The Asian fast-casual category is ripe for growth. Panda Express stands alone as the sole national chain, even as Americans fall more in love with Asian cuisines. But today, several emerging Asian fast casuals are expanding quickly across the U.S., serving a range of menus that showcase Asia's incredible food diversity.
One such brand is Teriyaki Madness, a Seattle-style teriyaki concept based in Denver. The fast casual projects to have 80 locations open by the end of the year, with potentially hundreds more to come. In this conversation with QSR editor Sam Oches, Teriyaki Madness CEO Michael Haith explains why his brand has a great shot at stealing market share from Panda Express—and how the rise in off premises is perfectly suited to its core concept.