Each Ri Ra outlet is painstakingly designed to create an authentic Irish atmosphere. The chain’s restaurants are all freestanding and the buildings are made from salvaged and renovated pubs brought over from Ireland. Even the interior fixtures and ornaments are imported from abroad. Irish emigrants David Kelly and Ciaran Sheehan started the chain in 1997. The duo later brought in a third partner, Jay Luther, to deal with the expanding business. Luther now oversees daily operations at parent company Ri Ra Holdings LLC. The chain’s restaurants serve American bar fare with an Irish influence. Patrons can enjoy signature menu items such as Guinness barbecue chicken nachos and a classic pub salad while listening to live-music entertainment.
| Location | New Canaan, Conn. |
|---|---|
| 2009 Systemwide Sales ($000) | $27,500,000* |
| YOY Sales Change | 10.2% |
| 2009 U.S. Units | 11 |
| YOY Unit Change | 37.5% |
| 2009 Average Unit Volume ($000) | $2,900,000* |
| Future 50 Year | 2010 |
*Technomic estimate
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