Heads up! Super Bowl XLVI Coin Toss Lands on 'Heads,' Giving Free Papa John's Pizza to Millions

Louisville, KY  (Restaurant News Release)  Hey America, are you ready for some free Papa John’s pizza – the Official Pizza Sponsor of the NFL and Super Bowl XVLI? In one of the most anticipated “flips” in history, the coin toss for Super Bowl XVLI landed on “heads” this evening, resulting in a free large one-topping Papa John’s pizza and 2-liter Pepsi MAX for the millions of members of Papa John’s Papa Rewards customer loyalty program.

Fans who were enrolled in Papa Rewards as of 6 p.m. ET today will receive an email Monday with instructions on how to get their large one-topping pizza and 2-liter Pepsi MAX.

“No matter which team you are rooting for, everyone enrolled in Papa Rewards walks away a winner after Super Bowl XLVI,” said John Schnatter, Papa John’s Founder, Chairman and CEO. “It’s our way of celebrating a terrific NFL season and rewarding our loyal Papa Rewards customers.”

America chose which side of the coin it would be on via a popular vote Jan. 22 through Feb. 1 at www.papajohns.com. “Heads” prevailed with 60 percent of the vote.

Papa John’s Super Bowl Coin Toss Experience was supported via an integrated marketing campaign that included a national television commercial featuring NFL stars Peyton Manning and Jerome “The Bus” Bettis, along with Schnatter, as well as digital media advertising, social media, media relations, and interactive, video-rich Web pages at www.papajohns.com.

Papa John’s is in the second year of a multi-year sponsorship with the NFL.

Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, Papa John’s International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA) is the world’s third largest pizza company. For 10 of the past 12 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 XLVI and XLVII. For more information about the company or to order pizza online, visit Papa John’s at www.papajohns.com.

© 2012 NFL Properties LLC. All NFL-related trademarks are trademarks of the National Football League.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. ONLY PAPA REWARDS MEMBERS AS OF 6 PM ET ON 2/5/12 WHO ARE LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES (D.C.) 13 AND OLDER MAY BE ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE A PRIZE. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Voting takes place from 1/22/12 to 2/1/12. For Official Rules, visit www.papajohns.com.

Right Segment, Right Model, Right Time: Corner Bakery Cafe Increases Marketplace Share

Bakery Cafe Franchise Claiming Corners around the Country

Dallas, TX  (Restaurant News Release)  Sealing multi-unit franchise deals in markets throughout the United States and reporting average unit volumes exceeding $2.2 million last year, Corner Bakery Cafe is riding the momentum with numerous new market entries, menu introductions and several high-profile franchise agreements already in motion for 2012.

“It’s already starting out to be a big year for the brand, and there’s more big news to come,” said CEO Mike Hislop. “Based on multi-unit franchise agreements in the works and new company-owned cafes slated to open, Corner Bakery Cafe is on track to more than double our system within the next three and a half years. As consumers continue to embrace our ingredient-inspired, made-to-order food and neighborhood setting, we will continue to capture market share by gaining presence on corners in big cities and suburban communities around the country.”

Further energized by last year’s acquisition of the brand by the franchise-focused private equity firm Roark Capital Group, Corner Bakery Cafe will double its system growth rate this year, bringing its total cafes open to 148 by end of 2012. Of those cafes, 109 will be company owned and 39 will be franchised. While other concepts in the category were “built to franchise,” Corner Bakery Cafe waited until the model was perfected with a solid base of company-owned cafes operating efficiently before launching its franchise program in 2007. “We’ve got significant skin in the game,” Hislop noted. “Our franchisees appreciate that.”

Growing from a small bread bakery on a corner in downtown Chicago to a national cornerstone of the fast casual dining segment, Corner Bakery Cafe is in a league of its own, offering delicious, hand-crafted breakfasts, lunches, dinners and Grandma-inspired sweets and baked goods – appealing across all dayparts, lifestyles and consumer palates. In addition to its unrivaled, morning-to-night offerings, the company also provides a robust, best-in-class catering platform, presenting fresh food perfectly packaged for delivery or pick-up that makes up 20 percent of its sales base.

Also feeding Corner Bakery Cafe’s growth is continual food innovation, offering consumers a broad variety of prepared – not assembled – customizable options. Health-conscious consumers are literally eating up the recently introduced “100 Under 600” menu with an expansive selection of calorie-wise Corner Combos. New menu additions this year include the recent introduction of three new Power Panini Thins, a healthful, calorie-wise breakfast option. Corner Bakery Cafe’s signature panini line up will be further expanded with the upcoming introduction a new Sliced Meatball Panini. These new items, along with the introduction of two new handcrafted Mac n’ Three Cheese dishes, are just a few of the new items which keep Corner Bakery Cafe guests coming back, always wondering what’s next on the menu.

In 2011, Corner Bakery Cafe signed four multi-unit franchise agreements for 54 locations, including a nine-unit deal for Buffalo and Rochester, NY and a second deal with the same multi-unit developer for six locations in Syracuse, NY, as well as a 7-unit deal in South Texas and a 32-unit deal in San Francisco. More multi-unit franchise agreements are in the works and will be announced throughout the year.

New franchise openings currently in the pipeline include the first three locations of a 12-unit agreement with PhaseNext Hospitality, led by Roz Mallet, current chair of the National Restaurant Association, as well as two new locations with The Rose Group, which currently operates four locations in the greater Philadelphia market, as part of an 18-unit deal that will bring more Corner Bakery Cafe restaurants to Philadelphia, Delaware and southern New Jersey. Moreover, several new locations are under construction, including Florida’s second location in Miami, San Diego’s third location, and a third cafe in Utah.

To spearhead the continued growth, Corner Bakery Cafe recently announced that hospitality industry veteran Jonathan Benjamin joined the company as Vice President of Franchise Sales. The former Vice President of the Development Team at Wyndham Worldwide, Benjamin provides a proven sales track record, exceptional leadership, performance and results.

Benjamin noted that while other brands within the bakery cafe category have sold out territories, Corner Bakery Cafe has multiple untapped markets available for qualified multi-unit operators. Key markets for expansion include the New York Metro area, Northern California, Central and Northern Florida, St. Louis, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Louisville, Columbus, Charlotte and Nashville, to name a few.

“Our brand stays on top with a smart business model, a top-notch senior management team and continuous innovation,” Hislop noted. “There’s no stopping us now.”

About Corner Bakery Cafe

Corner Bakery Cafe is a fast-casual restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner to guests in Atlanta, Boca Raton, Chicago, Clifton, NJ, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, El Paso, Houston, Jackson, Miss., Los Angeles/Orange County, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Antonio, and Washington D.C. Established in 1991, Corner Bakery Cafe restaurants are owned and operated by CBC Restaurant Corp. with 130 company-owned and franchised locations around the country. Founded on a philosophy of creating a place for people to relax and gather with family and friends, Corner Bakery Cafe features innovative, seasonal menu options while delivering a premier bakery cafe experience in the heart of neighborhoods everywhere. For more information, visit www.cornerbakerycafe.com.

America Calls 'Heads' for Super Bowl XLVI Coin Toss and Chance for Free Papa John's Pizza

Louisville, KY  (Restaurant News Release)  Papa John’s, the Official Pizza Sponsor of the NFL, today announced that America has called “heads” in Papa John’s Super Bowl XLVI Coin Toss Experience. With America’s call, the millions of fans enrolled in the company’s Papa Rewards customer loyalty program will receive a free large one-topping pizza and 2-liter Pepsi MAX if the coin toss in Super Bowl XLVI lands on “heads.”

America chose which side of the coin based on popular vote the past 10 days at www.papajohns.com. “Heads” prevailed with 60 percent of the vote.

But making the call is just part of Papa John’s Super Bowl XLVI Coin Toss Experience. Americans can enroll in Papa Rewards at www.papajohns.com until 6 p.m. ET Super Bowl Sunday to receive the free pizza and Pepsi MAX if America’s call is correct.

“We’re thrilled with the response of NFL fans and our customers to Papa John’s Super Bowl Coin Toss Experience,” said John Schnatter, Papa John’s Founder, Chairman and CEO. “Recognizing it’s not every day that you get a chance for free pizza and Pepsi MAX on the simple flip of a coin, we expect the rush of people signing up for Papa Rewards to continue right up until the official coin is tossed.”

“I’ve never seen so much excitement about a coin toss,” said NFL star and Super Bowl XLI champion Peyton Manning. “I’ll be crossing my fingers with all of America for the coin to land on heads and reward everyone with free Papa John’s pizza.”

Added Super Bowl XL Champion and Pro Football Hall of Fame finalist Jerome “The Bus” Bettis: “For years, the coin toss I participated in on Thanksgiving Day 1998 has been recognized as one of the most famous in NFL history. If this year’s coin toss comes up ‘heads,’ I may be passing Papa John’s the torch for the most memorable coin toss.”

Last year for Super Bowl XLV, Papa John’s set a single-day sales record by selling more than 1 million pizzas, driven in part by offering a free large pizza to everyone in America if the game went into overtime. In the fourth quarter, the teams were separated by only 3 points, but the game did not go into overtime. In fact, no Super Bowl has ever gone into overtime.

“We generated a lot of excitement toward the end of Super Bowl XLV,” Schnatter said. “For Super Bowl XLVI, we’re flipping our strategy – literally – and generating a lot of drama for NFL fans and our customers at the beginning of Super Bowl XLVI.”

If the coin toss for Super Bowl XLVI lands on heads, each Papa Rewards member will receive an email Monday, Feb. 6, with instructions on how to get their free large one-topping pizza and 2-liter Pepsi MAX.

Papa John’s is in the second year of a multi-year sponsorship with the NFL.

Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, Papa John’s International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA) is the world’s third largest pizza company. For 10 of the past 12 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 XLVI and XLVII. For more information about the company or to order pizza online, visit Papa John’s at www.papajohns.com.

© 2012 NFL Properties LLC. All NFL-related trademarks are trademarks of the National Football League.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. ONLY PAPA REWARDS MEMBERS AS OF 6 PM ET ON 2/5/12 WHO ARE LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES (D.C.) 13 AND OLDER MAY BE ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE A PRIZE. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Voting takes place from 1/22/12 to 2/1/12. For Official Rules, visit www.papajohns.com.

FREEBIRDS World Burrito Opens Two New Locations in Houston, Texas

Austin, TX  (Restaurant News Release)  FREEBIRDS World Burrito, the fast casual burrito joint with the rock ‘n’ roll attitude, announced today it will open in Houston at the Enclave Shopping Center on Monday, February 6, 2012 and in Conroe, Texas on Tuesday February 7, 2012. To celebrate, FREEBIRDS will give the first 25 guests in line at each location free burritos for a year.

FREEBIRDS is about awesome burritos (plus burrito bowls, salads, nachos and more) 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, signature Death Sauce and Bad *ss bbq, 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!®

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: -

Friday, February 3, 2012: FREEBIRDS Royal Oaks will partner with Trees For Houston 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 Trees For Houston.

Saturday, February 4, 2012: FREEBIRDS Royal Oaks will partner with the The Gram Parson’s 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 during each time slot will enjoy complimentary food and drinks in exchange for a minimum $5 donation to The Gram Parson’s Foundation. -

Saturday, February 4, 2012: FREEBIRDS Enclave will partner with The Sunshine Kids 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 The Sunshine Kids.

Monday, February 6, 2012: FREEBIRDS Enclave will partner with Montgomery County Food Bank 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 Montgomery County Food Bank.

The two new FREEBIRDS will each employ approximately 60 team members from the local community. FREEBIRDS Enclave at Royal Oaks is located at 11700 B. Westheimer Rd. Houston, TX 77077. The restaurant can be reached directly at 281-531-4004. Hours are Monday through Thursday 11:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday through Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. and Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. FREEBIRDS Conroe is located at 1188 W. Dallas St. Suite A, Conroe, TX 77301. The restaurant can be reached directly at 936-756-1830. Hours are Monday through Thursday 11:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday through 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 cater@freebirds.com.

Including the new openings, concept owner Tavistock Restaurants, LLC operates 66 FREEBIRDS in Texas, California and Oklahoma. 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.

New Restaurant to Provide Residents Prepared-at-Order Chicken in a Casual Dining Atmosphere

Richmond Hill's First Zaxby's Hatches Monday, January 30

Richmond Hill, GA  (Restaurant News Release)  Licensee Craig Jones will open the doors to Richmond Hill’s first Zaxby’s restaurant this Monday. The new restaurant is located at 80 Exchange St., in front of Kroger. A Southeast favorite for chicken fingers and Buffalo wings, Zaxby’s will operate Monday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

After recognizing the new business potential the Richmond Hill community has to offer, Jones set out to bring Zaxby’s to the area. “I feel Richmond Hill is the perfect place to expand the Zaxby’s brand, and I’m excited to be a part of such a wonderful community,” said Jones, who owns an existing Zaxby’s located at 5971 Ogeechee Road in Savannah, which opened in August 2004. “I am confident that the same quality of food and service Zaxby’s is known for will keep area residents coming back for more.”

The new 3,300-square-foot location will seat 72 in Zaxby’s unique store design, which includes floor-to-ceiling brick walls, larger windows providing more natural light, modernized tables and booths, outdoor covered seating and a new color scheme, all complemented by an eclectic mix of photography. Zaxby’s will also offer drive-thru services to meet the needs of customers on the go.

Sofie Davis will serve as the new restaurant’s area development manager. She believes the restaurant — from the atmosphere to the service — will exceed community expectations. “We’re a different kind of restaurant with a different kind of attitude — from the food and service we provide our customers to the respect we have for one another” said Davis.

The new location will be the first for Bryan County and the 197th for the state. Zaxby’s currently operates more than 540 locations in 12 states — Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.

An alternative to fast food, Zaxby’s offers prepared-at-order chicken fingers, wings, sandwiches and salads.

Zaxby’s most popular items are its hand-breaded Chicken Fingerz and Jumbo Buffalo Wings, smothered in a choice of nine sauces with names like Wimpy, Tongue Torch, Nuclear and Insane. The menu also offers innovative Zappetizers like Tater Chips, Spicy Fried Mushrooms and Fried White Cheddar Bites, as well as a variety of Party Platterz perfect for any family gathering or special occasion.Zaxby’s also offers three salads, or Zalads: The House, The Blue and The Caesar. All of Zaxby’s Zalads offer more chicken, unique ingredients, such as French-fried onions, fresh veggies and juicy tomatoes and are larger than most salads offered elsewhere. Each is prepared with chicken, three kinds of lettuce and a variety of toppings. Zalads are assembled at the time the order is placed, versus being pre-made and stored in a cooler.

Additionally, Zaxby’s offers Milkshakes at participating locations, which come in chocolate, strawberry and vanilla flavors. They are rich and creamy, hand-blended, and are topped with whipped cream.

About Zaxby’s

An alternative to fast food, Zaxby’s offers its guests prepared-at-order Chicken Fingerz, Jumbo Buffalo Wings, sandwiches, Zalads and Zappetizers, along with a variety of nine sauces ranging from Wimpy and Tongue Torch to Nuclear and Insane. Childhood friends Zach McLeroy and Tony Townley hatched the Athens, Ga.-based chain in 1990 to provide a fun, relaxing atmosphere that would keep guests coming back for more. Zaxby’s operates more than 540 locations in 12 states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. For more information, visit www.zaxbys.com.

As One of Five Flavors Retired during the Brand’s 65th Birthday Celebration, this Decadent Chocolate Flavor is the Perfect February Flavor of the Month

Baskin-Robbins Brings Back Superfudge Truffle Just in Time for Valentine's Day

Canton, MA  (Restaurant News Release)  Chocolate lovers rejoice! Baskin-Robbins, the world’s largest chain of ice cream specialty shops, today announced it is bringing back one of its classic flavors, Superfudge Truffle, in time to celebrate Valentine’s Day right. Sent to the Deep Freeze in 2010 for Baskin-Robbins’ 65th birthday celebration, February’s decadent Flavor of the Month is made with real chocolate fudge ice cream mixed with chunks of chocolate ganache and toffee truffle pieces.

Valentine’s Day is synonymous with chocolate, and whether celebrating with their sweetheart or sharing a scoop with their friends, ice cream lovers everywhere will swoon over the return of this delicious flavor.

“Superfudge Truffle is a classic flavor that chocolate lovers everywhere have been enjoying for years, which makes bringing it back just in time for Valentine’s Day that much sweeter,” said Stan Frankenthaler, Baskin-Robbins Executive Chef and Vice President of Innovation at Dunkin’ Brands. “Baskin-Robbins is known for its innovative flavor creations and we are excited to have the opportunity to bring back this popular flavor for a limited time only.”

In Baskin-Robbins stores nationwide during the month of February, Superfudge Truffle is available by the scoop – in a cup or cone – or as a milkshake. Also available in hand-packed pints, quarts and half-gallons, ice cream lovers can bring Superfudge Truffle home to enjoy with their special someone or to create their own specialty ice cream desserts.*

Baskin-Robbins’ ice cream cakes and gift cards also make perfect gifts for loved ones for Valentine’s Day! Gift cards can be purchased in any amount between $2 and $100 at participating shops or online at www.BaskinRobbins.com and never expire. In addition, gift cards purchased online can be customized with a favorite photo and come inside a personalized greeting card.

*In California, Baskin-Robbins offers hand-packed ice cream in three sizes: small (12 oz), regular (1 lb., 8 oz), and large (3 lb.).

About Baskin-Robbins

Named the top ice cream and frozen dessert franchise in the United States by Entrepreneur magazine’s 31st annual Franchise 500® ranking, Baskin-Robbins is the world’s largest chain of ice cream specialty shops.  Baskin-Robbins creates and markets innovative, premium ice cream, specialty frozen desserts and beverages, providing quality and value to consumers at more than 6,600 retail shops in nearly 50 countries.  Baskin-Robbins was founded in 1945 by two ice cream enthusiasts whose passion led to the creation of more than 1,000 ice cream flavors and a wide variety of delicious treats. Headquartered in Canton, Mass., Baskin-Robbins is a subsidiary of Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: DNKN). For further information, visit www.baskinrobbins.com.

Contact

Justin Drake
Dunkin’ Brands
781-737-5200
Justin.Drake@dunkinbrands.com

Pizza Lovers Now Have a One-Stop Shop For Pizza Available At iTunes Store

Mobi Pizza Launches Free 'Pizzeria Challenge' Game for iOS; App Combines Game with Yelp, Pizza Ordering

Tucson, AZ  (Restaurant News Release)  Pizza lovers rejoice! Now, users with iOS devices who crave pizza have an all-in-one app to fulfill their pizza cravings. Mobi Pizza (http://mobipizza.us/) is the only independent app where pizza lovers can play the entertaining “Pizzeria Challenge” game, make their dream pizzas and look up Yelp listings for local pizza parlors directly from their iOS device (iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch).

Now available on the iTunes store (http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobi-pizza/id454823634?mt=8) as a free download, the Mobi Pizza app combines the “Pizzeria Challenge” game with Yelp integration so pizza lovers can play the fun for all-ages game and when their craving gets to be too much, order a pizza by looking up local pizza restaurants on Yelp. In the coming months, Mobi Pizza will also offer users the ability to order pizza directly from their phones via the app.

“Mobi Pizza was created to give pizza lovers an all-in-one app that not only features a fun pizza-making game, but will soon allow users to also order pizzas directly from the app,” said Rollin Roos, CEO, Mobi Pizza.

The new family-friendly “Pizzeria Challenge” game is a 2D time-management game that puts the player in charge of a pizza parlor for the day, making pizzas and fulfilling orders against a ticking clock. With numerous toppings and sauces to fulfill, players of the “Pizzeria Challenge” have to manage their orders carefully and are ensure that they make enough “Mobi Money” at the end of the day to continue their pizza parlor business.  Users can also purchase “Mobi Money” within the app. With full shareability across social media platforms, players can challenge their family and friends to beat their totals.

Mobi Pizza also features Yelp integration so pizza fans can research local pizza restaurants via Yelp’s comprehensive database of reviews, listings and directions.

The Mobi Pizza app is compatible with iPads, iPhones and iPods and has been optimized as a native app for both iPads and iPhones. The Mobi Pizza is available now at the iTunes store for free (http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mobi-pizza/id454823634?mt=8).

Monthlong fundraising effort kicks off on National Wear Red Day, Feb. 3; Guests rewarded for participating in the cause

Mimi's Cafe is the First Restaurant to Nationally Support the American Heart Association's Go Red For Women Movement

Irvine, CA  (Restaurant News Release)  Mimi’s Cafe Goes Red. Starting in February, American Heart Month, Mimi’s Cafe is giving a piece of its heart to the American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women movement. The neighborhood bistro inspired by France is the first-ever restaurant to nationally support the effort. Go Red For Women is dedicated to fighting heart disease, the number one killer of women, and harnessing the energy, passion and power women have to band together and collectively wipe out the disease.

“We are honored to be the first restaurant to nationally support the American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women movement,” said Mark Mears, Mimi’s President and Chief Concept Officer. “It is not only a cause that perfectly aligns with the values of our company, it is an issue that our guests care deeply about. We are dedicated to providing awareness and education, along with more healthy dining choices and helpful tips, so our guests have the tools they need to make heart healthy choices while dining out.”

Mimi’s is activating its heartfelt campaign on National Wear Red Day, Friday, Feb. 3. Guests who show their support by wearing red will receive a FREE cup of soup with any purchase to warm their heart. And throughout the month, guests will be invited to join in the fight against heart disease in women. For every $1 donation, guests can post a red heart-shaped tribute card on the giant in-restaurant red dress display. With a $5 donation, guests will also receive a commemorative red dress lapel pin. As a thank you for these donations, Mimi’s will provide each guest with up to $35 in savings.

Heart disease is often silent, hidden and misunderstood. That is why in addition to fundraising, Mimi’s is taking the lead to empower guests to make healthy decisions while dining out and share a lifesaving message about a disease that can be preventable.

“As the first restaurant to nationally support American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women movement, Mimi’s Cafe is playing an important role in the fight against heart disease, women’s No. 1 killer,” said William H. Roach Jr., Chairman of the Board of the American Heart Association. “We’re thankful to Mimi’s Cafe for helping Go Red For Women make ending heart disease a reality.”

In addition, Mimi’s will be going red on Facebook. Mimi’s “Reasons to Go Red” app allows fans to share an inspirational message, alongside the fashionable Red Dress icon, to let their friends know why they are going red and encourage others to join the cause. Guests can also come into Mimi’s to take a photo with a giant red dress display and upload it to a special “Mimi’s Goes Red” Facebook gallery via QR Code. Which fan wears it best? Visit Mimi’s Facebook page, facebook.com/mimiscafe, in February and show support of the Go Red For Women movement.

About Mimi’s Cafe

Mimi’s Cafe, a French-inspired casual dining restaurant, has 145 locations in 24 states as of the end of the second fiscal quarter (Oct. 28, 2011). Mimi’s Cafe is a unit wholly owned by Bob Evans Farms, Inc., a publicly traded company (NASDAQ: BOBE), known and loved for its delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner menus, friendly service and charming, stylish décor.

About Go Red For Women

Go Red For Women is the American Heart Association’s national movement, created by women, for women, dedicated to uncovering the truth about women and heart disease: heart disease can kill you or a woman you love. With more women dying of cardiovascular disease than all forms of cancer combined, we are committed to fighting this No. 1 killer that is preventable. For more information please visit GoRedForWomen.org or call 1-888-MY-HEART (1-888-694-3278). The American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women movement is nationally sponsored by Macy’s and Merck & Co., Inc, with additional support from our cause sponsors.

New restaurant serves up Dairy Queen® iconic soft-serve treats, flavorful foods and Orange Julius® offerings.

New DQ Grill & Chill Opens in Bloomington

Bloomington, MN  (Restaurant News Release)  The Dairy Queen® system’s newest, most exciting restaurant concept has opened its doors at 9304 Lyndale Avenue South in Bloomington. The newly opened 3,009 square-foot DQ Grill & Chill® restaurant has added 40 new jobs in the area contributing to Minnesota’s employment growth.

This new DQ Grill & Chill restaurant is the eighth location for franchisee Charles Anderson, who also owns restaurants in Fargo, N.D.; Wahpeton, N.D.; and Moorhead, Minn.

“We are excited to open the new Bloomington DQ Grill & Chill restaurant and welcome the community in to enjoy our full menu of cravable food items, cool treats and Orange Julius® specialty fruit smoothies and beverages,” said Anderson. “This new restaurant is sure to become a location where families and friends can gather to share smiles and stories over a great meal and treats.”

An Array of Menu Options

The DQ Grill & Chill concept blends the best of DQ iconic history with the most modern innovations in the quick-service restaurant industry. The food menu features the quarter- and half-pound GrillBurger™ made to order, as well as other delicious and unique food items, including deli-style Iron Grilled Sandwiches. A Grilled Chicken Sandwich, and Chicken or Crispy Shrimp Baskets also are available for either lunch or dinner.

Complementing the “Grill” is the “Chill,” with the traditional and indulgent Dairy Queen soft-serve treats everybody knows and loves. Along with all of the DQ favorites, such as signature Blizzard® Flavor Treats, MooLatté® frozen blended coffee beverages, DQ Cakes and waffle bowl sundaes and cones, guests will enjoy the delicious Orange Julius premium fruit smoothies and fruit-blended beverages on the menu. The classic original Orange and Strawberry Orange Julius drinks are available, as well as premium fruit smoothies in flavors such as Tropical Tango, Mango Passion, Strawberry Sensation, Strawberry Xtreme and 3-Berry Blast.

Design and Décor

The DQ Grill & Chill restaurant interior brings an innovative dimension to quick-serve restaurant dining. Highlighted by the modern open-air grill and separate “Grill” and “Chill” sections, the restaurant features comfortable booths and large wooden tables, warm lighting, music and an overall inviting environment.

The restaurant can seat 47 guests. Bringing together the best of the past and the present, the drive-thru is lined with old-fashioned street lamps.

For more information about the Dairy Queen system, visit DairyQueen.com. Become a Dairy Queen friend on Facebook at www.facebook.com/dairyqueen and follow Dairy Queen on Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/DairyQueen.

Bloomington DQ Grill & Chill at a glance:

Address: 9304 Lyndale Ave South, Bloomington, MN 55420
Phone: 952-426-1529
Employees: 45
Square Footage: 3,009 square feet
Number of Seats: 47
Hours of Operation: The new restaurant serves lunch and dinner daily, from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

About ADQ

American Dairy Queen Corporation (ADQ), which is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minn., develops, licenses and services a system of more than 5,900 Dairy Queen® stores in the United States, Canada and 18 other countries. ADQ is part of the Berkshire Hathaway family, a company owned by Warren Buffett, the legendary investor and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. For more information, visit DairyQueen.com.

New restaurant serves up Dairy Queen® iconic soft-serve treats, flavorful foods and Orange Julius® offerings.

New DQ Grill & Chill Opens in Green Park

Green Park, MO  (Restaurant News Release)  The Dairy Queen® system’s newest, most exciting restaurant concept has opened its doors in Green Park. Located at 6070 S. Lindbergh, the new 2,200 square-foot DQ Grill & Chill® restaurant has added 45 new jobs in the area, contributing to Missouri’s employment growth.

“We are excited to open in Green Park and welcome the community in to enjoy our full menu of DQ Grill & Chill cravable food items, cool treats and Orange Julius® specialty fruit smoothies and beverages,” said restaurant operator Brian Brown. “This new restaurant is sure to become a location where families and friends can gather to share smiles and stories over a great meal and treats.”

An Array of Menu Options

The DQ Grill & Chill concept blends the best of DQ iconic history with the most modern innovations in the quick-service restaurant industry. The food menu features the quarter- and half-pound GrillBurger™ made to order, as well as other delicious and unique food items, including deli-style Iron Grilled Sandwiches. A Grilled Chicken Sandwich, and Chicken or Crispy Shrimp Baskets also are available for either lunch or dinner.

Complementing the “Grill” is the “Chill,” with the traditional and indulgent Dairy Queen soft-serve treats everybody knows and loves. Along with all of the DQ favorites, such as signature Blizzard® Flavor Treats, MooLatté® frozen blended coffee beverages, DQ Cakes and waffle bowl sundaes and cones, guests will enjoy the delicious Orange Julius premium fruit smoothies and fruit-blended beverages on the menu. The classic original Orange and Strawberry Orange Julius drinks are available, as well as premium fruit smoothies in flavors such as Tropical Tango, Mango Passion, Strawberry Sensation, Strawberry Xtreme and 3-Berry Blast.

Design and Décor

The DQ Grill & Chill restaurant interior brings an innovative dimension to quick-serve restaurant dining. Highlighted by the modern open-air grill and separate “Grill” and “Chill” sections, the restaurant features comfortable booths and large wooden tables, warm lighting, music and an overall inviting environment.

The restaurant can seat 69 guests inside and also offers 18 attractive outdoor patio seats. Bringing together the best of the past and the present, the drive-thru is lined with old-fashioned street lamps.

For more information about the Dairy Queen system, visit DairyQueen.com. Become a Dairy Queen friend on Facebook at www.facebook.com/dairyqueen and follow the Dairy Queen system on Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/DairyQueen.

Green Park DQ Grill & Chill at a glance:

Address: 6070 S. Lindbergh, Green Park, Mo.
Phone: 314-487-1559
Employees: 45
Square Footage: 2,200 square feet
Number of Seats: 69 indoor and 18 outdoor
Hours of Operation: The new restaurant serves lunch and dinner daily from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

About ADQ

American Dairy Queen Corporation (ADQ), which is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minn., develops, licenses and services a system of more than 5,900 Dairy Queen® stores in the United States, Canada and 18 other countries. ADQ is part of the Berkshire Hathaway family, a company owned by Warren Buffett, the legendary investor and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. For more information, visit DairyQueen.com.

BURGER KING Kicks off Championship Weekend by Giving Away Free Onion Rings to Fans Nationwide on Feb. 4th and 5th

Miami, FL  (Restaurant News Release)  New York and New England may be vying for bragging rights and championship rings on Sunday, but BURGER KING^® fans nationwide will also have the chance to get their own “rings” during the championship weekend – crispy, golden BK^® onion rings that is! On February 4^th and 5^th, BURGER KING^® restaurants across the country will offer every guest a free value size order of the brand’s new signature onion rings. NFL Hall of Famer and Four Time Super Bowl Champion, Lynn Swann, who earned his own coveted collection of four championship rings during his famed career, wants to make sure that everyone in America has something to cheer about this weekend, no matter who wins the big game.

“I am happy to work with BURGER KING^® to make sure that everyone knows how to get their free onion rings during this weekend of championship football,” said Lynn Swann, NFL Hall of Famer and Pittsburgh Steelers Wide Receiver. “Since I have my rings, I wanted to make sure you could get yours. And you don’t have to stop at four!!”

Whether fans want something delicious to snack on during the big game, or just want new “bling” for their ring fingers, BURGER KING^® onion rings are served hot and crispy and can satisfy everyone’s weekend cravings. As one of the top QSRs serving onion rings on their menu, BURGER KING^® wants to share their exclusivity with all of America. Each guest visiting a participating restaurant will receive a free value size onion ring, no purchase necessary. Guests can also dip their rings in a variety of BK^® sauces, from ketchup to zesty sauce, and everything in between. The free value size onion rings offer is good while supplies last and excludes breakfast hours.

About BURGER KING Corporation

Founded in 1954, BURGER KING^® is the second largest fast food hamburger chain in the world. The original HOME OF THE WHOPPER^®, the BURGER KING^® system operates approximately 12,400 locations serving over 11 million guests daily in 79 countries and territories worldwide. Approximately 90 percent of BURGER KING^® restaurants are owned and operated by independent franchisees, many of them family-owned operations that have been in business for decades. In October 2010, Burger King Corp. was purchased by 3G Capital, a multi-billion dollar, global investment firm focused on long-term value creation, with a particular emphasis on maximizing the potential of brands and businesses. For more information on 3G Capital, please go to http://www.3g-capital.com. To learn more about Burger King Corp., please visit the company’s website at www.bk.com or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

New products, increased franchise support, new advertising campaign to drive year’s expansion

CiCi's Pizza Announces 2012 Growth Plans

Coppell, TX  (Restaurant News Release)  CiCi’s Pizza, home of the custom pizza buffet, announced today its 2012 growth plans to support its continuing 10-year “Build the Brand” initiative to add 500 new restaurants by 2020. Progress in 2011 included 22 new restaurant openings representing a nearly 25 percent increase in new locations over the previous year, and multiple new partnerships to accelerate expansion.

“As we enter year three of our ‘Build the Brand’ strategy, we are gaining significant momentum with the new partnerships and tools we’ve put in place,” said CiCi’s Pizza CEO Mike Shumsky. “2012 is a pivotal year as we move from the planning stages to deployment of our 10-year program in new and existing markets.”

Upcoming initiatives for 2012 include:

• New products will be introduced quarterly to CiCi’s custom buffet. Recently hired culinarian Rebecca Stone, who serves as senior director of food and beverage, will oversee development of new menu items.

• A new advertising campaign, the first with new agency of record Publicis Dallas, breaks in mid-February to introduce a new signature pizza to CiCi’s buffet and to highlight CiCi’s variety and value offerings.

• A redesigned interactive website at www.cicispizza.com, developed by nFusion, launches in early February.

• A new site model, developed in partnership with Birchwood Resultants, rolls out in early February to help franchisees maximize growth potential through better real estate selection and restaurant design.

• A test of online ordering with ONOSYS begins in select markets in the second quarter.

• Kitchen efficiencies, designed to lower franchise investment costs, reduce waste and increase ROI, will be directed by Clif Geisler, recently hired as CiCi’s director of operational systems.

• Franchise incentive programs designed for new and existing operators will launch in mid-February as well as a new program to help U.S. military veterans become CiCi’s franchisees.

• New financing options through companies such as Boefly and others are being offered.

CiCi’s will continue its focus on restaurant design improvement in 2012. Last year, CiCi’s debuted a new 4,000-square-foot test restaurant in Murphy, Texas, equipped with features that may be incorporated into future restaurants such as an extended buffet line, redesigned salad bar, expanded menu boards, new carryout options and new color scheme and decor. Additionally, 41 existing restaurants were re-imaged, bringing more than 80 percent of the system up to date with the brand’s new look and feel. In 2012, the company will test a redesigned to-go-only restaurant as well as restaurants with smaller footprints for small towns or urban areas.

To fuel CiCi’s Pizza’s growth in 2012, the company is actively seeking qualified multi-unit and single-unit operators to help grow the brand in Southern California, the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast and South Florida, as well as select cities in Texas and other regions across the nation. Prospective franchisees benefit from an approximate 2-to-1 sales-to-investment ratio and four distinct revenue streams: the custom buffet, catering, to-go orders and a game room.

“CiCi’s is passionate about exceeding guests’ expectations, and these new programs allow us to apply that same commitment of tremendous service and support to our franchise candidates,” said CiCi’s Pizza Chief Development Officer Bill Spae. “This approach is key as we strengthen our presence in the new markets we entered last year while continually improving our offering to support mature market growth.”

About CiCi’s Pizza

Coppell, Texas-based CiCi’s Pizza opened its first restaurant in Plano, Texas, in 1985 and is now one of the nation’s fastest growing pizza chains. The family-oriented restaurant, known for its pizza, pasta, salad, soup and dessert buffet, has about 600 restaurants in 35 states. In 2011, Zagat recognized CiCi’s on its list of most child-friendly fast-food chains, and Entrepreneur named CiCi’s first in its category on the Franchise 500 list. In 2010, CiCi’s was named to Inc. Magazine’s top 5,000 list, and to Parents’ list of top family-friendly restaurants. Nation’s Restaurant News ranked CiCi’s No. 1 in sales and unit growth among pizza chains for the past four years.

For more information about CiCi’s, visit www.cicispizza.com or www.facebook.com/cicis.

Franchisees are required to demonstrate a minimum of $250,000 in liquid capital, a net worth of $750,000 per unit, and a credit score of 700 or higher. For more information on franchising, visit http://franchise.cicispizza.com or call 972-745-9316.

February Benihana Chef's Special

Miami, FL  (Restaurant News Release)  Benihana Inc. (NASDAQ: BNHN), the nation’s leading operator of Japanese theme and sushi restaurants, has announced the February Chef’s Specials, Hibachi Steak & Chicken for Two, a five-course feast for only $45 and Seafood Diablo for One, five courses for just $20.

Take a break from the dreary days of February with a warm, festive dinner at Benihana with close friends and family. Throughout the month, two guests can enjoy this Benihana teppanyaki treat of Hibachi Steak and Chicken entrees grilled with mushrooms and sesame seeds, Benihana onion soup, Benihana salad, hibachi shrimp appetizer, hibachi vegetables, homemade dipping sauces, steamed rice and Japanese hot green tea, a five-course meal for just $45 (tax and gratuity excluded). Another option this month is the Seafood Diablo for One, a medley of sea scallops, calamari, shrimp, assorted vegetables and Japanese udon noodles grilled in a homemade spicy sauce, along with Benihana onion soup, Benihana salad, hibachi shrimp appetizer, homemade dipping sauces, steamed rice and Japanese hot green tea, a five-course meal for only $20 (tax and gratuity excluded).

Enjoy either of the February Chef’s Specials with one of Benihana’s specialty drinks such as the Passionate Saketini or the Cherry Pomegranate Mojito. Or try one of Benihana’s suggested wine pairings, like the Hibachi Steak & Chicken with a glass of Gascon Malbec and the Seafood Diablo with a Moscato by Beringer.

Both Chef’s Specials are available throughout the month of February, excluding Valentine’s Day on February 14. The specials can be found at all Benihana restaurants in the United States with the exception of Las Vegas, Little Rock and Hawaii.

For more information about the February Chef’s Special or to find a Benihana location, visit www.benihana.com.

About Benihana

Headquartered in Miami, Benihana Inc. (NASDAQ GS: BNHN) 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.

World Renowned Dog Expert Cesar Millan Stars in Funny Or Die Video

Denny's Launches National Hispanic Marketing Campaign With 'Skillet Whisperer' Video

Spartanburg, SC  (Restaurant News Release)  Denny’s, America’s iconic family diner, announced today the launch of its first national online marketing campaign targeting the Hispanic consumer. The Funny Or Die spoof video, titled “Skillet Whisperer,” features famed dog behavioralist and TV personality, Cesar Millan, Star of National Geographic WILD’s ‘Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan,’ taming an unruly Denny’s Sizzlin’ Skillet. The video is produced in both Spanish and English to effectively reach a diverse audience.

The comedic “Skillet Whisperer” episode takes place in a Denny’s diner where Millan steps in to help an overwhelmed family who is confronted with an aggressive Western Skillet, from the new “Sizzlin’ Skillets” menu, and teaches the family how to display their dominance to calm the skillet so that it may be eaten and enjoyed in a respectful manner. The video is Millan’s first national restaurant brand partnership and was created to connect with Denny’s growing Hispanic customer base. Also starring in the Spanish version of the video is Millan’s son, Calvin Millan, who plays the son of the family.

“Skillet Whisperer” launches today in Spanish and English versions and is available online at Youtube.com and FunnyOrDie.com, respectively.  The branded content video is a further extension of Denny’s “America’s Diner is Always Open” platform, further engaging with the growing Hispanic demographic through a new platform beyond traditional advertising. The videos will also be accessible via Dennys.com, Facebook and other social media platforms.

“Denny’s enjoys strong relationships with our Hispanic guests, which make up the fastest growing demographic at our restaurants and in the U.S. overall,” commented Frances Allen, chief marketing officer of Denny’s Corporation.  “We have regularly introduced innovative new campaigns to engage with our target demographics, so we are truly excited to be launching our first video campaign produced in both English and Spanish, with the goal of making it as authentic as possible for our wide variety of guests.  We are very pleased to continue our relationship with Funny Or Die and to have the opportunity to be the first restaurant brand to partner with Cesar Millan, who did a fantastic job in the video.”

The online video is the first nationwide campaign developed by Denny’s new Hispanic advertising agency, Casanova Pendrill, which worked in partnership with Denny’s lead agency, Gotham.

“The Hispanic community continues to be vitally important to the Denny’s brand and we are excited to continue spreading its ‘always open’ message with the launch of our first campaign on behalf of the company,” explains Ingrid Otero-Smart, president and chief executive officer of Casanova Pendrill. “The partnership with Funny Or Die and Cesar Millan gives Denny’s the chance to speak to Hispanic consumers in a fresh, fun way, and we look forward to increasing engagement within this audience across all media platforms moving forward.”

About Denny’s

Denny’s (Nasdaq: DENN) is America’s Largest full-service family restaurant chain, serving classic American food and every day value 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Based in Spartanburg, S.C., Denny’s currently operates 1,670 franchised, licensed, and Company-owned restaurants across the United States, Canada, Costa Rica, Mexico, Guam, Puerto Rico and New Zealand. For more information, including news releases, franchising opportunities and investor relations, visit www.dennys.com.

About Funny Or Die

Funny Or Die launched in April 2007 and has quickly become the top destination for comedy on the web. At the 2011 Webby Awards Funny Or Die won nine awards, including Best Humor Site. The site has over 12 million unique users per month, over 60 million video views per month, and has grown into a vertically integrated 21st century digital studio that produces high quality content over numerous platforms, operating a social media and marketing division with over 2.8 million Twitter followers, approximately 4 million Facebook fans, and devoted followers on numerous social networking and sharing sites.  Funny Or Die has become the “place to be seen” for comedic celebrities, and the obvious destination for a daily comedy fix. Funny Or Die’s founders are Gary Sanchez Productions (Will Ferrell, Adam McKay and Chris Henchy), Sequoia and CAA. Judd Apatow is also a principal partner in Funny Or Die.

About Casanova-Pendrill

Casanova Pendrill is one of the leading Hispanic integrated communications agencies in the U.S. Founded in 1984, the company is headquartered in Costa Mesa, CA with a full-service office in NY, and handles Hispanic advertising and integrated communications services for Fortune 500 clients like General Mills, Nestle, Kohl’s, U.S. Army, and the California Lottery, among others. Casanova has been affiliated with Interpublic Group of Companies since 1999.

About Gotham

A unit of the Interpublic Group of companies, Gotham Inc. is a full service advertising agency based in New York.  Its 160+ employees service the integrated communication needs of brands across multiple categories. Clients include: Best Western, Chobani, Denny’s, Fresh Direct, Lindt, Maybelline, Newman’s Own, and Yellowbook.   For more information, visit www.gothaminc.com.

Food and Beer Pairings Offer the Perfect Taste Experience

Buffalo Wings & Rings Introduces New Menu Items with Contemporary Crave-Worthy Flavors

Cincinnati, OH  (Restaurant News Release)  The fast-growing sports restaurant franchise, Buffalo Wings & Rings (BW&R) knows how to make game night and any time a win for everyone. The brand is rolling out its new menu featuring BW&R favorites plus several new tastes and flavor combinations of salads, burgers, sandwiches and quesadillas. Leading the new lineup is an expanded selection of appetizers perfect for sharing during the big game.

“We’ve made it simple for customers to enjoy game night with good friends and great food,” said Roger David, CEO of Buffalo Wings & Rings. “New flavorful appetizers perfect for sharing at your favorite community restaurant to gather, visit and just have fun.”

Recognized by National Restaurant Association’s Chef Survey: What’s Hot in 2012? food and beer pairings are expected to be a trend in 2012. Meeting the needs of today’s discerning taste palette, BW&R offers the perfect food and beer pairings for game night and beyond. New menu items and suggested pairings include:

Barbeque Chicken Quesadilla with Budweiser®

• An American twist on a south-of-the-border classic, this new quesadilla features a whole wheat tortilla and grilled chicken, fresh cilantro, red onions and Cheddar Jack with BW&R’s signature barbeque sauce and dipped in delicious Ranch dressing, making it a perfect complement for the classic crisp and clean all-American beer.

Chicken and Black Bean Egg Roll with Hoegaarden®

• Filled with a savory mix of black beans, chicken and cheese, and served with our new Sweet Thai Chili sauce for dipping, these zesty egg rolls pair nicely with Hoegaarden’s®  soft-bodied, sweet and sour citrus tones.

Sweet Thai Chili Chicken Wings with Landshark®

• The newest flavor added to BW&R‘s unique saucing system offers an exotic sweet and spicy kick that balances well with Landsharks’s® island-style Caribbean lager brewed with a complex blend of hop varieties offering a distinct taste.

Roasted Garlic Chicken Wings with Shock Top®

• Fresh, crisp taste combination from our meaty and savory garlic chicken wings pairs perfectly with the lightly- spiced Belgian-style wheat ale brewed with real orange, lemon and lime peels.
  

Big Pepper Burger with Beck’s®

• Bursting with flavor from grilled jalapenos, banana and red peppers, fire roasted tomato salsa and melted pepper jack cheese, this new burger pairs flawlessly with this mild German lager that is sweet and soft-balanced with a clean, dry hop finfish.

Philly Steak with Stella Artois®

• Grilled slices of garlic-seasoned sirloin steak smothered with onion, peppers and cheese sauce pair uniquely with this slightly sweet European pilsner that accentuates the richness of the BW&R Philly Steak without overwhelming the balance of flavors.

BW&R partners with its longtime supplier Anheuser-Busch® to provide these high quality beverage options alongside its new menu to ensure the perfect taste experience.

The brand’s signature wings continue to be the center of the menu with a unique saucing system of 45 flavors and heat combinations. Big, meaty and fresh, never frozen, BW&R’s wings are always served in china bowls and doused in one of its signature sauces.

The brand is aggressively rolling out its new menu during 2012 and reflects the brand’s recent revitalized food and restaurant experience. The new menu is available now in Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, North Carolina, North Dakota, and Texas area restaurants.

“Our new menu reflects nearly a year of customer research, development and testing to ensure we’re presenting the best products possible to the loyal BW&R customer and beyond,” said David. “We tapped the expertise of an executive chef and gained insight from longtime customers across the marketplace, so we are confident our new menu appeals to every member of the family.”

Established in 1984, the franchise has always been committed to giving customers the absolute finest wings in America. Over the years, the brand has pioneered and perfected the art of homemade sauces and fresh wings, with a community-focused model that connects the brand to its customer through a shared purpose. Now, the brand celebrates this success and works to further evolve to meet the needs of a families and wing connoisseurs in more than 52 locations across 13 different states.  For more information, visit www.buffalowingsandrings.com or call 270-874-5200. Connect with Buffalo Wings & Rings on Facebook. GREAT FOOD. NO BULL.

Contact

Melanie Murray
513-562-0222
mmurray@buffalo-wing.com

Little Caesars Pizza Helps Football Fans Score Without Breaking the Bank This Sunday

Detroit, MI  (Restaurant News Release)  Feeding friends and family for the game this Sunday doesn’t have to break the bank!  Fans can turn to Little Caesars® Pizza’s HOT-N-READY® menu line up for a crowd pleasing and economical solution. “Game day preparation is easy with Little Caesars,” said Ed Gleich, senior vice president of global marketing, Little Caesar Enterprises, Inc. “Our quality HOT-N-READY pizzas are ready for carry-out when our customers want them, with no waiting or need to call ahead to order. Customers simply go to their Little Caesars store, and fresh pizzas are ready. They’re a great, convenient addition to any host’s entertaining playbook.”

Little Caesars’ delicious, large HOT-N-READY pizzas are made with high quality ingredients including naturally-aged mozzarella cheese, dough made fresh daily in the stores and sauce made with tomatoes picked at the peak of ripeness. All for just $5 plus tax at participating locations.

“Little Caesars’ HOT-N-READY pizzas are a great way to keep everyone happy and stay on budget,” said Gleich. “Whether it’s feeding a family or a larger group on game day, Little Caesars’ quality and value can’t be beat.” For the fourth year in a row, Little Caesars has been named the “Best Value in America”* among all major quick-serve restaurant chains across the country.

Besides pizza, core HOT-N-READY menu items at Little Caesars stores include football fan favorites Caesar Wings®, Crazy Bread®, Caesar Dips® and more. Customers can locate their closest Little Caesars store by visiting the store locator on LittleCaesars.com.

Little Caesars is proud to sponsor ESPN’s SportsCenter Specials today through Friday, February 3, 2012, from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. ET and ESPN.com now through Sunday, February 5, 2012.

About Little Caesars

Little Caesars Pizza is currently the largest international carry-out chain, with restaurants on four continents.  The company’s founders, Michael and Marian Ilitch, opened their first restaurant in Garden City, Michigan in 1959. In 2010, Little Caesars added more stores around the world than any other pizza chain.

Little Caesars is growing in prime markets, offering strong franchisee candidates the opportunity for independence with a proven system. In addition, Little Caesars supports its franchisees through strong brand awareness with one of the most recognized and appealing characters in the country, Little Caesar.

Mike and Marian Ilitch’s other companies in the food, sports and entertainment industries include: the Detroit Red Wings, Olympia Entertainment, Olympia Development, Blue Line Foodservice Distribution, Champion Foods, Ilitch Holdings, Inc., Uptown Entertainment, Little Caesars Pizza Kit Fundraising Program, and a variety of venues within these entities. In addition, Michael Ilitch owns the Detroit Tigers and Marian Ilitch owns MotorCity Casino Hotel.

For more information about Little Caesars and available franchise opportunities, visit www.LittleCaesars.com or call 1.800.553.5776.

* “Highest-Rated Chain – Value for the Money” based on a nationwide survey of quick-service restaurant consumers conducted by Sandelman & Associates, 2010

Chain Looks to Energize Brand With Three New Hispanic Campaigns

Pizza Patron Returns to Pizza por Pesos Roots in 2012

Dallas, TX  (Restaurant News Release)  Five years after weathering the media firestorm that erupted when Pizza Patrón advertised its Pizza por Pesos® promotion, the company announced today that it is planning three new campaigns for 2012 designed to celebrate the brand’s Latino roots.

In January 2007, Pizza Patrón launched Pizza por Pesos® announcing that it would accept Mexican pesos at all of its U.S. locations. When company executives received threats over the program, Pizza Patrón was catapulted into the international news spotlight. Today, every Pizza Patrón location across the U.S. continues to gladly accept Mexican pesos (bills only) as a method of payment.

“In 2007, when we began accepting Mexican pesos at our restaurants, it admittedly generated a lot of negative feedback,” said Andrew Gamm, brand director for Pizza Patrón. “But, in the end we received a preponderance of positive support from our customers, the American people, and business advocates from around the world.”

This year, Pizza Patrón will roll out three new campaigns that will reinforce the brand’s commitment to its Hispanic roots and honor the positive force of change immigrants bring to communities throughout America. The first campaign is slated for late April and will celebrate the language that unifies most Hispanics. The second campaign, scheduled for a July 4th launch, will honor the history of American immigration. The final campaign in October will promote community action and will feature Mexican pesos, putting a Latin twist on the company’s annual fundraising efforts for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

“Five years after Pizza por Pesos® our brand focus remains laser sharp,” said Gamm. “With these new campaigns, we want to send a message to our core customers that we are here for them, and we are here to stay.”

Pizza Patrón is headquartered in Dallas and celebrated the opening of its 100th restaurant in 2011 with locations in seven states and 85 more under development. Franchise opportunities, offering a proven system for hard-working franchisee candidates, are available in prime Hispanic markets throughout the country.

About Pizza Patrón

Since 1986, Pizza Patrón has been committed to making its promise of “Más Pizza. Menos Dinero.®” a reality for every customer. From the beginning, the brand has been recognized for its ‘fresh-dough’ pizza, its low prices and its trademark “friendly, bicultural service.” In 2007, the company drew international media attention when it decided to accept Mexican Pesos at all of its restaurants, gaining over 500 million media impressions in the U.S. alone. Today, Pizza Patrón is the nation’s premier Latino pizza brand and remains dedicated to bringing its unique experience to life with every pizza made, and in every community it serves.

Website – http://www.pizzapatron.com
Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/pizzapatron
Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/pizzapatron

Baja Fresh Returns to Chicago

Irvine, CA  (Restaurant News Release)  Baja Fresh Mexican Grill, the quick-casual fresh Mexican chain, announced the grand opening of its newest Baja Fresh in Niles, IL. The 2,100 square foot Baja Fresh is located at 8610 W. Golf Road, Niles, IL 60714. It is owned and operated by Jignesh Patel. Patel chose to open a Baja Fresh in Niles because of its prime location near the Golf Mill Shopping Center, one of the top shopping areas in the Chicago market. Along with his 5 years of previous ownership experience in the restaurant industry, Patel is excited about bringing this area a made-to-order restaurant with high quality food and service. “Baja Fresh’s casual and inviting dining environment, fresh and extraordinary tastes will offer menu items at a fraction of the cost of sit-down dining with no charge for service that usually comes with being waited on,” Patel states, “another important factor to choose Baja Fresh is the quick service without compromising the taste of our high quality food.” Brand President Charles Rink concluded by stating, “We are very happy to bring Baja Fresh back to Chicago in the Niles neighborhood. We congratulate Jignesh Patel on the opening of his Baja Fresh, and we look forward to the success of this restaurant and our partnership.”

The new restaurant encompasses Baja Fresh’s latest restaurant design, service and customizable menu. Customers will notice a distinctly new interior incorporating the use of natural wood, stone and warm colors, in addition to a more accommodating seating plan. Additionally, the menu is designed to incorporate more customization. First, guests select their choice of a signature Baja Fresh protein: fire-grilled fresh all white-meat chicken, steak, shrimp, Wahoo, or Pork Carnitas. Next they are offered a choice of a burrito, taco platter or salad with numerous different flavor and signature recipe styles, with the option to “spice it up” or choose a milder Roasted Tomatillo salsa. Guests are then invited to visit Baja Fresh’s signature salsa bar with 6 fresh salsas made throughout the day. Finally the guest will experience a new service style with entrees delivered tableside. “We believe customers new and old will truly enjoy the new Baja Fresh experience!” said Charles Rink, Baja Fresh President.

About Baja Fresh

Baja Fresh Mexican Grill serves bold, fresh Mexican flavors for lunch, dinner, dine-in or take-out all in a spacious and contemporary environment. All entrées are made with never frozen, hormone free fire-grilled chicken, all natural steak and slow roasted pork carnitas. Handmade guacamole daily as well as a salsa bar hosting 6 salsas made fresh everyday, all day. Founded in 1990 and headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Baja Fresh operates or franchises 230 restaurants in 25 states as well as Dubai and Singapore. To learn more about Baja Fresh visit www.bajafresh.com.

 Contact

Baja Fresh Mexican Grill
Suzanne Jarmusz
Marketing Manager
(949) 270-8923
sjarmusz@bajafresh.com

Jack in the Box Teases Game Day Crowd With New BLT Cheeseburger

San Diego, CA  (Restaurant News Release)  At a time of year when football fans are obsessed with the NFL, XLVI and TDs, another kind of abbreviation is making its way into the football playbook: BLT. During Sunday’s championship game between the New England Patriots and New York Giants, Jack in the Box® restaurants will promote its new BLT Cheeseburger in a 30-second television ad.

Jack in the Box will begin offering the BLT Cheeseburger on February 2, and for a limited time the popular fast-food chain will promote the new burger in a combo meal that also includes a 20-oz. beverage and small order of fries for just $4.99, plus tax. The new burger features hickory-smoked bacon, shredded lettuce and tomatoes piled on a 100% beef patty along with American cheese, pickles and mayo-onion sauce and served on a sesame seed bun.

“When it comes to burger toppings, our guests have a major crush on bacon,” said Tracy Dunn, director of menu marketing and promotions for Jack in the Box Inc. “We’ve seen an overall increase in the sale of products that feature our hickory-smoked bacon, which we introduced last year. Along with the bacon, we’ve also improved our beef patty, which is now seasoned while it cooks and is tastier than ever. Bacon and burgers are a winning combination, and we think the new BLT Cheeseburger and $4.99 combo meal will be a hit with our guests.”

About Jack in the Box Inc.

Jack in the Box Inc. (NASDAQ: JACK), based in San Diego, is a restaurant company that operates and franchises Jack in the Box® restaurants, one of the nation’s largest hamburger chains, with more than 2,200 restaurants in 20 states. Additionally, through a wholly owned subsidiary, the company operates and franchises Qdoba Mexican Grill®, a leader in fast-casual dining, with nearly 600 restaurants in 42 states and the District of Columbia. For more information, visit www.jackinthebox.com.

Contact

Jack in the Box Inc.
Brian Luscomb
858-571-2291
brian.luscomb@jackinthebox.com