Rachel’s Kitchen may be strictly Nevada-based, but the gourmet fast-casual eatery has garnered much national acclaim since franchising in 2008. Recognized by HuffPost as the best ‘guilt-free alternative’ in their guide to the hottest airport restaurants in the U.S., the brand has some serious industry cred outside of its esteemed Las Vegas–area string of restaurants. By Jessica Petrucelli

Rachel’s Kitchen may be strictly Nevada-based, but the gourmet fast-casual eatery has garnered much national acclaim since franchising in 2008. Recognized by HuffPost as the best ‘guilt-free alternative’ in their guide to the hottest airport restaurants in the U.S., the brand has some serious industry cred outside of its esteemed Las Vegas–area string of restaurants.

And thanks to that recognizability – which is fostered by a coveted spot inside McCarran International Airport, where nearly 50 million visitors from all over the world are introduced to the brand every year – the food services company is now seeking to partner with single-unit and multi-unit owners across the country as a means of expansion.

“Our future is really about finding people who are the right fit to grow with us,” noted Debbie Roxarzade, the company’s CEO and founder. “It’s not about launching a certain number of locations.”

Popular with several different niche markets – college students, businesspeople, families and groups of friends – Rachel’s Kitchen offers a casual yet elegant atmosphere. Born out of Roxarzade’s ambitious culinary passion and named after her daughter, the charming café features delicious and reasonably priced bistro fare.

“I think what differentiates us from other fast-casual restaurants is that people can come to us multiple times a week because our menu is so diverse,” Roxarzade said. “Our menu ranges from healthy to indulgent and boasts a wide variety of foods. Our goal is to please a lot of different palates and become a go-to dining destination for our customers. The food is fresh and delicious, and there are plenty of options.”

Currently maintaining eight locations owned by three different franchisees, Rachel’s Kitchen is focused on fresh and wholesome food. Diners gravitate to this concept for vegan and vegetarian-friendly options, like fresh salads and blended drinks. There also are lots of wraps, sandwiches, breakfast options and entrees made from good-for-you and great-tasting organic ingredients.

For more information about franchise opportunities with Rachel’s Kitchen, visit franchise.rachelskitchen.com.

– Jessica Petrucelli