Founded with a single location in 1996, Cos restaurants are based on a small Parisian caf concept. The company has evolved to consist of more than 90 restaurants in 17 states and Washington, D.C. Cos offers items such as a hand-tossed signature salad and a tomato, basil and mozzarella sandwich served on warm flatbread. The restaurant also offers pizzas, soups, bagels, unique gourmet beverages and desserts. At the center of Cos is its hearth, an open-flame stone oven prominently displayed in each restaurant, reminiscent of a comfortable gathering place where people have met for centuries to enjoy food and conversation. Cos is headquartered in Deerfield, Ill.