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Casual Dining

Emerging Brands

Rick Bayless’ Tortazo opens in New York’s Times Square

 By Lisa Jennings on Jan. 19, 2023

It’s the second location for the Chicago-based brand and will include a walk-up to-go window.

Leadership

Chili’s hires advertising veteran Jesse Johnson as VP of marketing

 By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 17, 2023

The former Wieden+Kennedy director will take on the newly created role as Chili’s ramps up its marketing efforts.

Operations

14 years after disappearing, Steak and Ale is set to return

By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 17, 2023

For its second act, the casual-dining pioneer will revive many of its signature elements while adding some new tricks.

Financing

Rosser Capital invests in Kitchen Social

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 11, 2023

The private equity firm is backing a three-unit upscale concept founded by the former CEO of Bravo Brio Restaurant Group.

Financing

Fat Brands, a ‘publicly-traded private equity firm,’ focuses on strategic deals

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 10, 2023

The Bottom Line: The owner of Twin Peaks, Johnny Rockets and Fazoli’s has shifted its attention to more targeted acquisitions and could spin off or sell some assets.

Financing

Olive Garden’s parent is in the market for another brand

By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 10, 2023

Darden Restaurants signaled its interest in adding a 10th concept. It most recently acquired Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen in 2017.

Leadership

Texas Roadhouse names Gina Tobin president

By Peter Romeo on Jan. 09, 2023

Tobin assumes the post from Jerry Morgan, who remains CEO. The company said the move will enable Morgan to spend more time in the field.

Financing

Red Robin to invest in new grills as part of turnaround effort

By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 09, 2023

The flat-top grills are expected to improve the chain’s burgers. They’re part of a five-point “north star” developed by new CEO G.J. Hart.

Leadership

Texas Roadhouse CFO Tonya Robinson retires

By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 06, 2023

She had been with the chain since 1998. VP of Finance Keith Humpich will take over while the company looks for a permanent replacement.

Leadership

At Applebee’s, John Cywinski brought eatin’ good back to the neighborhood

By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 05, 2023

The outgoing president helped the chain reclaim its identity as well as its status as a premier casual-dining brand.

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