private equity

Mendocino Farms is coming to Chicago and Denver for the first time

By Lisa Jennings on Jan. 06, 2025

Still growing in California, Texas and Washington, the Los Angeles-based fast-casual chain is pushing into new markets as it expands eastward.

Leadership

If past is prologue, what's next for Jersey Mike's?

By Peter Romeo on Nov. 21, 2024

Restaurant Rewind: The chain’s history is largely the story of founder and owner Peter Cancro doing what he believed was right for the brand, convention be damned. Now a majority stake will be held by a private-equity firm, a breed hardly known for being hands-off. Will Jersey Mike’s prove an exception?

Financing

Mo' Bettahs Hawaiian acquired by 2 new private-equity firms

By Lisa Jennings on Oct. 22, 2024

Former majority owner Savory Fund retains its minority stake as the fast-casual Hawaiian barbecue concept enters its next stage of growth.

Financing

Playa Bowls acquired by private-equity firm Sycamore Partners

By Lisa Jennings on Sep. 03, 2024

The 250-unit acai bowl and smoothie franchise has runway for more growth, new investors say.

Financing

Activist investor takes aim at Portillo's

By Lisa Jennings on Aug. 16, 2024

Hedge fund Engaged Capital is looking to boost the Chicago-based chain's profitability and speed national growth.

Operations

Former Walk-On's exec Scott Taylor named CEO of new restaurant group

By Joe Guszkowski on May 29, 2024

Cherry Bounce Hospitality will house three of Hargett Hunter's full-service restaurant holdings, including Trudy's Tex-Mex and Cajun Steamer, with more to come.

Operations