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casual dining

Financing

One year in, El Torito’s owner finds surprising results

Xperience Restaurant Group, which bought Real Mex out of bankruptcy last year, is generating quicker-than-expected sales growth and is looking for more, says RB’s The Bottom Line.

Financing

Darden tries a new remedy for Cheddar’s

After data revealed an unexpected marketing issue for the chain, management pulled back on advertising and started working on an adjusted plan.

Emerging Brands

Full-service chains test-drive a fleet of new growth vehicles

By Peter Romeo on Sep. 18, 2019

Diversification into new concepts is sweeping through casual dining in particular. Here’s a rundown of who’s trying what.

Emerging Brands

J. Alexander’s plans another concept

By Peter Romeo on Sep. 17, 2019

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

By Peter Romeo on Sep. 05, 2019

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.

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