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Fazoli's Announces 13 New Restaurants in 2026

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  Published in Business and Finance on Saturday, February 7th 2026 at 17:12 GMT by NJ.com
      Locale: UNITED STATES

February 7th, 2026 - Fazoli's, the well-established Italian-American fast-casual dining chain, announced today a robust expansion plan for 2026, outlining the opening of 13 new restaurants across the Midwest and Southeastern United States. This move signifies a continued commitment to growth and a strategic response to increasing consumer demand for affordable, family-friendly dining options.

Fazoli's, currently boasting over 240 locations nationwide and internationally, has been steadily gaining momentum in recent years. The company's focus on delivering generous portions of classic Italian-American favorites at accessible price points has resonated with a broad demographic, creating a loyal customer base. Unlike many fine-dining Italian establishments, Fazoli's has successfully positioned itself as a convenient and budget-conscious alternative, appealing to families, students, and individuals seeking a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

According to CEO Jackie Boeckmann, "We're excited to continue growing the Fazoli's brand. Our guests love our menu and the value we provide. We're confident these new locations will be a great success." This confidence stems from consistently positive performance indicators across existing locations and a careful analysis of market opportunities. The decision to concentrate expansion efforts in the Midwest and Southeast appears to be data-driven, recognizing areas with strong population growth, favorable economic conditions, and a demonstrated appetite for Italian-American cuisine.

A Strategic Shift: Company-Owned Growth

Notably, all 13 new restaurants will be company-owned and operated. This is a significant departure from the franchising model commonly employed by many fast-casual chains. By retaining full control over operations, Fazoli's aims to maintain consistent quality, uphold brand standards, and foster a stronger corporate culture. While franchising allows for quicker expansion with less capital outlay, company ownership allows for greater control over the customer experience and the implementation of innovative initiatives. Experts suggest this signals a long-term investment strategy focused on building a highly cohesive and predictable dining experience.

The Rise of Fast-Casual Italian-American The success of Fazoli's reflects a broader trend within the restaurant industry: the growing popularity of fast-casual dining. This segment combines the speed and convenience of quick-service restaurants with the higher quality ingredients and more inviting atmosphere of casual dining establishments. Consumers are increasingly seeking options that offer a balance between affordability, quality, and convenience - a sweet spot that Fazoli's appears to have successfully captured.

Competition within the Italian-American fast-casual space is, of course, fierce. Established players like Olive Garden, while operating in a more full-service model, still command a significant market share. However, Fazoli's differentiates itself through its emphasis on value and its streamlined menu. Furthermore, the chain has been actively embracing digital innovation, investing in online ordering, mobile apps, and delivery partnerships to enhance accessibility and cater to evolving consumer preferences.

Looking Ahead: Innovation and Sustainability

Beyond the immediate expansion plans, Fazoli's is also reportedly exploring opportunities to further innovate its menu and operations. Sources suggest a focus on incorporating more fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and implementing sustainable practices throughout the supply chain. This aligns with a broader industry trend towards increased transparency and environmental responsibility. The company is also expected to continue refining its digital offerings, potentially exploring loyalty programs and personalized marketing initiatives to further strengthen customer engagement.

The 13 new locations represent a significant investment in the future of Fazoli's, projecting a positive outlook for the chain and the fast-casual dining sector as a whole. The company's commitment to value, convenience, and now, company-owned operations, positions it well to capitalize on evolving consumer demands and maintain its trajectory of growth in the years to come.