Since its debut in 2011, CAVA has evolved its dining spaces from minimalist, industrial designs that reflected a post-recession aesthetic to warmer, more inviting environments that emphasize hospitality and community. In 2022, the brand launched Project Soul, aiming to create a more welcoming atmosphere with softer lighting, plush seating, and greenery, aligning with the Mediterranean values of sharing meals and fostering human connection. CEO Brett Schulman highlights the importance of balancing physical and digital channels to serve diverse customer needs, especially as many consumers shift towards off-premises dining and drive-thru formats. The company is also investing in technology, such as AI tools for inventory and kitchen management, to enhance employee experience and ensure efficient, human-centered service. 

Similarly, Starbucks is focusing on restoring its identity as a community gathering spot amidst a trend toward drive-thru and digital-only formats. Under CEO Brian Niccol, Starbucks is emphasizing the importance of a welcoming, sit-down experience to rebuild personal relationships that have diminished over recent years, especially during the pandemic. Meanwhile, CC’s Coffee House is introducing a drive-thru-only model as a complementary option but remains committed to its core Southern hospitality and in-store experience, emphasizing relationship-building over convenience. In the pizza segment, Mountain Mike’s is reviving the social aspect of dining by enhancing its in-restaurant atmosphere with arcade games, larger seating, and community-focused spaces, recognizing that in an increasingly digital world, genuine human connection through shared experiences remains a vital differentiator. 

To read more, click the link: Why Dining Rooms Still Matter in a Digital-First World – QSR Magazine