menu offers sit-down quality for those even on the tightest of schedules.

“Many of our restaurants are located in busy areas full of people looking for a fast lunch without the fast-food experience. They may only have half an hour to spare, so our Kitchen Counter menu is the perfect option, whether they’d like to eat in our dining rooms or take it to go,” says John Gilbert, president of Macaroni Grill. “Just because you’re in a hurry doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice great taste, high quality, and healthy options. So skip the drive-thru line and meet us at the counter.” 

Some of Macaroni Grill’s Kitchen Counter signature dishes include:

·      Prosciutto Grilled Cheese, which is lightly smoked prosciutto, fresh Mozzarella, and four-cheese fonduta, served on warm ciabatta;

·      Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, which includes Parmesan chicken, Mozzarella, imported Pomodorinia, and fresh basil served on warm ciabatta; and

·      Chicken Caesar Calzonetto, which is a handheld pocket stuffed with grilled chicken, tomatoes, spinach, oregano, Parmesan, Mozzarella, and Caesar dressing.