#United States #Orlando #Fast Casual #Huey Magoo's #Chicken Tenders

Huey Magoo's Thrives as Fast Casual's 2026 Top Mover

Huey Magoo's, renowned for offering "The Filet Mignon of Chicken®," has achieved a significant accolade by securing a position on Fast Casual's esteemed 2026 Top 100 Movers and Shakers list, where it debuted at an impressive number 67. This prestigious recognition is a testament to the brand's relentless efforts in menu creativity, customer loyalty, and national growth, further solidifying its standing in the fast-casual dining sector.

The upcoming year marks a pivotal moment for Huey Magoo's, which witnessed extraordinary achievements in the past. Among these accomplishments is the launch of the brand's innovative loyalty initiative, Magoo's Rewards, which has dramatically expanded its customer database—doubling it within just nine months. This successful program has significantly enhanced guest engagement, enabling Huey Magoo's to thrive within the digital landscape of the restaurant industry.

Another game-changer for Huey Magoo's was the introduction of Grilled Tender Bites in October 2025, which quickly gained popularity among diners looking for healthy, protein-packed meal options. This menu innovation not only catered to changing consumer preferences but also played a crucial role in driving the franchise's national expansion while adhering to the high-quality standards for which the brand is known.

Mike Sutter, COO of Huey Magoo's, expressed immense pride in the achievement, stating, "This recognition underscores the dedication felt throughout every level of our organization. Our team and franchise operators have consistently shown their commitment to enhancing guest satisfaction, particularly through challenging times in the industry. Receiving this acknowledgment at such a significant scale reaffirms our progress in the fast-casual landscape."

As Huey Magoo's continues to expand, it understands the importance of building a strong operational framework that supports sustainable growth. The company has recently prioritized the development of scalable restaurant prototypes, allowing franchise partners to access opportunities with improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Echoing this sentiment, CEO Andy Howard remarked, "The recognition from Fast Casual validates the hard work our team has invested across every aspect of the business. From creative menu development to the swift success of our loyalty program and the resilience of our franchise system, each component of Huey Magoo's is pushing forward with intention and impact."

With their 100th restaurant on the horizon, Huey Magoo's is on track to establish itself as a leading player in the fast-casual dining sector. The brand's trajectory of growth in various markets illustrates its potential to resonate with a wider audience while maintaining its cornerstone commitment to quality and flavor.

Additionally, Huey Magoo's unique approach to customer experience emphasizes customization, allowing guests to select from a diverse range of chicken meals, fresh salads, sandwiches, wraps, and various signature sauces. Each chicken tender served is meticulously hand-breaded and marinated for an unmatched taste, ensuring that every bite delivers an extraordinary dining experience.

Founded in 2004, Huey Magoo's has rapidly emerged as one of the fastest-growing brands in the fast-casual sector, earning accolades for its distinctive flavors and quality offerings. Operating across 12 states, the brand continues to extend its reach, offering both convenient mobile app ordering options and exceptional customer service.

In conclusion, Huey Magoo's ascent to the Fast Casual 2026 list marks not just a recognition of its outstanding growth, but also an affirmation of its underlying philosophy: to serve the best chicken tenders in a welcoming environment, reinforcing its status as a formidable contender in the fast-casual dining landscape.