T.G.I. Friday's Puts Extra Cheer in the Holiday Season

Carrollton, TX  (Restaurant News Release)  In keeping with the celebratory spirit of the holidays and T.G.I. Friday’s® fun-loving atmosphere, Friday’s is giving back to its guests that come in to enjoy the season, both with Best Buy® prizes and gift card promotions – including a $5 Bonus Bite card for every $25 gift card purchased.

Beginning today and ending December 25, guests dining at Friday’s will receive a special code on their check to win daily and weekly prize giveaways and two chances to win 1,000,000 Best Buy Reward Zone® points – a $20,000 value. Simply enter the code from the Friday’s receipt online to find out if it’s one of the 551 winners. And, the more a guest visits, the more chances they have to win!

“Our guests know we’re the spot where they can come in and escape the hectic feeling of the holidays,” said Trey Hall, chief marketing officer at T.G.I. Friday’s. “And this holiday season, our guests have even more ways to get that famous Friday’s feeling with our new Best Buy Reward Zone promotions and our Friday’s gift card program. It’s our gift to our loyal guests to show them that we’re thankful for them making us their favorite place to do everything from kicking back and relaxing to enjoying a night celebrating with their friends.”

In the holiday spirit of giving, Friday’s is giving guests a treat for themselves as they’re treating others. With the purchase of a Friday’s gift card, either in the restaurant or on the Friday’s website, guests will receive an extra $5 Bonus Bite for every $25 purchased. The more a guest gives, the more they get back!

And, whether buying a gift for a loved one or wanting to treat coworkers out for a holiday celebration, giving the gift of that Friday’s feeling is easy. With customizable eGift Cards, guests can order and even personalize gift cards online by choosing from multiple designs or even uploading a photo. The steps are simple – just select the gift card value, write the greeting and add the recipient’s email address. Guests also have the option of picking a delivery date or sending immediately for that instant gift giving feeling.

Friday’s® Holiday Giveaway Prizes:  

• 504 daily winners of 1,000 Best Buy Reward Zone points ($20 value each)
• 42 daily winners of 10,000 Best Buy Reward Zone points ($200 value each)
• Six weekly winners of 100,000 Best Buy Reward Zone points ($2,000 value each)
• One first prize winner of 250,000 Best Buy Reward Zone points ($5,000 value)
• Two grand prize winners of 1,000,000  Best Buy Reward Zone points ($20,000 value each)

For full rules of Friday’s® Holiday Giveaway promotion, visit: http://www.tgifholidaygiveaway.com/

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

About T.G.I. Friday’s

T.G.I. Friday’s offers a unique, casual experience delivering on its brand promise of “In Here it’s ALWAYS Friday” melding authentic and imaginative American food, exciting and innovative drinks and a one of a kind service experience to provide liberation from the everyday — turning any day into a FRIDAY! It is also famous for its knowledgeable and charismatic bartenders, nearly 8,000 of whom compete annually for the title of the “Greatest T.G.I. Friday’s Bartender in the World.” As the original casual dining restaurant, Friday’s delights guests in more than 900 restaurants across more than 60 countries around the globe. For more information, visit www.fridays.com.

Atlanta, GA  (Restaurant News Release)  Pretzelmaker has created a new combination highlighting Pretzel Bites – the brand’s signature bite-sized salted pretzel snack. The new combination, which includes a large order of Pretzel Bites, a large beverage and a choice of two dipping sauces, is being rolled out during the brand’s Live Large! celebration.  Pretzelmaker is managed by GFG Management, LLC, a subsidiary of Global Franchise Group.

“Since inventing our Pretzel Bites in the late 1990s, they have rapidly become a customer favorite,” said Julie-Ann Reid, Pretzelmaker brand director for GFG Management, LLC. “Our large Pretzel Bites satisfies even the most colossal of appetites and this combination allows our customers to tailor it to their tastes with a wide selection of beverages and dipping sauces.”

To stay up to date on all of Pretzelmaker’s new products and promotions, and get access to exclusive offers and discounts throughout the year, customers can join Pretzelmaker’s e-mail fan club at www.pretzelmaker.com and become a fan on Facebook® (www.facebook.com/pretzelmaker).

About Pretzelmaker® (www.pretzelmaker.com)

Since 1991, Pretzelmaker has specialized in serving fresh baked, hand-rolled soft pretzel products, dipping sauces and beverages. Long recognized as an innovator in their industry, the brand is credited with inventing the popular Pretzel Dog, Mini Pretzel Dogs, and the portable Pretzel Bites. Following integration in 2010, the Pretzelmaker brand now also includes Pretzel Time®. Pretzelmaker is currently the second largest soft pretzel concept in the United States and is also rapidly expanding worldwide with locations in Canada, Guam and Mexico.

About Global Franchise Group, LLC (www.globalfranchise.com)

Global Franchise Group, LLC is a strategic brand management company with a focus on franchising. The company owns a portfolio of franchise brands that includes four quick service restaurant (QSR) franchise concepts: Great American Cookies®, MaggieMoo’s®, Marble Slab Creamery®, Pretzelmaker® as well as two retail franchise concepts: TAF® and Shoebox New York®. The brands are managed by GFG Management, LLC, a subsidiary of Global Franchise Group, LLC. Global Franchise Group, LLC is an affiliate of Levine Leichtman Capital Partners, an independent investment firm, with $5 billion of capital under management and substantial franchise management experience.

Fazoli's Offers Shoppers Black Friday Lunch Deal

Lexington, KY  (Restaurant News Release)  Retailers are projecting Black Friday 2011 to be the biggest ever, with huge savings on toys and electronics.  Shoppers will be camping outside major retailers to snatch up the best deals.  By noon, most bargain hunters will be looking for ways to recharge their batteries and Fazoli’s is welcoming Black Friday shoppers in with a lunch offer to feed their hunger. When shoppers present a receipt for a purchase made from any retailer that day, they will get $2 off any $5 spent on any new menu item.  The offer is good at any participating Fazoli’s restaurant on November 25 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Not only can you save at Fazoli’s, it’s the perfect place to go the day after a heavy Thanksgiving meal.  The Italian restaurant chain now offers a selection of entrées containing 500 calories or less. These low-calorie dishes are part of a whole new line-up of menu items being introduced by Fazoli’s this month.  Other new items available at participating locations include Piada Flatbread Sandwiches, 500 Calorie Flatbread Pizzas, Fresh Chopped Salads, Stuffed Pizza Sticks, Toasted Ravioli, and two new sampler entrées.

Cathy Hull, Fazoli’s Chief Marketing Officer, is pleased to offer shoppers extra savings on Black Friday. ”Our new menu items are perfect for lunch,” said Hull.  “And at Fazoli’s, our guests can take a break from the shopping frenzy and enjoy a delicious sit-down meal for a great value. Now that’s what I call a good Black Friday deal.”

An American family favorite for more than 20 years, Fazoli’s is a leading, next generation QSR.  With an all new premium menu featuring freshly prepared Italian entrees, Submarinos® sandwiches and salads, a contemporary new restaurant design and fresh leadership, Fazoli’s is well positioned for growth.  Already America’s largest Italian quick service chain, Fazoli’s is expanding in select markets throughout the country.  Founded in Lexington, Ky. in 1989, Sun Capital Partners acquired Fazoli’s in 2006.

Contact

John McCauley,  Brokaw Inc.
440.263.3964
jmccauley@brokaw.com

Domino's Pizza Launches New Stuffed Cheesy Bread Line

Ann Arbor, MI  (Restaurant News Release)  Domino’s Pizza (NYSE: DPZ), the recognized world leader in pizza delivery, vows to stop the trend and put an end to the days of skimpy cheesing, has launched a new line of Stuffed Cheesy Bread that stands boldly above the rest of the cheesy bread world.

America deserves more cheese, and with the help of a newly innovated product line, Domino’s is delivering. Each of the three Stuffed Cheesy Bread varieties debuting today is stuffed inside and out with the same amount of cheese as a Domino’s medium cheese pizza. The brand new, permanent menu item is available in three flavors: Bacon & Jalapeno, Spinach & Feta and Cheese only – each including delicious mozzarella and shredded cheddar.

“In continuing to respond to what consumers want from us, we had an opportunity to show the rest how cheesy bread is really done,” said Patrick Doyle, Domino’s Pizza president and chief executive officer. “We continue to be committed to innovate, improve and grow our menu – Stuffed Cheesy Bread is simply our next step.”

A national TV campaign beginning next week follows Domino’s chefs Brandon Solano and Tate Dillow as they realize “under-cheesing” has taken over the cheesy bread scene – and Domino’s wants to boldly put a stop to it.

“Domino’s is committed to making our entire menu, beyond just our pizza, something special for consumers,” said Russell Weiner, Domino’s Pizza chief marketing officer. “The new campaign shows that we’re drawing inspiration from our competitors – helping us do consumers a favor by putting the ‘cheese’ back in cheesy bread.”

During the campaign, cheese lovers can order any of the new Domino’s Stuffed Cheesy Breads or any medium, 2-topping pizzas – choose any two for only $5.99 each.

Also beginning this week, gift cards are available for purchase in Domino’s stores across the U.S. just in time for holiday shopping. Customers can purchase gift cards in denominations from $5 to $100. Gift cards have previously only been available for purchase online at giftcard.dominos.com.

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.” As of the third quarter of 2011, through its primarily locally-owned and operated franchised system, Domino’s operated a network of 9,541 franchised and Company-owned stores in the United States and over 70 international markets. During the third quarter of 2011, Domino’s had global retail sales of nearly $1.6 billion, comprised of over $771 million domestically and nearly $813 million internationally. Domino’s Pizza had global retail sales of over $6.2 billion in 2010, comprised of over $3.3 billion domestically and over $2.9 billion internationally.

In May 2011, Pizza Today named Domino’s its “Chain of the Year” for the second straight year – making the company a three-time overall winner, and the first pizza delivery company to receive the honor in back-to-back years. In 2011, Domino’s was ranked #1 in Forbes Magazine’s “Top 20 Franchises for the Money” list.  Helped by the launch of its Domino’s Smart Slice school lunch pizza in late 2010, Domino’s is collaborating with the Alliance for a Healthier Generation to serve healthier school foods and beverages in the United States. In late 2009, Domino’s debuted its “Inspired New Pizza” – a permanent change to its hand-tossed product, reinvented from the crust up.

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Wingstop Signs Master Agreement to Open 120 Restaurants in Mexico

Richardson, TX  (Restaurant News Release)  Based on the success of its stores in Mexico City, Wingstop has announced the company will add 120 restaurants across Mexico over the next seven years, thanks to a master franchise agreement with WIS Master S.A. de C.V.

Franchise owners Antonio Ortiz Dominguez, Jose Francisco Cantu Quintero and Jose Luis Serrato Villegas opened 10 Wingstop locations in Mexico City over the last two years as part of an original multi-unit franchise agreement. Now, with the master license, the group plans to expand Wingstop throughout the country through their own development and sub-franchises.

“We have found the perfect franchise partners in WIS Master,” said Dave Vernon, vice president of franchise sales for Wingstop. “They’ve proven to be one of the strongest operating groups in the Wingstop system and have opened 10 successful stores in just two years. With this master agreement we expect to open an additional 14 to 17 locations in 2012.”

WIS Master is currently seeking qualified franchise candidates throughout Mexico who are interested in expanding with Wingstop.

“Now that Wingstop has established its international presence, we look forward to entering new countries in the near future,” said Vernon. “We are specifically targeting the Middle East, Latin America and Central America.”

For development opportunities, or franchising information, visit www.wingstopfranchise.com/international-development.aspx.

About Wingstop

Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Richardson, Texas, Wingstop has more than 490 restaurants open across the United States and Mexico. The Wingstop menu features 10 wing flavors including Original Hot, Cajun, Atomic, Mild, Teriyaki, Lemon Pepper, Hawaiian, Garlic Parmesan, Hickory Smoked BBQ and the newest addition, Louisiana Rub. Wings are made fresh, cooked-to-order and customers can also choose from homemade side dishes including Wingstop’s award winning fresh-cut seasoned fries, cut daily in every restaurant from Idaho potatoes. Wingstop has experienced eight consecutive years of positive sales increases, was named one of 10 Best Franchise Deals by QSR magazine and has been voted ‘best wings’ in markets across the country. Troy Aikman, three-time Super Bowl champion and Hall of Fame quarterback, has served as the chain’s national spokesman since 2003 and recently joined the Wingstop Board of Directors. Wingstop was acquired in 2010 by Roark Capital Group, an Atlanta-based private equity firm that specializes in business and consumer service companies with attractive growth prospects and revenues ranging from $20 million to $1.0 billion. For more information visit wingstop.com, wingstopfranchise.com or facebook.com/Wingstop.

Benihana's House Sake Receives Gold Award at 2011 U.S. National Sake Appraisal

Miami, FL  (Restaurant News Release)  Benihana Inc. (NASDAQ: BNHNA; BNHN), the nation’s leading operator of Japanese theme and sushi restaurants, has been given the Gold Award at the 2011 U.S. National Sake Appraisal for its Sho Chiku Bai Classic brand. Sho Chiku Bai Classic is brewed by Takara Sake USA Inc. and is bottled and labeled as “Benihana Sake” for the restaurant’s house sake brand.

Benihana’s house sake competed against 96 contenders in the Junmai category at the international contest and received the Gold Award alongside 26 other entries, the highest award in the Junmai category. Sho Chiku Bai Classic is the only sake made in the U.S. to win the Gold Award this year. The sake was judged amongst its competing beverages by a “blind” tasting conducted in two phases; first, a tasting for all entries and then a secondary tasting of those sakes that placed in the top 50 percent.

The U.S. National Sake Appraisal is an international annual event held since 2001 in Honolulu, Hawaii. Presented by the International Sake Association (Kokusai Sake Kai), the event evaluates 326 sake entries and is the largest event of its kind outside of Japan. Each entry is considered within the following categories: Daiginjo, Ginjo and Junmai. The Appraisal is conducted by ten judges (five from Japan and five from the U.S.) under the auspices of the Japan National Research Institute of Brewing, which has supervised Japan’s National Sake Appraisal since its inception in 1910.

Benihana offers an extensive variety of the traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage at their restaurants, including hot sake, Japanese premium cold sake, premium cold sake and sake flights. There are also specialty drinks available such as the White Peach Sake Sangria and Mango Saketini, both mixed drinks with sake inspiration.

For more information on Benihana’s sake offerings or to find a Benihana location, visit www.benihana.com.

About Benihana

Headquartered in Miami, Benihana Inc. (NASDAQ GS: BNHN, BNHNA) is the nation’s leading operator of Japanese theme and sushi restaurants with 96 restaurants nationwide, including 63 Benihana restaurants, eight Haru sushi restaurants, and 25 RA Sushi restaurants. In addition, 18 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.

Tasty Twist on Traditional Turkey Stuffing Recipe for the Holidays

Columbus, OH  (Restaurant News Release)  Impress your guests and celebrate this Thanksgiving with a famous Turkey Stuffing recipe that includes White Castle’s one-of-a-kind Original Sliders®. A favorite among Cravers for 20 years, this recipe calls for 10 Original Sliders® as the main ingredient.

The recipe originated from a White Castle team member who substituted crumbled burgers for the breadcrumbs. White Castle’s Turkey Stuffing is quick and easy to make, even for those cooks responsible for the entire Thanksgiving dinner.

The Original White Castle Turkey Stuffing ingredients:

10 White Castle hamburgers, pickles removed
1 1/2 cups diced celery
1 1/4 teaspoon each ground thyme and ground sage
1 1/2 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
1/4 cup chicken broth

Tear burgers into small pieces into a large mixing bowl with the celery, thyme, sage and black pepper; toss to combine. Add chicken broth and toss again. Stuff the mixture into the turkey cavity just before roasting. The recipe makes about nine cups, enough for a 10 to 12 pound turkey. Note:  Allow one White Castle hamburger for each pound of turkey, which will be the equivalent of 3/4 cup of stuffing per pound.

“Family and tradition are two important characteristics at the heart of the company and helped build White Castle,” said Jamie Richardson, vice president at White Castle. “The Turkey Stuffing was created by a team member thinking outside of the box for the holidays and unknowingly created a recipe that is now legendary and imminently craveable.”

White Castle is offering a $1 off coupon for a 10 sack of Sliders for cooks wanting to make the Turkey Stuffing recipe. All White Castle restaurants are open on Thanksgiving to help Cravers with a last-minute urge to make the stuffing or to enjoy any other White Castle treat. Turkey Stuffing coupons are available until December 31, 2011.

“As a family-owned company, we really enjoy team members and Cravers using our Original Sliders® for creative and inventive recipes,” Richardson said. “Like many White Castle traditions, the Turkey Stuffing started out on a whim and has developed into a tradition for our company and for many Cravers.”

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 is America’s first fast-food hamburger chain. All White Castle Sliders are made from 100-percent USDA approved beef or 100-percent white meat chicken. This year, the company celebrates its 90th birthday with special events and promotions occurring throughout the year. For more information on White Castle, visit www.whitecastle.com.

Maggiano's Little Italy Expands Beverage Menu, Adds Premium Happy Hour Featuring $3-$6 Offerings from 3-6 p.m.

Dallas, TX  (Restaurant News Release)  Maggiano’s Little Italy® has introduced a new beverage menu, giving guests more options and better value than ever before. With premium offerings at an affordable price, the brand has crafted a happy hour inspired by the Italian-American roots of gathering, sharing and celebrating with friends and family.

Available Monday through Friday from 3–6 p.m. at participating restaurants, the premium happy hour features delectable offerings between $3 and $6:

• At $3, draft beers including Peroni, Stella Artois, Bud Light® and, new to Maggiano’s draft selection, Newcastle Brown Ale®;
• At $4, made-from-scratch signature flatbreads such as Margherita, Pepperoni and Arugula, Italian Sausage and Chicken and Roasted Pepper;
• At $5, wines by the glass, including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot;
• At $6, new signature Classic Cocktails made with fresh juices and premium spirits: Cosmopolitan made with SKYY® Infusion Citrus; Lemon Drop made with ABSOLUT CITRON; Pomegranate Martini made with ABSOLUT BERRY ACAI; Primo Margarita made with Patron Silver; Mulberry Street made with Maker’s Mark®; and Mojitos made with Bacardi® Rum.

“With new energy and revitalization behind our beverage menu, we’re giving our guests another reason to join us and celebrate the company of friends and family with our happy hour,” said Steve Provost, president of Maggiano’s Little Italy. “In addition to including more choices by-the-glass, the entire wine list has been updated. From California Cabernets to Italian Prosecco, and from full-bodied choices to sweet and blush options, our robust offerings have something for everyone.”

The new and extended menu offers more than 40 wines by the glass, including a wider selection of varietals, providing more options to please the palate so guests can find the perfect glass of wine for each course of their meal. The new beverage menu has also added both red and white Sangria in pitchers, further encouraging the Italian-American tradition of family-style dining.

“Sangria is our number one selling cocktail, so it made perfect sense to serve this refreshing beverage by the pitcher to encourage sharing of food and drinks among family and friends, continuing our family-style heritage,” added Provost.

The new premium happy hour is available in the dining room, bar and lounge at participating restaurants. Also available are alcohol-free beverages, including flavored lemonade and Italian soda; coffee and tea; after dinner drinks; dessert wines and ports; aperitifs; and frozen Bellini cocktails.

About Maggiano’s Little Italy

Maggiano’s Little Italy specializes in Italian-American cuisine served in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Maggiano’s menu features both classic and contemporary recipes – authentic pastas, signature salads, prime steaks, fresh seafood, regular chef specials and specialty desserts. Maggiano’s 45 locations worldwide offer lunch and dinner, delivery, carryout service and banquet spaces for special occasions. Maggiano’s is owned and operated by Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT), one of the world’s leading casual dining restaurant companies, serving more than one million guests daily. Brinker owns or franchises more than 1,500 restaurants in 32 countries and two territories. In addition to Maggiano’s, Brinker owns and operates Chili’s® Grill & Bar and holds a minority investment in Romano’s Macaroni Grill®. For more information, visit www.maggianos.com.

Denny's and "Arthur Christmas" Deliver Some Holiday Magic

Spartanburg, SC  (Restaurant News Release)  Looking to spread season’s greetings across America, Denny’s has partnered with Aardman and Sony Pictures’ upcoming family comedy “Arthur Christmas”.  With a wide variety of family fun to be enjoyed over the festive period, Denny’s and Arthur are set to deliver some holiday magic not to be missed.

An Aardman production for Sony Pictures Animation, “Arthur Christmas” at last reveals the incredible, never-before seen answer to every child’s question: ‘So how does Santa deliver all those presents in one night?’  With all the ingredients of a Christmas classic – a family in a state of comic dysfunction and an unlikely hero, Santa’s youngest son, Arthur – the film follows Arthur as he embarks on a hilarious, exciting mission against the clock, with a mission to deliver the last present before Christmas morning dawns.

Kids can enjoy Arthur’s very own festive favorites on Denny’s new “Taste of the Holidays” menu; Arthur’s Milk and Cookies Shake and his Christmas Cookie Pancakes are two delicious dishes to which every kid wishes to wake up to.  The new menu also includes classic holiday items and seven new taste sensations including the Build Your Own Holiday Grand Slam®, Denny’s Holiday Turkey Melt and new Red Velvet Pancake Puppies® with Cream Cheese Icing.

As Santa’s son, Arthur will be giving children the opportunity to tell him exactly what they want for Christmas with the exciting “Letters to Santa” game.  Kids can tell Arthur just how good (or bad!) they’ve been this year and what they’re hoping will be waiting for them under the tree on Christmas morning.  Arthur will make sure Santa sees their very special request and as a thank you for writing to him, he’ll even let them use his reply letter to get a free kid’s meal at Denny’s.

Knowing that every child deserves a gift at Christmas, Arthur and Denny’s will also be teaming up to help less fortunate children get something special this year by participating in the “12 Days of Arthur Christmas” events around the country, leading up to the Nov. 23 movie release.

“Denny’s is delighted to be partnering with ‘Arthur Christmas’ over the holiday season and we hope that America enjoys our efforts to sprinkle around some festive spirit,” said John Dillon, vice president of marketing and product development for Denny’s.  ”In the movie, Arthur believes every boy and girl should have a gift on Christmas Eve; with Arthur’s help we’ll also be ensuring all our diners get delicious dishes over the holidays, with some exciting activities along the way.”

For more information about Denny’s holiday menu or to find a restaurant near you, please visit www.dennys.com.

About Denny’s Corp.

Denny’s is one of America’s largest full-service family restaurant chains, currently operating more than 1,600 franchised, licensed and company-owned restaurants across the United States, Canada, Costa Rica, Mexico, Honduras, Guam, Puerto Rico and New Zealand. For further information on Denny’s, including news releases, please visit the Denny’s website at www.dennys.com.

About Aardman

Aardman, based in Bristol (UK), co-founded and run by Peter Lord and David Sproxton, is a world leader in animation. It produces feature films, television series and television commercials for both the domestic and international market. The studio has won over 400 international awards including 4 Oscars®.

About Sony Pictures Animation

Sony Pictures Animation produces a variety of animated entertainment for audiences around the world. The studio is following its worldwide comedy hits, the 2011 hybrid live action/animated family blockbuster, The Smurfs (3D) and the 2009 mouth-watering Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (3D), with the family comedy Hotel Transylvania (3D) in Fall 2012. The division is also in production with Aardman Animations on two feature films, the CG-animated family comedy Arthur Christmas (3D) in theaters November 2011 and the stop-frame animated high-seas adventure, The Pirates! Band of Misfits (3D) in March 2012.

Taco Cabana Donation to Fund Holiday Trips and Gifts for Soldiers and Families at Warrior and Family Support Center

San Antonio, TX  (Restaurant News Release)  Taco Cabana® recently presented a $63,596 donation to the Warrior and Family Support Center (WFSC), a one-of-a-kind national rehabilitation center located at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio. The donation will help the Center assist recovering military members and their families to take trips during the holiday season, as well as help fund holiday gifts for soldiers and their families.

The money was raised through a fundraising effort at Taco Cabana restaurants during the month of October, where guests received a coupon book worth $5 in exchange for each $1 donation.

“Taco Cabana is thankful to all of our guests who were so generous during the month of October. It’s because of them that we’re able to show our gratitude with this donation to those who have given so much to our country,” said Todd Coerver, Taco Cabana’s chief marketing officer. “With 100 percent of this donation going directly to support WFSC families this holiday season, along with our guests we are grateful to know that as a community we’re able to make such a difference during the holidays for these families.”

Support for the WFSC is part of a company-wide community giving initiative Taco Cabana launched in October focused on honoring members of the military and their families. All Taco Cabana restaurants, as well as employees at its corporate offices in San Antonio, will participate in programs throughout the year that illustrate the company’s commitment to giving back to those who serve this country, including offering a 20% military discount year-round at its restaurants.

“All of us here at the WFSC are thankful for corporate citizens like Taco Cabana,” said Judith Markelz, Director of the WFSC. “The men and women who come here with their families during their medical treatment have sacrificed so much for our country, and their recovery process is aided by support from contributions like this one. Because of this generous donation, we’ll be able to provide many of our wounded warriors and their families with gifts and give them the ability to visit family and friends for the holidays.”

Taco Cabana’s next fundraising program is slated for May 2012 to celebrate military members and their families during Military Appreciation Month, just in time for Memorial Day weekend.

About the Warrior and Family Support Center

The Warrior and Family Support Center (WFSC) provides coordinated services to wounded warriors, next-of-kin and extended family members, offering a friendly, comfortable environment for military families to reconnect during medical treatment. The only one of its kind in the Army, the WFSC allows wounded warriors and their family members to receive emotional support and answers to their questions, and to extend their rehabilitation away from the hospital. The $5.6 million WFSC facility was built in 2008, funded solely by donations, and is staffed by volunteers. The Center gives families a place to take a break, watch a movie on big-screen TV’s, play video games, check email or use the Internet, select a book or magazine to read, make a phone call or just grab a cup of coffee.

About Taco Cabana®: The Flavors of Mexico

In 1978, Taco Cabana began as a taco stand in San Antonio, with the unique recipes and ingredients that reflect our rich Mexican culture and food. With more than 156 restaurants in 3 states, Taco Cabana continues to redefine the Mexican fast-casual dining experience through ongoing menu and service enhancements. We are committed to providing our guests the true flavors of Mexico, served up in a relaxing, patio cafe environment. From our kitchens daily fresh-made tortillas and handmade salsas to our flame-grilled fajitas and refreshing margaritas, our commitment to quality lives on, making Taco Cabana one of the region’s most enduring and beloved Mexican food brands. Connect with us on Facebook and Twitter for offers and updates from Taco Cabana or for more information, please visit www.tacocabana.com.

Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc.

Taco Cabana is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., which is one of the largest restaurant companies in the United States. Carrols operates three restaurant brands in the quick-casual and quick-service restaurant segments with 550 company-owned and operated restaurants in 16 states. Carrols is also the largest Burger King® franchisee, based on number of restaurants.  In the Carrols’ family of companies, Fiesta Restaurant Group owns and operates two Hispanic brands, Pollo Tropical® and Taco Cabana®. Carrols announced plans earlier this year to spin-off Fiesta Restaurant Group as a stand-alone company.

Multiyear Deal Includes 500+ Franchise Locations in 30 States

Manasquan, NJ  (Restaurant News Release)  Jersey Mike’s Subs announced it has signed an agreement with PepsiCo to retain exclusive beverage pouring rights in its 500 locations across 30 states. This multi-year partnership encompasses PepsiCo’s comprehensive beverage portfolio including carbonated soft drinks such as Pepsi, Diet Pepsi and Mountain Dew, as well as Lipton iced teas, Aquafina, SoBe, and Gatorade products.  The sub sandwich chain also features PepsiCo’s food portfolio, carrying a wide array of Frito-Lay snacks.

“I grew up enjoying Pepsi products,” said Peter Cancro, founder and CEO of Jersey Mike’s Subs. “We have a great partnership. The Pepsi team has consistently demonstrated a commitment to Jersey Mike’s by developing customized field support for our franchisees and delivering powerful insights that help us better understand the marketplace and our competitors.  This support gives our business a distinct competitive advantage, and will continue to make Pepsi an important partner as our franchise system grows.”

“We’re excited to expand our partnership with Jersey Mike’s Subs,” said Stacy Reichert, chief customer officer of PepsiCo’s Foodservice division.  ”Its mission of delivering top quality sandwiches while giving back to local communities directly aligns with PepsiCo’s Performance with Purpose commitment to deliver sustainable growth while supporting and investing in areas where we work and do business.  We’re proud to have Jersey Mike’s as a partner, and look forward to helping to grow their business.”

The history of the Jersey Mike’s is one of entrepreneurship and giving back.  Peter Cancro started the company at age 17, before he was even legally able to slice a sub.  Today, Jersey Mike’s has more than 500 locations open and in-development nationwide.  The company remains committed to making a difference in the communities it serves.  Last May, Jersey Mike’s Subs went “pink,” kicking off a six-month fundraiser, ”Mike’s Way to a Cure®,” which raised one million dollars to benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure® cancer research efforts.  Another nationwide fundraiser in March 2011, “Month of Giving,” raised more than $600,000 for 66 local charities.

Jersey Mike’s 500 locations and substantial growth plans will provide even more consumers with PepsiCo fountain and packaged products.

About Jersey Mike’s Subs

Jersey Mike’s, a sub sandwich franchise with more than 500 stores open and under development nationwide, has a long history of community involvement and support. Started at the Jersey Shore in 1956, Jersey Mike’s serves authentic East Coast-style subs on fresh baked bread – the same recipe it started with 55 years ago. The company’s mission is to bring its customers the highest quality, freshest made sub in the industry and give back to the communities in which it operates. A store locator and franchise information for Jersey Mike’s can be found at www.jerseymikes.com.

About PepsiCo

PepsiCo offers the world’s largest portfolio of billion-dollar food and beverage brands, including 19 different product lines that generate more than $1 billion in annual retail sales each. Our main businesses — Quaker, Tropicana, Gatorade, Frito-Lay, and Pepsi Cola — also make hundreds of other enjoyable and wholesome foods and beverages that are respected household names throughout the world. With net revenues of approximately $60 billion, PepsiCo’s people are united by our unique commitment to sustainable growth by investing in a healthier future for people and our planet, which we believe also means a more successful future for PepsiCo. We call this commitment Performance with Purpose: PepsiCo’s promise to provide a wide range of foods and beverages for local tastes; to find innovative ways to minimize our impact on the environment, including by conserving energy and water usage, and reducing packaging volume; to provide a great workplace for our associates; and to respect, support, and invest in the local communities where we operate. For more information, please visit www.pepsico.com.

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The Nation’s Fastest Growing Barbecue Chain donates to the American Red Cross

Dickey's Barbecue Pit Gives Back to the Community

Lincoln, NE  (Restaurant News Release)  On December 12th Dickey’s will be donating 10% of all sales from the entire day to the Cornhusker chapter of the American Red Cross.

According to owner Will Carter, “The American Red Cross supports our community by helping us during some of the toughest times of our lives.   We never know when tragedy will strike but thanks to the American Red Cross we will be prepared.”

This may be the first time that the store has hosted a fundraising event that encourages customers to contribute but the Dickey’s store owner has always been an active member in his community.  He has supported several missionaries and “feels it is important to give back to the community and lend a hand to those in need.  Dickey’s is more than just a restaurant, it is a friendly environment where people meet-up and talk.  It’s so exciting for me to create these relationships with both our employees and guests.  I look forward to seeing the regulars and meeting new people every day!”

About Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants

Founded in 1941, Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants began in Dallas, Texas. More than 70 years later, Dickey’s is now the leader of fast-casual barbecue in the country. Beginning with an aggressive growth strategy and proven business model, and since implementing its proprietary five revenue streams for business growth, Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants can now be found in 35 states and 187 locations nationwide. For more information on partnering with Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants in any location, call (866) 340-6188 or visit www.dickeys.com. Also visit our corporate Facebook page at www.facebook.com/dickeysbarbecuepit. Dickey’s: Passionate about the Art of Great Barbecue.

Media Contact:

Andrea Gonzaba
972-248-9899
agonzaba@dickeys.com

No Place Like Home for Dunkin' Donuts Coffee This Holiday Season

Canton, MA  (Restaurant News Release)  There is now truly no place like home for the holidays for coffee lovers, as Dunkin’ Donuts, America’s all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods, today unwrapped holiday offers that make it easy and affordable to enjoy the perfect cup of America’s Favorite Coffee at home this holiday season. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, or need a boost to gear up for holiday shopping, Dunkin’ Donuts can keep you running on Dunkin’ Donuts coffee at home all season long.

Beginning today and continuing through the year, participating Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants will now sell the Keurig® Elite Brewing System – one of the most popular single-cup brewing models — making it easy for guests to purchase a Keurig brewer as a gift for themselves or anyone on their holiday list. The Elite Brewing System, featuring Keurig’s Quiet Brew® technology, brews a perfect cup of coffee in under one minute at the touch of a button, with convenient, easy clean up. Dunkin’ Donuts K-Cup® Portion Packs are available in five popular flavors, including Original Blend, Dunkin’ Decaf®, French Vanilla, Hazelnut and Dunkin’ Dark® Roast. The suggested retail price for a 14-count box is $11.99.

To show appreciation for Dunkin’ Donuts fans during this season of giving, the company today launched the “Great HoliDDay Giveaway” on Facebook, a daily sweepstakes with the chance to win a Dunkin’ Donuts home brewing package featuring everything fans need to enjoy their Dunkin’ Donuts coffee at home.  Each day between today, November 15, and December 14, Dunkin’ Donuts will select one fan to receive a Keurig Brewing System, two pounds of Dunkin’ Donuts packaged coffee, two boxes of Dunkin’ Donuts K-Cup® Portion Packs, and two Dunkin’ Donuts ceramic mugs.  To enter and for additional terms and conditions, visit http://www.facebook.com/DunkinDonuts?sk=app_305443082817041.

Finally, Dunkin’ Donuts brings the joy of drinking Dunkin’ Donuts coffee at home to the world of the Sims Social Facebook® game.  Players who visit the Dunkin’ Donuts Facebook page can receive two exclusive special bonus items: a pound of Dunkin’ Donuts packaged coffee and a home brewer machine called the Dunkin’-Matic 5000 so they can proudly brew the Dunkin’ coffee in their Sim’s home. As part of Dunkin’ Donuts’ Sims Social brand integration campaign, players can already gift one cup of coffee and one food item to their Facebook friends every month, giving Sims characters a boost in the game. For more information, visit  Dunkin’ Donuts’ official Facebook page (www.facebook.com/DunkinDonuts).

For more information about Dunkin’ Donuts, please visit www.DunkinDonuts.com or follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/DunkinDonuts) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/DunkinDonuts).

About Dunkin’ Donuts

Founded in 1950, Dunkin’ Donuts is America’s favorite all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods. Dunkin’ Donuts is a market leader in the regular/decaf coffee, iced coffee, hot flavored coffee, donut, bagel and muffin categories. Dunkin’ Donuts has earned the No. 1 ranking for customer loyalty in the coffee category by Brand Keys for five years running. The company has more than 9,700 restaurants in 31 countries worldwide. In 2010, Dunkin’ Donuts’ global system-wide sales were $6 billion. Based in Canton, Mass., Dunkin’ Donuts is a subsidiary of Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: DNKN). For more information, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com.

Atlanta, GA  (Restaurant News Release)  Marble Slab Creamery and MaggieMoo’s Ice Cream and Treatery will celebrate National Cupcake Day on Thursday, December 15, 2011 by giving customers one free ice cream cupcake from 4 to 7pm.*  Marble Slab Creamery and MaggieMoo’s Ice Cream and Treatery are managed by GFG Management, LLC.

The giveaway on National Cupcake Day will feature a variety of flavors offered by Marble Slab and MaggieMoo’s, the innovators of the ice cream cupcake.  Customers looking to celebrate National Cupcake Day are invited to visit any participating Marble Slab and MaggieMoo’s location to receive their free treat.  Participating locations can be viewed by visiting www.MarbleSlab.com and www.MaggieMoos.com.

“This is the second year in a row Marble Slab and MaggieMoo’s have celebrated National Cupcake Day with a giveaway of our ice cream cupcake,” said David Kaiser, Director of Frozen Goods, GFG Management, LLC.  ”We love fun observances like National Cupcake Day and look forward to celebrating with our extremely valued customers by offering a free and very delicious ice cream treat.”

To order your Marble Slab Creamery Cupcakes, Cake or Ice Cream Pizza or to find out more information about Marble Slab Creamery, customers can visit www.marbleslab.com to join Marble Mail, become a Facebook® fan or follow @MarbleSlab on Twitter®.

To order your MaggieMoo’s Ice Cream and Treatery Cupcakes, Cake, Ice Cream Pizza or to find out more information about MaggieMoo’s, customers can visit MaggieMoos.com and join MaggiE-mail, follow @MaggieMoos on Twitter® or become a Facebook® Fan.

* While supplies last. Limit one offer per guest during the day of the promotion. Counts vary by store. Valid only at participating U.S. stores.  No purchase necessary.

About Marble Slab Creamery® (www.marbleslab.com)

Marble Slab Creamery, a leading purveyor of chef created super-premium hand-mixed ice cream and the innovator of the frozen slab technique, was founded in 1983.  Every batch of Marble Slab Creamery ice cream is fresh made in small batches in store using dairy from local farms and flavor ingredients from around the world. Today, Marble Slab Creamery is enjoyed by consumers across the globe with locations in Bahrain, Canada, Kuwait, Lebanon, Mexico, Oman, Scotland, United Arab Emirates, and the United States.

About MaggieMoo’s Ice Cream and Treatery® (www.maggiemoos.com)

Inventor of the ice cream cupcake, ice cream pizza and a number of specialty ice cream flavors, MaggieMoo’s Ice Cream and Treatery is known for ice cream innovation. Opening its first store in 1989, MaggieMoo’s has been serving up super premium ice cream and cakes for over 20 years and has consistently been awarded blue ribbons by the National Ice Cream Retailers Association. MaggieMoo’s brand icon is Miss Maggie Moo, an ice cream celubutante, who focuses on giving back to the community by working with celebrities to raise money and awareness for local and national causes.

About Global Franchise Group, LLC (www.globalfranchise.com)

Global Franchise Group, LLC is a strategic brand management company with a focus on franchising. The company owns a portfolio of franchise brands that includes five quick service restaurant (QSR) franchise concepts: Great American Cookies®, MaggieMoo’s®, Marble Slab Creamery®, Pretzelmaker® and Pretzel Time®, as well as two retail franchise concepts: TAF® and Shoebox New York®. The brands are managed by GFG Management, LLC, a subsidiary of Global Franchise Group, LLC. Global Franchise Group, LLC is an affiliate of Levine Leichtman Capital Partners, an independent investment firm, with approximately $5 billion of capital under management and substantial franchise management experience.

Domino's Pizza Gives Thanks and Raises Some 'Dough' for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Ann Arbor, MI  (Restaurant News Release)  Domino’s Pizza (NYSE: DPZ), the recognized world leader in pizza delivery, is gearing up to raise “dough” for the kids of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital during its 8th annual Thanks and Giving® campaign. Domino’s customers will have the opportunity to make a donation to benefit the children of St. Jude. Donations can be made when ordering over the phone, in stores or online at www.dominos.com. Customers also have the option to text “PIZZA” to 50333 to donate $5 to St. Jude.

This year, Domino’s is proud to be matching dollar-for-dollar all customer contributions up to a total of $250,000 – making each dollar raised from customers even more impactful.

“I am proud that Domino’s has raised more than $9 million since we began participating in the Thanks and Giving campaign in 2005,” said J. Patrick Doyle, Domino’s Pizza president and chief executive officer. “This year, in addition to our $250,000 donation, our goal is to raise $3 million for St. Jude to support their breakthrough discoveries and research that lead to lifesaving cures for children and their families around the world.”

“Domino’s is a committed partner to our holiday Thanks and Giving campaign, helping us increase awareness and raise funds for the lifesaving mission of St. Jude,” said Marlo Thomas, national outreach director for St. Jude. “It is because of partners like Domino’s and its customers that we can keep our promise that no child will ever be turned away if a family can’t pay.”

St. Jude is the nation’s leading pediatric research and treatment center devoted solely to children with cancer and other deadly diseases and the only hospital that covers all of the costs for treatment, travel, food and lodging for each patient and a family member.

Since it opened its doors nearly 50 years ago, St. Jude has developed protocols that have helped push survival rates for childhood cancers from less than 20 percent to 80 percent overall. In fact, the survival rate for the most common form of childhood cancer, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, has risen from just 4 percent in 1962 to 94 percent today.

The Domino’s campaign began Nov. 14, and runs through the remainder of 2011.

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.” As of the third quarter of 2011, through its primarily locally-owned and operated franchised system, Domino’s operated a network of 9,541 franchised and Company-owned stores in the United States and over 70 international markets. During the third quarter of 2011, Domino’s had global retail sales of nearly $1.6 billion, comprised of over $771 million domestically and nearly $813 million internationally. Domino’s Pizza had global retail sales of over $6.2 billion in 2010, comprised of over $3.3 billion domestically and over $2.9 billion internationally.

In May 2011, Pizza Today named Domino’s its “Chain of the Year” for the second straight year – making the company a three-time overall winner, and the first pizza delivery company to receive the honor in back-to-back years. In 2011, Domino’s was ranked #1 in Forbes Magazine’s “Top 20 Franchises for the Money” list.  Helped by the launch of its Domino’s Smart Slice school lunch pizza in late 2010, Domino’s is collaborating with the Alliance for a Healthier Generation to serve healthier school foods and beverages in the United States. In late 2009, Domino’s debuted its “Inspired New Pizza” – a permanent change to its hand-tossed product, reinvented from the crust up.

Order – www.dominos.com
Mobile – http://mobile.dominos.com
Info – www.dominosbiz.com
Twitter – http://twitter.com/dominos
Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/Dominos

About St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is internationally recognized for its pioneering research and treatment of children with cancer and other life-threatening diseases. The hospital’s research has helped push overall survival rates for childhood cancer from less than 20 percent when the institution opened to almost 80 percent today. It is the first and only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children, and no family ever pays St. Jude for care. For more information, go to www.stjude.org  and follow St. Jude on www.facebook.com/stjude  and www.twitter.com/stjude.

BR Guest Hospitality and Joel Robuchon Open kibo Japanese Grill in NYC

New York, NY  (Restaurant News Release)  Stephen Hanson’s BR Guest Hospitality collaborated with Chef Joel Robuchon, recipient of the most Michelin stars in the world, to open kibo Japanese Grill in New York City. Kibo is the first partnership between NYC-based restaurateur Hanson and the acclaimed French chef, who has collaborated with Hanson as a culinary consultant, creating a menu of robata grill, sushi, noodles and Japanese small plates.  Robuchon’s refined French cuisine and Japanese expertise can be seen at his first Japanese restaurant Yoshi, in Monaco’s Metropole Hotel, which earned a Michelin Star – making him a venerable match for kibo, New York’s newest destination for a modern lifestyle with an egalitarian nightlife focus.

“It’s been an honor to work with Joel,” said Stephen Hanson, President & Founder of BR Guest Hospitality. “He is the chef of the century and to be able to bring his culinary mastery to our guests is a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

Chef Joel Robuchon has opened countless restaurants all over the world including Hong Kong, Las Vegas, London, Macau, Monaco, New York City, Paris, Taipei, and Tokyo, and has received glittering awards for his extraordinary culinary accomplishments and cook books, with 26 Michelin stars and titles including “Chef of the Century” by Gault Millau’s Guide.

Leading up to the opening of kibo, Robuchon entrusted Yosuke Suga, Robuchon’s disciple for 15 years, with training the kibo staff and implementing the Robuchon-crafted menu. Suga, native to Japan, drew upon his sweeping experience opening L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon in Tokyo, L’Atelier in New York City in the Four Seasons Hotel followed by Taipei, and most recently Champs Elysees in Paris. Robuchon with Suga and the rest of the kibo team bring modern Japanese dishes at a great value to New Yorkers with dishes such as Lobster Miso Soup, Smoked Pork Ramen, “dressed sushi” from Sushi of Gari Alum Boo Lim, and skewered items like Wagyu Beef from the Robata Grill paired with a selection of over 100 sakes.

kibo is now open for lunch Monday-Friday 11:30am-5pm, and for dinner 7 days a week:
Sunday – Tuesday 5pm–10pm, Wednesday – Thursday 5pm–11pm, Friday – Saturday 5pm–12am. Featured DJ Wednesday–Saturday.

111 East 18th Street at Park Avenue South
New York, NY 10003
212-824-2770
www.kibonyc.com

Olive Garden Promotes Education in Local Communities Through its 16th-Annual Pasta Tales Essay Writing Contest

Orlando, FL  (Restaurant News Release)  Educators across the country are continually looking for ways to enhance education with limited budgets and resources. This year’s Olive Garden Pasta Tales national essay writing contest invites students to share their ideas on how to meet that challenge and generally support education in their community.

Beginning Monday, Nov. 21 and continuing through Sunday, Jan. 29, Olive Garden is asking writers in first through 12th-grade in the U.S. and Canada to submit an essay of 50 to 250 words answering the question: “If you were given $5,000 to support education in your local community, how would you use it and why?“

The grand prize winner of Olive Garden’s 16th-Annual Pasta Tales essay writing contest will receive a three-day trip to New York City that includes dinner at the Olive Garden in Times Square and a $2,500 savings bond. In addition, Olive Garden will provide a $5,000 grant to support education in the winner’s local community, which will bring his/her essay to life. The winners in each grade category will be awarded a $500 savings bond and a family dinner at their local Olive Garden restaurant.

With its focus on education, this year’s essay question aligns with Darden Restaurants’ Recipe for Success™ initiative.  Darden is the parent company of Olive Garden.  Recipe for Success™ is designed to enable and empower youth to pave their own path to success by providing them access to the tools and information necessary to prepare for and navigate the process of postsecondary education.  The initiative also helps break down financial barriers by providing students with scholarships.  Just like Recipe for Success™, the goal of the Pasta Tales contest is to help youth forge a path to success and help them realize their dreams through a thought-provoking and educational exercise.

Pasta Tales entry forms and complete rules are available on Olive Garden’s website at http://www.olivegarden.com/About-Us/Community/Pasta-Tales/ and at local Olive Garden restaurants beginning Nov. 21.

All entries must include the writer’s first and last name, complete address, phone number with area code, grade, date of birth including year and a statement that the work is his or her own.  Entries must be submitted either online or postmarked by January 29, 2012 and sent to Pasta Tales, PMB 2000, 6278 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308-1916.

Submissions will be judged based on creativity, adherence to theme, organization, grammar, punctuation and spelling by the Quill and Scroll Society of the College of Journalism and Communications at the University of Iowa, with winners selected by Olive Garden.

Olive Garden’s Pasta Tales essay contest provides students in its local communities an outlet to creatively express the influences, experiences and stories that have shaped their lives. For more information about Olive Garden’s Pasta Tales, contact Lauren Simo or Catie Jackson at (954) 776-1999 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST.

Olive Garden is the leading restaurant in the Italian dining segment with more than 750 restaurants, more than 88,000 employees and more than $3 billion in annual sales.  Olive Garden is a division of Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE: DRI), the world’s largest full-service restaurant operating company.  In 2011, Darden became the first full-service restaurant company ever to be named to the FORTUNE “100 Best Companies to Work For” list.  Olive Garden is committed to making a difference in the lives of others in the local community. Olive Garden participates in the Darden Harvest program, which has donated more than 50 million pounds of food to local community food banks across the country.  For more information, visit Olive Garden’s website at www.olivegarden.com.

For more information on Recipe for Success™ please visit http://www.darden.com/commitment/community/recipe_for_success.asp.

Miami, FL  (Restaurant News Release)  Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc., an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: TAST) announced that industry veteran Joe Brink has joined Fiesta as vice president of supply chain management.

Brink will oversee all aspects of supply chain management for Fiesta’s two brands, Taco Cabana and Pollo Tropical, including food and ingredient sourcing, purchasing, food safety, quality assurance and distribution. He will report directly to Fiesta’s Chief Executive Officer Tim Taft.

“I have worked with Joe for the past six years and am familiar with his tireless work ethic and the effort he puts into cultivating outstanding relationships with his supplier partners. It’s great to be able to add his caliber of leadership to the team,” said Tim Taft.  ”As outside influences continue to put pressure on the foodservice industry, I’m confident that under Joe’s leadership, Taco Cabana and Pollo Tropical will continue to deliver high quality food at the tremendous value that guests have come to expect from us.”

Brink’s extensive experience spans more than 20 years of supply chain management in the restaurant industry. He was most recently vice president of supply chain management for Souper Salad and Grandy’s restaurants. Prior to that, he served in senior positions across supply chain management, purchasing and R&D for both Pizza Inn and Grandy’s.

About Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc.

Fiesta Restaurant Group was formed in 2011 as an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc., bringing Carrols’ two Hispanic restaurant brands – Pollo Tropical® and Taco Cabana® – under a new structure and leadership team. In August 2011, restaurant industry veteran Tim Taft was named chief executive officer of Fiesta. Carrols Restaurant Group previously announced plans to spin off Fiesta Restaurant Group, Inc. as a stand-alone public company in the first quarter of 2012.

Fiesta Restaurant Group owns and operates the two Hispanic brands with more than 245 company-owned and operated restaurants across six states, and 35 franchised restaurants in the United States, Puerto Rico, Ecuador, Honduras, Trinidad, the Bahamas and Venezuela.

FREEBIRDS World Burrito to Open in San Diego, CA

San Francisco, CA  (Restaurant News Release)  FREEBIRDS World Burrito, the fast casual burrito joint with the rock ‘n’ roll attitude, announced today it will open a new location at 3958 5th Ave. in San Diego, California on Thursday, November 17, 2011.

To celebrate, FREEBIRDS will give the first 25 guests in line free burritos for a year! In the days leading up to the opening, FREEBIRDS and its charitable arm, World Works will conduct the following pre-opening events that are open to the public:

• Tuesday, November 15, 2011: FREEBIRDS Hillcrest will partner with Operation Homefront of Southern California from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and again at 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.  The first 250 guests during each time slot will enjoy complimentary food and drinks in exchange for a minimum $5 donation to Operation Homefront.
• Wednesday, November 16, 2011: FREEBIRDS Hillcrest will partner with the Scripps Health Foundation from 11:00 a.m. –-1:00 p.m. and again at 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. The first 250 guests at each time slot will enjoy complimentary food and drinks in exchange for a minimum $5 donation to Scripps Health Foundation.

FREEBIRDS is about awesome burritos and freedom of choice. As guests join the queue, they are partnered with a team member, known as a “Roller,” who helps them choose from four sizes of burrito made from four possible flavors of tortilla. Burritos are hand-rolled with the guest’s personal selection from more than 40 freshly prepared ingredients including grass fed beef, hormone-free chicken, or all natural slow roasted carnitas topped with hand cut veggies, hot peppers, house made salsas, queso and guacamole. The restaurants have a free-spirited ambience with a rockin’ soundtrack, reminiscent of a late-’60s rock ‘n’ roll roadhouse. It’s Not Normal!®

The new FREEBIRDS will employ approximately 75 team members from the local community. FREEBIRDS Hillcrest is located at 3958 5th Ave., San Diego, CA. 92103. The restaurant can be reached directly at 619-299-5500. Hours are Monday through Wednesday 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Thursday through Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 10:30 p.m. and Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.

FREEBIRDS offers online ordering and full service catering to feed 10 – 10,000. For more information or to place an order, visit www.freebirds.com, call (888) 392-2287 or email catering@freebirds.com.

Concept owner Tavistock Restaurants, LLC operates 55 FREEBIRDS restaurants in Texas and California.

ABOUT FREEBIRDS WORLD WORKS 

The FREEBIRDS mission is to feed your belly and your soul. To help achieve this mission, FREEBIRDS World Works was created as the charitable arm of the popular restaurant chain with a mission to give back to the community by inspiring staff and guests to get involved and create a movement of giving.  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 Operation Homefront of Southern California

Operation Homefront provides emergency financial and other assistance to the families of our service members and wounded warriors.

About Scripps Health Foundation

Scripps strives to provide superior health services in a caring environment and to make a positive,

measurable difference in the health of individuals in the communities we serve. We devote our resources to delivering quality, safe, cost effective, socially responsible health care services. We advance clinical research, community health education, education of physicians and health care professionals and sponsor graduate medical education.

FREEBIRDS World Burrito to Open In Tulsa, Oklahoma

Austin, TX  (Restaurant News Release)  FREEBIRDS World Burrito, the fast casual burrito joint with the rock ‘n’ roll attitude, announced today it will open a new location at 7547B South Olympia Ave. West Tulsa, OK 74132 on Thursday, November 17, 2011.

To celebrate, FREEBIRDS will give the first 25 guests in line free burritos for a year! In the days leading up to the opening, FREEBIRDS and its charitable arm, World Works will conduct the following pre-opening events that are open to the public:

• Tuesday, November 15, 2011: FREEBIRDS Tulsa will partner with Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and again at 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.  The first 250 guests during each time slot will enjoy complimentary food and drinks in exchange for a minimum $5 donation to Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma.
• Wednesday, November 16, 2011: FREEBIRDS Tulsa will partner with the Humane Society of Tulsa from 11:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m. and again at 5:00pm-7:00pm. The first 250 guests at each time slot will enjoy complimentary food and drinks in exchange for a minimum $5 donation to the Humane Society of Tulsa.

FREEBIRDS is about awesome burritos and freedom of choice.   As guests join the queue, they are partnered with a team member, known as a “Roller,” who helps them choose from four sizes of burrito made from four possible flavors of tortilla. Burritos are hand-rolled with the guest’s personal selection from more than 40 freshly prepared ingredients including grass fed beef, hormone-free chicken, or all natural slow roasted carnitas topped with hand cut veggies, hot peppers, house made salsas, queso and guacamole.  The restaurants have a free-spirited ambience with a rockin’ soundtrack, reminiscent of a late-’60s rock ‘n’ roll roadhouse. It’s Not Normal!®

The new FREEBIRDS will employ approximately 75 team members from the local community. FREEBIRDS Tulsa is located at 7547B South Olympia Ave. West Tulsa, OK 74132. The restaurant can be reached directly at 918-445-4113. Hours are Monday through Thursday 11:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. and Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

FREEBIRDS offers online ordering and full service catering to feed 10 – 10,000. For more information or to place an order, visit www.freebirds.com, call (888) 392-2287 or email catering@freebirds.com.

Concept owner Tavistock Restaurants, LLC operates 56 FREEBIRDS restaurants in Texas and California.

ABOUT FREEBIRDS WORLD WORKS 

The FREEBIRDS mission is to feed your belly and your soul.  To help achieve this mission, FREEBIRDS World Works was created as the charitable arm of the popular restaurant chain with a mission to give back to the community by inspiring staff and guests to get involved and create a movement of giving.  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 Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma

Feeding the hungry of Eastern Oklahoma through a network of Partner Programs and engaging our communities in ending hunger.

About The Humane Society of Tulsa

The Humane Society of Tulsa is a private non-profit organization committed to the promotion of responsible animal ownership and pet population control. We strive to accomplish these goals by working hand in hand with our community to provide education, counseling and assistance on proper pet care and the importance of spaying and neutering.

Over 25,000 Meals to be Served at 19th Annual "Helpings from the Heart" Thanksgiving Feast

Orlando, FL  (Restaurant News Release)  Along with the generous support of local businesses, Golden Corral’s Thanksgiving tradition has now become “Florida’s Largest Community Thanksgiving Meal” and is expected to serve over 25,000 meals on Thanksgiving Day. All are invited to dine in The Salvation Army gymnasium located on 440 W. Colonial Dr., beginning at 11 a.m. The dinner is a collaborative effort founded by Eric Holm and made possible with the support of the non-profit community, corporations and local businesses including: U.S. Foods, MBM Food Services, New York Bakery, Bubbalous Bar-b-q, Pepsi, Harvill’s Produce, Action Ice and Sprint who provides cell phones for those who wish to call home.  Over 1,000 Salvation Army volunteers will arrive throughout the day to assist with serving the meal.

Owner and president of Metro Corral Partners, Eric Holm, founded Helpings from the Heart to give back to the community and return the favor to The Salvation Army which provided a Thanksgiving meal to the Holm family many years ago when Mr. Holm was a child. “Golden Corral takes pride in feeding the community every day of the year in its restaurants and we see Thanksgiving as a way of giving back to Central Florida by providing for those in need,” said Holm. “This year we know that all kinds of families may need help.”

“Last year we served over 24,000 meals, and, this year with the economy the way it is, we are preparing for over 25,000 meals,” said Jason Gronlund, executive chef and kitchen manager of Helpings from the Heart. “We know that it is a lot of food to prepare and have ready, but every year we make it happen and every year we get better at doing it.”

Major Andrew Kelly, Area Commander of The Salvation Army in Orlando, says, “In 25 years, I have never experienced a community more in need than this one is right now.  This meal has always been a blessing to those we serve, and this year, it will do more good than ever.”

Eric Holm, of Metro Corral Partners dba Golden Corral is a prominent-local business man and long-time supporter of The Salvation Army. Mr. Holm owns and operates twenty seven Golden Corral restaurants and specializes in making pleasurable dining affordable.

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church.  Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God.  Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Fort Worth, TX  (Restaurant News Release)  Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in Fort Worth is open and ready to feed the surrounding community. It is located at 951 North Beach Street right next to a Wal-Mart. The store is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

“Words cannot describe how excited I am to open my new location,” said local franchisee Ryan Curtis. “Dickey’s will be a great new addition to the area.”

Curtis has been making his way around town. Always armed with flyers, menus and coupons, Curtis has been introducing himself to local businesses and the nearby community. His community efforts have drawn in a lot of positive attention.

“The community seems to be very excited,” said Curtis. “Each day we have lots of phone calls asking when we will be opened. And it’s great to finally answer we are open.”

Texas-based Dickey’s Barbecue Pit opened in 1941 and began franchising in 1994. Since then Dickey’s has grown fast and is scheduled to have 200 locations by the end of this year.

The original Dallas location is still open for business and Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is still owned and operated by the Dickey Family. Even today, Dickey’s still slow smokes all of their signature meats overnight in every restaurant. For more information, including a full menu, other restaurant locations and franchising opportunities, please visit www.dickeys.com.

About Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants

Founded in 1941, Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants began in Dallas, Texas. More than 70 years later, Dickey’s is now the fastest growing barbecue chain in the country. Beginning with an aggressive growth strategy and proven business model, and since implementing its proprietary five revenue streams for business growth, Dickey’s is on track to become the largest barbecue chain in the country by the end of 2011. Currently, Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants can be found in more than 35 states and 179 locations nationwide. For more information on partnering with Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants in any location, call (866) 340-6188 or visit www.dickeys.com.

Dickey’s: Passionate about the Art of Great Barbecue.