Like most of my stories, this one begins in a Chipotle.

Over the past six months, I've spent lots and lots of time in strip malls and real malls and malls disguised as airports eating at national fast casual chain restaurants in an effort to better understand just what is going on in this market for my Too Fast Too Casual review column.

Editor’s Note: Welcome to Too Fast Too Casual, a new review series where our National Writer-at-Large Kevin Alexander takes a close look at both classic and up-and-coming fast-casual chains.

Editor’s Note: Welcome to Too Fast Too Casual, a new review series where our National Writer-at-Large Kevin Alexander takes a close look at both classic and up-and-coming fast-casual chains.

To judge Dickey’s Barbecue Pit properly, allow me to offer up some context.

Five Guys Burgers & Fries has expanded from a beloved burger counter to a 1,500-location fast-casual dynasty. We ate everything on the menu to find out what's best.

The best item isn't actually a Chinese dish.

Editor’s Note: Welcome to Too Fast Too Casual, a new review series where our National Writer-at-Large Kevin Alexander takes a close look at both classic and up-and-coming fast-casual chains.

An obsessive analysis of every aspect of America’s most popular burrito purveyor.

The California chain is expanding, but will its high price point and seasonally changing, health-conscious menu translate nationally?

The Roasted Turkey, Apple, and Cheddar still rules.

We ate through the Jersey Mike’s menu to find out what the best sandwiches are, and reviewed Jersey Mike’s menu, along with its decor, history and strategy.