casual_dining

Smokey Bones is opening a drive-thru

By Joe Guszkowski on Feb. 14, 2022

The 61-unit chain says it will be the first casual-dining brand in the U.S. to have one.

Brinker buys 37 Chili's from franchisee Quality Dining Inc.

By Joe Guszkowski on Feb. 03, 2022

The restaurants are in six states in the Great Lakes and Northeast markets. The deal continues Brinker's strategy of operating more of its own stores.

Financing

Brinker's happy holidays end on sour omicron note

By Joe Guszkowski on Feb. 02, 2022

The variant led to staffing headaches at Chili’s and Maggiano’s in January, putting a kink in their comeback from COVID.

Premium

Financing

People still want to eat inside restaurants

By Jonathan Maze on Feb. 01, 2022

The Bottom Line: National Restaurant Association survey data shows customers have more “pent-up demand” for dining in restaurants than getting takeout.

Marketing

With clothing line, P.F. Chang’s hopes to become more ubiquitous

By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 28, 2022

The Asian chain now sells bomber jackets and bucket hats in addition to food, and superfans seem to be eating it up.

Operations

Applebee’s, IHOP head to the UAE amid renewed development push

By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 28, 2022

The first location will open in Dubai under an IHOP franchisee later this year.

Premium

Marketing

How much would you pay to skip the waitlist? One chain bet $600

By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 27, 2022

The annual membership at Rib & Chop House offers priority seating as well as discounts and other perks. It’s been a success so far, said CEO Yaron Goldman.

Leadership