I have questions. The restaurant industry is in a constant state of evolution, driven by fickle consumers and a highly competitive environment. But that change came pretty quickly in 2018 and shows no sign of abating. That leaves us curious about a lot of different things heading into the new year—many of which could have… read more

Del Frisco Restaurant Group Inc. said its board of directors was considering strategic alternatives, including the sale of all or part of the company. “The Del Frisco’s Board, in consultation with its financial and legal advisors, will review and consider a full range of options focused on maximizing shareholder value, including a possible sale of… read more

JAB Holding Co., the German parent of Panera Bread and Pret A Manger, announced Monday several executive changes as well as the formation of a new subsidiary, Pret Panera Holding Company. Senior partner Bart Becht, left, an integral player in JAB’s recent coffee sector buying spree, will retire and step down as chairman this year…. read more

Denny’s Corporation, one of the world’s largest full-service family dining chains, announced the opening of the eighth Denny’s restaurant by franchisee Grupo Comidas in the Northern Triangle of Central America comprised of the countries of El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. Grupo Comidas has established a strong presence of Denny’s restaurants since becoming a franchisee in… read more

Citing high rents, changing customer demographics, and increased competition, Scotty’s Brewhouse filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and will shutter Indiana restaurants in Carmel, Muncie, and Downtown Indianapolis. The Muncie store is Scotty’s original location. According to documents filed December 12 in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Indianapolis, the company, which also operates Thr3e Wisemen Brewing… read more

Four Corners Property Trust, a real estate investment trust engaged in the ownership of high-quality, net-leased restaurant properties, announced the acquisition of six Red Lobster restaurant properties in Delaware, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, Mississippi, and North Dakota for $25.9 million. The six newly acquired properties are under a single, triple-net master lease, which includes two other… read more

Stonefire Grill has named former Cheesecake Factory executive Scott Thomas as EVP, according to a company press release. “Bringing Scott to Stonefire Grill was an important strategic decision for us as we continue growing the brand throughout Southern California and beyond,” said Justin Lopez, Stonefire Grill CEO. “His experience, insights and vision are invaluable and we’re… read more

The industry’s struggle to meet the demand for future restaurant managers hasn’t exactly been a tale of triumph and delight. But one component is emerging as a model system for cultivating the next generation of leaders, with benefits that go beyond enlarging the pool of candidates. And the only limitation may be a lack of… read more

Sanitation will always be top-of-mind for bakers to ensure the food coming out of their facilities is safe. Although most batter-based products go through a kill step, bakers must still keep the mixer as sanitary as possible. It’s reassuring to have all bases covered, especially for aerated products that don’t travel through the oven. “What is… read more

Jack in the Box Inc. said it is exploring a range of financial strategies to maximize shareholder value, including a possible sale of the San Diego-based burger company. In a brief regulatory filing, Jack in the Box said it “has had discussions with potential buyers; however, it noted that there can be no assurance that… read more