The Cheesecake Factory is known for its cheesecake, but now the chain is ditching the dessert in favor of savory Asian bites with its new concept restaurant Social Monk Asian Kitchen. Set to open in the Los Angeles suburb of Thousand Oaks, the new concept restaurant is a major departure from the chain's usual fare.
Social Monk Asian Kitchen is a fast causal restaurant by The Cheesecake Factory. The new spot will offer tasty Asian dishes from countries such as China, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and India. Unlike The Cheesecake Factory, the new restaurant won't focus on staples such as brown bread and cheesecake, but rather, noodles, curries, and rice bowls. As The Cheesecake Factory founder and CEO David Overton explains, "We were really interested in creating a new concept, and thought Asian food would lend itself very well to a fast-casual setting."
Fast Casual Asian Restaurants
Social Monk Asian Kitchen is a New Concept by The Cheesecake Factory
Trend Themes
1. Fast Casual Asian Restaurants - The rise of fast casual Asian restaurants provides an opportunity for new concepts and innovative menu offerings.
2. Diversification of Established Chains - Established chains like The Cheesecake Factory can leverage their brand to enter new markets and attract a different customer base.
3. Focus on Cultural Culinary Experiences - Restaurants like Social Monk Asian Kitchen aim to offer authentic dishes from multiple Asian countries, providing customers with a diverse dining experience.
Industry Implications
1. Restaurant Industry - The fast casual Asian restaurant trend presents an opportunity for existing and new restaurant operators to tap into the growing demand for quick-service Asian cuisine.
2. Foodservice Industry - Foodservice providers can explore partnerships or supply agreements with fast casual Asian restaurants to cater to the increasing customer preference for diverse and flavorful Asian dishes.
3. Hospitality Industry - Hotels and resorts can incorporate fast casual Asian restaurants within their premises to offer guests convenient, high-quality dining options with a focus on cultural diversity.