Marsh Supermarkets has seen the statistics that show retail-grocery losing food category market share to away-from-home eating places. It apparently figured: if you can't beat 'em, join 'em.
Last month, the grocery store chain unveiled Trios Di Tuscanos, a North-Italian-themed fast-casual restaurant concept that serves high-end fare like gourmet pizzas and rotisseriegrilled chicken. Tabbed to run the place was Crystal Food Service, a Marsh division that specializes in managing onsite foodservice in corporate dining environments, as well as providing concessions, catering and vending services to a variety of segments.
Trios will be Crystal's first stand-alone restaurant operation. Like other fast-casual concepts, Trios has no tableservice (except for busing). Customers order, pay and stand by while their food is prepared. Pagers allow waiting diners to wander outside or into an attached florist shop (also owned by Marsh). A Marsh supermarket is also located nearby.
Tables are located both inside and outside the restaurant, which is adorned by ironwork and a four-sided fireplace in the middle of the main dining room. Rather than disposables, Trios uses permanentware to communicate a more upscale feel.
