The idea of a drive-thru typically brings to mind traditional American quick-service fare, like burgers and fries, but Japanese restaurant Shin-Sen-Gumi 2GO is bringing the speed and convenience of the drive-thru model to a different category of cuisine. The LA- and Tokyo-based restaurant chain's newest concept location offers the entire menu for order via drive-thru, so car-bound consumers at the South Bay restaurant can get dishes like ramen, yakitori, and more.
To be sure, Shin-Sen-Gumi 2GO isn't abandoning standard drive-thru meals entirely. Consumers can order a burger at the drive-thru, though it'll be a Japanese take. Shin-Sen-Gumi's burger is made out of fried Spam rather than beef, and the bun is made from griddled rice instead of sesame seed bread.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Drive-thru Restaurants
- Drive-thru model is expanding beyond traditional fast food restaurants.
- Non-traditional Fast Food
- Restaurants are offering unique and ethnic cuisine through the convenience of drive-thru service.
- Innovative Fast Food Offerings
- Restaurants are introducing new, unconventional fast food offerings to differentiate themselves from the competition.
Where This Applies
- Fast Food Industry
- Fast food restaurants can innovate with non-traditional offerings and convenient drive-thru service.
- Restaurant Industry
- Restaurants have the opportunity to expand their services to include drive-thru options for added convenience.
- Japanese Cuisine Industry
- Restaurants specializing in Japanese cuisine can capitalize on the growing trend of drive-thru service by offering their unique menu items in a new format.
