Casual dining — page 10

Tomo Takahashi, who founded the now 75-unit Jinya Ramen chain, earlier this month launched a more elevated flagship restaurant called simply Jinya.

The Melting Pot fondue franchise returns to the Memphis market, with franchisees Mike and Nancy Williams considering locations in Midtown and suburban areas.

Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar opens its newest location in Charlotte, North Carolina, with a relaxed, beachy vibe and fresh seafood offerings.

Earlier this week, the barbecue chain Smokey Bones posted an announcement on its website, officially acknowledging what numerous media reports already figured out, that the chain was shutting down.

The casual-dining chain outperformed growth forecasts with a 1.6% increase in same-store sales despite a minor decline in foot traffic and adverse weather conditions.

Former Bloomin’ Brands executive Mark Graff will succeed interim CFO Chris Meyer to oversee financial operations for the casual dining burger chain’s 500 locations.

The burger chain has named former Bloomin’ Brands executive Mark Graff as chief financial officer to oversee financial strategy and operational planning.

Chili's plans to maintain sales growth with investments in food and service

Chili’s Grill and Bar recorded its 20th consecutive quarter of positive same-store sales growth, driven by value-focused combo meals and high customer intent to return.

Italian concept Olio e Più has secured a 15-year lease for a 5,000-square-foot, two-story restaurant space in Manhattan’s East Village.

Brinker International reported high demand for Chili’s updated hand-breaded chicken sandwich platform, contributing to 20 consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth.

Chili's delivered its 20th consecutive quarter of same-store sales growth, up 4%, lapping a 31% increase a year ago, said Kevin Hochman, President and CEO of Brinker International.

Red Lobster’s reintroduction of its Endless Shrimp promotion leads this week’s trending stories following the brand's recent bankruptcy proceedings.

The 62-unit fast-casual brand is seeking strategic capital to fuel a national expansion plan targeting 1,000 locations in the underserved Italian segment.

A Texas-based Applebee’s franchisee is suing Dine Brands over territory infringement concerns related to the parent company’s aggressive co-branded IHOP-Applebee’s development strategy.

Long John Silver’s has launched a limited-time menu featuring shrimp, chicken, and cheese bites tossed in Frank’s RedHot Buffalo sauce.

CAVA and Chili's launch new menu items with influencer parties

After marking its 50th anniversary last year, Melting Pot entered 2026 with strong momentum.

Melting Pot CTO Randy Barnett scales AI and restaurant technology across 93 units

The first Florida location will be locally owned and operated by Ravin and Heali Mehta, a husband-and-wife team originally from the Northeast with a strong background in fast casual franchising.

The chain is balancing the 3 for Me value offering with more premium versions of its Big Crispy sandwich to preserve its margins and sales mix.

Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouses offer a lineup of sirloin tip dishes.

DALLAS, April 14, 2026 // PRNewswire // -- The chicken sandwich category has grown in recent years, while consumers continue to question the promised "value" from fast food restaurants.

Melissa Fry brings more than 25 years of restaurant and hospitality marketing experience to her role as chief marketing officer at Twin Peaks.