ATLANTA  (Restaurant News Release)  Church’s Chicken, one of the world’s top chicken chains, launches today yet another portable value product for lunch, dinner and snacking – its new Chicken Mini Sandwich.

“Today more than ever, our customers are looking for value without sacrificing great quality products,” said Marc Butler, Senior Vice President of Marketing for Church’s Chicken. “We knew after testing this sandwich in local markets, this product had all the right components to meet the needs of our customers.”

Church’s Mini Sandwich is an all white meat breast filet on a toasted, slightly sweet bun topped with lettuce, creamy Original or Spicy mayonnaise and a crunchy dill pickle chip. One Church’s Mini is only 89 cents or two Mini sandwiches for $1.49.

The Chicken Mini sandwich will be supported on television, radio, in-store, direct mail and outdoor billboards. “Once again, the recurring characters of restaurant team members Doug and his Manager, will demonstrate the genius – that is the Chicken Genius – in this product,” said Andy Bonaparte, Vice President of Advertising. “These characters have taken on their own playful and fun personalities and our customers look forward to seeing the next chapter in the life and times of Doug and his Manager.”

The new Mini Sandwich will be supported by a new :30 ad with Doug on his lunch break about to take a bite of the Mini Sandwich. His Manager sits at the table with him and proclaims that the new Mini is Chicken Genius. Doug states all the qualities of the Mini. Not being able to resist, the Manager leans over and takes a bite of the Mini sandwich that Doug is about to eat.

The :30 Spanish ad features a mother and son standing at the counter at Church’s and Doug and the Manager on the other side. The son relays to Doug that his mother thinks she can go up against the new Mini sandwich in her own home kitchen. They banter back and forth about the ingredients until the mother hears the price of the new Mini sandwich. Knowing she can’t beat the value and quality, the mother then tells Doug to take her son’s order for the new Mini sandwich.

The :15 second English and Spanish ads will showcase ‘Moments of Chicken Genius’ highlighting the new product and its portability.

About Church’s Chicken

Founded in San Antonio, Texas, in 1952, Church’s Chicken® is a highly recognized brand name in the Quick Service Restaurant sector and is one of the largest quick-service chicken concepts in the World. Church’s Chicken® serves freshly prepared, high quality, flavorful chicken both Original and Spicier Spicy and tenders, boneless and bone-in wings, Crispy Chicken Taco and Mini Sandwich with classic sides and hand-made from scratch biscuits. Church’s differentiates from its competitors in care and attention given in preparation of food, and is positioned as the value leader in the Chicken QSR category. As of March 2010, the Church’s system consisted of more than 1,700 locations worldwide in 22 countries, with system sales approaching $1.2 billion. For more information on Church’s Chicken, visit www.churchs.com.

ANN ARBOR, Mich.  (Restaurant News Release)  Domino’s Pizza, Inc. (NYSE: DPZ), the recognized world leader in pizza delivery, is now recognized by Guinness World Records® after Ohio-based franchisee Brian Edler earlier this month shattered the record for most medium pizzas made by a single person in one hour. Edler stretched, sauced, topped and baked an unbelievable 206 pizzas by the time the official stopwatch ran out.

Incredibly, Edler is the second Domino’s Pizza franchisee this year to break a Guinness World Records® record. Earlier this year, California-based franchisee Bob Leikam and his 85-person team set the record for most pizzas made in 24 hours at 6,838 pizzas.

“Both Brian and Bob are exemplary franchisees and outstanding business leaders – and the excitement generated by their record-breaking successes symbolizes the positive, fun and competitive people we are thrilled to have representing Domino’s Pizza,” said Scott Hinshaw, Executive Vice President of Franchise Operations and Development of Domino’s Pizza. “Breaking a world record is a testament to their disciplined work ethic and skill at their craft, and I can’t congratulate them enough. It’s a thrill to have Domino’s Pizza own two records in the pizza category.”

Edler’s record-breaking day coincided with Domino’s 50th birthday on Dec. 9, along with an extremely successful fundraising day. Thanks to customer donations and the store donating 50 percent of the day’s sales, more than $33,000 was collected for various local and national charities, including the United Way of Hancock County and City Mission of Findlay.

No year would be more appropriate to set two world records, as 2010 delivered landmark events for Domino’s – which included cutting the ribbon on its 9,000th store; reinventing its core pizza recipe along with the bold “Pizza Turnaround” campaign; and receiving the distinguished “Chain of the Year” award from Pizza Today, the industry’s leading publication.

“It was incredibly exciting to be able to break a world record, especially on a monumental day at the end of such a fantastic year for Domino’s,” said Edler, who has been with the company for 28 years. “I had a wonderful team to help me train and prepare, and I want to thank the Domino’s team members and the community members who came out that day for their support.”

The previous record for most medium pizzas made by one person in an hour was 168. Edler auctioned off record-breaking pizza No. 169 to add to the fundraising total. It sold for $475. He also auctioned off pizza No. 200, which garnered $5,000.

While there was no official world record for the most pizzas made in 24 hours, Guinness World Records® required that Leikam and his team make at least 5,000 pizzas to recognize their event.

About Domino’s Pizza®

Founded in 1960, Domino’s Pizza is the recognized world leader in pizza delivery. Domino’s is listed on the NYSE under the symbol “DPZ.” Through its primarily locally-owned and operated franchised system, Domino’s operates a network of 9,169 franchised and Company-owned stores in the United States and over 60 international markets. The Domino’s Pizza® brand, named a Megabrand by Advertising Age magazine, had global retail sales of over $5.6 billion in 2009, comprised of nearly $3.1 billion domestically and over $2.5 billion internationally. During the third quarter of 2010, the Domino’s Pizza® brand had global retail sales of nearly $1.4 billion, comprised of over $747 million domestically and nearly $650 million internationally. In June 2010, Pizza Today, the leading publication of the pizza industry, named Domino’s its “Chain of the Year” – making the company a two-time winner of the honor, which it previously received in 2003. Domino’s has expanded its menu significantly since 2008 to include Oven Baked Sandwiches and BreadBowl Pasta™, and in 2009 debuted its ‘Inspired New Pizza’ – a permanent change to its hand-tossed product, reinvented from the crust up with new sauce, cheese and garlic-seasoned crust.

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Dallas  (Restaurant News Release)  Pizza Hut embarked on the Hut Seat Challenge with a single mission: to travel across the nation to ask Americans, What’s your favorite? Americans responded by stepping into the Hut Seat, a nostalgic replica of a Pizza Hut booth, to make the case for their favorites over a slice of pizza. In the Hut Seat, people from all walks of life – from pumpkin chunkers to pirates to cheerleaders — weighed in on hot topics such as ketchup vs. mustard, aliens vs. robots and blondes vs. brunettes. The resulting great debates of favorites from the Hut Seat Challenge can now be viewed at social.PizzaHut.com and clicking Hut Seat.

“We traveled to unique events across the country to put America’s most disputed rivalries head-to-head and ask people to defend their favorites,” said Chris Fuller, director of PR and social media at Pizza Hut. “While we encourage fans to be passionate about their favorite things, we learned that people do agree on one thing: everyone’s favorite pizza, pasta and wings are served up by Pizza Hut.”

The Hut Seat Challenge kicked off at a tailgate party in Lincoln, Neb., and then traveled to the 25th Annual World Championship Punkin Chunkin’ Contest in Delaware, the Boston Comedy Festival and the Pirates in Paradise Festival in Key West before making its final stop at the SEC Championship football game in Atlanta.

Pizza Hut continues the quest to find out, What’s your favorite? Pizza Hut now asks pizza fans everywhere to take the Hut Seat Challenge at social.PizzaHut.com and vote on their favorites: Sci-fi movies vs. fantasy? Football vs. basketball? Burgers and dogs vs. BBQ chicken and ribs? Tell us your favorites at social.PizzaHut.com.

About Pizza Hut

Pizza Hut, America’s Favorite Pizza, delivers more pizza, pasta and wings than any other restaurant. The only pizza company to be named a top ten franchise in 2009 by Entrepreneur Magazine, Pizza Hut began 50 years ago in Wichita, Kansas, and today operates nearly 10,000 restaurants in more than 90 countries. Pizza Hut, Inc. is a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, Inc. (NYSE: YUM). To check out what’s new at Pizza Hut visit PizzaHut.com, or keep up with the brand via its social media channels at social.PizzaHut.com.

CARROLLTON, Texas  (Restaurant News Release)  T.G.I. Friday’s restaurants is spreading holiday cheer with its unique 2010 holiday e-card promotion, encouraging guests to share great deals with friends and family whether they’ve been naughty or nice. Now through December 27, 2010 the most loyal members of Give Me More Stripes® (GMMS) recognition program will receive an email allowing them to print a $5 off of a $15 food purchase coupon and send holiday e-cards with a Friday’s® coupon to family and friends. Facebook fans will also be able to send virtual drinks and e-cards to their Facebook friends.

Four festive holiday e-greeting card design templates are available with the choice of four coupon offers: $5 off a $15 food purchase; 20% off your entire food purchase; buy one entree and get the second for half off; or free dessert with entree purchase. GMMS members can be even nicer by spreading some holiday cheer to their friends while receiving 20 Stripes points for each e-card they send to a valid email address (up to 100 Stripes points).

Non-GMMS guests can also join in the fun via the T.G.I. Friday’s Facebook page. T.G.I. Friday’s fans can send a fun holiday image including a “virtual drink” to their friends 21 and older, along with a link to print one of the coupons. Fans 18 and older can send any of their friends one of the four e-greeting cards with one of the coupons, along with a personalized holiday greeting.

“T.G.I. Friday’s Facebook fans and GMMS members are gearing up for the holidays and we want to join them in the spirit of giving,” said Trey Hall, senior vice president and chief marketing officer of T.G.I. Friday’s. “We hope that by making these e-cards and coupons festive and customizable, our guests will find it fun and easy to give and share rewards. Whether you are naughty or nice, there’s always a good reason to celebrate at Friday’s®.”

For more news and updates from T.G.I. Friday’s, consumers can follow the brand on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/TGIFridays), Twitter @TGIFriday’sNews and YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/user/tgifridays).

About T.G.I. Friday’s

T.G.I. Friday’s restaurants offer authentic American food and exciting drinks in an atmosphere that provides an energizing Friday feeling – any day of the week. Friday’s guest recognition program, Give Me More Stripes®, rewards our loyal guests with great deals and fun events year-round, creating an engaging customer experience. As the original casual dining restaurant, T.G.I. Friday’s differentiates itself with a unique point of view which promises to exhilarate its guests with the feeling of Friday. T.G.I. Friday’s, which operates more than 900 restaurants in more than 60 countries, is also famous for its knowledgeable and charismatic bartenders, approximately 8,000 of whom compete annually for the title of the “Greatest T.G.I. Friday’s Bartender in the World.”   

T.G.I. Friday’s is owned by Carlson, a privately held, global hospitality company headquartered in Minneapolis, Minn.  Carlson encompasses more than 1,085 hotels including, Radisson®, Country Inns & Suites By Carlson(SM), Park Inn® and Park Plaza®; more than 900 T.G.I. Friday’s restaurants; and a majority stake in Carlson Wagonlit Travel, the global leader in business travel management.  Carlson operates in more than 150 countries and its brands employ about 150,000 people. For more information, visit www.carlson.com or www.fridays.com

ORLANDO, Fla.  (Restaurant News Release)  LongHorn Steakhouse today announced the opening of its first location in Whitehall Township, Pa. The restaurant, best known for its atmosphere and flavor of the American West, is located at 1035 Grape St. in Whitehall Township.  As part of its pre-opening training period, the restaurant recently hosted a Friends and Family night which helped raise more than $1,650 for Toys for Tots.

The 5,500-square foot restaurant will employ 85 team members and seat 200 guests. Todd LeFever, a restaurant industry veteran of 20 years, will serve as managing partner.

“LongHorn Steakhouse has been looking to bring its tradition of Western hospitality to Whitehall Township for some time and we are excited about the warm welcome we have received from the local community,” LeFever said.  ”We look forward to helping our guests relax and unwind in an inviting atmosphere while savoring a great steakhouse meal served with genuine western hospitality. We’re also pleased we could help support Toys for Tots and look forward to making more contributions to the local community for many years to come.”

LongHorn opened its first restaurant in Atlanta 29 years ago and has grown steadily – becoming known for its passion for grilling fresh, never frozen, steaks served in a relaxed, comfortable steakhouse atmosphere. LongHorn is known for more than its signature hand-seasoned Flo’s Filet and the bone-in Outlaw Ribeye.  LongHorn chefs love to grill fresh fish and chicken in addition to steak. Items such as LongHorn Salmon, a fresh, hand-cut salmon fillet seasoned with a bourbon marinade; fall-off-the-bone tender Baby Back Ribs; and Parmesan Crusted Chicken, two juicy chicken breasts grilled and topped with a parmesan cheese and garlic crust, are just some of the other specialties guests will find on the menu.

The restaurant opens daily at 11 a.m. for lunch.  It is open until 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

About LongHorn Steakhouse 

More than 25 years after opening its first restaurant in Atlanta, today LongHorn Steakhouse operates more than 340 restaurants in 33 states.  LongHorn is a division of Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE: DRI), the world’s largest full-service restaurant operating company. For more information about LongHorn, please visit www.longhornsteakhouse.com.

About Darden

Darden Restaurants, Inc., (NYSE: DRI), the world’s largest full-service restaurant company, owns and operates 1,800 restaurants that generate more than $7 billion in annual sales. Headquartered in Orlando, and employing approximately 180,000 people, Darden is recognized for a culture that rewards caring for and responding to people. Our restaurant brands – Red Lobster, Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, The Capital Grille, Bahama Breeze and Seasons 52 – reflect the rich diversity of those who dine with us. Our brands are built on deep insights into what our guests want.  For more information, please visit www.darden.com.

COLUMBUS, Ohio  (Restaurant News Release)  White Castle’s Original Slider®-scented candle is now available for purchase in all White Castle restaurants. Due to the candle’s popularity and to meet customer demand during the holiday season, White Castle decided to make the candle available online and in stores.

The Original Slider®-scented candle has been in high demand since it first became first available for purchase in May in honor of National Hamburger Month. In October, the candle returned again at White Castle’s online retail outlet, www.houseofcrave.com.

“Customers everywhere are clamoring for the candle, so we’re going to make it even easier for them to get what they crave,” said Jamie Richardson, White Castle vice president of corporate relations.

White Castle’s Original Slider®-scented candle is the only burger-scented candle on the market.

The candle design replicates the slider in a ceramic holder that reproduces the signature cardboard sleeve of the White Castle hamburger packaging. It’s a fun gift for the meat-lover in the family and for supporters of autism awareness. The candle retails for $13 and net proceeds benefit Autism Speaks.

About White Castle

White Castle is a family-owned business based in Columbus, Ohio that owns and operates more than 400 White Castle restaurants in 11 states. The company was founded in Wichita, Kansas in 1921 and was the first fast-food hamburger chain. For more information on White Castle, visit www.whitecastle.com.

LONDON  (Restaurant News Release)  British restaurant favorite Pret A Manger, known for its natural, preservative-free ingredients, has opened its second Chicago storefront at 100 N. La Salle St. Introducing this location less than three months after the U.K. eatery first entered the Midwest market, Pret A Manger offers on-the-go Chicagoans quick and convenient fresh sandwich, soup and salad options.

“We’re thrilled with the positive response from our first shop at 211 W. Adams, and are eager to build on this warm welcome in Chicagoland,” said Martin Bates, president of Pret A Manger USA.  ”We remain dedicated to serving Chicagoans the highest quality, fresh ingredients as we expand deeper in the Midwest.”

The second location will reflect the same light, polished interior of the company’s 211 W. Adams design, allowing customers to make convenient breakfast and lunch choices without sacrificing taste.

Every Pret A Manger store across the country receives daily deliveries of natural ingredients to their kitchens, and sandwiches, salads, baguettes, soups and pastries are freshly made throughout the day. At the end of the day, all leftover food is donated to local charities, such as The Greater Chicago Food Depository in Chicago. On average, Pret donates about 150-250 meals per day through its partnership with The Greater Chicago Food Depository, and more than 1.7 million products to charities each year in the United Kingdom.

This holiday season, Pret A Manger is giving even more to The Greater Chicago Food Depository by donating 50 cents from every Roasted Turkey and Cranberry and Brie and Cranberry sandwich sold Nov. 12 through Dec. 31 in Chicago. Combined with this effort, Pret is donating thousands of dollars to its other food charity partners as well, including City Harvest in New York and Thrive DC in Washington, D.C.

Pret sources food locally whenever possible so the highest quality ingredients are used in the seasonally changing menu. In Chicago, Pret works with many local suppliers, including Organic Valley’s Midwest dairy farms and local Chicago artisan bread maker Gonnella Baking Company.

The new Chicago store is located in the Loop at 100 N. La Salle St. This location, as well as the 211 W. Adams location, is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Pret A Manger has plans to continue to expand in Chicagoland over the next three years. For more information about Pret A Manger, visit www.pret.com.

About Pret A Manger

Pret A Manger is headquartered in London where they opened their first store in 1986.  Pret is a privately held company and now has over 250 store locations in the UK, Hong Kong, New York, Washington, D.C. and Chicago.  With a kitchen in every store, Pret creates handmade, natural, preservative-free ingredients prepared fresh from scratch every day.  Pret A Manger means “Ready To Eat” in name and concept; it is fresh, convenient food – fast. For more information and the full menu, visit www.pret.com.

About The Greater Chicago Food Depository

The Greater Chicago Food Depository, Chicago’s food bank, is a nonprofit food distribution and training center providing food for hungry people while striving to end hunger in our community. The Food Depository distributes donated and purchased food through a network of 650 pantries, soup kitchens and shelters to 678,000 adults and children in Cook County every year. Last year, the Food Depository distributed 66 million pounds of nonperishable food and fresh produce, dairy products and meat, the equivalent of 135,000 meals every day. The Food Depository’s programs and services for children, older adults and the unemployed and underemployed address the root causes of hunger. For more information, log onto http://www.chicagosfoodbank.org or call 773-247-FOOD.

LOUISVILLE, Ky.  (Restaurant News Release)  Papa John’s International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA) today announced the promotion of Tony Thompson to Executive Vice President, responsible for overseeing Papa John’s North American operations. Thompson will also continue in his role as President, Global PJ Food Service and Research & Development, responsible for leading Quality Control Center Operations, Strategic Supply Chain Management, Research & Development/Quality Assurance and the company’s Preferred Marketing Solutions printing and promotions subsidiary. He will report to Papa John’s co-Chief Executive Officers, John Schnatter and Jude Thompson (no relation to Tony Thompson).

“Tony has done an outstanding job driving efficiencies and improvements throughout our global distribution, quality assurance and supply chain functions,” said Jude Thompson, Papa John’s President and co-Chief Executive Officer. “Supported by talented and experienced operators in Steve Ritchie and Tim North, we look forward to Tony expanding his leadership to our North American operations teams.”

Steve Ritchie has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Operations, responsible for leading Papa John’s domestic company-owned restaurant operations. Ritchie has served in various capacities of increasing responsibility since joining the Papa John’s system in 1996, including Vice President, Global Operations Support & Training since July 2010, responsible for overseeing all aspects of the company’s global operations support and training functions. Since 2006, Ritchie has served as Operating Partner for 19-store franchise, Capital Pizza, in the company’s Midwest Division.

Tim North, Senior Vice President, North American Operations, will lead the brand’s growing North American franchise operations, including the continental U.S., Alaska, Hawaii and Canada. Prior to his appointment as Senior Vice President in 2009, from 2005 to 2009 North served as Papa John’s Division Vice President for the Northeast, overseeing operations for 100 company-owned and nearly 400 franchised units. Both Ritchie and North will report to Tony Thompson.

Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, Papa John’s International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA) is the world’s third largest pizza company. For 10 of the past 11 years, consumers have rated Papa John’s No. 1 in customer satisfaction among all national pizza chains in the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI). Papa John’s also was honored by Restaurants & Institutions Magazine (R&I) with the 2009 Gold Award for Consumers’ Choice in Chains in the pizza segment. Papa John’s is the Official Pizza Sponsor of the National Football League and Super Bowl XLV, XLVI and XLVII. For more information about the company or to order pizza online, visit Papa John’s at www.papajohns.com.

MIAMI  (Restaurant News Release)  Benihana Inc. (NASDAQ: BNHNA; BNHN), operator of the nation’s largest chain of Japanese theme and sushi restaurants, today reported total restaurant sales and comparable restaurant sales for the second four-week period (November 8 – December 5, 2010) of the third fiscal quarter 2011.

For the second four-week period, total restaurant sales increased 3.7% to $22.7 million from $21.9 million, while Company-wide comparable restaurant sales increased 4.5%, representing the tenth consecutive period of comparable restaurant sales increases. By concept, comparable restaurant sales increased 8.9% at Benihana Teppanyaki, but decreased 3.7% at RA Sushi and 1.8% at Haru. There were a total of 386 store-operating weeks in the second four-week period of the third fiscal quarter 2011 compared to a total of 392 store-operating weeks in the second four-week period of the third fiscal quarter 2010.

Richard C. Stockinger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, “The continued success of our Renewal Program, combined with our ‘Chef’s Special’ promotion, helped us achieve an impressive 12.6% increase in guest count during the four-week period. This is our largest year-over-year same period gain since the onset of the Renewal Program in September 2009. While we are pleased with the comparable sales performance of our flagship Teppanyaki brand, we also appreciate our need to address the renewed softness at both RA Sushi and Haru, and intend to do so through various menu, promotional, and marketing initiatives.”

About Benihana

Headquartered in Miami, Benihana Inc. (NASDAQ GS: BNHN, BNHNA) is the nation’s leading operator of Japanese theme and sushi restaurants with 97 restaurants nationwide, including 63 Benihana restaurants, nine Haru sushi restaurants, and 25 RA Sushi restaurants. In addition, 20 franchised Benihana restaurants are operating in the United States, Latin America and the Caribbean.

To learn more about Benihana Inc. and its three restaurant concepts, please view the corporate video at www.benihana.com/about/video.

Safe Harbor Statement

Except for the historical matters contained herein, statements in this press release are forward-looking and are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that may affect the business and prospects of the Benihana, including, without limitation: risks related to Benihana’s business strategy, including the Renewal Program and marketing programs; risks related to Benihana’s ability to operate successfully in the current challenging economic environment; risks related to Benihana’s efforts to strengthen its Benihana Teppanyaki concept and build its RA Sushi and Haru brands; and other risks and uncertainties that may cause results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Although Benihana believes the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, there can be no assurance that its expectations will be realized. In addition to the risks and uncertainties set forth above, investors should consider the risks and uncertainties discussed in Benihana’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, without limitation, the risks and uncertainties discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in such filings. Benihana does not undertake any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which any such statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Charlotte, NC  (Restuarant News Release)  Whether needing a stocking stuffer for a family member or a great inexpensive gift for co-workers, Bojangles’ “gift cards provide a quick and easy holiday present. Gift cards are available now and can be redeemed at any of the nearly 500 Bojangles’ restaurants across the country. Choose the new ‘Tis the Seasoning holiday card or our standard Bojangles’ gift card. Cards can be purchased with values from $5 – $100 and can be reloaded at all locations.

“Bojangles’ gift cards are perfect gifts for out of town friends and relatives,” noted Bojangles’ Senior Vice President of Marketing Randy Poindexter. Bojangles’ gift cards can easily be inserted in your holiday greeting card and dropped in the mail. , The recipient will have a smile on their face as soon as they open it.

“And with Bojangles’ great prices,” added Poindexter, “even a $5 gift card can get the recipient a biscuit sandwich combo, complete with Bo-rounds or seasoned fries and a drink. After a season full of ham, turkey and other holiday traditions, Bojangles’ uniquely flavorful food is the perfect way to start off the new year.”

About Bojangles’

Founded in 1977 in Charlotte, N.C., Bojangles’ Restaurants Inc. serves only the highest quality and most flavorful food to its loyal customers, with all of its proprietary menu items made from scratch. A special blend of seasonings gives the food its unique flavor, including Bojangles’ core menu selections of seasoned chicken, fresh-made-from-scratch buttermilk biscuits and legendary iced tea steeped the old-fashioned way. Bojangles’ also offers biscuit sandwiches that are served all day. Unique sides like Dirty Rice™, Cajun Pintos™ and Seasoned Fries are just a few of the flavorful fixin’ choices. First franchised in 1978, Bojangles’ boasts close to 500 locations in 11 states, primarily in the Southeast. The Company was named one of the top 10 growth concepts in 2009 by both GE Capital and QSR magazine. Our strong performance in all three day parts is what sets Bojangles’ apart from all other restaurants. For more information, visit http://www.bojangles.com.

GLENDALE, CA  (Restaurant News Release)  IHOP, one of America’s favorite restaurants for breakfast, lunch and dinner, has announced that it has entered into a multi-store development agreement with Trihop, LLC to franchise and build new IHOP restaurants including a flagship location in Times Square. The initial development agreement calls for 24 new IHOP restaurants with an option to expand after that obligation is met. All the restaurants will be within the New York metropolitan area, including Manhattan and Queens; Fairfield, Connecticut; and the New Jersey counties of Bergen, Essex, Morris and Union. 

“The New York metropolitan area presents a great expansion opportunity for IHOP and Trihop is our ideal partner given their recognized real estate expertise in that area,” said Jean Birch, IHOP President. ”Trihop’s management team will leverage their experience beyond real estate, including their familiarity with franchises, as a multi-operator with Roy Roger’s.”

“Times Square is missing that something special IHOP will bring,” said Ben Ashkenazy of Ashkenazy Acquisition Corp. and managing member of Trihop. ”And why stop at Times Square — we’re going to expand IHOP throughout the New York metropolitan area.”

The opening of traditional IHOPs, such as those to be opened by Trihop, is one of the key tactics in fulfilling IHOP’s ongoing strategy to expand the brand’s accessibility to new and current guests. IHOP opened their milestone 1,500^th restaurant in November 2010, in Washington, D.C. and has averaged more than 60 new franchised IHOP openings in 2010 despite the challenging economy. With a franchise development pipeline of more than 300 restaurants, IHOP is well-positioned for continued growth in upcoming years. IHOP is also embarking on other growth opportunities, including the test of IHOP express restaurants and the licensing of the company’s name for select retail products. 

For more information or to find an IHOP restaurant near you, please visit http://www.ihop.com/. Follow IHOP on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ihop.

About Ashkenazy Acquisition Corp. and Trihop, LLC

Trihop Management is the operator of Trihop, LLC. Trihop Management’s principal is a former multi-unit operator of Roy Roger’s Restaurants and the managing member is Ben Ashkenazy of Ashkenazy Acquisition Corp. (“AAC”), a New York based real estate company. AAC real estate portfolio includes: Barneys New York; Union Station, Washington, D.C.; Rivercenter Mall, San Antonio; Eastland Center, Detroit; and, various other properties. 

About IHOP

For 52 years, the IHOP family restaurant chain has served its world famous pancakes and a wide variety of breakfast, lunch and dinner items that are loved by people of all ages. IHOP offers its guests an affordable, everyday dining experience with warm and friendly service. The first IHOP opened in Toluca Lake, Calif. in 1958, and as of September 30, 2010, there were 1,483 IHOPs in 50 states and the District of Columbia, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. IHOP restaurants are franchised and operated by Glendale, Calif.-based International House of Pancakes, LLC and its affiliates. International House of Pancakes, LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of DineEquity, Inc. (NYSE: DIN).

CHICAGO  (Restaurant News Release)  Morton’s Restaurant Group, Inc. (NYSE: MRT) (“the Company”) today announced that it has entered into a Credit and Guaranty Agreement with Goldman Sachs Bank USA providing it with a new five year $70,000,000 credit facility. The new facility replaces the Company’s previous $70,000,000 credit facility which was scheduled to mature in early 2011.

The new facility includes a $60,000,000 senior term loan and $10,000,000 senior revolving credit facility and carries a short-term variable interest rate plus a leverage-based margin. The facility contains customary representations and warranties, and affirmative and negative covenants. The term loan and a portion of the revolver are being used to refinance the Company’s borrowings outstanding under the previous credit facility.

“We are proud that we have maintained the integrity and strong reputation of our Morton’s steakhouses through the tough economic climate of the past few years. We recently opened our first Morton’s steakhouse in Mainland China, in Shanghai, and look forward to opening our new location in Uptown Dallas in February 2011. Together with our new credit agreement, which increases our financial flexibility, we believe that these developments better position us to expand the Morton’s brand both domestically and internationally,” said Christopher J. Artinian, President and Chief Executive Officer of Morton’s Restaurant Group, Inc.

About the Company

Morton’s Restaurant Group, Inc. is the world’s largest operator of company-owned upscale steakhouses. Morton’s steakhouses have remained true to our founders’ original vision of combining generous portions of high quality food prepared to exacting standards with exceptional service in an enjoyable dining environment. As of December 9, 2010, the Company owned and operated 77 Morton’s steakhouses located in 64 cities across 26 states, Puerto Rico and six international locations (Hong Kong, Macau, Shanghai, Mexico City, Singapore and Toronto), as well as Trevi, our Italian restaurant, which is located next to the ‘Fountain of the Gods’ at The Forum Shops at Caesars in Las Vegas, NV. Please visit our Morton’s website at www.mortons.com.

CAUTIONARY NOTE ON FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Except for the historical information contained in this news release, the matters addressed are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements, written, oral or otherwise made, represent the Company’s expectation or belief concerning future events. Without limiting the foregoing, the words “believes,” “thinks,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “plans,” “expects” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. The Company cautions that forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, or otherwise, from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, (i) a reduction in consumer and/or business spending in one or more of the Company’s markets due to business layoffs, budget reductions, or negative consumer sentiment, (ii) risks relating to the restaurant industry and the Company’s business, including competition, changes in consumer tastes and preferences, the Company’s ability to maintain adequate financing facilities, the Company’s liquidity and capital resources, prevailing interest rates and legal and regulatory matters, (iii) public health issues, including, without limitation risks relating to the spread of pandemic diseases and (iv) other risks detailed from time to time in the Company’s most recent Form 10-K, Forms 10-Q and other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Other unknown or unpredictable factors also could harm the Company’s business, financial condition and results. Consequently, there can be no assurance that actual results or developments anticipated by the Company will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, the Company. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by applicable securities laws.

LEAGUE CITY, Texas  (Restaurant News Release)  FREEBIRDS World Burrito, known for its extraordinary range of create-your-own gourmet burritos, tacos, burrito bowls, salads and more, will open in League City, its 42nd restaurant at Victory Plaza on Tuesday, December 14, 2010.  Local resident and restaurant veteran Chris Key will manage the new FREEBIRDS restaurant and employ approximately 50 team members from the local community.  

FREEBIRDS and its charitable arm, FREEBIRDS World Works, have a mission to help inspire staff and guests to give back to the community.  In the days leading up to the opening, FREEBIRDS World Works will conduct the following pre-opening events that are open to the public:

• Sunday, December 12, 2010, FREEBIRDS will partner with Bay Area Habitat For Humanity from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. and again at 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.  The first 500 guests during both time slots will enjoy complimentary food and drinks in exchange for a $5 donation to Bay Area Habitat For Humanity.  
• Monday, December 13, 2010, FREEBIRDS will partner with Bay Area Meals on Wheels and offer 250 guests to join us at our new location from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. We will offer complimentary food and drinks with their donation of $5 to Bay Area Meals on Wheels.

FREEBIRDS offers guests “way more choices” and the freedom to fully customize their own burritos, salads, nachos, burrito bowls, tacos and quesadillas any way they like.  With a reputation for highly personalized, one-to-one service, crew members help guests select from an extraordinary range of more than 40 freshly prepared ingredients including fire-grilled chicken, slow-roasted pork carnitas and grass fed beef topped with hand-cut peppers and vegetables plus house made salsas and guacamole.  Guests also have the option to choose from four flavors and four sizes of tortillas to build burritos ranging from the substantial Hybird to the legendary Super Monster which can weigh-in at seven pounds. 

FREEBIRDS restaurants have a free-spirited atmosphere which is reminiscent of a late 60′s rock n’ roll roadhouse. Be it the backwards “F” logo, the music lyrics splashed across the walls, the iconic music soundtrack or the Statue of Liberty — “Libby” — breaking through the Freedom Wall on a custom-built motorcycle, FREEBIRDS delivers freedom of choice and an incredible experience that has created generations of “Freebirds Fanatics” throughout the U.S.   Currently there are 42 locations open with more than 60 planned before the end of 2011.

The new FREEBIRDS restaurant is located in League City at 1615 N. FM 646 and I-45 in League City, Texas.  The restaurant can be reached directly at 281-534-9291. Hours are Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. – 10:30 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. FREEBIRDS offers online ordering and full service catering (feeding 10 – 10,000). For more information or to place an online order, visit www.freebirds.com  

ABOUT FREEBIRDS WORLD WORKS  

FREEBIRDS World Works was created to encourage staff and guests to get involved with local, national, and international charities. Every FREEBIRDS World Burrito location is partnered with two charities to help create awareness, act as a volunteer resource and become ambassadors of their designated non-profit partners.

About Bay Area Habitat For Humanity  www.bahfh.org

Habitat for Humanity International is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing ministry dedicated to eliminating substandard housing and homelessness worldwide and to making adequate, affordable shelter a matter of conscience and action. Habitat invites people from all faiths and walks of life to work together in partnership, building houses with families in need.

About Bay Area Meals on Wheels  www.bayareamealsonwheels.org

Providing homebound individuals warm daily meals and caring interaction with our volunteers.

BLYTHEVILLE, Ark.  (Restaurant News Release)  Pizza Inn (Nasdaq:PZZI) announced today the opening of its latest buffet concept at 1035 E. Main Street in Blytheville, AR 72315. The restaurant has a freshly renovated design, full service dining area and a staff eager to serve up the chain’s innovative specialty pizza line, baked with made-from-scratch dough, hearty pastas, sweet pizzerts and other freshly prepared favorites.

The Blytheville restaurant is locally owned and operated by Teresa and Danny Fleeman. In addition to serving up Pizza Inn favorites, their team in Blytheville is committed to upholding the Pizza Inn principle of giving back to the community.

“Danny and I are extremely pleased to open this Pizza Inn and spark a new relationship with loyal guests,” said Teresa. “We look forward to being a big part of the Blytheville community for years to come.”

As an incentive to potential franchisees Pizza Inn is currently offering a program in which new and existing franchisees pay no royalties the first year, 2 percent the second year and 4 percent beginning the third year.

“We are so confident in the long-term possibilities that we are willing to help potential franchisees during the important early years of business,” said Charlie Morrison, President and CEO of Pizza Inn.

In addition to new locations, other existing Pizza Inns nationwide will be encouraged to incorporate the new look and operations into their restaurants.

“These stores are the future of our brand,” said Morrison. “This concept allows us to showcase our heritage as well as the variety and quality of our food in a fun, family atmosphere.”

About Pizza Inn

Headquartered in the Dallas suburb of The Colony, TX, Pizza Inn, Inc., is an international pizza chain featuring traditional and specialty pizzas, as well as freshly made pastas, sandwiches, and desserts. Founded in 1958, publicly traded Pizza Inn (Nasdaq:PZZI) franchises approximately 315 restaurants and directly owns and operates five restaurants. For more information, please visit www.pizzainn.com.

Pizza Inn is seeking single- and multi-unit franchisees to help grow the company’s network of restaurants in the region. More information on franchise opportunities with Pizza Inn is available at www.pizzainn.com or by contacting Dino Chavez, Director of Franchise Development, at (800) 284-3466.

DALLAS  (Restaurant News Release)  This holiday season, give your wallet a break and your friends and family a gift they’ll actually use – a gift card from Chili’s® Grill & Bar.  Now through Jan. 9, guests who buy $100 or more of Chili’s gift cards will instantly receive 10 percent off their entire gift card purchase.

Chili’s guests can also purchase eGift cards online.  Chili’s eGift cards allow guests to select a decorative background or upload an image for a customized design.  Users can select the gift card value and create a personalized greeting.  Once the recipient’s e-mail address is added, guests have the flexibility to choose a specific delivery date or send instantly.

Guests can print out the eGift card to redeem at Chili’s locations nationwide.  They may also use the eGift card with Chili’s new online ordering by simply placing an order at www.chilistogo.com and selecting “Pay at Restaurant” option at checkout.

“Holiday shopping can be stressful with crowded malls and shopping for last minute gifts, so make it easy this year by giving friends and family a night out at their local Chili’s,” said Krista Gibson, senior vice president of brand strategy for Chili’s Grill & Bar.  ”Whether purchased in the restaurant or online, Chili’s gift cards are the perfect present. It is the gift of time to connect and unwind with family or friends over great food and drink, without the effort of cooking and cleaning!”

Gift cards can be purchased at participating Chili’s locations nationwide as well as online.  To order a gift card online, log onto www.chilis.com and click on “Gift Cards” under the “Shop Chili’s” tab.

About Chili’s Grill & Bar

Chili’s Grill & Bar is the flagship brand of Dallas-based Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT), a recognized leader in casual dining.  Chili’s offers a fun, energetic atmosphere and a distinct, fresh mix of grilled American favorites at more than 1,500 locations in 29 countries and two territories.  Brinker’s wholly-owned restaurant brands include Chili’s® Grill & Bar and Maggiano’s Little Italy®.  Brinker also holds a minority investment in Romano’s Macaroni Grill®.  For more information, please visit www.chilis.com.

LAKE FOREST, Calif.  (Restaurant News Release)  CBS has announced John Fuller, president and chief executive officer for Johnny Rockets, Inc., as the next boss to be seen undercover on the hit reality series, “Undercover Boss,” Sunday, Dec. 12 (9:00 – 10:00 PM, ET/PT). Johnny Rockets is the featured company in this Sunday’s episode that chronicles Fuller’s undercover journey to discover how to take the popular all-American chain to the next level.

Fuller, a first-time CEO, since January, was eager to participate in the program that gave him first-time experience as a server, cook and bartender.  Fuller has also served as Johnny Rockets Chief Financial Officer, since 2008.

“I’ve always been a numbers guy,” states Fuller. “I now know that there’s no way to really understand what our restaurants need to make Guests happy – without getting in the trenches. The lessons I learned from the amazing employees who trained me were invaluable and I don’t think there’s a more constructive way to understand the needs of our Guests, employees and Franchise Partners than to work on the front lines.”

Some of the areas the Company is addressing since the time Fuller spent working in the restaurants include: Uniforms, Training, Music, and Product Augmentation.  All of the employees who worked with Fuller while undercover will play a role in the Company’s planning and implementation of these initiatives.

During Fuller’s time undercover, he worked in numerous locations including Atlantic City, Uncasville, Conn., and at one of their newest sports bar-themed restaurants, in New York City.

Added Fuller, “The employees I worked alongside are not only four of the finest employees we have in our system, they are also four of the finest people I’ve ever met.  They are dedicated, passionate people who make outstanding brand ambassadors for us and for our Franchisees.  I’m most proud of the fact that we were able to assist each one of them, personally, and make some difference in their lives.”

Johnny Rockets has approximately 300 corporate and franchise-owned restaurants in 32 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico and 15 countries, including those found in Six Flags amusement parks and aboard Royal Caribbean cruise ships. The menu features all-American favorites, including juicy hamburgers, hand-dipped shakes and American fries. For more information about Johnny Rockets or franchising partnership opportunities go to www.johnnyrockets.com.

DALLAS  (Restaurant News Release)  Which Wich Superior Sandwiches, an award-winning, national sandwich concept, opens four stores in six days, the busiest development week in the franchisor’s seven-year history. The first Which Wich opened in Dallas in December 2003, and the company began selling franchises in 2005. By the end of 2010, Which Wich expects to have 126 units in 20 states.

New stores opened the week of December 5, 2010, include Snellville, Georgia; Georgetown, Texas; Denver; and Houston. Five more restaurants are set to open in December, including Pasadena, Texas; Atlanta; Chicago; and two more in Dallas.

“We are thrilled by the growth of the Which Wich brand,” says Jeff Vickers, vice president of development. “This has been a very exciting year. In April, Which Wich was named the fastest growing restaurant chain in the U.S. and Canada by Chain Store Guide, and we opened our first airport location in Buffalo. In October, we opened the first store in Los Angeles, and by the end of December, we’ll have our first store in Chicago. We have introduced the brand to some important markets, and we expect to continue this momentum in 2011, with restaurants in Orlando, Florida; Washington, D.C.; San Jose, California; Salt Lake City, Utah; Cleveland, Ohio; and Alabama. We’re on target for more than 30 percent growth.”

Vickers says the company culture plays a large part in the heightened interest in Which Wich. The Which Wich Support Center, led by founder and chief vibe officer Jeff Sinelli, focuses on nurturing franchisees and setting them up for success. The development team seeks passionate individuals to become franchisees, because the best candidates become long-term ambassadors for the brand. Steady, controlled growth is key to the company’s success, because it allows the leadership team to find the right people to join the system.

“We believe Which Wich is a lifestyle as much as it is a business,” Vickers says. “Our franchisees live the Which Wich vibe and, in term, instill that passion in their crews. Our guests respond to that.”

Since its launch in 2003, Which Wich has enjoyed an almost cult-like following, thanks to its more than 50 customizable sandwiches and revolutionary ordering system. Which Wich is currently awarding franchise opportunities in select markets across the country for passionate entrepreneurs interested in joining this superior brand. For more information, visit www.whichwich.com/franchise.

About Which Wich Superior Sandwiches

Which Wich was founded in Dallas in late 2003 by restaurant entrepreneur Jeff Sinelli. The national sandwich chain is best known for its more than 50 customizable sandwiches, creative ordering system, and personalized sandwich bag. In 2007, Which Wich received the coveted Hot Concepts! Award from Nation’s Restaurant News, the premier trade publication for the restaurant industry. Which Wich currently has 120 locations in 20 states. For more information, visit www.whichwich.com.

ATLANTA  (Restaurant News Release)  Hooters of Hattiesburg, MS will open its doors to the public at 11 AM on December 10th, followed by a ribbon cutting celebration on Monday, December 13th.  The store has partnered with Toys for Tots during the opening weekend, offering guests who support the cause with a toy donation a free order of Hooters loaded Tater Tots (Lots-A-Tots).  Located at 101 Carlisle Street off Hardy and 1-59, the Hooters of Hattiesburg is the 5th Hooters location in Mississippi and 1st in the area.  

At 10:00 AM on December 13th Hattiesburg Hooters will host a ribbon cutting celebration with the Chamber of Commerce and will be donating all the toys collected over the weekend to the Toys for Tots organization.

“We are excited to bring the Hooters concept of food and fun to Hattiesburg,” stated Tory Bartlett, Vice President of Franchise Operations for Hooters of America.  ”The store is in an excellent location and has many upgraded features that the residents will enjoy.”

The new 5200 square foot location comes equipped with 30 high-definition televisions,  7 booths with personal TVs, free WiFi, seating that can accommodate 200 customers as well as a full liquor bar and an outdoor patio. The Hooters of Hattiesburg can be reached at 601-268-6600.

Hooters of America, Inc. is the franchisor and operator of over 460 Hooters restaurants in 44 states and 30 foreign countries.  The first Hooters opened in 1983 in Clearwater, Florida.  Hooters is well-known for its brand of food and fun, featuring a casual beach-theme atmosphere, a menu that features seafood, sandwiches and Hooters nearly world famous chicken wings, and service provided by the All-American cheerleaders, the Hooters Girls.  For more information about Hooters visit www.Hooters.com or follow us at www.twitter.com/Hooters of www.Facebook.com/Hooters.

CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa.  (Restaurant News Release)  Saladworks, the nation’s first and largest fresh-tossed salad franchise concept, announces an agreement with a multi-unit developer for three locations in the Austin, TX area. Earlier this month, the franchise announced its first Texas deal for three stores in Dallas. New fans can expect the first Austin store in mid 2011.

Clint Wilkinson, Saladworks’ newest franchisee, spent over 15 years in the furniture retail business and hotel management before he decided it was time to be his own boss.

“I had years of operational and management experience, but it was time for me to do something independently, and franchising is the way to go to achieve your best chance of success,” Wilkinson said. “I also wanted more nutritious, healthy food options in Austin, so when I came across the Saladworks franchise, I knew it was the perfect fit for me.”

Saladworks is sure to be the perfect fit for the people of Austin as well. Austin, Texas has recently been named one of the country’s healthiest cities by the American College of Sports Medicine’s Fitness Index, as well as one of the “fittest” states by Shape Magazine. Saladworks is proud to bring its nutritious menu offerings, including over 50 salad ingredients and signature salads averaged less than 300 calories, to Austin. New fans will enjoy the franchise’s True Nutrition campaign, which educates consumers about what they’re eating and empowers them to make healthy decisions when choosing their salads or creating their own.

Wilkinson’s belief in the Saladworks concept, coupled with its ability to bring more jobs to the city, has led him to set his sights to the future. Saladworks is growing nationwide, and Wilkinson’s expansion objectives match those of Saladworks – for rapid expansion in Texas.

“Three stores isn’t the end for Austin!” Wilkinson said.

“Austin, Texas has consistently been named to many award-winning lists for their health conscious lifestyles, recent job growth, and flourishing economy,” said Saladworks’ Founder/CEO, John Scardapane. “Saladworks is proud to serve America’s Best Salads to one of the ’10 Best Cities for the Next Decade,’ as named by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance Magazine.”

About Saladworks

Saladworks, the nation’s first and largest fresh-tossed salad franchise concept, operates over 100 franchise locations in 12 states. In addition to its existing stores, the chain currently has over 60 units in development across the country. Saladworks locations offer a “fanatic’ly fresh” menu of flavorful salads with signature dressings, proprietary soups and Fusion sandwiches. Saladworks’ True Nutrition guide to healthy eating introduces signature salads averaged less than 300 calories and new “Powerhouse Food” ingredients. Saladworks was voted the nation’s number one salad franchise by Entrepreneur Magazine for 2009 and 2010. For more information on franchising or True Nutrition, please visit www.saladworks.com.

DALLAS  (Restaurant News Release)  Chalak Mitra Group LLC (CMG), an affiliate of the Dallas-based, The Chalak Group, Inc. (TCG), announces that it has successfully acquired thirty-three (33) Yum! Brand restaurants in Illinois, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma for an undisclosed amount.  Current Yum! franchisees, Manish Patel and Pushpak Patel, who are also part of TCG, will operate and lead the management team of KFC, Taco Bell and Long John Silver’s restaurants in the recently acquired 33 locations.

The Chalak Group, Inc. (TCG) is a dynamic business organization led by Al Bhakta, Chet Bhakta, Nik Bhakta, Tony Stevens and Ron Parikh. TCG brings multi-unit restaurant franchise experience, which includes the aggressively growing Dallas-based 56 unit fast casual brand, Genghis Grill–The Mongolian Stir Fry.  TCG teamed up with Manish and Pushpak Patel to open up their first KFC and Taco Bell location in Anna, TX.

“It’s a competitive advantage for us to have Manish and Pushpak operate this division,” Al Bhakta, CEO of TCG said of the newly formed partnership. “Being existing operators in the Yum! system, they bring specific skills and experiences to the business. Our goals are the same as an entrepreneur – to create enterprise value by growing and developing the business.”

“We are very excited about the future growth opportunities with TCG and Yum! Restaurants.” said Manish and Pushpak Patel. “We look forward to serving and growing with the Yum! Brand’s guests in these communities.”

Bhakta and his team will continue to focus on growing Genghis Grill to become a national brand, while the Patels will continue to grow within the Yum! system.

About The Chalak Group

The Chalak Group owns, operates and is the franchisor of the aggressively growing 56 unit fast casual brand, Genghis Grill–The Mongolian Stir Fry. Genghis Grill is ranked as one of the fastest growing concepts in the country by many leading trade publications and has been recognized by national publications such as Inc. Magazine and Entrepreneur Magazine.  For more information on The Chalak Group, please visit http://chalakgroup.com/ . For more information on Genghis Grill-The Mongolian Stir Fry, please visit www.genghisgrill.com.

Falls Church, Va.  (Restaurant News Release)  Elevation Burger, known for its organic, grass-fed burgers and recognized as one of the most innovative burger chains in the country, recently debuted the Coca-Cola Freestyle machine in its Falls Church, Va. location. The machine displays the latest technology from Coca-Cola—dispensing 106 sparkling and still beverage brands from a single freestanding unit.

In addition to its organic beverage options, Elevation Burger chose the Coca-Cola Freestyle machine as a way to satisfy all guests and offer a larger range of choices. Options include regular and low-calorie sparkling beverages, flavored waters, sports drinks, lemonades and Coca-Cola sodas. Guests can serve themselves via an interactive touch-screen on the front of the fountain.

“The Freestyle unit offers a wide array of healthier options, which include more than 50 low-calorie products, 60 non-carbonated drinks and 70 non-caffeinated options. The Freestyle unit puts more dietary control into the hands of our guests,” said Elevation Burger’s founder and CEO, Hans Hess.

Elevation Burger serves only 100 percent USDA-certified organic, 100 percent grass-fed, 100 percent free-range beef burgers freshly ground on-premises and fresh-cut fries cooked in heart-healthy 100 percent olive oil. To complete the meal and satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth they offer fresh baked cookies and critically acclaimed hand-scooped milk shakes. Elevation Burger’s warm and welcoming restaurants are also environmentally friendly, utilizing renewable, non-polluting materials and surfaces including bamboo flooring, compressed sorghum tabletops and low – or no- VOC paints and sealants. 

With AOL Small Business calling Elevation Burger the “Next Big Chain,” and the Food Channel dubbing it one of the “up and comers” in the emerging “better burger” category, the innovative concept is rapidly expanding. The 10-unit-chain has franchise commitments to open over 60 locations in existing markets as well as Dallas, metropolitan New York and metropolitan Washington, D.C. Projections call for over 25 restaurants operating by the end of 2011 with the goal of 100 nationwide within the next few years.

As the nation’s first organic hamburger restaurant, Elevation Burger plans to stay ahead of the curve with innovative menu items and practices.

“We’re always trying to provide our guests with the highest quality and best tasting products in new and original ways. The Coca-Cola Freestyle machine is just one of the many implementations to revolutionize our guests’ dining experience at Elevation Burger,” said Hess. “The Freestyle is a great step forward—giving our guests additional healthy options at the soda fountain.”

About Elevation Burger

The idea for Elevation Burger was conceived by Hans Hess in 2002. The first Elevation Burger opened in Falls Church, Virginia in September 2005 and quickly gained national acclaim. Driven by their passion to bring organic, sustainable and fresh food to a national audience, Hans and his wife, April, created Elevation Franchise Ventures, LLC, which began franchising Elevation Burger restaurants in 2008.There are currently Elevation Burger locations in: Falls Church and Arlington, Va.; National Harbor and Potomac, Md.; Montclair, N.J.; Wynnewood and Collegeville, Pa.; Coral Springs, Fla.; and Austin, Texas. All are franchised locations except the Elevation Burgers in Falls Church and Potomac. The franchise expects to open locations in Dallas and metropolitan New York by the end of 2010.

About The Coca-Cola Company

The Coca-Cola Company is the world’s largest beverage company, refreshing consumers with nearly 500 sparkling and still brands. Along with Coca-Cola®, recognized as the world’s most valuable brand, the Company’s portfolio includes 12 other billion dollar brands, including Diet Coke®, Fanta®, Sprite®, Coca-Cola Zero®, vitaminwater, POWERADE®, Minute Maid® and Georgia® Coffee. Globally, we are the No. 1 provider of sparkling beverages, juices and juice drinks and ready-to-drink teas and coffees. Through the world’s largest beverage distribution system, consumers in more than 200 countries enjoy the Company’s beverages at a rate of nearly 1.6 billion servings a day. With an enduring commitment to building sustainable communities, our Company is focused on initiatives that protect the environment, conserve resources and enhance the economic development of the communities where we operate. For more information about our Company, please visit our Web site at www.thecoca-colacompany.com.

LAKE FOREST, Calif.  (Restaurant News Release)  Johnny Rockets, Home of the Original Hamburger, today announced four new executive hires with the appointment of Cris Pangan as the executive director of development, Alan Greengard as the director of real estate, Burt Wright as the director of training and development and Larry Litton as the regional director of operations. These new team members join Johnny Rockets’ staff of more than 6,000 worldwide employees and augment the aggressive growth plans of the company.

As the executive director of development, Pangan will lead the innovation of several new concepts, as well as assist with international growth objectives. Pangan previously served as the vice president of development for Catalina Restaurant Group in Carlsbad, Calif., where he was responsible for concept development, design, construction, facilities management and equipment design and procurement. With more than 21 years of experience, his extensive development, design and construction expertise in the casual dining, fast casual and quick service restaurant categories also includes various domestic and international positions with Yum Brands, such as Taco Bell, KFC, Pizza Hut and Chevy’s, as well as Asia Franchise Brands.

Greengard joins the development team as the new director of real estate in the Restaurant Support Center and will provide development support to Johnny Rockets franchise partners. Previously, Greengard worked at JP Morgan Chase, where he was the market director and vice president of real estate. He started his restaurant development career at Yum Brands where he worked for 11 years, including various real estate and asset management positions at Taco Bell.  Greengard also worked at Carlson/PickUp Stix as director of development. He received his Bachelor’s Degree at UCLA, as well as his Masters in Business Administration and Masters in Real Estate Development at the University of Southern California. 

Also located at the Restaurant Support Center, Wright joins the company as the director of training and development.  Wright is responsible for all of Johnny Rockets’ training and development needs including management, crew position, new restaurant openings and new product launches. Furthermore, he hopes to implement new training materials and processes that will facilitate employee development and amplify the Guest experience. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from San Diego State University.  Before joining Johnny Rockets, Wright spent 26 years with CKE Restaurants Inc.; eleven years in operations and 15 years in the training department supporting the Carls’ Jr., The Green Burrito and La Salsa brands.

Based on the East Coast, Litton joins Johnny Rockets as the regional director of operations and oversees markets in New York, New Jersey, Virginia, District of Columbia and Florida, as well as supervises several district managers. Prior to joining Johnny Rockets, Larry worked in restaurant operations for nearly 30 years, which included his previous position running the Six Flags theme parks in Massachusetts and Denver. 

“As we hit our 25-year milestone, in the coming year, I believe the addition of these four team members is what will help catapult Johnny Rockets to whole new levels,” said John Fuller, CEO of Johnny Rockets. “They are experts in their respective fields and will undoubtedly contribute to our improved customer-centered operations, franchisee-focused support and ever-expanding footprint, around the globe.”

Johnny Rockets has about 300 corporate and franchise-owned restaurants in 32 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico and 15 countries, including those found in Six Flags amusement parks and aboard Royal Caribbean cruise ships. The menu features all-American favorites, including juicy hamburgers, hand-dipped shakes and American fries. For more information about Johnny Rockets or franchising partnership opportunities go to www.johnnyrockets.com.