Noodles & Co. adds family-style optionNoodles & Co. adds family-style option

Lisa Jennings

BROOMFIELD Colo. Looking to build its takeout and catering sales through the holidays and beyond, Noodles & Co. has introduced Square Bowls for family-style serving options.

The 220-unit chain will offer its eclectic range of pastas — from pad Thai to spaghetti and meatballs — as well as various salads in the Square Bowls, which feed four to five people.

The bowls can be customized with the addition of various proteins, such as chicken, tofu or meatballs. Guests who pre-order can skip the line when they pick up, said Jill Preston, Noodles & Co.’s director of corporate communications.

In most locations, the Square Bowls are available for $16 with no protein, and $22 with a protein addition.

As the recession lingers, several chains across the country are turning to catering and takeout options to build sales as consumers increasingly dine at home. Los Angeles-based California Pizza Kitchen, for example, recently unveiled a new catering menu and is now offering dedicated catering managers to help guests customize orders.

Preston said Noodles & Co. is hoping to build on its already brisk takeout business, which currently accounts for about 30 percent to 40 percent of sales.

With the ability to serve up to 50 people, the Square Bowl option will be appealing for family dining, as well as business meetings, sports teams and parties.

“Our customers have been asking us for an option like this for years, so we’re excited to be meeting their needs,” said Preston. “And, as opposed to hitting a drive thru or ordering pizza again, you feel good knowing you’re providing your group with a great-tasting, wholesome meal.”

Contact Lisa Jennings at [email protected].