"Improved fast-food chains" that serve quick, healthful fare seem to be popping up everywhere.
And millennials, especially, are taking notice — McDonald'srecently fell out of the demographic's top 10 favorite restaurant chains.
Consumers at these "improved" chains should still watch out for calorie-heavy items like salad dressings and sauces. But these eateries keep emphasis on "fresh" over "fried" and still get food out the door fast.
Here are 10 quickly growing "improved" fast-food restaurants that are a hit with diners.
Freshii
What they serve: Soups, burritos, salads and wraps. Meals can be customized with a variety of meats and toppings.
Location: Restaurants in 35 cities in eight countries, including the U.S. and Canada.
The story: Founder Matthew Corrin was a marketing manager for Oscar de la Renta before joining the dining industry. The store was founded in 2005 in Toronto.
Review: "If the concept is a little less fresh than it used to be, that's not a bad thing. We have eaten a lot of kebabs and pizza in the pursuit of good takeout. The arrival of fresh fast food couldn't have happened soon enough." — The Washington Post
Maoz
What they serve: Vegetarian pita pockets and salads with falafel and hummus. Customers can choose toppings and sauces from a self-serve salad bar.
Location: Six restaurants in the U.S. and five overseas.
The story: Maoz was founded in Amsterdam in 1991. The restaurant's mantra is quick, vegetarian food.
Review: "The sauces have character, particularly the green chili and garlic, which make great dips for a menu item that’s a clue to Maoz’s Northern European roots: perfectly crisp (if a bit too thick-cut) Belgian fries." — New York Times
Native Foods Café
What they serve: Fast-casual vegan foods, including salads, sandwiches and "Earth Bowls." The Baja Blackened Tacos are filled with chipotle surfer sauce, cabbage tempeh and guacamole.
Location: 14 locations in California, Colorado and Chicago.
The story: The chain got its start in Palm Springs in 1994. Its menu is completely meatless.
Review: "Even meat eaters will like Native Foods Cafe! The menu describes what the plant-based protein “meat” items are and what the Native Cheese consists of. You won’t even be able to tell the difference, but you will feel less guilty after you walk out of there with a full belly." – redlotusmama.com
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