Nation's Restaurant News Daily NewsFax articles from May 2006

Nation's Restaurant News Daily NewsFax archives from May 2006

Canton, Mass.--Dunkin' Brands will require franchisees of its Dunkin' Donuts, Baskin-Robbins and Togo's brands to participate beginning June 1 in a federal pilot program that will enable employers to check the immigration status of new hires.(JUST IN)(Brief article)
May 31, 2006... CANTON, Mass. -- DUNKIN' BRANDS will require franchisees of its DUNKIN' DONUTS, BASKIN-ROBBINS and TOGO'S brands to participate beginning June 1 in a federal pilot program that will enable employers to check the immigration status of new...

Seattle--Starbucks Coffee Co. said it will donate $2.5 million over the next five years to the National Association for the Advancement of colored people to "become an active partner" in the organization's diversity efforts, Starbucks CEO Jim Donald said.(JUST IN)
May 31, 2006... SEATTLE -- STARBUCKS COFFEE CO. said it will donate $2.5 million over the next five years to the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF COLORED PEOPLE to "become an active partner" in the organization's diversity efforts, Starbucks CEO...

Carlsbad, Calif.--the U.S.-based subsidiary of Zensho Co. Ltd., an operator of 1,859 restaurants in Japan, has purchased all the equity of privately held Catalina Restaurant Group, the Carlsbad-based parent company of the Coco's Bakery Restaurants and Carrows Restaurants chains.(Brief article)
May 31, 2006... CARLSBAD, Calif. -- The U.S.-based subsidiary of ZENSHO CO. LTD., an operator of 1,859 restaurants in Japan, has purchased all the equity of privately held CATALINA RESTAURANT GROUP, the Carlsbad-based parent company of the COCO'S BAKERY...

Dallas--Phil Romano's Romano concepts plans to open a new concept this summer to replace the branch here of New York's landmark Il Mulino restaurant, which Romano and partner Joe Palladino are closing, the Dallas Business Journal reported on its website Tuesday.(Brief article)
May 31, 2006... DALLAS -- PHIL ROMANO'S ROMANO CONCEPTS plans to open a new concept this summer to replace the branch here of New York's landmark IL MULINO restaurant, which Romano and partner JOE PALLADINO are closing, the Dallas Business Journal reported...

Columbus, Ohio--MAX & ERMA'S president ROB LINDEMAN said he has reversed his recent decision to leave the casual-dining chain, based here, to take an executive post with a Columbus-based development organization.(Brief article)
May 31, 2006... COLUMBUS, Ohio -- MAX & ERMA'S president ROB LINDEMAN said he has reversed his recent decision to leave the casual-dining chain, based here, to take an executive post with a Columbus-based development organization. Lindeman, who will remain...

Papa John's International Inc.(store sales )
May 31, 2006... LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- PAPA JOHN'S INTERNATIONAL INC. said same-store sales for the four weeks ended May 21 rose 5.2 percent domestically, and global systemwide sales increased 24.6 percent, compared with the same period last year. Samestore...

Stockwatch.(Restaurant industry)(Table)(Brief article)
May 31, 2006... STOCKWATCH (shares over $1) Pct. Tues. Top Gainers change close Back Yard Burgers 6.05 $5.26 Meritage Hosp. Group 3.41 4.25 Burger King...

Minneapolis--Buca Inc. has dropped plans to sell its 11-unit Vinny T's of Boston Italian dinnerhouse chain and instead will consider converting all or some of the restaurants to the company's flagship Buca Di Beppo concept, the company disclosed in a filing with securities regulators.(Brief article)
May 30, 2006... MINNEAPOLIS -- BUCA INC. has dropped plans to sell its 11-unit VINNY T'S OF BOSTON Italian dinnerhouse chain and instead will consider converting all or some of the restaurants to the company's flagship BUCA DI BEPPO concept, the company...

National Restaurant Association.(JUST IN)
May 30, 2006... WASHINGTON -- STEVEN ANDERSON, president and chief executive of the NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION, has called the immigration reform bill passed Thursday by the U.S. Senate "far from perfect," but he added that it nonetheless "was...

Baton Rouge, La.--Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers, a 40-unit quick-service chain based here, said it plans to double the chain's number of restaurants in the next 18 months by expanding in Colorado, Ohio, Oklahoma, Georgia, Louisiana, Nevada, Nebraska, Mississippi, Virginia and Texas.(JUST IN)(Brief article)
May 30, 2006... BATON ROUGE, La. -- RAISING CANE'S CHICKEN FINGERS, a 40-unit quick-service chain based here, said it plans to double the chain's number of restaurants in the next 18 months by expanding in Colorado, Ohio, Oklahoma, Georgia, Louisiana,...

Made In Japan Teriyaki Experience.(plans to expand)(Brief article)
May 30, 2006... OAKVILLE, Ontario -- MADE IN JAPAN TERIYAKI EXPERIENCE, a Canadian-based chain of nearly 100 quick-service restaurants, said it plans to expand into the U.S. market. The company, which currently operates and franchises Made in Japan locations...

Burger King Holding's Inc.(FINANCIAL BRIEFS)
May 30, 2006... MIAMI -- BURGER KING HOLDINGS INC., executing a previously reported plan, has retired $350 million in debt with proceeds from its recent recent initial public stock offering. Reducing the debt level of the franchisor by 25 percent will free...

Papa John's International Inc.(launches Sizzlin' Steak and Sizzlin' Chicken Fajita)(Brief article)
May 30, 2006... LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- PAPA JOHN'S INTERNATIONAL INC., based here, launched two new pizzas, the Sizzlin' Steak and Sizzlin' Chicken Fajita, which are available for a limited time. The $11.99 pizzas are also available with a deep-dish-style pan...

Stockwatch.(Restaurant industry)(Table)(Brief article)
May 30, 2006... STOCKWATCH (shares over $1) Pct. Fri. Top Gainers change close Buffalo Wild Wings 6.42 $39.63 Cosi 4.88 8.60 Krispy...

Oak Brook, Ill.--McDonald's Corp. officials Thursday said they have prepared a multimedia marketing campaign aimed at minimizing potential consumer panic in the event of a U.S. avian flu outbreak, which National Restaurant Association officials this week said they expect to happen by summer.(JUST IN)
May 26, 2006... OAK BROOK, Ill. -- MCDONALD'S CORP. officials Thursday said they have prepared a multimedia marketing campaign aimed at minimizing potential consumer panic in the event of a U.S. avian flu outbreak, which National Restaurant Association...

Louisville, Ky.--as Yum! Brands Inc. plots a 1,100-unit international expansion, its KFC brand is poised to extend its dominance in much of Asia by opening the first quick-service branch of a U.S. chain in Vietnam's capital city, Hanoi.(Brief article)
May 26, 2006... LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- As YUM! BRANDS INC. plots a 1,100-unit international expansion, its KFC brand is poised to extend its dominance in much of Asia by opening the first quick-service branch of a U.S. chain in Vietnam's capital city, Hanoi. KFC...

Culver City, Calif.--several franchisees of the 300-plus-unit Sizzler chain have pledged to open a total of 26 restaurants, which would expand the grill-buffet system by 15 percent.(JUST IN)
May 26, 2006... CULVER CITY, Calif. -- Several franchisees of the 300-plus-unit SIZZLER chain have pledged to open a total of 26 restaurants, which would expand the grill-buffet system by 15 percent. This week MITCHELL FAMILY PROPERTIES LLC, a Denny's...

Wendy's International Inc.(Company sales )(Brief article)
May 26, 2006... DUBLIN, Ohio -- WENDY'S INTERNATIONAL INC. posted its first positive monthly same-store sales result in 14 months, aided by the chain's new line of Frescata deli sandwiches, the company said Thursday. Systemwide same-store sales at U.S.-based...

Yum! Brands Inc.(Pizza Hut Inc., Taco Bell Corp., Yum! Brands Inc.)(Brief article)
May 26, 2006... LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- YUM! BRANDS INC. said blended same-store sales for its U.S. company-owned restaurants fell 1 percent for the four weeks ended May 20, including decreases of 7 percent at Pizza Hut and 1 percent at KFC and an increase of 5...

Stockwatch (shares over $1).(Restaurant industry)(Table)(Brief article)
May 26, 2006... STOCK WATCH (shares over $1) Pct. Thurs. Top Gainers change close Host America 13.08 $1.34 BJ's Restaurants 4.04 ...

Technomic Inc.(JUST IN)(survey of consumer spending traits)(Survey)(Brief article)
May 25, 2006... CHICAGO -- One in every five consumers feeling the pinch of increased gas prices has reacted by cutting back on the number of courses ordered at restaurants, according to poll results released Wednesday by foodservice researcher TECHNOMIC...

Washington--the U.S. Senate voted to double the fine for employers who hire illegal immigrants to $20,000 for each undocumented worker as a part of an immigration bill that also would offer legal status to many workers already living in this country.(JUST IN)
May 25, 2006... WASHINGTON -- The U.S. SENATE voted to double the fine for employers who hire illegal immigrants to $20,000 for each undocumented worker as a part of an immigration bill that also would offer legal status to many workers already living in...

Chicago--Potbelly Sandwich Works, operator or franchisor of 100 sandwich shops, has finished a new round of private-equity financing from current stockholders and new investor American Securities Capital Partners, and made several executive appointments.(JUST IN)(Brief article)
May 25, 2006... CHICAGO -- POTBELLY SANDWICH WORKS, operator or franchisor of 100 sandwich shops, has finished a new round of private-equity financing from current stockholders and new investor AMERICAN SECURITIES CAPITAL PARTNERS, and made several executive...

Spartanburg, S.C.--Denny's Corp.'s. board elected investment capital consultant and former Brinker International chief financial officer Debra Smithart-Oglesby chairman at the company's annual meeting here Wednesday.(Noodles and Co.'s Robert Marks to retire)(Brief article)
May 25, 2006... SPARTANBURG, S.C.--DENNY'S CORP.'s. board elected investment capital consultant and former Brinker International chief financial officer DEBRA SMITHART-OGLESBY chairman at the company's annual meeting here Wednesday. A Denny's director since...

Kimpton Hotel and Restaurant Group LLC.(appoints Micheal Depatie )(Brief article)
May 25, 2006... SAN FRANCISCO -- MICHAEL DEPATIE, president of KIMPTON HOTEL AND RESTAURANT GROUP LLC, was named chief executive of the San Francisco-based operator of boutique hotels and upscale restaurant. He succeeds TOM LATOUR, who is retiring after 23...

White Castle.(MARKETING MATTERS)
May 25, 2006... COLUMBUS, Ohio -- White castle, based here, again is offering as a limited-time option roasted-garlic cheese as a sandwich topping, through June 24. The reintroduction is being supported by broadcast and radio advertising and in-store...

Atlanta--AFC Enterprises Inc., operator or franchisor of 1,833 Popeyes Chicken & Biscuits outlets, posted a first-quarter operating profit of $12.7 million, eclipsing a loss of $17.7 million for the year-earlier period, whose results were affected by shareholder litigation expenses, general and administrative costs and lower franchising revenue.(Brief article)
May 25, 2006... ATLANTA -- AFC ENTERPRISES INC., operator or franchisor of 1,833 POPEYES CHICKEN & BISCUITS outlets, posted a first-quarter operating profit of $12.7 million, eclipsing a loss of $17.7 million for the year-earlier period, whose results were...

Stock watch (shares over $1).(Restaurant industry)(Table)(Brief article)
May 25, 2006... STOCK WATCH (shares over $1) Pct. Wed. Top Gainers change close Good Times Restaurants 8.65 $5.65 BJ's Restaurants ...

Chicago--Elizabeth Blau, restaurant consultant and former executive vice president of restaurant development and marketing for the Wynn Las Vegas resort, was named 2006 Gold Plate Award winner here by the International Foodservice Manufacturers Association at its annual Gold & Silver Plate Celebration..(JUST IN)(Brief article)
May 24, 2006... CHICAGO -- ELIZABETH BLAU, restaurant consultant and former executive vice president of restaurant development and marketing for the WYNN LAS VEGAS resort, was named 2006 GOLD PLATE AWARD winner here by the INTERNATIONAL FOODSERVICE...

Louisville, Ky.--KFC said it will offer the runner-up in the American Idol contest a chance to star in a future commercial for the chain's new KFC Famous Bowls.(MARKETING MATTERS)(Brief article)
May 24, 2006... LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- KFC said it will offer the runner-up in the American Idol contest a chance to star in a future commercial for the chain's new KFC Famous Bowls. The runner-up has until June 7 to accept the offer, which includes a $10,000...

Red Rock Bistro.(MARKETING MATTERS)(Brief article)
May 24, 2006... SWAMPSCOTT, Mass. -- RED ROCK BISTRO is offering four types of lobster roll this summer, each $18.50. The Hot n' Buttered is sauteed lobster on a grilled bun. The Cold Asian Spring Roll is lobster wrapped in rice paper with Chinese vegetables...

Washington--Jet Capital Investors LP disclosed in a regulatory filing that it had garnered a 6.3-percent stake in Nashville, Tenn.-based O'Charley's Inc. in part to help facilitate a turnaround at the casual-dining company and to "at least" help management provide an adequate return to shareholders.(FINANCIAL BRIEFS)(Brief article)
May 24, 2006... WASHINGTON -- JET CAPITAL INVESTORS LP disclosed in a regulatory filing that it had garnered a 6.3-percent stake in Nashville, Tenn.-based O'CHARLEY'S INC. in part to help facilitate a turnaround at the casual-dining company and to "at least"...

CBRL Group Inc.(FINANCIAL BRIEFS)(Brief article)
May 24, 2006... LEBANON, Tenn. -- CBRL GROUP INC.'s revenues rose 3 percent to $644.2 million, but earnings fell 10 percent for the third quarter. CBRL reported net income of $24 million, or 47 cents per diluted share, for the three months ended April 28,...

Stockwatch.(restaurants)(Statistical table)(Brief article)
May 24, 2006... STOCKWATCH (shares over $1) Pct. Wed. Top Gainers change close Ark Restaurants 8.31 $29.84 Max & Erma's 7.03 9.74 O'Charley's 5.69 ...

Phoenix--Main Street Restaurant Group Inc., whose 54 franchised T.G.I. Friday's branches make it that chain's largest franchisee, saw its stock price soar Monday after the company said it had agreed to be acquired by Briad Main Street Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Briad Group, for $6.40 per share in cash.(just in)(Brief article)
May 23, 2006... PHOENIX -- MAIN STREET RESTAURANT GROUP INC., whose 54 franchised T.G.I. Friday's branches make it that chain's largest franchisee, saw its stock price soar Monday after the company said it had agreed to be acquired by BRIAD MAIN STREET INC.,...

Chicago--President Bush took the stage Monday at the restaurant industry's largest convention, praising the trade for its economic contributions and voicing support for many of its political causes, including an overhaul of the rules for hiring citizens of other nations.(JUST IN)(Brief article)
May 23, 2006... CHICAGO -- PRESIDENT BUSH took the stage Monday at the restaurant industry's largest convention, praising the trade for its economic contributions and voicing support for many of its political causes, including an overhaul of the rules for...

Cosi Inc.(executive suite)
May 23, 2006... DEERFIELD, Ill. -- COSI INC., based here, named industry veteran CHRIS CARROLL to the newly created position of executive vice president and chief marketing officer, effective immediately. Carroll was senior vice president of Subway and...

Syracuse, N.Y.--Carrols Corp., the largest franchisee of Burger King and owner of two chain concepts, posted an 8.7-percent increase in first-quarter earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization to $21.9 million.(FINANCIAL BRIEFS)
May 23, 2006... SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- CARROLS CORP., the largest franchisee of BURGER KING and owner of two chain concepts, posted an 8.7-percent increase in first-quarter earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization to $21.9 million. Revenues...

Sizzler.(MARKETING MATTERS)
May 23, 2006... CULVER CITY, Calif. -- SIZZLER, the 300-plus-unit grill-buffet chain, launched a limited-time promotion of a half-pound steak and 5-ounce lobster tail meal, $15.99, at California locations. The dish, with drawn butter and a baked potato, is...

Bear Rock Cafe.(marketing matters)(Brief article)
May 23, 2006... CARY, N.C. -- BEAR ROCK CAFE, a 38-unit bakery-cafe chain based here, has added an organic, artisanal bread to its offerings and three sandwiches made with it. The Chicken & Roasted Veggies version contains grilled chicken and roasted...

Stockwatch.(Statistical table)
May 23, 2006... STOCKWATCH (shares over $1) Pct. Mon. Top Gainers change close Main Street Rest. Group 19.40 $6.34 Flanigan's Enterprises 2.62 11.19 Smith &...

Chicago--National Restaurant Association researchers expect avian flu to appear in the United States sometime this summer with profound effects on restaurant customers' dining-out habits, the NRA's directors were told by several association officials Sunday at a board meeting during the massive NRA trade show here.(JUST IN)(Brief article)
May 22, 2006... CHICAGO -- NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION researchers expect avian flu to appear in the United States sometime this summer with profound effects on restaurant customers' dining-out habits, the NRA's directors were told by several association...

Oak Brook, Ill.--McDonald's Corp., which has been stung by news reports that dozens of corporate and franchised McDonald's restaurants in several states have hired sex offenders, including some previously convicted of at-restaurant offenses against minors, said it had begun checking for the presence of employees on a national registry of sex offenders and had "enhanced and strengthened" its hiring policies.(JUST IN)(Brief article)
May 22, 2006... OAK BROOK, Ill. -- MCDONALD'S CORP., which has been stung by news reports that dozens of corporate and franchised McDonald's restaurants in several states have hired sex offenders, including some previously convicted of at-restaurant offenses...

Dallas--Norman Brinker, founder of Steak and Ale and Brinker International Inc., and his wife, Toni, have donated $1 million to establish the Institute for Hospitality and Restaurant Management at Southern Methodist University's Cox School of Business.(JUST IN)(Brief article)
May 22, 2006... DALLAS -- NORMAN BRINKER, founder of Steak and Ale and Brinker International Inc., and his wife, TONI, have donated $1 million to establish the INSTITUTE FOR HOSPITALITY AND RESTAURANT MANAGEMENT at Southern Methodist University's Cox School...

Golden, Colo.--Good Times Restaurants, the 44-unit chain based here, said it would add 10 Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard outlets by year-end, in Colorado, Wyoming, North Dakota and Montana.(JUST IN)(Good Times Restaurants Inc.)(Brief article)
May 22, 2006... GOLDEN, Colo. -- GOOD TIMES RESTAURANTS, the 44-unit chain based here, said it would add 10 Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard outlets by year-end, in Colorado, Wyoming, North Dakota and Montana. Four of the units will be owned by the...

Denver--Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc., operator or franchisor of more than 500 fast-casual restaurants, Friday said majority shareholder McDonald's Ventures LLC had priced a secondary offering of Chipotle stock, 4.1 million shares, at $61.50 each.(FINANCIAL BRIEFS)(McDonald's Corp. Chipotle Mexican Grill gives underwriting contracts to)(Morgan Stanley Group Inc. and Cowen and Co.)(Brief article)
May 22, 2006... DENVER -- CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL INC., operator or franchisor of more than 500 fast-casual restaurants, Friday said majority shareholder McDONALD'S VENTURES LLC had priced a secondary offering of Chipotle stock, 4.1 million shares, at $61.50...

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers Inc.(FINANCIAL BRIEFS)(Brief article)
May 22, 2006... GREENWOOD VILLAGE, Colo. -- RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS INC. whose 311-unit casual-dining chain includes 139 franchised branches, reported a 7.6-percent decline in first-quarter net profit to $7.4 million, or 44 cents per-share, despite a...

Stockwatch.(restaurants)(Statistical table)(Brief article)
May 22, 2006... STOCKWATCH (shares over $1) Pct. Fri. Top Gainers change close Morgan's Foods 20.35 $6.15 Flanigan's Enterprises 6.76 10.90 Burger...

Atlanta--a source close to Raving Brands, franchisor of 516 restaurants under seven different brands, including the 294-unit Moe's Southwest Grill and 125-unit Planet Smoothie chains, said the Atlanta company was completing a $24 million recapitalization secured by franchising assets and had named Stephen M. Lamastra as its new president.(JUST IN)(Brief article)
May 19, 2006... ATLANTA -- A source close to RAVING BRANDS, franchisor of 516 restaurants under seven different brands, including the 294-unit Moe's Southwest Grill and 125-unit Planet Smoothie chains, said the Atlanta company was completing a $24 million...

Burlington, Vt.--Bruegger's Enterprises Inc., based here, has signed a franchise development deal for five planned units in Anchorage and Fairbanks, Alaska, to open by 2010.(JUST IN)(Brief article)
May 19, 2006... BURLINGTON, Vt. -- BRUEGGER'S ENTERPRISES INC., based here, has signed a franchise development deal for five planned units in Anchorage and Fairbanks, Alaska, to open by 2010. The franchisee, ALASKA BAGEL ENTERPRISES, intends to make the...

Columbus, Ohio--Max & Erma's has rolled out new summer-inspired menu items, including a Grilled Steak Skewer made with herb-marinated sirloin; a Citrus-marinated Shrimp Skewer served with a sweet orange-chili sauce; and pineapple-soy Marinated Chicken Breast.(MARKETING MATTERS)(Brief article)
May 19, 2006... COLUMBUS, Ohio -- MAX & ERMA'S has rolled out new summer-inspired menu items, including a Grilled Steak Skewer made with herb-marinated sirloin; a Citrus-marinated Shrimp Skewer served with a sweet orange-chili sauce; and pineapple-soy...

Minneapolis--Buca Di Beppo has debuted eight additions to its menu, including appetizers, salads, entrees and desserts.(MARKETING MATTERS)(Brief article)
May 19, 2006... MINNEAPOLIS -- BUCA DI BEPPO has debuted eight additions to its menu, including appetizers, salads, entrees and desserts. The new items are Artichoke Spinach Dip; a Chopped Antipasto Salad; Lasagna; Porchetta Rustica, herb-roasted pork;...

Yum! Brands Inc.(FINANCIAL BRIEFS)
May 19, 2006... LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- YUM! BRANDS INC., parent of Taco Bell, KFC and Pizza Hut, said its board has raised the company's quarterly cash dividend 30 percent to 15 cents a share. The dividend will be distributed Aug. 4 to shareholders of record...

Irvine, Calif.--EPL Intermediate Inc., parent of El Pollo Loco Inc., said first-quarter net income fell to $9,000 from $ 115,000 a year earlier on higher interest expense.(FINANCIAL BRIEFS)(Brief article)
May 19, 2006... IRVINE, Calif. -- EPL INTERMEDIATE INC., parent of EL POLLO LOCO INC., said first-quarter net income fell to $9,000 from $ 115,000 a year earlier on higher interest expense. However, operating income for the three months ended March 29 jumped...

Buffets Holdings Inc.(Financial Briefs)(Brief article)
May 19, 2006... EAGAN, Minn. -- BUFFETS HOLDINGS INC., operator or franchisor of 357 restaurants under the Old Country Buffet, HomeTown Buffet and Tahoe Joe's Famous Steakhouse brands, has posted a deeper third-quarer loss than a year earlier, though...

Stockwatch.(statistical table)(Statistical table)(Brief article)
May 19, 2006... STOCKWATCH (shares over $1) Pct. Thurs. Top Gainers change close Main Street Rest. Group 3.52 $5.30 Granite City Food & Brew. 3.13 4.28 New...

Miami--shares of Burger King Holdings Inc. begin trading today on the New York Stock Exchange, under the symbol "BKC," the company said Wednesday, when it priced its initial public offering of 25 million shares at $17 per share.(JUST IN)(Burger King Corp.)(Brief article)
May 18, 2006... MIAMI -- Shares of BURGER KING HOLDINGS INC. begin trading today on the New York Stock Exchange, under the symbol "BKC," the company said Wednesday, when it priced its initial public offering of 25 million shares at $17 per share. The IPO is...

Atlanta--multiconcept franchisor Raving Brands, based here, said it plans to acquire a stake in the two-unit breakfast specialty concept Flying Biscuit, also based in Atlanta.(JUST IN)(from Delia Champion)(Brief article)
May 18, 2006... ATLANTA -- Multiconcept franchisor RAVING BRANDS, based here, said it plans to acquire a stake in the two-unit breakfast specialty concept FLYING BISCUIT, also based in Atlanta. Flying Biscuit founder DELIA CHAMPION is expected to play "an...

Overland Park, Kan.--John Cywinski has resigned as chief marketing officer of troubled Applebee's International Inc., a move likely to steer the chain's marketing in a new direction.(EXECUTIVE SUITE)(Brief article)
May 18, 2006... OVERLAND PARK, Kan.-- JOHN CYWINSKI has resigned as chief marketing officer of troubled APPLEBEE'S INTERNATIONAL INC., a move likely to steer the chain's marketing in a new direction. Cywinski said he's leaving to spend more time with his...

Glendale, Calif.--IHOPCORP. chief executive Julia Stewart Wednesday was named to the additional post of chairman of the board, succeeding Larry Alan Kay, who remains on the board as lead director.(EXECUTIVE SUITE)(IHOP Corp.)(Brief article)
May 18, 2006... GLENDALE, Calif. -- IHOPCORP. chief executive JULIA STEWART Wednesday was named to the additional post of chairman of the board, succeeding LARRY ALAN KAY, who remains on the board as lead director. Stewart, who was unanimously elected...

Louisville, Ky.--Yum! Brands Inc. subsidiary KFC has launched KFC Famous Bowls, aimed at boosting lunch traffic.(MARKETING MATTERS)(KFC Corp.)(Brief article)
May 18, 2006... LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- YUM! BRANDS INC. subsidiary KFC has launched KFC Famous Bowls, aimed at boosting lunch traffic. The $3.99 bowls contain layers of mashed potatoes, corn, bite-sized crispy chicken, gravy and a three-cheese blendl. Rice may...

Seattle--Starbucks Corp. has added two smoothie-like drinks as limited-time offerings at the 11,000-plus-unit Starbucks Coffee chain.(MARKETING MATTERS)(banana coconut frappuccino and bananas and creme frappuccino )(Brief article)
May 18, 2006... SEATTLE -- STARBUCKS CORP. has added two smoothie-like drinks as limited-time offerings at the 11,000-plus-unit Starbucks Coffee chain. The Banana Coconut Frappuccino and the Bananas & Creme Frappuccino will be available through Aug. 30....

Subway.(MARKETING MATTERS)(Doctor's Associates Inc. introduces sandwiches )(Brief article)
May 18, 2006... MILFORD, Conn. -- SUBWAY has set May 22 as launch day at the sandwich chain's 1,700 California branches of new "fit" menu options and the California Fit Fresh Value Meals. The adult meal includes a choice of a 6-inch sub containing 6 grams of...

Stockwatch.(Statistical table)(Brief article)
May 18, 2006... STOCKWATCH (shares over $1) Pct. Wed. Top Gainers change close Krispy Kreme Doughnuts 8.82 $11.35 New World Rest. Group 5.26 8.00 Flanigan's...

Fort Walton Beach, Fla--Lee's Famous Recipes Inc. here, franchisor of 150 Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken units, has acquired Atlanta-based Mrs. Winner's Chicken & Biscuits, which has 115 restaurants in five states, according to Lee's chief executive Jeff Miller.(JUST IN)(Shoney's Inc. Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken Div. acquires RTM Winners L.P.)(Brief article)
May 17, 2006... FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla -- LEE'S FAMOUS RECIPES INC. here, franchisor of 150 LEE'S FAMOUS RECIPE CHICKEN units, has acquired Atlanta-based MRS. WINNER'S CHICKEN & BISCUITS, which has 115 restaurants in five states, according to Lee's chief...

Ann Arbor, Mich.--pizza chains outranked burger concepts in a new rating of customer satisfaction levels, with quick-service choices improving their overall score by 1.3 percent to 77 out of 100 index points.(JUST IN)(Brief article)
May 17, 2006... ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- Pizza chains outranked burger concepts in a new rating of customer satisfaction levels, with quick-service choices improving their overall score by 1.3 percent to 77 out of 100 index points. The latest UNIVERSITY OF...

Detroit--a former Denny's franchisee here has sued the chain's franchisor for allegedly discriminating against his minority-owned business on the basis of race, according to a statement to the media by the plaintiff's attorneys.(JUST IN)(Denny's Inc.)(Brief article)
May 17, 2006... DETROIT -- A former DENNY'S franchisee here has sued the chain's franchisor for allegedly discriminating against his minority-owned business on the basis of race, according to a statement to the media by the plaintiff's attorneys. The lawsuit...

Washington--the National Restaurant Association applauded President Bush for backing comprehensive immigration reform rather than focusing strictly on enforcement.(JUST IN)(Brief article)
May 17, 2006... WASHINGTON -- The NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION applauded President Bush for backing comprehensive immigration reform rather than focusing strictly on enforcement. In his speech to the nation Monday, Bush called for a temporary guest worker...

Chicago--the National Restaurant Association said it still had not decided whether to keep its annual trade show in Chicago after next year's convention, despite a new cost-saving union agreement aimed at keeping such shows from relocating to other cities.(JUST IN)(Brief article)
May 17, 2006... CHICAGO -- The NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION said it still had not decided whether to keep its annual trade show in Chicago after next year's convention, despite a new cost-saving union agreement aimed at keeping such shows from relocating...

Jack In The Box Inc.(FINANCIAL BRIEFS)(profits for second quarter)(Brief article)
May 17, 2006... SAN DIEGO -- JACK IN THE BOX INC. recorded a 5.4-percent increase in second-quarter profits from a year earlier to $21.8 million, or 61 cents per share, aided by improved restaurant margins and same-store sales results and...

Stockwatch.(statistical table)(Statistical table)(Brief article)
May 17, 2006... STOCKWATCH (shares over $1) Pct. Tues. Top Gainers change close Grill Concepts 5.54 $3.24 McCormick & Schmick's 3.56 26.64 BJ's...

Winston-Salem, N.C.--Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Inc. said Monday that one of its insurers would pay $4.75 million under the proposed settlement of a class-action lawsuit filed against the doughnut company by participants in its retirement savings, profit sharing and stock ownership plans.(JUST IN)
May 16, 2006... WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. -- KRISPY KREME DOUGHNUTS INC. said Monday that one of its insurers would pay $4.75 million under the proposed settlement of a class-action lawsuit filed against the doughnut company by participants in its retirement...

Dallas--Consolidated Restaurant Operations Inc., parent of such brands as Spaghetti Warehouse, El Chico and Cool River, has granted rights for a Dubai-based group to develop 75 restaurants in 13 Middle Eastern countries.(JUST IN)
May 16, 2006... DALLAS -- CONSOLIDATED RESTAURANT OPERATIONS INC., parent of such brands as Spaghetti Warehouse, El Chico and Cool River, has granted rights for a Dubai-based group to develop 75 restaurants in 13 Middle Eastern countries. Under the franchise...

Lansing, Mich.--About 360 people have reported becoming ill since eating at Bravo Cucina Italiana here between May 3 and May 11.(JUST IN)(Brief article)
May 16, 2006... LANSING, Mich. -- About 360 people have reported becoming ill since eating at BRAVO CUCINA ITALIANA here between May 3 and May 11. The restaurant closed its doors immediately after the outbreak while employees cleaned the premises and threw...

Columbia, S.C.--Bobby Williams, a partner in the 12-unit Lizard's Thicket family-dining chain based here, has partnered with son-in-law Mike Davis, former sous chef at Chez Fonfon in Birmingham, Ala., to launch Terra in the city's Brookwood Village neighborhood by Aug. 1.(JUST IN)(Brief article)
May 16, 2006... COLUMBIA, S.C. -- BOBBY WILLIAMS, a partner in the 12-unit LIZARD'S THICKET family-dining chain based here, has partnered with son-in-law MIKE DAVIS, former sous chef at Chez Fonfon in Birmingham, Ala., to launch TERRA in the city's Brookwood...

Tampa, Fla.--Checkers Drive-In Restaurants broke a new TV campaign Monday that it called a "major" branding effort for its Checkers and Rally's Hamburgers brands.(MARKETING MATTERS)
May 16, 2006... TAMPA, Fla. -- CHECKERS DRIVE-IN RESTAURANTS broke a new TV campaign Monday that it called a "major" branding effort for its Checkers and Rally's Hamburgers brands. The eight spots, created by AMALGAMATED of New York, are a departure from the...

Stockwatch.(Restaurant industry)(Table)(Brief article)
May 16, 2006... STOCKWATCH (shares over $1) Pct. Mon. change close Top Gainers Morgan's Foods 4.95 $5.30 Ruby Tuesday 2.89 28.45 Main...

San Francisco--Law firms civil-rights lawyers have sued the McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurants Inc. on behalf of employees for allegedly favoring Caucasian job applicants over African-Americans for front-of-the-house jobs.(JUST IN)
May 15, 2006... SAN FRANCISCO -- Law firms civil-rights lawyers have sued the MCCORMICK & SCHMICK'S SEAFOOD RESTAURANTS INC. on behalf of employees for allegedly favoring Caucasian job applicants over African-Americans for front-of-the-house jobs. The...

Valley Cottage, N.Y.--Desert Moon Holdings Corp. here, operator or franchisor of 19 Desertmoon Fresh Mexican Grilles in eight states has inked multi-unit development deals for the Orlando and Fort Lauderdale, Fla., markets.(JUST IN)(Brief article)
May 15, 2006... VALLEY COTTAGE, N.Y. -- DESERT MOON HOLDINGS CORP. here, operator or franchisor of 19 DESERTMOON FRESH MEXICAN GRILLES in eight states, has inked multi-unit development deals for the Orlando and Fort Lauderdale, Fla., markets. Windemere,...

Skokie, Ill.--Driven by rising costs in his home market, veteran California restaurateur Dennis Berkowitz is set to open his first out-of-state venture, the 284-seat Billyberk's, here tomorrow.(JUST IN)
May 15, 2006... SKOKIE, Ill. -- Driven by rising costs in his home market, veteran California restaurateur DENNIS BERKOWITZ is set to open his first out-of-state venture, the 284-seat BILLYBERK'S, here tomorrow. Billy Berk's cost $2.3 million to develop and...

Roanoke, Va.--Western Sizzlin Corp.'s net income for the first quarter ended March 31 was $6,298, versus a net loss of $66,581 for the same period last year, the operator or franchisor of 137 Western Sizzlin, Great American Steak & Buffet and Quincy Steakhouse outlets said.(FINANCIAL BRIEFS)(Brief article)
May 15, 2006... ROANOKE, Va. -- Western Sizzlin Corp.'s net income for the first quarter ended March 31 was $6,298, versus a net loss of $66,581 for the same period last year, the operator or franchisor of 137 Western Sizzlin, Great American Steak & Buffet...

New York--Triarc Cos. Inc., franchisor of the 3,500-unit Arby's chain, reported a 34.7-percent increase in that division's first-quarter operating profit to $19 million on its more than tripling of revenues to $277.3 million.(FINANCIAL BRIEFS)
May 15, 2006... NEW YORK -- TRIARC COS. INC., franchisor of the 3,500-unit ARBY'S chain, reported a 34.7-percent increase in that division's first-quarter operating profit to $19 million on its more than tripling of revenues to $277.3 million. That primarily...

O'Charley's Inc.(FINANCIAL BRIEFS)
May 15, 2006... NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- O'CHARLEY'S INC. reported a 28.8-percent drop in first-quarter profit to $7.2 million, despite a 5.5-percent increase in revenues to $306.5 million and positive same-store sales at its three restaurant concepts. For the...

Ryan's Restaurant Group Inc.(FINANCIAL BRIEFS)
May 15, 2006... GREER, S.C. -- RYAN'S RESTAURANT GROUP INC. said same-store sales for the five weeks ended May 3 decreased 0.4 percent, while total sales fell 2 percent to $80.3 million. The company attributed the decline to the effects of increased gasoline...