Nation's Restaurant News Daily NewsFax articles from July 2003

Nation's Restaurant News Daily NewsFax archives from July 2003

Sodexho USA said it was awarded a contract to run foodservice operations for the Atlanta Public Schools beginning this month. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 31, 2003... GAITHERSBURG, Md. -- SODEXHO USA said it was awarded a contract to run foodservice operations for the ATLANTA PUBLIC SCHOOLS beginning this month. The four-year contract, valued at $100 million, calls for meal service to more than 53,000...

Saladworks, a 40-unit fast-casual chain, said it is testing a new system at five restaurants where customers place orders with a cashier then watch their meals being made. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 31, 2003... CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa. -- SALADWORKS, a 40-unit fast-casual chain, said it is testing a new system at five restaurants where customers place orders with a cashier then watch their meals being made. The new ordering system increases service speed...

Dave & Buster's, the 32-unit operator of large-scale entertainment-restaurant complexes, said Wednesday it had agreed to buy the business and assets of its Canadian licensee, Funtime Hospitality Corp., for about $3.6 million and the assumption of some liabilities. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 31, 2003... DALLAS -- DAVE & BUSTER'S, the 32-unit operator of large-scale entertainment-restaurant complexes, said Wednesday it had agreed to buy the business and assets of its Canadian licensee, FUNTIME HOSPITALITY CORP., for about $3.6 million and the...

The Essential Worker Coalition, a group of national trade associations, including the American Hotel & Lodging Association, commended the authors of an immigration reform bill that would establish new work visa programs. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 31, 2003... WASHINGTON -- The ESSENTIAL WORKER COALITION, a group of national trade associations, including the American Hotel & Lodging Association, commended the authors of an immigration reform bill that would establish new work visa programs. U.S....

Harry Bond, president of Monical Pizza Corp. in Bradley, Ill., won the Council Of Hotel And Restaurant Trainers' 2003 Commitment to People Award. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 31, 2003... WESTFIELD, N.J. -- HARRY BOND, president of MONICAL PIZZA CORP. in Bradley, Ill., won the COUNCIL OF HOTEL AND RESTAURANT TRAINERS' 2003 Commitment to People Award. Bond was credited with reducing the turnover of hourly employees to less than...

Eateries Inc. awarded Mike Denney Enterprises LLC the franchising rights for its Garfield's Restaurant & Pub concept in Arkansas and southwestern Missouri. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 31, 2003... OKLAHOMA CITY -- EATERIES INC. awarded MIKE DENNEY ENTERPRISES LLC the franchising rights for its Garfield's Restaurant & Pub concept in Arkansas and southwestern Missouri. The franchisee said it plans to open its first unit this year in Fort...

B&G Foods Inc., a supplier of shelf-stable branded foods, agreed to acquire the Ortega Mexican food brand from Nestle Prepared Foods Co., a division of Nestle USA. Ortega, whose manufacturing operations are expected to remain at its Stoughton, Wis.-based facility, markets products including taco shells, sauces and seasoning. (Supplier News).(Brief Article)
July 31, 2003... PARSIPPANY, N.J. -- B&G FOODS INC., a supplier of shelf-stable branded foods, agreed to acquire the ORTEGA MEXICAN food brand from NESTLE PREPARED FOODS CO., a division of NESTLE USA. Ortega, whose manufacturing operations are expected to...

Papa John's International Inc. said net income for the second quarter fell 12 percent to $10.9 million, or 60 cents a share.(Brief Article)
July 31, 2003... LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- PAPA JOHN'S INTERNATIONAL INC. said net income for the second quarter fell 12 percent to $10.9 million, or 60 cents a share. Corporate revenues were $226.5 million, including a 4.5-percent dip in domestic company restaurant...

The Steak N Shake Co. reported an 8.9-percent rise in second-quarter net income to $7.1 million, or 26 cents per diluted share, vs. earnings of $6.5 million, or 23 cents a share, in the year-ago quarter.(Brief Article)
July 31, 2003... INDIANAPOLIS -- The STEAK N SHAKE CO. reported an 8.9-percent rise in second-quarter net income to $7.1 million, or 26 cents per diluted share, vs. earnings of $6.5 million, or 23 cents a share, in the year-ago quarter. Revenue rose 12...

Burger King Corp. added a new Fire-Grilled Chicken Caesar Club sandwich to its lineup. (Marketing Matters).(Brief Article)
July 31, 2003... MIAMI -- BURGER KING CORP. added a new Fire-Grilled Chicken Caesar Club sandwich to its lineup. Dubbed a "salad in a sandwich" the item, priced at about $3.49, is Romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, grilled chicken, and bacon...

Stockwatch.(top restaurant industry stock price gainers and losers)(Brief Article)
July 31, 2003... STOCKWATCH (shares over $3) Pct. Wed. Top Gainers change close Steakn Shake 6.85 $15.44 Eateries 4.92 3.20 Papa John's...

Orders for main-dish salads at fastfood restaurants grew 12 percent from June 2002 to May 2003, compared with the same period a year earlier, according to a study conducted by NPD GROUP, a foodservice speciality research firm. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 30, 2003... PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y. -- Orders for main-dish salads at fast-food restaurants grew 12 percent from June 2002 to May 2003, compared with the same period a year earlier, according to a study conducted by NPD GROUP, a foodservice speciality...

Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants has sold its Hotel Vintage Court and adjacent Masa's fine-dining restaurant--for years one of this city's most acclaimed French-Californian cuisine establishments--to Executive Hotels & Resorts of Vancouver, British Columbia. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 30, 2003... SAN FRANCISCO -- KIMPTON HOTELS & RESTAURANTS has sold its Hotel Vintage Court and adjacent Masa's fine-dining restaurant--for years one of this city's most acclaimed French-Californian cuisine establishments--to EXECUTIVE HOTELS & RESORTS of...

The American Culinary Federation re-elected as its president Edward Leonard, executive chef of the Westchester Country Club in Rye, N.Y.. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 30, 2003... WASHINGTON -- The AMERICAN CULINARY FEDERATION re-elected as its president EDWARD LEONARD, executive chef of the Westchester Country Club in Rye, N.Y.. At the ACF's annual convention here, Leonard said he hoped to continue his mission to...

Domino's Inc., parent of the 7,291-unit pizza chain, reported a 62-percent increase in net income to $17.5 million for the second quarter ended June 15, compared with earnings of $10.8 million in the year-ago quarter.(Brief Article)
July 30, 2003... ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- DOMINO'S INC., parent of the 7,291-unit pizza chain, reported a 62-percent increase in net income to $17.5 million for the second quarter ended June 15, compared with earnings of $10.8 million in the year-ago quarter....

McDonald's Corp., citing new products and what it said were service improvements and improved food taste, reported that same-store sales in the second quarter rose 4.9 percent in the United States, the highest growth rate in five years, and 1.2 percent worldwide in constant currencies.(Brief Article)
July 30, 2003... OAK BROOK, Ill. -- MCDONALD'S CORP., citing new products and what it said were service improvements and improved food taste, reported that same-store sales in the second quarter rose 4.9 percent in the United States, the highest growth rate...

CEC Entertainment Inc. approved its second stock buyback plan in two months.(Brief Article)
July 30, 2003... IRVING, Texas -- CEC ENTERTAINMENT INC. approved its second stock buyback plan in two months. The parent of the 445-unit Chuck E. Cheese's chain said its board authorized the buyback of up to $50 million of its common shares upon recently...

Dairy Queen broke TV and print ads for the chain's new Blizzard treats for "tweens," kids 8 to 12 years old. (Marketing Matters).(Brief Article)
July 30, 2003... MINNEAPOLIS -- DAIRY QUEEN broke TV and print ads for the chain's new Blizzard treats for "tweens," kids 8 to 12 years old. The campaign, by the GWHIZ ADVERTISING division of GREY WORLDWIDE NEW YORK, also promotes the recently launched Bubble...

Stockwatch.(Brief Article)(Illustration)
July 30, 2003... STOCKWATCH (shares over $3) Pct. Tues. Top Gainers change close Total Entertainment 6.42 $9.95 Ark Restaurants 6.25 8.50 McDonald's ...

The American Culinary Federation and the Research Chefs Association signed an alliance pact at the ACF's annual convention here, recognizing each other's certifications and allowing cross-participation in educational programs. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 29, 2003... WASHINGTON -- The AMERICAN CULINARY FEDERATION and the RESEARCH CHEFS ASSOCIATION signed an alliance pact at the ACF's annual convention here, recognizing each other's certifications and allowing cross-participation in educational programs....

The Ohio Restaurant Association awarded Jules Sokol, chief executive and founder of the 10-unit Tee Jaye's Country Place Restaurant chain, its Claude F. Morton Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award at its annual chairman's banquet here. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 29, 2003... DUBLIN, Ohio -- The OHIO RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION awarded JULES SOKOL, chief executive and founder of the 10-unit TEE JAYE'S COUNTRY PLACE RESTAURANT chain, its Claude F. Morton Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award at its annual chairman's banquet...

Hungry Howie's Pizza Inc., operator and franchisor of more than 470 pizza units, signed a franchise deal with Kevin Dittrich that calls for him to open a branch in Perry, Mich. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 29, 2003... MADISON HEIGHTS, Mich. -- HUNGRY HOWIE'S PIZZA INC., operator and franchisor of more than 470 pizza units, signed a franchise deal with KEVIN DITTRICHthat calls for him to open a branch in Perry, Mich. The new unit, which would be Dittrich's...

Back Yard Burgers Inc. reported a 19-percent decline in second-quarter earnings, citing the negative impact of investment in labor for a test of late-night operations at company-owned branches of the chain.(Brief Article)
July 29, 2003... MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- BACK YARD BURGERS INC. reported a 19-percent decline in second-quarter earnings, citing the negative impact of investment in labor for a test of late-night operations at company-owned branches of the chain. The company,...

Ryan's Family Steak Houses Inc. said it completed a private placement on July 25 of $100 million of its 4.65-percent senior notes due 2013.(Brief Article)
July 29, 2003... GREER, S.C. -- RYAN'S FAMILY STEAK HOUSES INC. said it completed a private placement on July 25 of $100 million of its 4.65-percent senior notes due 2013. Net proceeds were used to permanently retire debt under Ryan's existing revolving...

Famous Dave's of America appointed David Goronkin as chief executive officer, effective Aug. 11. (Executive Suite).(Brief Article)
July 29, 2003... EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. -- FAMOUS DAVE'S OF AMERICA appointed DAVID GORONKIN as chief executive officer, effective Aug. 11. Previously, Goronkin was chief operating officer of Buffets Inc., the multichain operator based in Eagan, Minn. Goronkin...

Denny's, operator and franchisor of the nearly 1,700 chain, rolled out a limited-time line of "generously" portioned breakfasts. (Marketing Matters).(Brief Article)
July 29, 2003... SPARTANBURG, S.C. -- DENNY'S, operator and franchisor of the nearly 1,700 chain, rolled out a limited-time line of "generously" portioned breakfasts. Available through Oct. 20, the $4.99 Complete Breakfasts are the Smoked Sausage Breakfast,...

Pizza Hut will offer coupons for discounted pizzas through a new partnership with Entertainment Publications of Troy, Mich. (Marketing Matters).(Brief Article)
July 29, 2003... DALLAS -- PIZZA HUT will offer coupons for discounted pizzas through a new partnership with ENTERTAINMENT PUBLICATIONS of Troy, Mich.. The coupons will appear in all editions of its 2004 Entertainment coupon book, which is distributed in more...

Stockwatch.(Brief Article)(Illustration)
July 29, 2003... STOCKWATCH (shares over $3) Pct. Mon. Top Gainers change close CKE Restaurants 7.69 $6.30 Wordwide Rest. Concepts 6.23 3.24 Panera Bread ...

McDonald's and Burger King, despite being leading advertising spenders, have a weaker base of loyal customers than other national chains that spend less on marketing. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 28, 2003... HORSHAM, Pa. -- McDonald's and Burger King, despite being leading advertising spenders, have a weaker base of loyal customers than other national chains that spend less on marketing, according to a new survey by TNS INTERSEARCH, a market...

Yum! Brands Inc., parent of Taco Bell, KFC and Pizza Hut, hired Al Baroudi to the newly created post of chief scientific, health and regulatory affairs officer. (Executive Suite).(Brief Article)
July 28, 2003... LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- YUM! BRANDS INC., parent of Taco Bell, KFC and Pizza Hut, hired AL BAROUDI to the newly created post of chief scientific, health and regulatory affairs officer. Baroudi will oversee all the strategic development and...

The Women's Foodservice Forum named to its board of directors Rohini Anand. (Executive Suite).(Brief Article)
July 28, 2003... MINNEAPOLIS -- The WOMEN'S FOODSERVICE FORUM named to its board of directors ROHINI ANAND, senior vice president and chief diversity officer for Sodexho Inc., and STEPHEN CALDEIRA, vice president of industry relations for Pepsi-Cola North...

Applebee's International Inc., operator and franchisor of more than 1,500 namesake restaurants, has entered into a license agreement with Weight Watchers International Inc. (Marketing Matters).(Brief Article)
July 28, 2003... OVERLAND PARK, Kan. -- APPLEBEE'S INTERNATIONAL INC., operator and franchisor of more than 1,500 namesake restaurants, has entered into a license agreement with WEIGHT WATCHERS INTERNATIONAL INC. through which the chain will add a Weight...

McDonald's Restaurants of Canada Ltd. said it temporarily would purchase all of its beef from Canadian sources, which have struggled this year with sharply reduced sales. (Supplier News).(Brief Article)
July 28, 2003... TORONTO -- MCDONALD'S RESTAURANTS OF CANADA LTD. said it temporarily would purchase all of its beef from Canadian sources, which have struggled this year with sharply reduced sales. Previously, McDonald's of Canada, already the largest...

Lebhar-Friedman Inc., the leading business-to-business publisher and parent of Nation's Restaurant News, is acquiring Louisville, Ky.-based FSA Group LLC, an association management company, effective Aug. 1. (Supplier News).(Brief Article)
July 28, 2003... NEW YORK -- LEBHAR-FRIEDMAN INC., the leading business-to-business publisher and parent of Nation's Restaurant News, is acquiring Louisville, Ky.-based FSA GROUP LLC, an association management company, effective Aug. 1. Terms were not...

Rich Products Corp. said it would acquire Mother's Kitchen Inc., a Burlington, N.J.-based maker of premium finished desserts. (Supplier News).(Brief Article)
July 28, 2003... BUFFALO, N.Y. -- RICH PRODUCTS CORP. said it would acquire MOTHER'S KITCHEN INC., a Burlington, N.J.-based maker of premium finished desserts, including its 105,000-square-foot plant and such brands as Mother's Kitchen and Turf. Terms were...

Stockwatch.(Brief Article)(Illustration)
July 28, 2003... STOCKWATCH (shares over $3) Pct. Fri. Top Gainers change close Good Times Restaurants 6.40 $3.99 Champps Entertainment 4.26 5.99 Max & Erma's ...

California Pizza Kitchen co-chairmen Larry Flax and Rick Rosenfield, citing strategic differences regarding diversification and new-unit performance, accepted the resignation of president and chief executive Fred Hipp and returned to their roles as co-chief executives. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 25, 2003... LOS ANGELES -- CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN co-chairmen LARRY FLAX and RICK ROSENFIELD, citing strategic differences regarding diversification and new-unit performance, accepted the resignation of president and chief executive FRED HIPP and...

Dave Anderson, founder, chairman and interim president of Famous Dave's, is collaborating with franchisee John Nermyr, head of Competition BBQ, on a new Caribbean-influenced concept, Kokomo Island Cafe, expected to open here in November at the Mall of America. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 25, 2003... BLOOMINGTON, Minn. -- DAVE ANDERSON, founder, chairman and interim president of Famous Dave's, is collaborating with franchisee JOHN NERMYR, head of Competition BBQ, on a new Caribbean-influenced concept, KOKOMO ISLAND CAFE, expected to open...

Taco Bell franchisee Oak Restaurants LP agreed to pay $150,000 to a former teenage employee who claimed she was sexually assaulted in 2001 by a shift manager in his office at a branch in Glenolden, Pa. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 25, 2003... PHILADELPHIA -- TACO BELL franchisee OAK RESTAURANTS LP agreed to pay $150,000 to a former teenage employee who claimed she was sexually assaulted in 2001 by a shift manager in his office at a branch in Glenolden, Pa. According to papers...

President Bush presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom to culinary legend Julia Child and the late Dave Thomas, founder and former chairman of Wendy's Old Fashioned Hamburgers, at a July 23 White House ceremony. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 25, 2003... WASHINGTON -- President Bush presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom to culinary legend JULIA CHILD and the late DAVE THOMAS, founder and former chairman of Wendy's Old Fashioned Hamburgers, at a July 23 White House ceremony. The two were...

AFC Enterprises Inc. said its board's audit committee hired an independent forensic accounting firm to assist in investigating quarter-end adjustments to financial statements for 2000, 2001 and 2002.(Brief Article)
July 25, 2003... ATLANTA -- AFC ENTERPRISES INC. said its board's audit committee hired an independent forensic accounting firm to assist in investigating quarter-end adjustments to financial statements for 2000, 2001 and 2002. In a release, the parent of the...

Buca Inc. reported an 85-percent decline in second-quarter net income to $427,000, or 3 cents per diluted share, vs. $2.8 million, or 17 cents per share, in the year-ago period.(Brief Article)
July 25, 2003... MINNEAPOLIS -- BUCAINC. reported an 85-percent decline in second-quarter net income to $427,000, or 3 cents per diluted share, vs. $2.8 million, or 17 cents per share, in the year-ago period. The 101-unit operator said same-store sales...

Wendy's International Inc. said net income fell 4.1 percent in the second quarter, reflecting a higher tax rate and lower-than-expected same-store sales at Wendy's and Baja Fresh Mexican Grill.(Brief Article)
July 25, 2003... DUBLIN, Ohio -- WENDY'S INTERNATIONAL INC. said net income fell 4.1 percent in the second quarter, reflecting a higher tax rate and lower-than-expected same-store sales at Wendy's and Baja Fresh Mexican Grill. Wendy's reported net income of...

Starbucks Corp. said its earnings rose 23 percent as revenues increased 24 percent for the third quarter ended June 30.(Brief Article)
July 25, 2003... SEATTLE -- STARBUCKS CORP. said its earnings rose 23 percent as revenues increased 24 percent for the third quarter ended June 30. Net income was $68.4 million, or 17 cents a share, versus $55.7 million, or 15 cents a share, a year earlier....

Stockwatch.(top restaurant industry stock price movements)(Brief Article)
July 25, 2003... STOCKWATCH (shares over $3) Pct. Thurs. change close Top Gainers J. Alexander's 10.91 $4.88 Ark Restaurants 5.71 8.14...

A bill introduced in Pennsylvania's House of Representatives would require many chain restaurants operating in the state to post nutritional information on their menus. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 24, 2003... HARRISBURG, Pa. -- A bill introduced in Pennsylvania's House of Representatives would require many chain restaurants operating in the state to post nutritional information on their menus. House bill No. 1520, which was cosponsored by REP....

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Inc. opened its first New Jersey branch here with area developer Freedom Rings LLC. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 24, 2003... BRICK, N.J. -- KRISPY KREME DOUGHNUTS INC. opened its first New Jersey branch here with area developer FREEDOM RINGS LLC. The unit's menu includes Krispy Kreme's new line of espresso-based drinks and milks prepared with a variety of flavors,...

Michael Cardenas, partner in the Los Angeles restaurant company that owns and operates three Sushi Roku restaurants as well as Balboa and Katana in West Hollywood, said the company would debut a new bistro concept at the W Hotel in Los Angeles' Westwood district in 2004. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 24, 2003... LOS ANGELES -- MICHAEL CARDENAS, partner in the Los Angeles restaurant company that owns and operates three SUSHI ROKU restaurants as well as BALBOA and KATANA in West Hollywood, said the company would debut a new bistro concept at the W...

Outback Steakhouse Inc. reported an 11-percent increase in second-quarter earnings to $47.1 million, or 60 cents per diluted share, versus net income of $42.5 million, or 53 cents per share, in the year-ago quarter.(Brief Article)
July 24, 2003... TAMPA, Fla. -- OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE INC. reported an 11-percent increase in second-quarter earnings to $47.1 million, or 60 cents per diluted share, versus net income of $42.5 million, or 53 cents per share, in the year-ago quarter. Revenue...

Ryan's Family Steak Houses Inc. said earnings for the second quarter declined 7.1 percent, owing to a weak retail environment and higher costs.(Brief Article)
July 24, 2003... GREER, S.C. -- RYAN'S FAMILY STEAK HOUSES INC. said earnings for the second quarter declined 7.1 percent, owing to a weak retail environment and higher costs. Ryan's reported net income of $14.3 million, or 33 cents per diluted share, versus...

P.F. Chang's China Bistro Inc. reported a 45-percent jump in second-quarter earnings to $7.1 million, or 27 cents per diluted share, from $4.9 million, or 19 cents per share, in the year-ago quarter.(Brief Article)
July 24, 2003... SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- P.F. CHANG'S CHINA BISTRO INC. reported a 45-percent jump in second-quarter earnings to $7.1 million, or 27 cents per diluted share, from $4.9 million, or 19 cents per share, in the year-ago quarter. The...

Aramark appointed Jeff Wheatley president of its School Support Services division, which provides food, nutrition and other services to more than 400 school districts across the United States. (Executive Suite).(Brief Article)
July 24, 2003... PHILADELPHIA -- ARAMARK appointed JEFF WHEATLEY president of its School Support Services division, which provides food, nutrition and other services to more than 400 school districts across the United States. Most recently, Wheatley was...

James Coney Island, a 23-unit hot dog chain, celebrated its 80th anniversary by offering customers 1923 pricing on its menu staples. (Marketing Matters).(Brief Article)
July 24, 2003... HOUSTON -- JAMES CONEY ISLAND, a 23-unit hot dog chain, celebrated its 80th anniversary by offering customers 1923 pricing on its menu staples. The chain charged 5 cents for its Original Coneys, 10 cents for chips, 10 cents for soda and 15...

Stockwatch.(top restaurant indutry stock price gainers and losers)(Brief Article)
July 24, 2003... STOCKWATCH (shares over $3) Pct. Wed. change close Top Gainers Red Robin Gour. Burgers 5.19 $22.30 Checkers Drive-In 3.63 12.00 J....

IHOP Corp. plans to cut its workforce by 15 percent as part of a corporate reorganization to "foster the growth of franchisee-developed restaurants, provide leadership in the areas of marketing and operations and promote cost efficiencies within our corporate structure." (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 23, 2003... GLENDALE, Calif. -- IHOP CORP. plans to cut its workforce by 15 percent as part of a corporate reorganization to "foster the growth of franchisee-developed restaurants, provide leadership in the areas of marketing and operations and promote...

Main Street and Main Inc., the 58-unit T.G.I. Friday's franchisee, said Tuesday it had sold three Friday's and development rights to the Sacramento, Calif., area to Capital City Restaurants Inc. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 23, 2003... PHOENIX -- MAIN STREET AND MAIN INC., the 58-unit T.G.I. Friday's franchisee, said Tuesday it had sold three Friday's and development rights to the Sacramento, Calif., area to CAPITAL CITY RESTAURANTS INC. After paying down related debt, the...

Mayor Cesar Maia has told fastfood restaurants here to post nutritional charts that list calorie and cholesterol information for all menu offerings, the Associated Press reported. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 23, 2003... RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil -- Mayor CESAR MAIA has told fastfood restaurants here to post nutritional charts that list calorie and cholesterol information for all menu offerings, the Associated Press reported. It said the restaurants were given...

Clark Atlanta University is drawing criticism from the black community here for its decision to close and demolish Paschal's Motor Hotel and Restaurant, revered as a key meeting place of leaders in the early civil-rights movement, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 23, 2003... ATLANTA -- CLARK ATLANTA UNIVERSITY is drawing criticism from the black community here for its decision to close and demolish PASCHAL'S MOTOR HOTEL AND RESTAURANT, revered as a key meeting place of leaders in the early civil-rights movement,...

Bear Rock Cafe, operator and franchisor of 18 bakery-cafe units, signed Boomer Lifestyles Developer LLC to a multiunit area development pact calling for the opening of 20 units in the Philadelphia area. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 23, 2003... CARY, N.C. -- BEAR ROCK CAFE, operator and franchisor of 18 bakery-cafe units, signed BOOMER LIFESTYLES DEVELOPER LLC to a multiunit area development pact calling for the opening of 20 units in the Philadelphia area. The franchisee said it is...

Famous Dave's of America Inc. posted a second-quarter net loss of $1.5 million, or 13 cents a share, after a hit of about $4 million in pretax charges related to impairment of five underperforming restaurants, asset disposals and severance payments to former executives.(Brief Article)
July 23, 2003... MINNEAPOLIS -- FAMOUS DAVE'S OF AMERICA INC. posted a second-quarter net loss of $1.5 million, or 13 cents a share, after a hit of about $4 million in pretax charges related to impairment of five under performing restaurants, asset disposals...

The Cheesecake Factory Inc. reported a 15-percent jump in second-quarter earnings on a 14-percent increase in total revenues.(Brief Article)
July 23, 2003... CALABASAS HILLS, Calif. -- THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY INC. reported a 15-percent jump in second-quarter earnings on a 14-percent increase in total revenues. The chain said net income for the quarter ended July 1 was $15.3 million, or 30 cents per...

Pick Up Stix, operator of the 87-unit fast-casual Asian chain owned by T.G.I. Friday's parent Carlson Cos., hired John Allegretto as vice president of supply chain management, replacing Richard Alessandro, who retired from the company. (Executive Suite).(Brief Article)
July 23, 2003... SAN CLEMENTE, Calif. -- PICK UP STIX, operator of the 87-unit fast-casual Asian chain owned by T.G.I. Friday's parent Carlson Cos., hired JOHN ALLEGRETTO as vice president of supply chain management, replacing RICHARD ALESSANDRO, who retired...

Stockwatch.(top restaurant industry stock price gainers and decliners)(Brief Article)
July 23, 2003... Stockwatch (shares over $3) Pct. Pct. Top Gainers change close Diedrich Coffee 13.41 $3.63 Dave & Buster's 4.38 11.21 Garden Fresh...

A Dallas County jury Monday sentenced Sarah Foust, 19, to a 30-year prison term for the murder of a Bennigan's waitress last January in suburban Irving. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 22, 2003... DALLAS -- A Dallas County jury Monday sentenced SARAH FOUST, 19, to a 30-year prison term for the murder of a Bennigan's waitress last January in suburban Irving. Jurors had convicted Foust last week in the death of 20-year-old JENNIFER...

Red Lobster, the 670-plus-unit subsidiary of Orlando, Fla.-based Darden Restaurants Inc., is slated to open its first Manhattan restaurant today in Times Square. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 22, 2003... NEW YORK -- RED LOBSTER, the 670-plus-unit subsidiary of Orlando, Fla.-based DARDEN RESTAURANTS INC., is slated to open its first Manhattan restaurant today in Times Square. The seafood chain said it expects the three-story eatery to be one...

Papa John's International, the nation's No. 3 pizza chain, made its debut in Asia with the opening Monday of two restaurants in Seoul, South Korea. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 22, 2003... LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- PAPA JOHN'S INTERNATIONAL, the nation's No. 3 pizza chain, made its debut in Asia with the opening Monday of two restaurants in Seoul, South Korea, under the ownership of a new franchise group called PJI KOREACO.,LTD. The...

Ben & Jerry's franchisee BAA Pittsburgh Inc. debuted the first Ben & Jerry's Smoothies store, at the Pittsburgh International Airport here. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 22, 2003... PITTSBURGH -- BEN & JERRY'S franchisee BAA PITTSBURGH INC. debuted the first Ben & Jerry's Smoothies store, at the PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT here. The owner is BILL NEWLIN JR., who also operates two Ben & Jerry's scoop shops at the...

This Department Of Public Health shut down one Bar Louie restaurant for two days after inspectors found four food-storage coolers failing to reach safe temperatures. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 22, 2003... CHICAGO -- This DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH shut down one BAR LOUIE restaurant for two days after inspectors found four food-storage coolers failing to reach safe temperatures, along with other health code violations. They included a backup...

Benihana Inc. said the chain's first franchised location opened in the Northeast. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 22, 2003... MIAMI -- BENIHANA INC. said the chain's first franchised location opened in the Northeast, in Edison, N.J. The 9,100 square-foot restaurant, which is franchised by SHAHENAZ HALANI, features 22 teppanyaki tables. Benihana operates 54 of its...

Grill Concepts Inc., parent of the Daily Grill chain, named foodservice veteran Robert D. Crews to the newly created post of vice president of marketing. (Executive Suite).(Brief Article)
July 22, 2003... LOS ANGELES -- GRILL CONCEPTS INC., parent of the Daily Grill chain, named foodservice veteran ROBERT D. CREWS to the newly created post of vice president of marketing. Crews most recently was marketing VP for the 155-unit Sonny's Real Pit...

Cornell University's School of Hotel administration appointed Gary M. Thompson as executive director of its Center for Hospitality Research. (Executive Suite).(Brief Article)
July 22, 2003... ITHACA, N.Y. -- CORNELL UNIVERSITY'S SCHOOL OF HOTEL ADMINISTRATION appointed GARY M. THOMPSON as executive director of its Center for Hospitality Research, replacing CATHY ENZ, who will continue her role as the Lewis G. Schaeneman professor...

Idine Rewards Network Inc., a provider of loyalty and rewards programs, appointed Peter C.B. Bynoe and Harold I. Shain to its board of directors.(Brief Article)
July 22, 2003... MIAMI -- IDINE REWARDS NETWORK INC., a provider of loyalty and rewards programs, appointed PETER C.B. BYNOE and HAROLD I. SHAIN to its board of directors, bringing the company's board total to nine. Bynoe is a partner in the law firm of Piper...

Stockwatch.(Brief Article)(Illustration)
July 22, 2003... STOCKWATCH (shares over $3) Pct. Mon. Top Gainers change close Nathan's Famous 4.15 $3.94 Rubio's Restaurants 2.48 4.95 Frisch's Restaurants ...

Paul Fleming, developer of the P.F. Chang's China Bistro, Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar and Z'Tejas chain concepts, is devising Paul Lee's Chinese Kitchen, sources close to Fleming said. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 21, 2003... SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- PAUL FLEMING, developer of the P.F. Chang's China Bistro, Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar and Z'Tejas chain concepts, is devising PAUL LEE'S CHINESE KITCHEN, sources close to Fleming said. One source who requested...

A bill--the "Commonsense Consumption Act"--introduced Thursday by Sen. Mitch McConnell. (Just In).(would prohibit obesity lawsuits against food companies)(Brief Article)
July 21, 2003... WASHINGTON -- A bill--the "Commonsense Consumption Act"--introduced Thursday by SEN. MITCH MCCONNELL, R-Ky., would prohibit any lawsuit in state or federal court against a lawful food maker or seller based on an alleged injury from obesity or...

The Seattle School Board renewed its exclusive beverage contract with COCA-COLA for another five years despite the protests of activists opposed to the sale of high-sugar. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 21, 2003... SEATTLE -- The SEATTLE SCHOOL BOARD renewed its exclusive beverage contract with COCA-COLA for another five years despite the protests of activists opposed to the sale of high-sugar, high-fat snacks and beverages in schools. The board voted...

Daphne's, a 32-unit Greek fast-casual chain, opened its first Northern California outlet here July 18. (Just In).(Brief Article)
July 21, 2003... ROSEVILLE, Calif. -- DAPHNE'S, a 32-unit Greek fast-casual chain, opened its first Northern California outlet here July 18. President GEORGE KATAKALIDIS said the San Diego company would test results for at least one month before considering...

Posados Cafe Inc., owner of the 13-unit Posados Cafe casual-dining chain, entered into a $13 million floating-rate facility with American Commercial Capital of Carlsbad, Calif.(Brief Article)
July 21, 2003... TYLER, Texas -- POSADOS CAFE INC., owner of the 13-unit Posados Cafe casual-dining chain, entered into a $13 million floating-rate facility with AMERICAN COMMERCIAL CAPITAL of Carlsbad, Calif. Posados, which has Mexican restaurants in Texas,...

Rubio's Restaurants Inc. said per-share earnings for 2003 would be 56 cents to 63 cents lower than forecast.(Brief Article)
July 21, 2003... CARLSBAD, Calif. -- RUBIO'S RESTAURANTS INC. said per-share earnings for 2003 would be 56 cents to 63 cents lower than forecast, because of higher-than-expected costs, asset impairment charges of 24 cents a share and softer-than-expected...

Pretzel chain franchisor Auntie Anne's Inc. plans to roll out a product called Stix, a follow-up to its successful launch of Kidstix two years ago. (Marketing Matters).(Brief Article)
July 21, 2003... GAP, Pa. -- Pretzel chain franchisor AUNTIE ANNE'S INC. plans to roll out a product called Stix, a follow-up to its successful launch of Kidstix two years ago. The 4-inch Stix, replacing Kidstix, will be sold from Aug. 31 through Nov. 1 in...

The Ground Round Grill & Bar chain rolled out a new table-top beverage and dessert menu to promote premium drinks and provide a "meal-long enticement" for diners to order dessert. (Marketing Matters).(Brief Article)
July 21, 2003... BRAINTREE, Mass. -- The GROUND ROUND GRILL & BAR chain rolled out a new table-top beverage and dessert menu to promote premium drinks and provide a "meal-long enticement" for diners to order dessert. The menu lists more than 30 specialty...

Stockwatch.(top restaurant industry stock price gainers and decliners)(Brief Article)
July 21, 2003... STOCKWATCH (shares over $3) Pct. Fri. Top Gainers change close Elmer's Restaurants 5.66 $6.35 McDonald's 4.39 21.39 Flanigan's Enterprises ...

Wetzel's Pretzels is ramping up international expansion with two new development deals. (Just In).(franchise deals)(Brief Article)
July 18, 2003... PASADENA, Calif. -- WETZEL'S PRETZELS is ramping up international expansion with two new development deals. The company signed a master franchise agreement with PRETZEL SPECIALISTS LTD., which plans to develop 120 units in the Philippines and...

CBRL Group Inc. said same-store restaurant sales were approximately flat at its Cracker Barrel Old Country Store chain through mid-July for the quarter ending Aug. 1.(Brief Article)
July 18, 2003... LEBANON, Tenn. -- CBRL GROUP INC. said same-store restaurant sales were approximately flat at its Cracker Barrel Old Country Store chain through mid-July for the quarter ending Aug. 1. Gift shop same-store sales rose in the range of 1 percent...