Cosi

Così is a fast-casual restaurant chain that offers a menu centered around sandwiches, salads, soups, and its signature hearth-baked flatbread. Founded in 1996 in New York City, the brand drew inspiration from a Parisian café concept and quickly became known for its fresh, customizable offerings. Over the years, Così expanded throughout the Northeast and Midwest, establishing a strong presence in urban areas with its contemporary store designs and innovative menu.

Despite its early success, Così faced financial difficulties in the 2010s, leading to multiple bankruptcy filings. In February 2020, the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and was subsequently acquired by MILFAM II L.P. in May of the same year. This acquisition marked a turning point, as the company focused on restructuring and optimizing its operations. As part of this effort, many underperforming locations were closed, and the headquarters was relocated to Deerfield, Illinois.

As of November 2025, Così operates approximately 20 locations, mainly in major metropolitan areas such as Chicago, Boston, New York City, and Washington, D.C. While the company is not actively expanding, it remains open to considering new sites in high-traffic urban and suburban areas. This strategic approach aims to stabilize operations and enhance performance in its existing markets.

For commercial real estate professionals, Così stands out as an established brand with a proven ability to adapt to both urban and suburban environments. Its flexible store footprint and focus on high-traffic, mixed-use locations make it a credible tenant in the fast-casual dining sector. The brand's current emphasis on operational stability and selective growth ensures that it remains a relevant player in the market, exploring new formats such as catering and non-traditional venues to meet the needs of health-conscious, on-the-go consumers.