Savory Fund Invests in Zao Asian Grill as Fast-Casual Chain Targets 10+ New Locations

Zao Asian Grill, a fast-casual chain that serves customizable Asian-inspired bowls, wraps, salads, and grilled proteins, has attracted a growth investment from Savory Fund, a restaurant-focused investor with a track record of scaling emerging brands. The amount of the deal was not disclosed, and the round classification was not specified.

The capital infusion arrives at a moment when Zao Asian Grill is demonstrating strong momentum. The company operates 23 locations and reported year-over-year same-store sales growth of 18.2%, a signal that its menu and service model are resonating with diners. That comp-sales figure, measured against the brand's existing footprint, indicates healthy repeat traffic and rising average checks.

Zao Asian Grill intends to use the fresh funding to open at least 10 new restaurants, expanding its presence within existing markets and likely entering new ones. The growth blueprint will lean on the operational and real estate expertise that Savory Fund brings to its portfolio companies. The investor has previously helped other fast-casual concepts navigate site selection, supply chain refinement, and marketing, areas that will be critical as Zao scales beyond its current size.

The fast-casual segment has been a rare bright spot in a fragmented restaurant landscape, prized for its combination of speed, customizable menus, and a price point that sits between quick-service and full-service dining. Asian fast-casual concepts, in particular, have carved out a loyal niche by offering bold flavors and ingredients that consumers perceive as fresh and health-conscious. Zao Asian Grill's build-your-own format competes in this crowded but growing lane, and the 18.2% sales lift suggests it is holding its own against both national chains and regional players.

Specific unit economics or profit figures were not released. The financing's structure was not detailed beyond Savory Fund's role as the lead backer. Still, the decision to fund a 23-unit chain that has already proven its concept across multiple locations reflects an investor thesis that the brand can replicate its success. The planned openings represent more than a 40% increase in store count, a growth step that will test the company's ability to maintain quality and culture while scaling rapidly.

Restaurant investments in the current environment often hinge on whether a brand can demonstrate clear unit-level returns and a loyal customer base. Zao Asian Grill's same-store sales growth and defined expansion pipeline provide those proof points. Savory Fund's backing signals a conviction that there is ample white space for the brand, and the funding will serve as the financial engine for the next phase of its build-out.