But by and large, this certainly isn't a national movement in the restaurant industry.

The challenge is to maintain high-touch in a high-tech environment.

The November performance of the Restaurant Performance Index is a positive sign for the restaurant industry heading into the new year. Of particular note is restaurant operators' optimistic outlook for the overall economy, which rose to its strongest level in nine months.

Another feature typical of fast-casual outlets is entertainment value, as many have employees prepare meals in a display kitchen while the customer is watching, and the decor and atmosphere are often trendy and incorporate original art and the restaurant's mission and philosophy.

Bolstered by record warm temperatures in many parts of the country, a majority of restaurant operators reported January gains in same-store sales and customer traffic. In addition, operators reported a boost in plans for hiring and capital expenditures -- positive developments for both the restaurant industry and the overall economy.

The restaurant industry is the most labor-intensive industry in the country.

The nation's 925,000 restaurants -- even through the challenges of rising energy costs and major hurricanes in 2005 -- are entering 2006 with solid performances and optimism on both the national and state levels.

It makes sense - particularly at larger companies that have human resource functions that are planning out long term - that when they look ahead, they obviously are going to work harder at retaining those individuals. Unless you have the skill set, customer counts can suffer.