Huey Magoo’s unveils smaller drive-thru prototype

US fast-casual chain Huey Magoo’s has unveiled a new free-standing, drive-thru-only prototype aimed at cutting construction expenditure and expanding site options for franchise operators.

The ground-up concept has a 1,850ft² interior area, with an additional outdoor cooler.

Configured at 40ft in width and 50ft in depth, it is intended to fit comfortably on standard half-acre plots.

The layout provides seating for 37 customers indoors and a further 18 on an outside patio. The design also incorporates a dedicated drive-through lane.

Huey Magoo’s said the model is more space-efficient than its existing free-standing format, which is 2,600ft² and accommodates 42 seats.

The new design is estimated to reduce ground-up development costs by 40%.

The concept was created internally by architecture and design director Melissa McCammack.

A central ordering zone forms the focal point of a more open interior volume, with dining areas arranged along the side sections of the building.

This arrangement is intended to decrease overall building mass and make it easier to conceal mechanical systems within the structure.

In the kitchen, the plan adopts a compact configuration that pares back excess space and equipment while aiming to maintain operational effectiveness.

Staff routes are planned to limit unnecessary movement and support throughput during busy trading periods.

Externally, the building features a pitched roof and a pronounced central frontage with large windows that allow natural light to enter the dining room.

The façade combines wood cladding, panelling and dark trim to create a modern farmhouse-style appearance with a contemporary feel.

The design also incorporates a fully digital menu board system, enabling central control of content and pricing across sites.

Huey Magoo’s president and CEO Andy Howard said: “We’re excited to introduce an option for current and future franchisees interested in building from the ground up.

“With rising costs across real estate and construction, we’ve focused on creating a scalable, cost-effective design that makes development more accessible for franchisees while maintaining the core brand experience.”

The initiative builds on the company’s earlier efforts to trim development costs.

In 2025, the company rolled out a 1,500ft² inline prototype aimed at reducing fit-out spending and helping the brand enter high-traffic retail locations.

Last month, Huey Magoo’s signed a 15-unit development deal with SMR Capital Group in Texas, US.

“Huey Magoo’s unveils smaller drive-thru prototype” was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand.