Operators took some high-stakes gambles this year. While the effectiveness of a lot of these investments remains to be seen, most are an attempt to thrive in the tumultuous restaurant landscape.
BJ’s, BWW and TGI Fridays are testing beer delivery in select markets; 22-unit Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken in Chicago offers 16 beers through delivery, as well.
Large chains Panera Bread Co., Ruby Tuesday, Cafe Rio and First Watch were acquired outright by private-equity firms. Owners of Culver’s and Wow Bao sold parts of their brands but stayed involved. And the Miami Dolphins owner invested in &pizza and Milk Bar, while Panda Express’ Cherngs bought into Urbane Cafe.
Chili’s cut its menu by 40%, with a plan to focus on updating its core offerings instead, and BJ’s Restaurants and Brewhouse trimmed its menu from almost 200 options to about 120.
Operators in Seattle are grappling with a ban on single-use straws, and restaurants across the country are spending on more eco-friendly takeout packaging.
The Bottom Line: Wingstop, Raising Cane’s and Jersey Mike’s have broken free from the pack of well-established growth chains. Here’s why this trio stands out.
