McDonald's (MCD) shares jumped after its latest earnings report showed a rise in U.S. sales. However, Dan Ahrens remains cautious on the fast-food industry as a whole. He thinks the industry is struggling to find real growth, and instead, sees more value in the casual dining space, particularly in value-oriented names like Darden Restaurants (DRI) and Brinker (EAT). He believes that individual stock selection is key right now, and that companies that can offer a perceived value to consumers will be better positioned for success.