José Andrés's ThinkFoodGroup Secures Funds for Upcoming Fast-Casual Concept

José Andrés's long-planned, possibly vegetarian fast-casual concept is one step closer to reality. Nation's Restaurant News reports Andrés's ThinkFoodGroup recently secured "a second round of financing from its existing investor group," with a portion of the unspecified dollar amount dedicated to "create a new brand, including a fast-casual concept the company said it hoped to launch in early 2015." The group, which operates 20 restaurants scattered across the country and Puerto Rico, also plans to "expand into new markets" in the coming months.

No details about the fast-casual concept have been released, though last month, a Craigslist post revealed the group is actively hiring a chef with experience "handling multi-unit fast casual restaurants." The group also promoted its chief operating officer Kimberly Grant, a former Ruby Tuesday executive, to CEO, with Andrés retaining his role as president. More information about Andrés's attempt at fast-casual eating as it becomes available.

· ThinkFoodGroup Names New CEO [NRN]
· All José Andrés Coverage on Eater [-E-]