Chipotle Mexican Grill, Buffalo Wild Wings, Panera Bread and BJ’s Restaurants are among the top chains that have tantalized diners with tasty food at savory prices.
They kept growing during the recession, then ramped up as the economy improved.
“They all generally offer a more differentiated experience, good quality offerings and very attractive prices,” says Morgan Keegan analyst Robert Derrington.
But another economic soft patch and high gas prices are major head winds. Unemployment rose to 9.1% in May, with much higher rates among young people,who tend to eat out more.