For over a decade, fast-casual restaurants have sprung up all around the U.S. serving high-quality food in a casual setting, pushing the envelope on what is possible in a counter-service format. And since 2017, QSR magazine has recognized those emerging concepts with the 40/40 List, a report on 40 exciting fast-casual brands with fewer than 40 locations.

QSR announced that it is now accepting submissions for the 2023 40/40 List, particularly searching for startup concepts that have withstood the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and have plans to once again expand.

To be considered for the 40/40 List, restaurants should have more than one but fewer than 40 locations, and have plans to actively scale. The final list will be published in QSR’s February 2024 issue.

To submit your brand for the 40/40 List, fill out the below information no later than 11:59 p.m. EST on November 17.

CHECK OUT PAST 40/40 LISTS:

2023

2022

2021

2020

2019

2018

2017

If you have any questions, please contact Danny Klein at dklein@wtwhmedia.com.

QSR 40/40 Nominations

Submissions for QSR’s annual list of America’s hottest startup fast casuals.

Your restaurant concept’s name
Number of restaurant locations as of February 2024
Location
Year founded
Why is your fast casual one to watch in 2024 and beyond.
What is the brand’s origin story and what’s next for growth?
Your email
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    Emerging Concepts, Fast Casual, Story