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casual dining

Emerging Brands

J. Alexander’s plans another concept

The polished-casual operator intends to stay in the high end of the casual market with a new steak and seafood venture.

Operations

Ruby Tuesday closes more restaurants

The closings are necessary to deliver on the casual brand’s long-term turnaround plan, management says.

Financing

Brinker closes on 116-unit Chili’s deal

By Peter Romeo on Sep. 05, 2019

The company said it plans to invest in the stores at an accelerated rate.

Financing

Investor presses Outback’s parent for a sale or breakup

By Peter Romeo on Sep. 03, 2019

Jana Partners is resuming its call for a strategic redirection two years after a truce was struck.

Financing

STK’s parent inks deal to buy Kona Grill for $25M

By Peter Romeo on Sep. 03, 2019

One Group intends to use the concept as a growth vehicle. The deal has yet to be approved by the bankruptcy court overseeing Kona’s operation.

Financing

Landry’s makes a $37M bid for Restaurants Unlimited

By Jonathan Maze on Aug. 29, 2019

The restaurant operator, which has bought numerous chains out of bankruptcy, has a “stalking horse” bid on another one.

Marketing

Red Robin’s Q2 traffic falls 6.4% as bargains are downplayed

By Peter Romeo on Aug. 23, 2019

Management is focusing on higher-priced menu options to help margins while aiming to please value-hunters with improved operations.

Leadership

Greg Lippert named CEO of Texas upstart Willie’s Grill

By Peter Romeo on Aug. 19, 2019

The casual-dining veteran is responsible for growing the regional brand and its sister concept.

Financing

4 tactics Chili’s parent is bidding farewell

By Peter Romeo on Aug. 13, 2019

Brinker International said the redirections will set up the casual giant for extended growth.

Consumer Trends

What do consumers want from casual dining?

By Sara Rush Wirth on Aug. 05, 2019

See what diners are saying about the sector as restaurants look to revitalize.

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