Chipotle vs. Panera: Battle of the Fast Casual Restaurants

Jefferson Starship submits: Last week Yum! Brands (YUM) reported earning, beating estimates by a nickel, at $0.66. Best of all they raised their full year guidance by 12%. Their call affirmed what was already widely expected; Yum’s American sales growth figures are dismal, but China and Yum International are doing so well that it doesn’t even matter.

By Stone Fox Capital:The fast casual dining sector has been on fire this year basically picking up where it has been ever since the March 2009 bottom.

By Jefferson Starship: Just over a year ago, I wrote my first review of the restaurant industry, picking winners and advocating caution on others. A lot has changed since then, with the biggest event being last week’s Dunkin Donuts (DNKN) IPO.

By Benjamin Goldman:The Wendy's Company (WEN), when compared to McDonald's (MCD), has surprisingly weak financials. Wendy's 2011 revenue is expected to be $2.43 billion compared to $27 billion for McDonald's. Wendy's $1.95 billion market cap looks miniscule to McDonald's $103.25 market cap.

By Dr. Terry Allen:Buffalo Wild Wings (BWLD) will announce earnings after the markets close next Tuesday, February 12th. Twice in the last year results have fallen short of expectations and the stock has tumbled more than 10% on the news. Is that scenario likely to repeat itself next week? That is the question I would like to address today.

By Alexandra Reisman:Two popular lunch spots among the Stock Rover team are Chipotle Mexican Grill (CMG) and Panera Bread (PNRA). We enjoy the food at both restaurants, but lately, we find ourselves at Panera much more often - the lines move quickly, the staff is supremely friendly, and the menu has a variety of appealing options.

Paul Price submits: Investors have been gorging on shares of many casual dining companies like starving men released into a buffet. Even before last week’s market surge Restaurants were Value Line’s top performing group over the six weeks ended June 21st (out of 98 designated industries). Click to enlarge: