Restaurant Stocks

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BUCA, Inc. Announces First Quarter 2008 Earnings Call
BUCA, Inc. (Nasdaq: BUCA) announced today that it will release its financial results for its first quarter of fiscal 2008 (ended March 30, 2008) after the market close on Tuesday, May 6, 2008.

Management will host a conference call on the same day at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time (3:30 p.m. Central Time). The conference call will be webcast and can be accessed by cutting the following link into your browser: http://viavid.net/dce.aspx?sid=00004FE3.

A telephone replay will also be available for one week beginning at 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, May 6, 2008, and can be accessed by dialing 888-203-1112, or 719-457-0820 for international callers, and entering pin number 5821244. For those who are unable to listen to the webcast live, an indexed recording of the call will be available for one year at: http://viavid.net/dce.aspx?sid=00004FE3.

About the Company:

BUCA, Inc. owns and operates 89 highly acclaimed Italian restaurants under the name Buca di Beppo in 25 states and the District of Columbia.


Investor Relations:
ICR
Kathleen Heaney, 203-803-3585

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Red Robin Gourmet Burgers Continues Georgia Expansion With Opening of Cumming Restaurant
Casual dining restaurant to donate 50 cents from every gourmet burger sold to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children during opening week
GREENWOOD VILLAGE, Colo., May 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (Red Robin) will open its fifth Georgia restaurant in Cumming, located at 370 Peachtree Parkway, off of Exit 13 on Highway 400 at the new Avenues Shopping Plaza, on Monday, May 12, at 11 a.m. Red Robin serves high-quality gourmet burgers, appetizers, entrees, salads and beverages in a kid- and family-friendly atmosphere. As part of its grand opening celebrations, the Cumming Red Robin(R) restaurant will host a Burgers With A Heart(R) fundraiser to benefit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC).

Through Burgers With a Heart(R), Red Robin will donate 50 cents from every gourmet burger sold to NCMEC during grand-opening week from May 12-18. NCMEC is a non-profit organization whose mission is to help prevent child abduction and sexual exploitation; help find missing children; and assist victims of child abduction and sexual exploitation, their families, and the professionals who serve them. The money raised will help bring prevention education to children nationwide.

'On behalf of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, I would like to thank Red Robin for their generous support of our mission,' said Robbie Callaway, NCMEC co-founder and past Chairman of the Board. 'It is important that we empower families to make safer decisions for their children, and communication and education are vital tools in that effort. With Red Robin's support, we are able to reach many more families across the country with our messages of child safety.'

'We are thrilled to be expanding the Red Robin family of restaurants in Georgia, while also supporting such a wonderful family-oriented cause,' said Eric Houseman, Red Robin president and chief operating officer. 'We invite everyone to come to Red Robin and enjoy one of our more than two dozen high-quality gourmet burgers to support the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children as we open our newest restaurant in Cumming.'

Red Robin focuses its philanthropic support on local and national causes that promote the health, welfare and education of children, families and citizens in the communities it serves. Because Red Robin is all about kids and families, its ongoing partnership with NCMEC has continued to grow through the company's new restaurant openings and additional programs such as 'The Next Gourmet Burger Kids' Recipe Contest' since 2006.

The 6,330-square-foot Cumming Red Robin(R) restaurant will seat 202 guests. Red Robin has four additional restaurants in Georgia, including locations in Columbus, Evans, Lawrenceville and Newnan.

For more information about Red Robin and to find additional restaurant locations, please visit http://www.redrobin.com.

About Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (Nasdaq: RRGB)

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (http://www.redrobin.com), a casual dining restaurant chain founded in 1969 that operates through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Red Robin International, Inc., serves up wholesome, fun, feel-good experiences in a kid- and family-friendly environment. Red Robin(R) restaurants are famous for serving more than two dozen insanely delicious, high-quality gourmet burgers in a variety of recipes with Bottomless Steak Fries(R), as well as salads, soups, appetizers, entrees, desserts, and signature Mad Mixology(R) Beverages. There are more than 380 Red Robin(R) restaurants located across the United States and Canada, including corporate-owned locations and those operating under franchise agreements.

About the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children(R) (NCMEC)

NCMEC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping protect children from abduction and sexual exploitation. NCMEC's congressionally mandated CyberTipline, a reporting mechanism for child sexual exploitation, has handled more than 570,000 leads. Since its establishment in 1984, NCMEC has assisted law enforcement with more than 138,400 missing child cases, resulting in the recovery of more than 121,500 children. For more information about NCMEC, call its toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST or visit http://www.missingkids.com.

SOURCE Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc.



Source: PR Newswire (May 1, 2008 - 12:26 PM EDT)

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Kona Grill Reports First Quarter Results
First Quarter Revenues Increase 20%; Diluted EPS of ($0.10)

Stockholder Meeting to be Held on May 1st in Phoenix, AZ

Kona Grill, Inc. (Nasdaq: KONA), an American grill and sushi bar, today reported results for its first quarter ended March 31, 2008.

Highlights for the first quarter of 2008 include:

Revenue increased 20.0% to $18.8 million
Same-store sales decreased 2.4%
Net loss of ($0.7) million, or ($0.10) per diluted share
“First quarter 2008 results are indicative of the overall challenging macroeconomic environment, and in particular, the weak housing markets in Arizona and Nevada. Although the outlook for the remainder of the year suggests caution, we continue to believe that our growth model positions us well to opportunistically participate in any upturn of the economic cycle. In addition, our Board of Director’s recent authorization of a 600,000 share repurchase program demonstrates our confidence in the long-term success of our brand,” said Marcus E. Jundt, Chief Executive Officer and President of Kona Grill.

First Quarter Financial Results

For the first quarter of 2008, restaurant sales increased 20.0% to $18.8 million from $15.7 million in the same period last year. The increase in restaurant sales during the first quarter primarily reflects additional revenue from four stores opened during 2007. Restaurant sales reflect a 2.4% decrease in same-store sales, principally due to lower sales volume at two restaurants in Arizona and one restaurant in Nevada.

Average weekly sales for the 11 restaurants in the comparable base were $83,019 during the first quarter of 2008, compared to $85,042 in the prior year period. Average weekly sales for restaurants not in the comparable base that were open for the entire first quarter of 2008 were $76,283, versus $73,046 last year, a 4.4% increase.

Net loss for the first quarter of 2008 was ($0.7) million, or ($0.10) per diluted share, based upon 6.6 million diluted shares, versus net loss of ($0.5) million, or ($0.09) per diluted share for the same period last year, based upon 5.9 million diluted shares.

Financial Guidance

For the second quarter of 2008, the Company forecasts revenue of $19.7 million to $20.3 million and a net loss of ($0.3) million to ($0.6) million, or a net loss per diluted share of ($0.05) to $(0.09).

For fiscal year 2008, the Company expects revenue of $86 million to $90 million and a net loss of ($0.8) million to ($1.8) million, or ($0.12) to ($0.27) per diluted share. The Company anticipates opening five new restaurants in 2008, including one in the second quarter, one in the third quarter, and three in the fourth quarter. The 2008 development schedule includes the previously announced restaurants in Gilbert, AZ; West Palm Beach, FL; Phoenix, AZ and two additional units to be announced later.

Conference Call and Annual Stockholder Meeting

The Company will host a conference call to discuss first quarter 2008 financial results today at 5:00 PM ET. The call will be webcast live from the Company's website at www.konagrill.com under the investor relations section. Listeners may also access the call by dialing 800-762-8779 or 480-629-9041 for international callers. A replay of the call will be available until Wednesday, May 7, 2008, by dialing 800-406-7325 or 303-590-3030 for international callers; the password is 3866806.

The Company will also hold its Annual Stockholders meeting on Thursday, May 1, 2008, at the Offices of Greenberg Traurig LLP, 2375 E. Camelback Road, Suite 700, Phoenix, AZ 85016 at 5:00 PM ET.

About Kona Grill

Kona Grill owns and operates restaurants in Scottsdale and Chandler, AZ; Denver, CO; Stamford, CT; Naples, FL; Lincolnshire and Oak Brook, IL; Carmel, IN; Baton Rouge, LA; Troy, MI; Kansas City, MO; Omaha, NE; Las Vegas, NV; Austin, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Sugar Land (Houston), TX. Kona Grill restaurants offer freshly prepared food, personalized service, and a warm, contemporary ambiance that creates an exceptional, yet affordable, dining experience. Kona Grill restaurants serve a diverse selection of mainstream American dishes as well as a variety of appetizers and entrees with an international influence. Each restaurant also features an extensive sushi menu and sushi bar.

Forward-Looking Statements

The financial guidance we provide for our second quarter and fiscal year 2008 results, statements about our beliefs regarding profits and stockholder value, and certain other statements contained in this press release are forward-looking. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding our expectations, beliefs, intentions, plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events, or performance and underlying assumptions and other statements that are not purely historical. We have attempted to identify these statements by using forward-looking terminology such as “may,” “will,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “believes,” “intends,” “should,” or comparable terms. All forward-looking statements included in this press release are based on information available to us on the date of this release and we assume no obligation to update these forward-looking statements for any reason. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the statements. These risks and uncertainties include various risk factors set forth in our 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as well as various risk factors set forth from time to time in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

KONA GRILL, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands)

March 31, December 31,
2008 2007
(Unaudited)

ASSETS
Current assets $ 13,311 $ 21,668
Long-term investments 6,247 -
Other assets 512 495
Property and equipment, net 48,490 47,311
Total assets $ 68,560 $ 69,474

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities $ 7,968 $ 8,012
Long-term obligations 15,031 15,031
Stockholders’ equity 45,561 46,431
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 68,560 $ 69,474
KONA GRILL, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in thousands, except per share data)

Three Months Ended March 31,
2008 2007
(Unaudited)

Restaurant sales $ 18,796 $ 15,666
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales 5,407 4,546
Labor 6,459 5,075
Occupancy 1,308 1,058
Restaurant operating expenses 2,727 2,134
General and administrative 1,852 1,769
Preopening expense 178 488
Depreciation and amortization 1,658 1,289
Total costs and expenses 19,589 16,359
Loss from operations (793 ) (693 )
Nonoperating income (expense):
Interest income 204 160
Interest expense (34 ) -
Loss before provision for income taxes (623 ) (533 )
Provision for income taxes 50 10
Net loss $ (673 ) $ (543 )
Net loss per share:
Basic $ (0.10 ) $ (0.09 )
Diluted $ (0.10 ) $ (0.09 )
Weighted average shares used in computation:
Basic 6,609 5,854
Diluted 6,609 5,854

Reconciliation of Restaurant Operating Profit to Loss from Operations

The Company defines restaurant operating profit to be restaurant sales minus cost of sales, labor, occupancy, and restaurant operating expenses. Restaurant operating profit does not include general and administrative expenses, depreciation and amortization, and preopening expenses. The Company believes restaurant operating profit is an important component of financial results because it is a widely used metric within the restaurant industry to evaluate restaurant-level productivity, efficiency, and performance. The Company uses restaurant operating profit as a key metric to evaluate its restaurants' financial performance compared with its competitors. Restaurant operating profit is not a financial measurement determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") and should not be considered in isolation or as an alternative to loss from operations. Restaurant operating profit may not be comparable to the same or similarly titled measures computed by other companies. The table below sets forth the Company's calculation of restaurant operating profit and a reconciliation to loss from operations, the most comparable GAAP measure.


Three Months Ended March 31,
2008 2007

Restaurant sales $ 18,796 $ 15,666
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales 5,407 4,546
Labor 6,459 5,075
Occupancy 1,308 1,058
Restaurant operating expenses 2,727 2,134
Restaurant operating profit 2,895 2,853
Deduct - other costs and expenses:
General and administrative 1,852 1,769
Preopening expense 178 488
Depreciation and amortization 1,658 1,289
Loss from operations $ (793 ) $ (693 )


Percentage of Restaurant Sales
Three Months Ended March 31,
2008 2007

Restaurant sales 100.0 % 100.0 %
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales 28.8 29.0
Labor 34.4 32.4
Occupancy 7.0 6.8
Restaurant operating expenses 14.5 13.6
Restaurant operating profit 15.4 18.2
Deduct - other costs and expenses:
General and administrative 9.9 11.3
Preopening expense 0.9 3.1
Depreciation and amortization 8.8 8.2
Loss from operations (4.2 ) % (4.4 ) %

Certain percentage amounts may not sum to total due to rounding






Investor Relations
Raphael Gross/Don Duffy
203-682-8200

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Buffalo Wild Wings, Inc. Announces First Quarter 2008 Results
– Same-store sales increases of 4.1% at company-owned and 2.1% at franchised restaurants –

– Earnings per diluted share increase of 16% to $0.36 includes charges related to restaurant relocations of $0.02 –

Buffalo Wild Wings, Inc. (Nasdaq: BWLD), announced today financial results for the first quarter ended March 30, 2008. Highlights for the first quarter versus the same period a year ago were:

Total revenue increased 21.7% to $97.3 million
Company-owned restaurant sales grew 22.3% to $86.9 million
Same-store sales increased 4.1% at company-owned restaurants and 2.1% at franchised restaurants
Earnings per diluted share, which includes charges related to restaurant relocations of $0.02, increased 16% to $0.36 from $0.31
Sally Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer, commented, “2008 is off to a great start. We are very proud of our results, especially given the current economic environment. Our 15% unit growth and 22% revenue growth are in line with our annual goals. Earnings per diluted share increased 16% to $0.36 per share. As expected, with more company-owned restaurants opening earlier in the year, and the ongoing rent associated with the purchase and conversion of the eight Don Pablo’s locations, our first quarter preopening expenses increased by $867,000, and the accelerated depreciation and impairment for the upcoming relocations of three restaurants was $510,000 for the quarter. Without these year-over-year incremental costs, our net income would have increased by over 30%.”

Total revenue increased 21.7% to $97.3 million in the first quarter compared to $79.9 million in the first quarter of 2007. Company-owned restaurant sales for the quarter increased 22.3% to $86.9 million driven by a company-owned same-store sales increase of 4.1% and 25 more company-owned restaurants in operation at the end of first quarter 2008 relative to the same period in 2007. Franchise royalties and fees increased 17.2% to $10.4 million versus $8.8 million in the prior year. This increase was due to a franchised same-store sales increase of 2.1% and 41 more franchised restaurants at the end of the period versus a year ago.

Average weekly sales for company-owned restaurants were $41,438 for the first quarter of 2008 compared to $39,254 for the same quarter last year, a 5.6% increase. Franchised restaurants averaged $47,812 for the period versus $46,439 in the first quarter a year ago, a 3.0% increase.

For the first quarter, earnings per diluted share were $0.36, as compared to first quarter 2007 earnings per diluted share of $0.31.

2008 Outlook

Ms. Smith concluded, “We are very pleased with the sustained strength of our same-store sales, and we are intensely focused on driving guests to Buffalo Wild Wings and delivering a great experience. Five new company-owned and 10 franchised locations are expected to open in the second quarter, ahead of our development pace of 2007 and on track to achieve our annual 15% unit growth target. As a result of the additional units in construction, preopening expenses are expected to be about $1.2 million in the second quarter. The purchase of the nine Las Vegas franchised locations is now anticipated to close in the third quarter. We are confident that these units, combined with our unit growth and strong unit-level performance, will enable us to achieve our annual goal of increasing net income by 25%.”

Buffalo Wild Wings will be hosting a conference call today, April 29, 2008 at 4:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time to discuss these results. There will be a simultaneous webcast conducted at our website http://www.buffalowildwings.com.

A replay of the call will be available until May 6, 2008. To access this replay, please dial 303.590.3030, password 3870677.

About the Company

Buffalo Wild Wings, Inc., founded in 1982 and headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a growing owner, operator and franchisor of restaurants featuring a variety of boldly-flavored, made-to-order menu items including Buffalo-style chicken wings spun in one of 14 signature sauces. Buffalo Wild Wings is an inviting neighborhood destination with widespread appeal and is the recipient of dozens of “Best Wings” and “Best Sports Bar” awards from across the country. There are currently 507 Buffalo Wild Wings locations across 37 states.

Forward-looking Statements

Certain statements in this release that are not historical facts, including, without limitation, those relating to our projected unit, revenue and earnings growth rates and future financial performance, the number and timing of projected store openings, preopening expenses, and the timing of closing the Las Vegas transaction are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Such statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of our management. Actual results may vary materially from those contained in forward-looking statements based on a number of factors including, without limitation, the actual number of locations opening in the future, the sales at these and our other company-owned and franchised locations, the timing of closing of acquisitions, our ability to successfully operate in new markets, the cost of commodities, the success of our marketing and other initiatives, our ability to control restaurant labor and other restaurant operating costs, the outcome and impact of the Las Vegas transaction, economic conditions, competition, the impact of applicable regulations, and other factors disclosed from time to time in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Investors should take such risks into account when making investment decisions. Shareholders and other readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

BUFFALO WILD WINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
(Dollar and share amounts in thousands except per share data)
(unaudited)

Three months ended
March 30,
April 1,

2008 2007

Revenue:
Restaurant sales $ 86,896 71,059
Franchising royalties and fees 10,366 8,843
Total revenue 97,262 79,902
Costs and expenses:
Restaurant operating costs:
Cost of sales 26,415 22,058
Labor 25,858 21,107
Operating 13,275 11,472
Occupancy 5,697 4,718
Depreciation 5,239 3,892
General and administrative (1) 9,341 8,617
Preopening 1,185 318
Loss on asset disposals and impairment 753 79
Total costs and expenses 87,763 72,261
Income from operations 9,499 7,641
Interest income 432 700
Earnings before income taxes 9,931 8,341
Income tax expense 3,406 2,800
Net earnings 6,525 5,541
Earnings per common share – basic $ 0.37 0.32
Earnings per common share – diluted 0.36 0.31
Weighted average share outstanding – basic 17,766 17,448
Weighted average share outstanding – diluted 17,877 17,684

(1) Contains stock-based compensation of $1,020 and $1,268

The following table expresses results of operations as a percentage of total revenue for the periods presented, except for restaurant operating costs which are expressed as a percentage of restaurant sales:

Three months ended
March 30,
April 1,

2008 2007
Revenue:
Restaurant sales 89.3 88.9 %
Franchising royalties and fees 10.7 11.1


Total revenue 100.0 100.0


Costs and expenses:
Restaurant operating costs:
Cost of sales 30.4 31.0
Labor 29.8 29.7
Operating 15.3 16.1
Occupancy 6.6 6.6
Depreciation 5.4 4.9
General and administrative 9.6 10.8
Preopening 1.2 0.4
Loss on asset disposals and impairment 0.8 0.1


Total costs and expenses 90.2 90.4


Income from operations 9.8 9.6


Interest income 0.4 0.9


Earnings before income taxes 10.2 10.4
Income tax expense 3.5 3.5


Net earnings 6.7 % 6.9 %


BUFFALO WILD WINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
March 30, 2008 and December 30, 2007
(Dollar amounts in thousands)

March 30,
December 30,
2008 2007
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 15,155 1,521
Marketable securities 57,930 66,513
Accounts receivable – franchisees, net of allowance of $25 977 885
Accounts receivable – other 6,405 6,976
Inventory 2,622 2,362
Prepaid expenses 2,309 3,060
Refundable income tax 338 1,886
Deferred income taxes 1,611 1,303
Total current assets 87,347 84,506
Property and equipment, net 108,702 102,742
Restricted cash 2,079 7,161
Other assets 2,297 2,320
Goodwill 369 369
Total assets $ 200,794 197,098

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

Current liabilities:
Unearned franchise fees $ 2,448 2,316
Accounts payable 12,030 10,692
Accrued compensation and benefits 10,302 12,615
Accrued expenses 6,139 6,207
Current portion of deferred lease credits 282 660
Total current liabilities 31,201 32,490
Long-term liabilities:
Other liabilities 1,100 1,031
Marketing fund payables 2,079 7,161
Deferred income taxes 3,741 2,166
Deferred lease credits, net of current portion 12,973 12,585
Total liabilities 51,094 55,433
Commitments and contingencies
Common stockholders’ equity:

Undesignated stock, 1,000,000 shares authorized — —
Common stock, no par value. Authorized 20,200,000 shares; issued and outstanding 18,241,765 and 17,933,497, respectively 82,335 80,825
Retained earnings 67,365 60,840
Total stockholders’ equity 149,700 141,665
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 200,794 197,098


BUFFALO WILD WINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
(Dollar amounts in thousands)
(unaudited)

Three months ended
March 30,
April 1,

2008 2007
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net earnings $ 6,525 5,541
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to cash provided by operations:

Depreciation 5,239 3,892
Amortization (36) 19
Loss on disposals and impairment 753 87
Deferred lease credits 834 302
Deferred income taxes 1,267 (762)
Stock-based compensation 1,020 1,268
Excess tax benefit from the exercise of stock options (278) (585)
Change in operating assets and liabilities:
Purchase of trading securities 1 (91)
Accounts receivable (345) (282)
Inventory (260) (248)
Prepaid expenses 751 (612)
Other assets 23 (24)
Unearned franchise fees 132 26
Accounts payable (219) 79
Income taxes 1,826 2,416
Accrued expenses (1,212) 273

Net cash provided by operating activities 16,021 11,299

Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisition of property and equipment (10,395) (3,904)
Purchase of marketable securities (27,704) (39,605)
Proceeds from marketable securities 36,322 34,693

Net cash used in investing activities (1,777) (8,816)

Cash flows from financing activities:
Issuance of common stock 101 441
Tax payments for restricted stock (989) (1,183)
Excess tax benefit from the exercise of stock options 278 585
Net cash used in financing activities (610) (157)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 13,634 2,326
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 1,521 11,756
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 15,155 14,082


BUFFALO WILD WINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Supplemental Information

Restaurant Count


Company-owned Restaurants:

Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4

2008
165
2007
140 145 148 161
2006
124 129 134 139
2005
106 110 116 122
2004
88 92 97 103

Franchised Restaurants:


Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4

2008
340
2007
299 301 313 332
2006
260 270 278 290
2005
212 224 234 248
2004
168 175 189 203

Same-Store Sales


Company-owned Restaurants:


Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Year

2008
4.1 %
2007
8.7 % 8.1 % 8.3 % 3.4 % 6.9 %
2006
7.7 % 8.2 % 11.8 % 13.2 % 10.4 %
2005
6.1 % 2.7 % 1.8 % 2.5 % 3.2 %
2004
11.1 % 10.6 % 9.9 % 7.6 % 9.7 %

Franchised Restaurants:



Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Year

2008
2.1 %
2007
3.3 % 4.0 % 5.9 % 2.3 % 3.9 %
2006
6.7 % 4.7 % 6.4 % 6.5 % 6.1 %
2005
3.2 % 1.8 % 1.1 % 2.6 % 2.2 %
2004
12.0 % 10.4 % 5.7 % 3.7 % 7.6 %


BUFFALO WILD WINGS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Supplemental Information

Average Weekly Sales Volumes

Company-owned Restaurants:


Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Year

2008
$ 41,438
2007
39,254 36,655 38,498 40,485 38,757
2006
35,857 33,660 35,380 38,800 36,033
2005
33,195 30,531 31,361 33,953 32,304
2004
32,289 30,248 30,983 33,038 31,663

Franchised Restaurants:


Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Year

2008
$ 47,812
2007
46,439 43,998 45,879 47,293 45,901
2006
44,342 42,338 42,963 46,008 43,975
2005
41,309 39,824 40,149 42,533 40,999
2004
39,678 38,072 38,727 40,926 39,402


Buffalo Wild Wings, Inc.
Investor Relations Contact:
Mary Twinem, 952-253-0731
or
Sally Smith, 952-253-0731
President and CEO




Source: Business Wire (April 29, 2008 - 4:09 PM EDT)

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Red Robin Gourmet Burgers Adds Eau Claire Restaurant
Casual dining restaurant to donate 50 cents from every gourmet burger sold to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children during opening week
GREENWOOD VILLAGE, Colo., April 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (Red Robin) will open the ninth Wisconsin Red Robin(R) restaurant in Eau Claire, located at 3005 Golf Road, north of I-94 at the corner of Golf Road and Highway 93, on Monday, May 5, at 11 a.m. Red Robin serves high-quality gourmet burgers, appetizers, entrees, salads and beverages in a kid- and family-friendly atmosphere. As part of its grand opening celebrations, the Eau Claire Red Robin(R) restaurant will host a Burgers With A Heart(R) fundraiser to benefit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC).

Through Burgers With a Heart(R), Red Robin will donate 50 cents from every gourmet burger sold to NCMEC during grand-opening week from May 5 to 11. NCMEC is a non-profit organization whose mission is to help prevent child abduction and sexual exploitation; help find missing children; and assist victims of child abduction and sexual exploitation, their families, and the professionals who serve them. The money raised will help bring prevention education to children nationwide.

'On behalf of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, I would like to thank Red Robin for its generous support of our mission,' said Robbie Callaway, NCMEC co-founder and past Chairman of the Board. 'It is important that we empower families to make safer decisions for their children, and communication and education are vital tools in that effort. With Red Robin's support, we are able to reach many more families across the country with our messages of child safety.'

'We are thrilled to be expanding the Red Robin family of restaurants in Wisconsin, while also supporting such a wonderful family-oriented cause,' said Eric Houseman, Red Robin president and chief operating officer. 'We invite everyone to come to our newest Red Robin(R) Restaurant in Eau Claire and enjoy one of our more than two dozen high-quality gourmet burgers to support the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.'

Red Robin focuses its philanthropic support on local and national causes that promote the health, welfare and education of children, families and citizens in the communities it serves. Because Red Robin is all about kids and families, its ongoing partnership with NCMEC has continued to grow through the company's new restaurant openings and additional programs such as 'The Next Gourmet Burger Kids' Recipe Contest' since 2006.

The 6,695-square-foot Eau Claire Red Robin(R) restaurant will seat 214 guests. There are eight additional Red Robin(R) restaurants in Wisconsin owned and operated by Dane County Robins, Inc., a franchisee of Red Robin.

For more information about Red Robin and to find additional restaurant locations, please visit http://www.redrobin.com.

About Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (Nasdaq: RRGB)

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (http://www.redrobin.com), a casual dining restaurant chain founded in 1969 that operates through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Red Robin International, Inc., serves up wholesome, fun, feel-good experiences in a kid- and family-friendly environment. Red Robin(R) restaurants are famous for serving more than two dozen insanely delicious, high-quality gourmet burgers in a variety of recipes with Bottomless Steak Fries(R), as well as salads, soups, appetizers, entrees, desserts, and signature Mad Mixology(R) Beverages. There are more than 390 Red Robin(R) restaurants located across the United States and Canada, including corporate-owned locations and those operating under franchise agreements.

About the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children(R) (NCMEC)

NCMEC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping protect children from abduction and sexual exploitation. NCMEC's congressionally mandated CyberTipline, a reporting mechanism for child sexual exploitation, has handled more than 570,000 leads. Since its establishment in 1984, NCMEC has assisted law enforcement with more than 138,400 missing child cases, resulting in the recovery of more than 121,500 children. For more information about NCMEC, call its toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST or visit http://www.missingkids.com.

SOURCE Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc.



Source: PR Newswire (April 29, 2008 - 12:57 PM EDT)

News by QuoteMedia
www.quotemedia.com

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[Beevo]

Looks like a good place to pick up some deals in the future....Boardmark here

[nostinkinc]

The Cheesecake Factory Reports Results for First Quarter of Fiscal 2008
The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated (NASDAQ: CAKE) today reported financial results for the first quarter of fiscal 2008, which ended on April 1, 2008.

Total revenues increased 10% to $393.8 million from $356.6 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2008. Net income and diluted net income per share were $14.3 million and $0.21, respectively.

Operating Results

Comparable restaurant sales decreased approximately 1.8% in the first quarter of fiscal 2008. Inclement weather in many parts of the country during the first quarter of fiscal 2008 had a net impact on comparable sales of approximately $1.6 million. Excluding the estimated weather-related effect, comparable restaurant sales would have decreased approximately 1.2%.

By concept, comparable restaurant sales decreased an estimated 1.9% and 0.9% at The Cheesecake Factory and Grand Lux Cafe, respectively, in the first quarter of fiscal 2008. Absent any impact from weather, comparable sales would have decreased approximately 1.3% and 0.6% at The Cheesecake Factory and Grand Lux Cafe, respectively.

“We continue to be focused on execution and firmly managing our costs. Our operating margins were in-line with our expectations, despite ongoing cost headwinds and the de-leveraging effect from guest traffic that has not yet returned to normalized levels,” said David Overton, Chairman and CEO. “We executed against our business plan for fiscal 2008 and repurchased shares during the first quarter. We firmly believe in the strength of our brands and view our stock repurchases as a good investment, as well as a means for us to deliver on our commitment to return value to shareholders.”

Stock Repurchases

The Company repurchased approximately 2.2 million shares of its common stock during the first quarter of fiscal 2008 at a total cost of $45 million as part of its previously announced fiscal 2008 business plan, which includes estimated share repurchases of between $150 million and $200 million. The Company has repurchased approximately 15.7 million shares under its 31 million share authorization.

Targeted New Restaurant Openings

The Company continues to expect to open between seven and nine new restaurants in fiscal 2008, consisting of six to eight Cheesecake Factory restaurants as well as the initial unit of its newest concept, RockSugar Pan Asian Kitchen. The Company anticipates opening four Cheesecake Factory restaurants and RockSugar Pan Asian Kitchen in the second quarter of fiscal 2008, and expects the remaining new restaurants to open in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008. The Company will maintain its focus on selecting only the premier locations for its concepts based upon their availability.

Conference Call and Webcast

A conference call to review the results for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 will be held on Thursday, April 24, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time. The conference call will be broadcast live over the Internet and a replay will be available shortly after the call and continue through May 23, 2008. To listen to the conference call, please go to the Company’s website at thecheesecakefactory.com at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the call to register and download any necessary audio software. Click on the “Investors” link on the home page, and select the links for “Financial Information” and “Webcasts.”

About The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated

The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated created the upscale casual dining segment in 1978 with the introduction of its namesake concept and continues to define it today with the two highest productivity concepts in the industry. The Company operates 139 restaurants throughout the U.S. under The Cheesecake Factory® name with an extensive menu of more than 200 items and fiscal 2007 average annual unit sales of approximately $10.4 million. Grand Lux Cafe®, the Company’s second concept, has 13 units in operation across the U.S. offering a broad menu of more than 150 items and average annual unit sales of approximately $12.7 million in fiscal 2007. The Company also operates two bakery production facilities in Calabasas Hills, CA and Rocky Mount, NC that produce over 60 varieties of quality cheesecakes and other baked products. Additionally, the Company operates one self-service, limited menu express foodservice operation and licenses two bakery cafe outlets to another foodservice operator under The Cheesecake Factory Bakery Cafe® mark. For more information, please visit thecheesecakefactory.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements in this release are generally identified by words, such as "believes," "anticipates," "plans," "expects," "will," and "would," and similar expressions that are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. In particular, forward-looking statements regarding the Company’s restaurant sales trends are subject to risks and uncertainties due to national and regional economic and public safety conditions that impact consumer confidence and spending, as well as weather and other factors outside of the Company’s control. Forward-looking statements regarding the number and timing of the Company’s planned new restaurant openings are subject to risks and uncertainties due to factors outside of the Company’s control, including factors that are under the control of government agencies, landlords and others. Approximately 15.3 million shares of the Company’s common stock may be purchased under the Company’s share repurchase authorization. This authorization does not require the Company to purchase a specific number of shares and it may be modified, suspended or terminated at any time. The timing and number of shares repurchased, if any, pursuant to the share repurchase authorization will be subject to a number of factors, including current market conditions, legal constraints and available cash or other sources of funding. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the dates on which they were made. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise unless required to do so by the securities laws. Investors are referred to the full discussion of risks and uncertainties associated with forward-looking statements and the discussion of risk factors contained in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These filings are available on a website maintained by the Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov.

The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited; in thousands, except per share and statistical data)


13 Weeks Ended 13 Weeks Ended
Consolidated Statements of Operations April 1, 2008 April 3, 2007
Amount
Percent of Revenues Amount
Percent of Revenues
Revenues $ 393,803 100.0 % $ 356,583 100.0 %
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales 100,739 25.6 % 89,560 25.1 %
Labor expenses 132,523 33.7 % 118,840 33.3 %
Other operating costs and expenses 95,898 24.3 % 84,794 23.8 %
General and administrative expenses 20,343 5.2 % 19,472 5.5 %
Depreciation and amortization expenses 18,093 4.6 % 15,390 4.3 %
Preopening costs 2,486 0.6 % 3,084 0.9 %
Total costs and expenses 370,082 94.0 % 331,140 92.9 %
Income from operations 23,721 6.0 % 25,443 7.1 %
Interest expense (3,539 ) (0.9)
%
(1,047 ) (0.3)
%

Interest income 522 0.1 % 1,632 0.5 %
Other income, net (175 ) 0.0 % 267 0.1 %
Income before income taxes 20,529 5.2 % 26,295 7.4 %
Income tax provision 6,200 1.6 % 7,889 2.2 %
Net income $ 14,329
3.6 % $ 18,406 5.2 %

Basic net income per share $ 0.21 $ 0.24
Basic weighted average shares outstanding 68,110 77,022

Diluted net income per share $ 0.21 $ 0.24
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding 68,629 78,165

Selected Segment Information
Revenues:
Restaurants $ 378,684 $ 343,081
Bakery 27,083 24,940
Intercompany bakery sales (11,964 ) (11,438 )
$ 393,803 $ 356,583

Income from operations:
Restaurants $ 42,065 $ 42,121
Bakery 3,083 4,107
Corporate (21,427 ) (20,785 )
$ 23,721 $ 25,443


Selected Consolidated Balance Sheet Information April 1, 2008 January 1, 2008
Cash and cash equivalents $ 128,786 $ 36,867
Investments and marketable securities 1,033 12,362
Total assets 1,191,085 1,145,753
Long-term debt 275,000 175,000
Total liabilities 656,792 582,827
Stockholders' equity 534,293 562,926


13 Weeks Ended 13 Weeks Ended
Supplemental Information April 1, 2008 April 3, 2007
Comparable restaurant sales percentage change (1) -1.8 % 0.4 %
Restaurants opened during period 0 1
Restaurants open at period-end 153 133
Restaurant operating weeks 1,988 1,720

(1) Includes The Cheesecake Factory and Grand Lux Cafe restaurants


The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated
Jill Peters, 818-871-3000

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Darden Restaurants to Present at Lehman Brothers Eleventh Annual Retail Conference
ORLANDO, Fla., April 28 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Darden Restaurants, Inc., (NYSE: DRI) will be presenting at Lehman Brothers 11th Annual Retail Conference to be held in New York City, New York. There will be an on-line simulcast of the Company's presentation which begins at 2:30 pm (Eastern) on Tuesday, April 29, 2008, available at the Company's website, www.darden.com . An audio-only webcast of the Company's presentation will be available over the Internet at http://cc.talkpoint.com/LEHM002/050107a_jw/default.asp?entity=DardenRestaurant s&id=5258 . The archived webcast will also be available on the home page of the company's website www.darden.com through May 6, 2008.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050203/FLTH026LOGO )

Darden Restaurants, Inc., (NYSE: DRI) headquartered in Orlando, Fla., is the world's largest full-service restaurant company with almost $6.7 billion in annual sales and approximately 170,000 employees. The Company owns and operates nearly 1,700 restaurants including Red Lobster, Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, The Capital Grille, Bahama Breeze and Seasons 52. For more information, please visit www.Darden.com .

SOURCE Darden Restaurants, Inc.

[nostinkinc]

BJ's Restaurants, Inc. Reports Financial Results for the First Quarter of Fiscal 2008
BJ’s Restaurants, Inc. (NASDAQ: BJRI) today reported financial results for the first fiscal quarter ended April 1, 2008.

Highlights for the first quarter, compared to the same quarter last year, were as follows:

Revenues increased approximately 22% to $86.8 million
Net income was $3.1 million and diluted net income per share was $0.12, compared to net income of $1.6 million and diluted net income per share of $0.06 for the same quarter last year (which included a non-cash charge of approximately $1.3 million, net of tax, or $0.05 per diluted share, related to fixed asset disposals)
Comparable restaurant sales were approximately flat for the quarter
Total restaurant operating weeks increased approximately 24%
2008 restaurant expansion plan remains solidly on track
“In spite of the increasing difficulty of the overall operating environment for most casual dining restaurant companies in nearly every respect, our restaurant, brewery and infrastructure support teams did a very good job of driving BJ’s forward and managing the elements of our business that are within our control during the first quarter,” commented Jerry Deitchle, President and CEO. “As we initially noted in our February 2008 investor conference call, our first quarter results reflect softer levels of comparable sales, particularly in the Inland Empire and Sacramento areas of California and in the Phoenix area of Arizona, which together contain 13 of our 50 total comparable restaurants. These areas have been significantly impacted by the slowing national economy, the ‘credit crunch’ and the resulting pressures in general on consumer spending and confidence. Excluding these 13 restaurants from our comparable restaurant base for the first quarter, our comparable restaurant sales would have been up approximately 3.1%.”

“While no one can accurately predict how the consumer will continue to react in this volatile and slowing economy, we do not believe that the current difficult operating environment is likely to abate in the near future,” said Greg Levin, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. “Accordingly, we are accelerating our planned schedule of 2008 sales-building initiatives. These initiatives include on-line ordering and curbside cashiering services, call-ahead seating service, expanded delivery service, new lunch specials, and additional print media support for our new menu entrees and other services. We expect most of these initiatives to be in place by the end of the second quarter. On the operational execution front, our restaurant management team did a very good job of managing our controllable costs and expenses during the first quarter, and we expect them to continue to do so.”

The Company opened two new restaurants in the first quarter of 2008 in Cincinnati, Ohio and Louisville, Kentucky. The Cincinnati restaurant represents the Company’s second restaurant in Ohio, and the Louisville restaurant is the Company’s first restaurant in Kentucky. “We were very pleased with the initial sales volumes of our Cincinnati and Louisville restaurants, even though both were opened during periods of significant winter weather in both cities,” said Greg Lynds, Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer. “With the planned May 2008 openings of our new restaurants in Indianapolis, Indiana and Kissimmee, Florida, BJ’s will have four restaurants in each of the Ohio Valley and Central Florida regions, and more openings are planned in these areas during upcoming years.”

“We remain very excited and confident in BJ’s long-term ability to gain additional market share in the estimated $90-plus billion casual dining segment of the restaurant industry,” said Deitchle. “Our development team has worked very hard to put us in an excellent position to successfully execute our previously stated restaurant expansion plan to open as many as 15 new restaurants during 2008 and thereby increase our total restaurant operating weeks another 20% to 25% during the year.” All prospective locations for potential 2008 openings have been secured and nine restaurants are currently under construction. As of this date, the Company currently expects to open approximately four, five and four new restaurants during each of the upcoming three fiscal quarters, respectively. The actual timing of restaurant openings is inherently difficult to precisely predict and is subject to weather conditions and other factors outside of the Company’s control, including factors that are under the control of the Company’s landlords, municipalities and contractors.

As previously disclosed, the Company’s investments consist of auction rate securities (“ARS”) with a par or face value of $37.1 million. These auction rate securities are AAA rated, long-term debt obligations secured by student loans, which loans are 97% guaranteed by the U.S. Government under the Federal Family Education Loan Program (“FFELP”). The recent uncertainties in the credit markets have affected the Company’s holding in these ARS investments, since auctions for the Company’s investments in these securities have failed to settle on their respective settlement dates. Historically, the fair value of the ARS investments approximated par value due to the frequent resets through the auction process. While the Company continues to earn interest on its ARS investments and there has been no change in the ratings of these securities to date, these investments are not currently trading and, therefore, do not currently have a readily determinable market value. In accordance with FASB Statement No. 157, Fair Value Measurements, (“FAS 157”), the Company estimated the fair value of its auction rate securities using valuation models and methodologies provided by third parties, including the Company’s investment manager for the ARS. Based on these valuation models and methodologies, the Company has recognized a temporary decline in the fair value of its ARS investments of approximately $1.5 million as of April 1, 2008. In accordance with FASB Statement No. 115, Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities, (“FAS 115”), a temporary change in fair value results in an unrealized holding loss being recorded in the “other comprehensive income (loss)” component of shareholders’ equity. Such an unrealized holding loss does not affect net income for the applicable accounting period. Due to the current illiquidity of these investments and the uncertainty regarding the auction rate securities market, the Company has also reclassified these investments to non-current investments for the current reporting period at fair value. In addition, the Company has a $45 million line of credit, which has zero outstanding as of April 1, 2008, and currently anticipates holding these ARS investments until a recovery of the auction process or until maturity. The Company will continue to monitor the auction rate securities market and the liquidity and value of the securities it holds. Additional adjustments to the fair value may be required from quarter to quarter to reflect changes in market conditions.

Investor Conference Call and Webcast

BJ’s Restaurants, Inc. will conduct a conference call on its first quarter earnings release today, April 24, 2008, at 2:00 p.m. (Pacific Standard Time). The Company will provide an Internet simulcast, as well as a replay of the conference call. To listen to the conference call, please visit the “Investors” page of the Company's website located at http://www.bjsrestaurants.com several minutes prior to the start of the call to register and download any necessary audio software. An archive of the presentation will be available for 30 days following the call.

BJ's Restaurants, Inc. currently owns and operates 69 casual dining restaurants under the BJ's Restaurant & Brewery, BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse or BJ's Pizza & Grill brand names. BJ's restaurants offer an innovative and broad menu featuring award-winning, signature deep-dish pizza complemented with generously portioned salads, appetizers, sandwiches, soups, pastas, entrees and desserts. Quality, flavor, value, moderate prices and sincere service remain distinct attributes of the BJ's experience. The Company operates several microbreweries which produce and distribute BJ's critically acclaimed handcrafted beers throughout the chain. The Company's restaurants are located in California (39), Texas (11), Arizona (4), Colorado (3), Oregon (2), Nevada (2), Florida (3), Ohio (2), Oklahoma (2) and Kentucky (1). The Company also has a licensing interest in a BJ's restaurant in Lahaina, Maui. Visit BJ's Restaurants, Inc. on the Web at http://www.bjsrestaurants.com.

Certain statements in the preceding paragraphs and all other statements that are not purely historical constitute "forward-looking statements" for purposes of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and are intended to be covered by the safe harbors created thereby. Such statements include, but are not limited to, those regarding expected comparable restaurant sales growth in 2008, those regarding the effect of new sales-building initiatives, as well as those regarding the number of restaurants expected to be opened in 2008 and the timing and location of such openings. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results to be materially different from those projected or anticipated. Factors that might cause such differences include, but are not limited to: (i) our ability to manage an increasing number of new restaurant openings, (ii) construction delays, (iii) labor shortages, (iv) minimum wage increases, (v) food quality and health concerns, (vi) factors that impact California, where 39 of our current 69 restaurants are located, (vii) restaurant and brewery industry competition, (viii) impact of certain brewery business considerations, including without limitation, dependence upon suppliers and related hazards, (ix) consumer spending trends in general for casual dining occasions, (x) potential uninsured losses and liabilities, (xi) fluctuating commodity costs, the effect of any resulting menu price increases on our sales, the availability of food in general and certain raw materials related to the brewing of our handcrafted beers and energy, (xii) trademark and servicemark risks, (xiii) government regulations, (xiv) licensing costs, (xv) beer and liquor regulations, (xvi) loss of key personnel, (xvii) inability to secure acceptable sites, (xviii) limitations on insurance coverage, (xix) legal proceedings, (xx) other general economic and regulatory conditions and requirements, (xxi) the success of our key sales-building and related operational initiatives and (xxii) numerous other matters discussed in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. BJ's Restaurants, Inc. undertakes no obligation to update or alter its forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Further information concerning the Company’s results of operations for first quarter 2008 will be provided in the Company’s Form 10-Q filing, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission by May 12, 2008.

BJ’s Restaurants, Inc.
Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Income
(Dollars in thousands except for per share data)

For the Thirteen Weeks Ended
April 1, April 3,
Statement of Income Data: 2008 2007

Revenues $ 86,822 100.0 % $ 71,203 100.0 %

Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales 21,897 25.2 18,028 25.3
Labor and benefits 30,671 35.3 25,628 36.0
Operating and occupancy expenses 17,746 20.4 13,406 18.8
General and administrative expenses 7,396 8.5 6,238 8.8
Depreciation and amortization 4,268 4.9 3,052 4.3
Restaurant opening expense 1,127 1.3 1,420 2.0
Loss on disposal of assets - - 2,004 2.8
Total cost and expenses 83,105 95.6 69,776 98.0
Income from operations 3,717 4.4 1,427 2.0

Other income:
Interest income, net 651 0.7 976 1.4
Other income, net 88 0.1 34 0.0
Total other income 739 0.8 1,010 1.4
Income before income tax expense 4,456 5.2 2,437 3.4

Income tax expense 1,336 1.5 811 1.1

Net income $ 3,120 3.7 % $ 1,626 2.3 %

Net income per share:
Basic $ 0.12 $ 0.06

Diluted $ 0.12 $ 0.06

Weighted average number of shares outstanding:
Basic 26,359 26,072

Diluted 26,736 26,813


Selected Consolidated Balance Sheet Information
(Dollars in thousands)

Balance Sheet Data (end of period):
April 1,
2008
(unaudited)


January 1,
2008
(audited)




Cash and cash equivalents $ 5,210 $ 11,617

Investments (1) $ 35,627 $ 41,100

Total assets $ 283,575 $ 285,299

Total long-term debt, including current portion $ - $ -

Shareholders’ equity $ 223,086 $ 220,523

(1) Investments are comprised of auction rate securities classified as available for sale and recorded at their fair value as of April 1, 2008.

Supplemental (Unaudited) Information (2) For the Thirteen Weeks Ended
April 1, 2008 April 3, 2007

Comparable restaurant sales % change 0.0 % 6.9 %
Restaurants opened during period 2 2
Restaurants open at period-end 69 57
Restaurant operating weeks 894 721

(2) excludes the one licensed restaurant



Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

To supplement the consolidated financial statements presented in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), the Company has included the following non-GAAP financial measures in this press release or in the webcast to discuss the Company's financial results for the first quarter which may be accessed via the Company's website at http://www.bjsrestaurants.com: (i) non-GAAP net income, and (ii) non-GAAP basic and diluted net income per share. Each of these non-GAAP financial measures is adjusted from results based on GAAP to exclude certain expenses and gains. As a general matter, the Company uses these non-GAAP measures in addition to and in conjunction with results presented in accordance with GAAP. Among other things, the Company uses such non-GAAP financial measures in addition to and in conjunction with corresponding GAAP measures to help analyze the performance of its core business. In addition, the Company believes that such non-GAAP financial information is provided by its competitors and such information is used by analysts and others in the investment community to analyze the Company's results and in formulating estimates of future performance and that failure to report these non-GAAP measures, could result in confusion among analysts and others and a misplaced perception that the Company's results have underperformed or exceeded expectations or the results of its competitors.

These non-GAAP financial measures reflect an additional way of viewing aspects of the Company's operations that, when viewed with the GAAP results and the reconciliations to corresponding GAAP financial measures, provide a more complete understanding of the Company's results of operations and the factors and trends affecting the Company's business. However, these non-GAAP measures should be considered as a supplement to, and not as a substitute for, or superior to, the corresponding measures calculated in accordance with GAAP.

Non-GAAP net income and non-GAAP basic and diluted net income per share exclude the effects of (i) stock-based compensation expense, and (ii) a loss on the disposal of certain assets. In addition, non-GAAP net income and non-GAAP diluted net income per share reflect an adjustment of income tax expense associated with exclusion of the foregoing expense items. The adjustment of income taxes is required in order to provide management and investors a more accurate assessment of the taxes that would have been payable on net income, as adjusted by exclusion of the effects of the above listed items. The Company believes that presentation of measures of net income and diluted net income per share that exclude these items assists management and investors in evaluating the period over period performance of the Company's ongoing core business operations because the expenses are non-cash in nature. Additionally, although the sizes of the Company’s grants of various equity awards are within the Company's control, the amount of stock compensation expense varies depending on factors such as short-term fluctuations in stock price and volatility which can be unrelated to the operational performance of the Company during the period in question and generally is outside the control of management during the period in which the expense is recognized. Moreover, the Company believes that the exclusion of stock-based compensation in presenting non-GAAP financial measures is useful to investors to understand the impact of the expensing of stock-based compensation to the Company's net income and net income per share in comparison to prior periods as well as to its competitors. Furthermore, with the respect to the exclusion of charges relating to the disposal of certain assets, the Company believes that presentation of a measure of non-GAAP net income and net income per share that excludes such charges is useful to management and investors in evaluating the performance of the Company’s ongoing operations on a period-to-period basis and relative to the Company’s competitors. In this regard, the Company notes that the losses of this type are infrequent and variable in nature.

The Company believes disclosure of non-GAAP net income and non-GAAP basic and diluted net income per share has economic substance because the excluded expenses are infrequent in nature and do not represent current cash expenditures. A material limitation associated with the use of this measure as compared to the GAAP measures of net income and diluted net income per share is that they may not be comparable with the calculation of net income and diluted net income per share for other companies in the Company's industry. The Company compensates for these limitations by providing full disclosure of the effects of this non-GAAP measure, by presenting the corresponding GAAP financial measure in this release and in the Company’s financial statements and by providing a reconciliation to the corresponding GAAP measure to enable investors to perform their own analysis.

(Unaudited, dollars in thousands except per share data)


Thirteen Weeks Ended
April 1, 2008 April 3, 2007

Net income as reported $ 3,120 3.7 % $ 1,626 2.3 %
Stock-based compensation:
Labor and benefits 208 0.2 161 0.2
General and administrative expenses 608 0.7 539 0.8
Loss on disposal of fixed assets - - 2,004 2.8
Tax effect – stock-based compensation (245 ) (0.3 ) (233 ) (0.3 )
Tax effect – loss on disposal of fixed assets - - (667 ) (1.0 )
Non-GAAP net income $ 3,691 4.3 % $ 3,430 4.8 %

Basic net income per share $ 0.12 $ 0.06
Stock-based compensation 0.03 0.03
Loss on disposal of fixed assets - 0.08
Tax effect – stock-based compensation (0.01 ) 0.00
Tax effect – loss on disposal of fixed assets - (0.03 )
Non-GAAP basic net income per share $ 0.14 $ 0.14

Diluted net income per share $ 0.12 $ 0.06
Stock-based compensation 0.03 0.03
Loss on disposal of fixed assets - 0.07
Tax effect – stock-based compensation (0.01 ) (0.01 )
Tax effect – loss on disposal of fixed assets - (0.02 )
Non-GAAP diluted net income per share $ 0.14 $ 0.13


BJ’s Restaurants, Inc.
Greg Levin, 714-500-2400




Source: Business Wire (April 24, 2008 - 4:33 PM EDT)

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Thursday, Apr. 24 2008

Wendy's Accepts $2.34B Buyout Offer



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After seeking a buyer for the last 12 months, Wendy’s hamburger chain will sell to Triarc Companies for $2.34 billion.

Triarc Companies, owned by billionaire investor Nelson Peltz, also owns Arby’s roast beef chain.


Wendy’s, the nation’s third-largest burger chain, will be offered 4.25 shares of Triarc for each of its shares. Wendy’s jumped 1.7 percent in trading this morning.

The Wendy’s board appointed a committee in April 2007 to investigate a possible sale after its sales had slacked in compared to burger giants, McDonald’s and Burger King.

Yesterday, Wendy’s shares rose by 24 cents to $25.32, while shares of Triarc fell by 11 cents to $6.30.

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Famous Dave's Reports First Quarter Results
Famous Dave's of America, Inc. (NASDAQ: DAVE) today announced revenue and net income of $33.7 million and $835,000, respectively, or $0.09 per diluted share, for its fiscal first quarter ended March 30, 2008. Revenue for the quarter increased 16.2 percent over the comparable period in 2007.

Same store sales for the company-owned restaurants open for 24 months or more increased 3.6 percent during the quarter, while same store sales for its franchise-operated restaurants declined 3.2 percent. Same store sales for the company-owned restaurants open for 18 months or more increased 3.2 percent during the quarter, while same store sales for its franchise-operated restaurants declined 4.8 percent. Franchise royalty revenue for the quarter totaled $4.2 million, up 14.2 percent over the comparable period in 2007.

Sales growth in the first quarter for company-owned restaurants was driven by the five new restaurants that have opened since the first quarter of 2007, and the impact from an approximate 3% weighted average price increase. The year-over-year shift in the Easter holiday from the second quarter of 2007 to the first quarter of 2008 had an approximate 1.0% negative impact on comparable sales.

Sales at comparable franchise-operated restaurants continue to be affected by adverse economic conditions in several areas of the country, which have been hard-hit by the effects of the credit and housing crisis.

“I’ve admired this brand for some time and I am excited to be part of its future growth,” said Wilson Craft, newly appointed President and Chief Executive Officer. “Obviously, we have some challenges, particularly given the difficult environment for casual dining. An intensified focus on our franchise business and a renewed focus on the company-owned restaurants will be a top priority,” Craft said.

Earnings for the first quarter on a year-over-year basis declined, reflecting the opening of five new company-owned restaurants since September 2007 which are still normalizing labor and operating costs. The company also experienced significantly below average temperatures in many of its core markets during the first quarter of 2008. This unseasonably cold weather resulted in increased labor costs due to unexpected declines in guest traffic, and negatively impacted operating costs due to higher utility costs.

The company's 2008 first quarter also reflected the following:

An increase in labor and benefits expense year-over-year reflecting a prior year worker’s compensation insurance credit adjustment that was approximately $105,000 higher than the current year adjustment.
An increase in operating expenses due to increased levels of advertising year-over-year.
Pre-opening expenses primarily for a new company-owned restaurant in Alexandria, Virginia totaling approximately $254,000.
Bad debt reserves of approximately $234,000 related to franchisees’ receivable balances, reflected in general and administrative expenses.
Executive search fees of approximately $200,000 related to the hiring of the company’s new CEO, reflected in general and administrative expenses.
An increase in depreciation and amortization year-over-year, reflecting capital invested towards the opening of five new restaurants and the result of the fourth quarter fiscal 2007 reclassification of assets previously held for sale to assets held and used.
A year-over-year increase in interest expense reflecting a higher average balance on the company’s revolver.
Earnings results for the first quarter of 2008 included approximately $280,000 or $0.02 per diluted share, in compensation expense as related to the company’s stock-based incentive programs, as compared to approximately $536,000, or $0.03 per diluted share, for the prior year comparable period.

Development and marketing highlights during the quarter included a "limited time offer" of BBQ shrimp, the company’s most successful promotion to date. Aiding traffic in the quarter was a successful television and radio campaign featured in the majority of its core markets.

Famous Dave’s opened four new restaurants during the first quarter: A company-owned restaurant in Alexandria, VA, and three franchise-operated restaurants in Silverdale, WA, Kansas City, MO and Bakersfield, CA.

Famous Dave's ended the quarter with 168 restaurants, including 45 company-owned restaurants and 123 franchise-operated restaurants, located in 35 states.

During the first quarter of 2008, Famous Dave's repurchased 16,000 shares of common stock at an average price of $9.73 per share, excluding commissions.

Outlook

Famous Dave's is reiterating its guidance issued in its fourth quarter earnings release. The company anticipates opening a total of 20 to 25 restaurants in 2008, with up to five locations to open in the second quarter.

In addition, the company reiterated its outlook on food costs and potential margin pressure during the first half of the year. In June, the company will be taking an additional price increase, intended to mitigate additional margin pressures for the remainder of 2008.

Conference Call

The company will host a conference call tomorrow, April 24, 2008, at 10:00 a.m. Central Time to discuss its first quarter financial results. There will be a live webcast of the discussion through the Investor Relations section of Famous Dave's web site at www.famousdaves.com.

About Famous Dave’s

Famous Dave’s of America, Inc. develops, owns, operates and franchises barbeque restaurants. As of today, the company owns 45 locations and franchises 124 additional units in 34 states and has signed development agreements for an additional 132 franchised locations. Its menu features award-winning barbequed and grilled meats, an ample selection of salads, side items and sandwiches, and unique desserts.

FAMOUS DAVE'S OF AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

Three Months Ended
March 30, April 1,
2008 2007
(unaudited) (unaudited)
Revenue:
Restaurant sales, net $ 29,247 $ 24,941
Franchise royalty revenue 4,167 3,649
Franchise fee revenue 115 315
Licensing and other revenue 186 98
Total revenue 33,715 29,003

Costs and expenses:
Food and beverage costs 8,939 7,611
Labor and benefits costs 9,182 7,480
Operating expenses 7,493 6,193
Depreciation and amortization 1,461 1,155
General and administrative expenses 4,653 4,123
Pre-opening expenses 254 6
(Gain) loss on disposal of property (6) 18
Total costs and expenses 31,976 26,586

Income from operations 1,739 2,417

Other expense:
Loss on early extinguishment of debt --- (12)
Interest expense (511) (363)
Interest income 58 76
Other (expense) income, net (1) 4
Total other expense (454) (295)

Income before income taxes 1,285 2,122

Income tax expense (450) (720)

Net income $ 835 $ 1,402

Basic net income per common share $ 0.09 $ 0.14

Diluted net income per common share $ 0.09 $ 0.13

Weighted average common shares outstanding – basic 9,611,000 10,130,000

Weighted average common shares outstanding – diluted 9,773,000 10,492,000
FAMOUS DAVE'S OF AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
OPERATING RESULTS
(unaudited)
Three Months Ended
March 30,
April 1,

2008 2007
Food and beverage costs (1) 30.6 % 30.5 %
Labor and benefits (1) 31.4 % 30.0 %
Operating expenses (1) 25.6 % 24.8 %
Depreciation & amortization (restaurant level) (1) 4.6 % 4.1 %
Depreciation & amortization (corporate level) (2) 0.3 % 0.4 %
General and administrative (2) 13.8 % 14.2 %
Pre-opening expenses & net (gain) loss on disposal(1) 0.9 % 0.1 %

Total restaurant costs and expenses (1) 93.1 % 89.5 %
Income from operations (2) 5.2 % 8.3 %


(1) As a percentage of restaurant sales, net

(2) As a percentage of total revenue

FAMOUS DAVE'S OF AMERICA, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands)

March 30, December 30,
2008 2007
(unaudited)
(unaudited)
ASSETS
Current assets $ 12,410 $ 14,255
Property, equipment and leasehold improvements, net 57,521 57,243
Other assets 2,441 2,444
Total assets $ 72,372 $ 73,942

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities $ 25,705 $ 28,085
Long-term obligations 15,484 15,457
Shareholders’ equity 31,183 30,400
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ 72,372 $ 73,942
SUPPLEMENTAL SALES INFORMATION
(unaudited)

Three Months Ended
March 30,
April 1,

2008 2007
Total weighted average weekly net sales (AWS):
Company-Owned $ 50,512 $ 46,794
Franchise-Operated $ 55,684 $ 56,018
AWS 2005 and Post 2005: (1)
Company-Owned $ 68,065 $ 69,192
Franchise-Operated $ 63,297 $ 66,315
AWS Pre-2005: (1)
Company-Owned $ 46,349 $ 44,373
Franchise-Operated $ 47,012 $ 47,847
Operating weeks:

Company-Owned 579 533
Franchise-Operated 1,538 1,326
24 month comparable net sales:

Company-Owned 3.6 % (0.9 %)
Franchise-Operated (3.2 %) (3.2 %)
18 month comparable net sales:

Company-Owned 3.2 % (0.9 %)
Franchise-Operated (4.8 %) (5.1 %)
Total number of restaurants:

Company-Owned 45 41
Franchise-Operated 123 104
Total 168 145

(1) Provides further delineation of AWS for restaurants opened during the pre-fiscal 2005, and restaurants opened during the post-fiscal 2005, timeframes.

Statements in this press release that are not strictly historical, including but not limited to statements regarding the timing of our restaurant openings and the timing or success of our expansion plans, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, which may cause the company’s actual results to differ materially from expected results. Although Famous Dave's of America, Inc. believes the expectations reflected in any forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, it can give no assurance that its expectation will be attained. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Famous Dave's expectation include financial performance, restaurant industry conditions, execution of restaurant development and construction programs, franchisee performance, changes in local or national economic conditions, availability of financing, governmental approvals and other risks detailed from time to time in the company's SEC reports.

Famous Dave's of America, Inc.
Diana G. Purcel, 952-294-1300
Chief Financial Officer

[nostinkinc]

Law Offices of Howard G. Smith Announces 21 Days Remaining to Move to be a Lead Plaintiff in the Shareholder Lawsuit Against Darden Restaurants Inc.
BENSALEM, Pa., April 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Law Offices of Howard G. Smith announces a May 12, 2008, deadline to move to be a lead plaintiff in the securities class action lawsuit filed on behalf of all purchasers of the common stock of Darden Restaurants Inc. ('Darden Restaurants')(NYSE: DRI) between June 19, 2007, and December 18, 2007, inclusive (the 'Class Period'). The shareholder lawsuit is pending in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida.

The Complaint alleges that the defendants violated federal securities laws by issuing material misrepresentations to the market concerning Darden Restaurants' business, financial performance and prospects, thereby artificially inflating the price of Darden Restaurants stock.

No class has yet been certified in the above action. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. If you purchased Darden Restaurants common stock between June 19, 2007, and December 18, 2007, you have certain rights, and have until May 12, 2008, to move for Lead Plaintiff status. To be a member of the class you need not take any action at this time, and you may retain counsel of your choice. If you wish to discuss this action or have any questions concerning this Notice or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Howard G. Smith, Esquire, of Law Offices of Howard G. Smith, 3070 Bristol Pike, Suite 112, Bensalem, Pennsylvania 19020, by telephone at [phone], Toll-Free at [phone], by email to [e-mail] or visit our website at http://www.howardsmithlaw.com.

SOURCE Law Offices of Howard G. Smith



Source: PR Newswire (April 21, 2008 - 3:17 PM EDT)

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The Cheesecake Factory Announces Corporate Governance Enhancements
The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated (NASDAQ:CAKE), continuing in its commitment to strong corporate governance standards, today announced that its Board of Directors has unanimously adopted enhancements to the Company’s corporate governance policies. These enhancements include:

The adoption of amendments to the Company’s Bylaws to implement a majority voting policy for the election of directors. The amendments require that in order to be considered for nomination by the Board of Directors, a person must agree to submit an irrevocable resignation to the Board if he or she fails to receive a majority vote. The resignation will be contingent upon acceptance by the Board of Directors. The Company anticipates that these amendments will be effective for its 2009 Annual Meeting of Stockholders;
The adoption of a policy requiring the Company’s executive officers to agree to repay, to the extent deemed appropriate by the Audit Committee, that portion of any bonus based directly on financial statements filed with the SEC that are subsequently required to be restated as a result of material noncompliance with applicable financial reporting requirements. The Company expects to implement this policy in the current fiscal year; and
The adoption of amendments to the Company’s Bylaws and the submission to the Company’s stockholders of a proposal to amend the Company’s classified board structure. If this proposal is approved by stockholders, the Company intends for all directors to stand for election to one-year terms beginning at the 2011 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.
“We are pleased to implement these enhancements, which are consistent with best practices in corporate governance today, and serve the interests of our stockholders,” said David Overton, Chairman and CEO.

About The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated

The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated created the upscale casual dining segment in 1978 with the introduction of its namesake concept and continues to define it today with the two highest productivity concepts in the industry. The Company operates 139 restaurants throughout the U.S. under The Cheesecake Factory® name with an extensive menu of more than 200 items and fiscal 2007 average annual unit sales of approximately $10.4 million. Grand Lux Cafe®, the Company’s second concept, has 13 units in operation across the U.S. offering a broad menu of more than 150 items and average annual unit sales of approximately $12.7 million in fiscal 2007. The Company also operates two bakery production facilities in Calabasas Hills, CA and Rocky Mount, NC that produce over 60 varieties of quality cheesecakes and other baked products. Additionally, the Company operates one self-service, limited menu express foodservice operation and licenses two bakery cafe outlets to another foodservice operator under The Cheesecake Factory Bakery Cafe® mark. For more information, please visit thecheesecakefactory.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that undue reliance should not be placed on these statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the dates on which they were made. Except as may be required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise unless required to do so by the securities laws. Investors are referred to the full discussion of risks and uncertainties associated with forward-looking statements contained in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Important Information

In connection with the solicitation of proxies, the Company filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and mailed to stockholders a definitive proxy statement dated April 21, 2008. The Proxy Statement contains important information about the Company and the 2008 Annual Stockholders meeting. The Company’s stockholders are urged to read the Proxy Statement carefully. Stockholders may obtain additional free copies of the Proxy Statement and other relevant documents filed with the SEC by the Company through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov. The Proxy Statement and other relevant documents may also be obtained free of charge from Company by contacting Investor Relations in writing at 26901 Malibu Hills Road, Calabasas Hills, California 91301. The Proxy Statement is also available on the Company’s website at www.thecheesecakefactory.com. The contents of the website are not deemed to be incorporated by reference into the Proxy Statement.


The Cheesecake Factory
Jill Peters, [phone]




Source: Business Wire (April 21, 2008 - 4:25 PM EDT)

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The Cheesecake Factory to Webcast First Quarter Fiscal 2008 Earnings Conference Call on April 24, 2008
The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated (NASDAQ: CAKE) today announced it will release first quarter fiscal 2008 financial results after the market close on Thursday, April 24, 2008. The Company will hold a conference call the same day, hosted by David Overton, Chairman and CEO, and Michael Dixon, Senior Vice President and CFO, at 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time, which will be broadcast live over the Internet.

To listen to the conference call, please go to the Company’s website at thecheesecakefactory.com at least 15 minutes prior to the call to register and download any necessary audio software. Click on the “Investors” link on the home page, and select the link for the “Q1 2008 The Cheesecake Factory Earnings Conference Call” at the top of the page. An archive of the webcast will be available shortly after the call and continue through May 23, 2008.

About The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated

The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated created the upscale casual dining segment in 1978 with the introduction of its namesake concept and continues to define it today with the two highest productivity concepts in the industry. The Company operates 139 restaurants throughout the U.S. under The Cheesecake Factory® name with an extensive menu of more than 200 items and fiscal 2007 average annual unit sales of approximately $10.4 million. Grand Lux Cafe®, the Company’s second concept, has 13 units in operation across the U.S. offering a broad menu of more than 150 items and average annual unit sales of approximately $12.7 million in fiscal 2007. The Company also operates two bakery production facilities in Calabasas Hills, CA and Rocky Mount, NC that produce over 60 varieties of quality cheesecakes and other baked products. Additionally, the Company operates one self-service, limited menu express foodservice operation and licenses two bakery cafe outlets to another foodservice operator. For more information, please visit thecheesecakefactory.com.



The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated
Jill Peters, 818-871-3000



Source: Business Wire (April 17, 2008 - 4:17 PM EDT)

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Famous Dave's Closes on New $30.0 Million Credit Facility
Famous Dave's of America, Inc. (Nasdaq: DAVE) today announced that it has expanded its existing revolving credit facility to $30.0 million from $20.0 million. The expanded line of credit, which will renew the company’s original five-year term, extends the company’s relationship with Wells Fargo Bank, NA. The credit facility is available for general working capital purposes as well as for the repurchase of shares under the company’s share repurchase program.

“We are pleased with this expanded line of credit, which represents a vote of confidence for Famous Dave's, particularly given the restrictive credit environment in which most businesses are now operating,” said Diana Purcel, Famous Dave’s of America chief financial officer. “This new credit facility, which offers us improved interest rates and the ability under certain conditions to increase our borrowings up to $50 million, will provide us with additional financial flexibility to execute our growth strategy and to buy back our stock when conditions permit.”

Famous Dave’s will release its first quarter earnings on April 23, 2008, with a conference call April 24, 2008.

About Famous Dave’s of America, Inc.

Famous Dave's of America, Inc. (Nasdaq: DAVE) develops, owns, operates and franchises barbeque restaurants. The company currently owns 45 locations and franchises 123 additional units in 35 states. Its menu features award-winning barbequed and grilled meats, an ample selection of salads, side items, sandwiches and unique desserts.

Statements in this press release that are not strictly historical, including but not limited to statements regarding cash flow and development plans, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, which may cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from expected results. Although Famous Dave's of America, Inc. believes the expectation reflected in any forward-looking statements is based on reasonable assumptions, it can give no assurance that its expectation will be attained. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Famous Dave's expectation include financial performance, restaurant industry conditions, execution of restaurant development and construction plans, franchisee performance, changes in local or national economic conditions, availability of financing, governmental approvals and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's SEC reports.

Famous Dave’s of America, Inc.
Diana G. Purcel – Chief Financial Officer, 952-294-1300

[nostinkinc]

BJ's Restaurants, Inc. Announces Date for First Quarter 2008 Earnings Release and Conference Call

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 17, 2008--BJ's Restaurants, Inc. (NASDAQ:BJRI) today announced that it will release its first quarter 2008 results after the market closes on Thursday, April 24, 2008. The Company will host an investor conference call at 2:00 p.m. (Pacific) that same day. The conference call will be broadcast live over the Internet. To listen to the conference call, please visit the "Investors" page of the Company's website located at www.bjsrestaurants.com several minutes prior to the start of the call to register and download any necessary audio software. An archive of the presentation will be available for 30 days following the call.

BJ's Restaurants, Inc. currently owns and operates 69 casual dining restaurants under the BJ's Restaurant & Brewery, BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse or BJ's Pizza & Grill brand names. BJ's restaurants offer an innovative and broad menu featuring award-winning, signature deep-dish pizza complemented with generously portioned salads, sandwiches, soups, pastas, entrees and desserts. Quality, flavor, value, moderate prices and sincere service remain distinct attributes of the BJ's experience. The Company operates several microbreweries which produce and distribute BJ's critically acclaimed handcrafted beers throughout the chain. The Company's restaurants are located in California (39), Texas (11), Arizona (4), Colorado (3), Oregon (2), Nevada (2), Florida (3), Ohio (2) Oklahoma (2) and Kentucky (1). The Company also has a licensing interest in a BJ's restaurant in Lahaina, Maui. Visit BJ's Restaurants, Inc. on the Web at http://www.bjsrestaurants.com.

Certain statements in the preceding paragraphs and all other statements that are not purely historical constitute "forward-looking statements" for purposes of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and are intended to be covered by the safe harbors created thereby. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results to be materially different from those projected or anticipated. Factors that might cause such differences include, but are not limited to: (i) our ability to manage an increasing number of new restaurant openings, (ii) construction delays, (iii) labor shortages, (iv) minimum wage increases, (v) food quality and health concerns, (vi) factors that impact California, where 39 of our current 69 restaurants are located, (vii) restaurant and brewery industry competition, (viii) impact of certain brewery business considerations, including without limitation, dependence upon suppliers and related hazards, (ix) consumer spending trends in general for casual dining occasions, (x) potential uninsured losses and liabilities, (xi) fluctuating commodity costs and availability including food in general, certain raw materials related to the brewing of our handcrafted beers and energy, (xii) trademark and servicemark risks, (xiii) government regulations, (xiv) licensing costs, (xv) beer and liquor regulations, (xvi) loss of key personnel, (xvii) inability to secure acceptable sites, (xviii) limitations on insurance coverage, (xix) legal proceedings, (xx) other general economic and regulatory conditions and requirements, (xxi) the success of our key sales-building and related operational initiatives and (xxii) numerous other matters discussed in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. BJ's Restaurants, Inc. undertakes no obligation to update or alter its forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

[nostinkinc]

Grand Lux Cafe Unveils Spring 2008 Menu Additions
Ten New Menu Items and Ten New Handcrafted Cocktails Introduced

Enjoy the longer days of spring by visiting Grand Lux Cafe to experience 10 new menu creations prepared fresh from scratch, as well as 10 new signature cocktails. The new menu items are currently available at all 13 Grand Lux Cafe locations in Scottsdale, Arizona; Los Angeles, California; Park Meadows, Colorado; Aventura, Boca Raton and Sawgrass, Florida; Chicago, Illinois; Las Vegas, Nevada (two locations); Paramus, New Jersey; Garden City, New York; and Dallas and Houston, Texas.

Highlights of the newest Grand Lux Cafe creations include a classic southern Kentucky “Hot Brown” Sandwich; Chicken Enchiladas featuring spicy chicken, an array of toppings and three distinct sauces made fresh daily—tomatillo, roasted yellow tomato and ranchero—available in both lunch and dinner portions; a Grilled Ranchero Steak made with marinated Certified Angus Beef topped with freshly prepared cilantro-lime butter; and a pan-roasted Fresh Alaskan Halibut served with a delicious shrimp and potato hash. To top off the new menu items, Grand Lux Cafe is offering its own presentation of the Boston Cream Pie, done in a Grand Lux Cafe style. The Boston Cream Pie “DeLux” is covered with warm chocolate frosting and is baked fresh in each restaurant’s bakery.

As a complement to the new menu offerings, Grand Lux Cafe is adding to its extensive list of handcrafted cocktails with 10 innovative, as well as classic creations. Cocktail highlights include a Sangria Blanco, Asian Pear Martini and Cucumber Martini. Grand Lux is also now offering a new “Serious Cocktail” section featuring a Bourbon Blinker, Patron Paloma, Pegu Club Cocktail, The Vanderbilt and a Hemingway Daiquiri.

About Grand Lux Cafe®

The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated (NASDAQ:CAKE) created the upscale casual dining segment in 1978 with the introduction of its namesake concept and continues to define it today with the two highest productivity concepts in the industry. The Company’s second concept, Grand Lux Cafe, debuted in 1999 at the Venetian Hotel-Resort-Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. Today, the concept has 13 units in operation across the U.S. offering a broad menu of more than 150 items and average annual unit sales of approximately $12.7 million in fiscal 2007. For more information, please visit grandluxcafe.com.


The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated
Howard Gordon
818-871-3014




Source: Business Wire (April 14, 2008 - 4:16 PM EDT)

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Brower Piven Announces the Filing of a Class Action Lawsuit Against Darden Restaurants, Inc.
Brower Piven, A Professional Corporation announces that a class action lawsuit has been commenced in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida, Orlando Division, on behalf of purchasers of the common stock of Darden Restaurants, Inc. ("Darden" or the "Company") (NYSE: DRI) between June 19, 2007 and December 18, 2007, inclusive (the "Class Period").

The complaint alleges that during the Class Period the Company, and certain of its officers and/or directors, violated federal securities laws by issuing various materially false and misleading statements that had the effect of artificially inflating the market price of the Company's securities and causing Class members to overpay for the securities.

No class has yet been certified in the above action. If you are a member of the proposed Class, you may, no later than May 12, 2008, ask the Court to allow you to serve as lead plaintiff for the proposed Class. To serve as a lead plaintiff, you must satisfy certain legal requirements. In making your decision, you should take into account that those with large financial losses resulting from the alleged federal securities law violations are given preference in being appointed lead plaintiff.

If you have suffered a net loss for all transactions in Darden securities during the Class Period (including shares or calls purchased during, but retained after, the Class Period or put options sold but not covered until after the Class Period), you may obtain additional information about this lawsuit and your ability to become a lead plaintiff by contacting Brower Piven (without obligation or cost to you) at www.browerpiven.com, by email at [e-mail], by calling 410-986-0036, or at Brower Piven, The World Trade Center-Baltimore, 401 East Pratt Street, Suite 2525, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. Attorneys at Brower Piven have combined experience in securities and class action litigation of over 40 years. If you choose to retain counsel, you may retain Brower Piven, or you may retain other counsel of your choice.

CONTACT:
Brower Piven, A Professional Corporation
Baltimore, Maryland
Charles J. Piven
410/986-0036
Email Contact





Source: Marketwire (April 9, 2008 - 3:18 PM EDT

[nostinkinc]

Krispy Kreme Introduces New Caribbean-Inspired Treats
For a Limited Time, New Doughnut and Chillers Offer Taste of the Tropics
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C., April 8, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Inc. (NYSE: KKD) is taking it to the tropics this spring by introducing two new treats bursting with island flavor.

The Caribbean Kreme doughnut and Chillers feature the intense flavors of freshly ripened tropical fruits. The doughnut is filled with a blend of exotic mango, pineapple and passion fruit, and topped with delicious white icing and shortcake crunch. Putting a new spin on the signature Krispy Kreme doughnut, this savory tropical treat will transport your senses to the sun-drenched beaches of the Caribbean.

As the perfect complement to the new doughnut, Krispy Kreme has also created a Caribbean Kreme Chiller. This tasty blend of pineapple, mango and orange flavors can be ordered in a creamy blend or frozen fruity version. Both can be the featured treat for an island-inspired springtime gathering with friends and family.

'Looking to have a fun Caribbean-themed party? Pick up a dozen Caribbean Kreme doughnuts and chillers, invite your friends and have a tropical celebration!' said Ron Rupocinski, Krispy Kreme's Executive Chef.

Caribbean Kreme doughnuts and Chillers are available for a limited time at participating stores from now until June 2. Large orders can be placed at no additional cost by calling a local Krispy Kreme store at least 48 hours in advance. For more information, please visit http://www.krispykreme.com.

About Krispy Kreme

Krispy Kreme is a leading branded specialty retailer of premium quality sweet treats, including its signature hot Original Glazed(R) doughnut. Headquartered in Winston-Salem, NC, the company has offered the highest quality doughnuts and great tasting coffee since it was founded in 1937. Krispy Kreme is proud that for decades its Fundraising program has helped non-profit organizations raise millions of dollars in needed funds. Today, Krispy Kreme and its one-of-a-kind Hot Light can be found in approximately 449 locations around the world. Visit us at http://www.KrispyKreme.com.

Information contained in this press release, other than historical information, should be considered forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are subject to various risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated, estimated or expected. Among the key factors that may have a direct bearing on Krispy Kreme's operating results, performance or financial condition are the outcome of pending governmental investigations, including by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the 'Commission') and the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York; potential indemnification obligations and limitations of our director and officer liability insurance; material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting; our ability to implement remedial measures necessary to improve our processes and procedures; the quality of Company and franchise store operations; our ability, and our dependence on the ability of our franchisees, to execute on our and their business plans; our relationships with our franchisees; our ability to implement our international growth strategy; currency, economic, political and other risks associated with our international operations; the price and availability of raw materials needed to produce doughnut mixes and other ingredients; compliance with government regulations relating to food products and franchising; our relationships with wholesale customers; our ability to protect our trademarks; risks associated with our high levels of indebtedness; restrictions on our operations and compliance with covenants contained in our secured credit facilities; changes in customer preferences and perceptions; significant changes in our management; risks associated with competition; and other factors in Krispy Kreme's periodic reports and other information filed with the Commission, including under Item 1A, 'Risk Factors,' in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 28, 2007 and other periodic reports filed with the Commission.

SOURCE Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Inc.



Source: PR Newswire (April 8, 2008 - 9:02 AM EDT)

[nostinkinc]

Kona Grill, Inc. Announces Stock Repurchase Authorization
Company to Release First Quarter Financial Results on April 30, 2008

Kona Grill, Inc. (Nasdaq: KONA), an American grill and sushi bar, announced today that its Board of Directors has approved a stock repurchase program under which the Company is authorized to repurchase up to 600,000 shares of its common stock. Any stock repurchases will be made in the open market. The repurchases will be made at management's discretion in the open market in compliance with applicable securities laws and other legal requirements and are subject to market conditions, share price, available cash and other factors. The plan does not obligate the Company to acquire any particular amount of common stock and the plan may be suspended or discontinued at any time.

"Kona Grill is dedicated to creating long-term value, and repurchasing our common stock represents the Board’s confidence in our Company’s future," said Marcus E. Jundt, Chief Executive Officer and President of Kona Grill.

The Company also announced that it will release first quarter 2008 financial results on Wednesday, April 30, 2008 after the market close. A conference call will follow at 5 PM ET and will be webcast live from the investor relations portion of the company's website at www.konagrill.com. Listeners may also access the call by dialing 800-762-8779 or 480-629-9041 for international callers. A replay of the call will be available until Wednesday, May 7, 2008, by dialing 800-406-7325 or 303-590-3030 for international callers; the password is 3866806.

About Kona Grill

Kona Grill owns and operates restaurants in Scottsdale and Chandler, AZ; Denver, CO; Stamford, CT; Naples, FL; Lincolnshire and Oak Brook, IL; Carmel, IN; Baton Rouge, LA; Troy, MI; Kansas City, MO; Omaha, NE; Las Vegas, NV; Austin, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Sugar Land (Houston), TX. Kona Grill restaurants offer freshly prepared food, personalized service, and a warm, contemporary ambiance that creates an exceptional, yet affordable, dining experience. Kona Grill restaurants serve a diverse selection of mainstream American dishes as well as a variety of appetizers and entrees with an international influence. Each restaurant also features an extensive sushi menu and sushi bar.


Kona Grill, Inc.
Investor Relations:
Raphael Gross/Don Duffy
203-682-8200




Source: Business Wire (April 8, 2008 - 1:23 PM EDT)

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BUCA, Inc. Announces First Quarter 2008
Comparable Restaurant Sales Decreased 2.5%

BUCA, Inc. (NASDAQ: BUCA) today announced that Buca di Beppo comparable restaurant sales decreased 2.5% for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 as compared to the same period last year. The Company also announced that preliminary total revenue decreased 4.3% in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 to approximately $60.1 million as compared to $62.8 million in the same period of the prior year. The decrease in preliminary total revenue was primarily due to the decrease in comparable restaurant sales as well as the closure of four restaurants since the beginning of fiscal 2007, partially offset by the addition of New Year’s Eve to the first quarter of fiscal 2008 as compared to the same period of the prior year.

About the Company:

BUCA, Inc. owns and operates 89 highly acclaimed Italian restaurants under the name Buca di Beppo in 25 states and the District of Columbia.

ICR
Kathleen Heaney, 203-803-3585



Source: Business Wire (April 8, 2008 - 4:25 PM EDT)

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The Cheesecake Factory Announces $100 Million Extension to Revolving Credit Facility to Support Share Repurchases
The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated (NASDAQ:CAKE) today announced that the Company has secured an extension to its revolving credit facility in the amount of $100 million. As part of its fiscal 2008 business plan, the Company intends to utilize the $100 million, in addition to expected free cash flow, in support of share repurchases of between $150 million and $200 million.

As previously announced, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a ten million share increase in the Company’s share repurchase authorization in February 2008. As a result, the Company currently has authorization to repurchase up to 17.5 million shares of its common stock.

“We are pleased to have obtained an increase in our credit facility at the high end of our targeted range and at a favorable rate despite tight credit market conditions,” said David Overton, Chairman and CEO. “We are committed to prudently deploying capital towards earnings per share growth and improved returns on invested capital. Our share repurchases help to accomplish both of these goals, as well as return capital to shareholders.”

About The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated

The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated created the upscale casual dining segment in 1978 with the introduction of its namesake concept and continues to define it today with the two highest productivity concepts in the industry. The Company operates 139 restaurants throughout the U.S. under The Cheesecake Factory® name with an extensive menu of more than 200 items and fiscal 2007 average annual unit sales of approximately $10.4 million. Grand Lux Cafe®, the Company’s second concept, has 13 units in operation across the U.S. offering a broad menu of more than 150 items and average annual unit sales of approximately $12.7 million in fiscal 2007. The Company also operates two bakery production facilities in Calabasas Hills, CA and Rocky Mount, NC that produce over 60 varieties of quality cheesecakes and other baked products. Additionally, the Company operates one self-service, limited menu express foodservice operation and licenses two bakery cafe outlets to another foodservice operator. For more information, please visit thecheesecakefactory.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements with respect to the Company’s ability to repurchase its shares. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that undue reliance should not be placed on these statements. In particular, the Company’s expected free cash flow is dependent upon a variety of risks and uncertainties, some of which, such as adverse economic conditions, weather and litigation are beyond the Company’s control. The share repurchase authorization does not require the Company to purchase a specific number of shares and it may be modified, suspended or terminated at any time. The timing and number of shares repurchased, if any, pursuant to the share repurchase authorization will be subject to a number of factors, including current market conditions, legal constraints and available cash or other sources of funding. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the dates on which they were made. Except as may be required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise unless required to do so by the securities laws. Investors are referred to the full discussion of risks and uncertainties associated with forward-looking statements contained in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.


for The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated
Jill Peters
818-871-3000




Source: Business Wire (March 6, 2008 - 7:30 AM EST)

News by QuoteMedia
www.quotemedia.com

[nostinkinc]

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers Continues Idaho Expansion With Opening of Coeur d'Alene Restaurant
Casual dining restaurant to donate 50 cents from every gourmet burger sold to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children during opening week
GREENWOOD VILLAGE, Colo., April 4, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (Red Robin) will open its fifth Idaho restaurant in Coeur d'Alene, located at 1501 W. Riverstone Drive, located just one block south of I-90 in the River Stone Plaza, directly in front of the AMC Movie Theatre and across from the Hampton Hotel, on Monday, April 21, at 11 a.m. Red Robin serves high-quality gourmet burgers, appetizers, entrees, salads and beverages in a kid- and family-friendly atmosphere. As part of its grand opening celebrations, the Coeur d'Alene Red Robin(R) restaurant will host a Burgers With A Heart(R) fundraiser to benefit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC).

Through Burgers With a Heart(R), Red Robin will donate 50 cents from every gourmet burger sold to NCMEC during grand-opening week from April 21 to 27. NCMEC is a non-profit organization whose mission is to help prevent child abduction and sexual exploitation; help find missing children; and assist victims of child abduction and sexual exploitation, their families, and the professionals who serve them. The money raised will help bring prevention education to children nationwide.

'On behalf of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, I would like to thank Red Robin for their generous support of our mission,' said Robbie Callaway, NCMEC co-founder and past Chairman of the Board. 'It is important that we empower families to make safer decisions for their children, and communication and education are vital tools in that effort. With Red Robin's support, we are able to reach many more families across the country with our messages of child safety.'

'We are thrilled to be expanding the Red Robin family of restaurants in Idaho, while also supporting such a wonderful family-oriented cause,' said Eric Houseman, Red Robin president and chief operating officer. 'We invite everyone to come to Red Robin and enjoy one of our more than two dozen high-quality gourmet burgers to support the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children as we open our newest restaurant in Coeur d'Alene.'

Red Robin focuses its philanthropic support on local and national causes that promote the health, welfare and education of children, families and citizens in the communities it serves. Because Red Robin is all about kids and families, its ongoing partnership with NCMEC has continued to grow through the company's new restaurant openings and additional programs such as 'The Next Gourmet Burger Kids' Recipe Contest' since 2006.

The 5,184-square-foot Coeur d'Alene Red Robin(R) restaurant will seat 198 guests. There are four additional restaurants in Idaho, including one corporate owned location in Boise. Mach Robin, LLC, a franchise partner of Red Robin, also owns and operates locations in Boise, Meridian and Nampa.

For more information about Red Robin and to find additional restaurant locations, please visit http://www.redrobin.com.

About Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (Nasdaq: RRGB)

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (http://www.redrobin.com), a casual dining restaurant chain founded in 1969 that operates through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Red Robin International, Inc., serves up wholesome, fun, feel-good experiences in a kid- and family-friendly environment. Red Robin(R) restaurants are famous for serving more than two dozen insanely delicious, high-quality gourmet burgers in a variety of recipes with Bottomless Steak Fries(R), as well as salads, soups, appetizers, entrees, desserts, and signature Mad Mixology(R) Beverages. There are more than 380 Red Robin(R) restaurants located across the United States and Canada, including corporate-owned locations and those operating under franchise agreements.

About the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children(R) (NCMEC)

NCMEC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping protect children from abduction and sexual exploitation. NCMEC's congressionally mandated CyberTipline, a reporting mechanism for child sexual exploitation, has handled more than 570,000 leads. Since its establishment in 1984, NCMEC has assisted law enforcement with more than 138,400 missing child cases, resulting in the recovery of more than 121,500 children. For more information about NCMEC, call its toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST or visit http://www.missingkids.com.

SOURCE Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc.



Source: PR Newswire (April 4, 2008 - 12:22 PM EDT)

News by QuoteMedia
www.quotemedia.com

[nostinkinc]

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers Continues Washington Expansion With Opening of Renton Restaurant
Casual dining restaurant to donate 50 cents from every gourmet burger sold to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children during opening week
GREENWOOD VILLAGE, Colo., April 4, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (Red Robin) will open its 33rd Washington restaurant in Renton, located at 719 N. 10th Street, off exit 5 on I-405 West in the Renton Landing Shopping Center, on Monday, April 14, at 11 a.m. Red Robin serves high-quality gourmet burgers, appetizers, entrees, salads and beverages in a kid- and family-friendly atmosphere. As part of its grand opening celebrations, the Renton Red Robin(R) restaurant will host a Burgers With A Heart(R) fundraiser to benefit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC).

Through Burgers With a Heart(R), Red Robin will donate 50 cents from every gourmet burger sold to NCMEC during grand-opening week from April 14 to 20. NCMEC is a non-profit organization whose mission is to help prevent child abduction and sexual exploitation; help find missing children; and assist victims of child abduction and sexual exploitation, their families, and the professionals who serve them. The money raised will help bring prevention education to children nationwide.

'On behalf of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, I would like to thank Red Robin for their generous support of our mission,' said Robbie Callaway, NCMEC co-founder and past Chairman of the Board. 'It is important that we empower families to make safer decisions for their children, and communication and education are vital tools in that effort. With Red Robin's support, we are able to reach many more families across the country with our messages of child safety.'

'We are thrilled to be expanding the Red Robin family of restaurants in Washington, while also supporting such a wonderful family-oriented cause,' said Eric Houseman, Red Robin president and chief operating officer. 'We invite everyone to come to Red Robin and enjoy one of our more than two dozen high-quality gourmet burgers to support the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children as we open our newest restaurant in Renton.'

Red Robin focuses its philanthropic support on local and national causes that promote the health, welfare and education of children, families and citizens in the communities it serves. Because Red Robin is all about kids and families, its ongoing partnership with NCMEC has continued to grow through the company's new restaurant openings and additional programs such as 'The Next Gourmet Burger Kids' Recipe Contest' since 2006.

The 6,128-square-foot Renton Red Robin(R) restaurant will seat 198 guests. Red Robin has 32 additional restaurants in Washington, including three in Seattle and Spokane, two in Bellevue, Vancouver and Redmond and one each in Lynnwood, Auburn, Bellingham, Des Moines, Everett, Federal Way, Issaquah, Kennewick, Kent, Marysville, Monroe, Olympia, Puyallup, Silverdale, Burlington, Tukwila, Tacoma, Wenatchee, Woodinville and Yakima.

For more information about Red Robin and to find additional restaurant locations, please visit http://www.redrobin.com.

About Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (NASDAQ: RRGB)

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (http://www.redrobin.com), a casual dining restaurant chain founded in 1969 that operates through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Red Robin International, Inc., serves up wholesome, fun, feel-good experiences in a kid- and family-friendly environment. Red Robin(R) restaurants are famous for serving more than two dozen insanely delicious, high-quality gourmet burgers in a variety of recipes with Bottomless Steak Fries(R), as well as salads, soups, appetizers, entrees, desserts, and signature Mad Mixology(R) Beverages. There are more than 380 Red Robin(R) restaurants located across the United States and Canada, including corporate-owned locations and those operating under franchise agreements.

About the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children(R) (NCMEC)

NCMEC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping protect children from abduction and sexual exploitation. NCMEC's congressionally mandated CyberTipline, a reporting mechanism for child sexual exploitation, has handled more than 570,000 leads. Since its establishment in 1984, NCMEC has assisted law enforcement with more than 138,400 missing child cases, resulting in the recovery of more than 121,500 children. For more information about NCMEC, call its toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST or visit http://www.missingkids.com.

SOURCE Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc.

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Kona Grill Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2007 Results
Fourth Quarter Revenues Increase 21.9%; Diluted EPS of ($0.14)

Company Issues 2008 Guidance

Kona Grill, Inc. (Nasdaq: KONA), an American grill and sushi bar, today reported results for its fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2007.

Highlights for the fourth quarter of 2007 include:

Opened restaurants in Stamford, CT and Baton Rouge, LA bringing total to 18
Revenue increased 21.9% to $18.1 million
Same-store sales decreased 0.8%
Restaurant operating profit increased 20.7% to $3.3 million
Net loss of ($0.9) million, or ($0.14) per diluted share
Highlights for the full year of 2007 include:

Opened four new restaurants, resulting in 29% unit growth
Revenue increased 42.5% to $72.3 million
Same-store sales increased 2.7%
Restaurant operating profit increased 39.9% to $14.2 million
Net loss of ($0.7) million, or ($0.11) per diluted share
“Fourth quarter 2007 results reflect slightly weaker volumes than we had anticipated, as traffic slowed during the historically strong holiday season. On a full year basis, we continued to demonstrate the strength of the Kona Grill brand by adding four restaurants to our portfolio and by upholding industry-leading operating profit margins, despite well-known food and labor cost pressures. Looking ahead, our guidance reflects the current development schedule and its projected impact on our financial results, as well as a cautious outlook on consumer spending. Although the macro environment remains challenging, we believe our differentiated and affordable dining experience positions us well within the upscale casual dining sector,” said Marcus E. Jundt, Chief Executive Officer and President of Kona Grill.

Fourth Quarter Financial Results

As previously announced, revenue increased 21.9% to $18.1 million during the fourth quarter of 2007 from $14.8 million in the same period last year. The growth in revenue is attributable to additional revenue from six restaurants opened since October 2006, offset by a 0.8% decrease in same-store sales, primarily caused by lower sales volumes at two restaurants located in Arizona and one restaurant in Nevada.

Average weekly sales for the nine restaurants in the comparable base were $90,039 during the fourth quarter of 2007, compared to $90,791 in the prior year period. Average weekly sales for restaurants not in the comparable base that were open for the entire fourth quarter of 2007 were $73,753, versus $77,300 last year, a 4.6% decrease.

Net loss for the fourth quarter of 2007 was ($0.9) million, or ($0.14) per diluted share, based upon 6.3 million diluted shares, versus net loss of ($1.1) million, or ($0.19) per diluted share for the same period last year, based upon 5.8 million diluted shares.

Full Year 2007 Financial Results

Revenue increased 42.5% to $72.3 million during 2007 from $50.7 million last year, primarily as a result of $20.3 million in additional revenue associated with the opening of nine restaurants since the second quarter of 2006, as well as a 2.7% increase in same-store sales.

Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2007 was ($0.7) million, or ($0.11) per diluted share, based upon 6.0 million diluted shares. This compares to a net loss of ($2.7) million, or ($0.47) per diluted share, based upon 5.8 million diluted shares, in the prior year.

Financial Guidance

For the first quarter of 2008, the Company expects revenue of $18.5 million to $19.0 million and a net loss of ($0.4) million to ($0.7) million, or a net loss per diluted share of ($0.06) to ($0.11).

For fiscal year 2008, the Company expects revenue of $86 million to $90 million and a net loss of $($0.8) million to ($1.8) million, or ($0.12) to ($0.27) per diluted share. The Company anticipates opening five new restaurants in 2008, including two in the second quarter, one in the third quarter, and two in the fourth quarter. The 2008 development schedule includes the previously announced restaurants in Gilbert, AZ; West Palm Beach, FL; Phoenix, AZ and two additional units to be announced later.

Conference Call

The Company will host a conference call to discuss fourth quarter 2007 financial results today at 8:30 AM ET. The call will be webcast live from the Company's website at www.konagrill.com under the investor relations section. Listeners may also access the call by dialing 1-800-753-0420 or 1-913-312-1460 for international callers. A replay of the call will be available until Thursday, February 21, 2008, by dialing 1-888-203-1112 or 1-719-457-0820 for international callers; the password is 4277159.

About Kona Grill

Kona Grill owns and operates restaurants in Scottsdale and Chandler, AZ; Denver, CO; Stamford, CT; Naples, FL; Lincolnshire and Oak Brook, IL; Carmel, IN; Baton Rouge, LA; Troy, MI; Kansas City, MO; Omaha, NE; Las Vegas, NV; Austin, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Sugar Land (Houston), TX. Kona Grill restaurants offer freshly prepared food, personalized service, and a warm, contemporary ambiance that creates an exceptional, yet affordable, dining experience. Kona Grill restaurants serve a diverse selection of mainstream American dishes as well as a variety of appetizers and entrees with an international influence. Each restaurant also features an extensive sushi menu and sushi bar.

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Shareholder Class Action Filed Against Darden Restaurants, Inc. by the Law Firm of Schiffrin Barroway Topaz & Kessler, LLP
RADNOR, Pa., April 4, 2008 /PRNewswire/ -- The following statement was issued today by the law firm of Schiffrin Barroway Topaz & Kessler, LLP:

Notice is hereby given that a class action lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida, Orlando Division, on behalf of all purchasers of securities of Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE: DRI) ('Darden' or the 'Company') between June 19, 2007 and December 18, 2007, inclusive (the 'Class Period').

If you wish to discuss this action or have any questions concerning this notice or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Schiffrin Barroway Topaz & Kessler, LLP (Darren J. Check, Esq. or Richard A. Maniskas, Esq.) toll free at 1-888-299-7706 or 1-610-667-7706, or via e-mail at [e-mail].

The Complaint charges Darden and certain of its officers and directors with violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Darden owns and operates nearly 1,400 Red Lobster, Olive Garden, Bahama Breeze, Smokey Bones, Capital Grille, Longhorn Steakhouse and Seasons 52 restaurants.

The Complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, defendants failed to disclose material adverse facts about the Company's financial well-being, and prospects. Specifically, defendants failed to disclose or indicate the following: (1) that the Company's food costs were rising at a higher rate than the Company admitted; (2) that same-store sales at the Company's restaurants were experiencing negative trends; (3) that the Company's restaurants were underperforming; (4) that the Company lacked adequate internal and financial controls; and (4) that, as a result of the foregoing, the Company's statements about its financial well-being and future business prospects were lacking in any reasonable basis when made.

On December 18, 2007, the Company shocked investors when it announced that its earnings for the quarter fell below expectations. Further, the Company announced that it expected diluted net earnings per share in 2008 to be 2% to 4%, in stark contrast to the 10% to 12% projection the Company gave in August 2007. Upon the release of this news, the Company's shares declined $7.74 per share, or 21.3 percent, to close on December 19, 2007 at $28.60 per share, on unusually heavy trading volume.

Plaintiff seeks to recover damages on behalf of class members and is represented by the law firm of Schiffrin Barroway Topaz & Kessler which prosecutes class actions in both state and federal courts throughout the country. Schiffrin Barroway Topaz & Kessler is a driving force behind corporate governance reform, and has recovered billions of dollars on behalf of institutional and individual investors from the United States and around the world.

For more information about Schiffrin Barroway Topaz & Kessler or to sign up to participate in this action online, please visit http://www.sbtklaw.com

If you are a member of the class described above, you may, not later than May 12, 2008, move the Court to serve as lead plaintiff of the class, if you so choose. A lead plaintiff is a representative party that acts on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. In order to be appointed lead plaintiff, the Court must determine that the class member's claim is typical of the claims of other class members, and that the class member will adequately represent the class. Your ability to share in any recovery is not, however, affected by the decision whether or not to serve as a lead plaintiff. Any member of the purported class may move the court to serve as lead plaintiff through counsel of their choice, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member.

CONTACT: Schiffrin Barroway Topaz & Kessler, LLP
Darren J. Check, Esq.
Richard A. Maniskas, Esq.
280 King of Prussia Road
Radnor, PA 19087
1-888-299-7706 (toll free) or 1-610-667-7706
Or by e-mail at [e-mail]

SOURCE Schiffrin Barroway Topaz & Kessler, LLP



Source: PR Newswire (April 4, 2008 - 6:30 PM EDT

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Famous Dave's First Quarter 2008 Earnings Release and Conference Call
Famous Dave's of America, Inc. (NASDAQ: DAVE) will announce its First Quarter 2008 earnings after market close April 23, 2008. The company is hosting a conference call, April 24, 2008, at 10:00 a.m., Central Time, to discuss its first quarter 2008 financial results. There will be a live web-cast of the discussion through the Investor Relations section of Famous Dave’s web site at www.famousdaves.com.

A replay will be available for one week following the call by dialing [phone]; Conference ID “41657472”.

Famous Dave's of America, Inc. (NASDAQ: DAVE) develops, owns, operates and franchises barbeque restaurants. As of March 30, 2008, the company owned 45 locations and franchised 123 additional units in 35 states, and had signed development agreements for an additional 141 franchise locations. Its menu features award-winning barbequed and grilled meats, an ample selection of salads, side items sandwiches, and unique desserts.

Statements in this press release that are not strictly historical, including but not limited to statements regarding the timing of our restaurant openings and the timing or success of our expansion plans, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, which may cause the company’s actual results to differ materially from expected results. Although Famous Dave's of America, Inc. believes the expectations reflected in any forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, it can give no assurance that its expectation will be attained. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Famous Dave’s expectation include financial performance, restaurant industry conditions, execution of restaurant development and construction programs, franchisee performance, changes in local or national economic condition, availability of financing, governmental approvals and other risks detailed from time to time in the company’s SEC reports.

Famous Dave's of America, Inc.
Diana G. Purcel, 952-294-1300
Chief Financial Officer

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Buy California Pizza Kitchen (CPKI) on Weakness -Piper Jaffray

March 28, 2008 9:47 AM EDT

Piper Jaffray issued a research report this morning suggesting investors use yesterday's weakness in shares of California Pizza Kitchen (Nasdaq: CPKI) as a buying opportunity. The firm has a Buy rating and $16 price target on CPKI.

The firm notes that yesterday's 5% sell-off was the result of rating downgrades related to concerns over exposure to the California and Florida markets. While Piper does admit that a large amount of CPKI's business comes from these two states (~43% of operations), it believes that much of this market weakness is already priced into the Company's guidance.

On a longer-term basis, Piper said it remains "convinced that California Pizza Kitchen is a fundamentally healthy, self funding growth concept."

California Pizza Kitchen, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the ownership, operation, licensing, and franchising of a chain of casual dining restaurants in the United States and internationally. [BCS]

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Papa John's Appoints Jude Thompson to Board of Directors


2008-02-22 19:24:40 -


www.papajohns.com - Papa John's International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA) today announced the appointment of Joseph Jude Thompson to the company's board of directors.

Mr. Thompson has held positions of increasing responsibility with Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, a division of WellPoint, Inc. (NYSE: WLP), or its affiliates since 1989. Serving as senior vice president of WellPoint and president, Individual Business of Anthem since 2006, Mr. Thompson is responsible for all aspects of the company's Individual Business unit in the 14 states served by WellPoint, which generated $5+ billion in revenue in 2007.

"We welcome Jude to our board of directors," said Papa John's founder chairman, John Schnatter. "We think his experience in serving customers in the highly competitive health care industry will bring a new perspective to the board."

Mr. Thompson, age 45, holds a BA from the University of Kentucky.

"I welcome Jude to our company," said Papa John's president and chief executive officer, Nigel Travis. "We look forward to his input and advice as we continue to move the Papa John's brand forward."

Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, Papa John's is the world's third largest pizza company. For eight years running, consumers have rated Papa John's No. 1 in customer satisfaction among all national pizza chains in the highly regarded American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI). Papa John's also ranks first among pizza companies in the 2008 Brand Keys Customer Loyalty Engagement Index and was named 2007 Pizza Today Chain of the Year. For more information about the company or to order pizza online, visit Papa John's at www.papajohns.com.

Papa John's International, Inc.
Chris Sternberg, 502-261-4934
Sr. Vice President, Corporate Communications

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BUCA, Inc. Announces 4th Quarter and Full Year 2007 Financial Results - Posted 3/11/2008

Minneapolis, MN


BUCA, Inc. (NASDAQ: BUCA) today announced financial results for its fourth quarter and full year of fiscal 2007.

The company reported a net loss of $5.3 million, or ($0.26) per share, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007, compared with net income of $0.9 million, or $0.05 per share, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006. For the fiscal year 2007, the Company reported a net loss of $16.2 million, or ($0.79) per share, compared with a net loss of $3.6 million, or ($0.18) per share, in fiscal 2006.

The fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 contained 13 weeks as compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006 which contained 14 weeks.

John Bettin, the company’s Chief Executive Officer commented, “The recent restaurant environment has been challenging for us and for the industry. While we are disappointed with our recent results, we did make progress on several initiatives designed to improve average unit volumes as we work toward profitability. During fiscal 2007, we continued to evolve and strengthen the Buca di Beppo brand, implementing initiatives such as catering and our single portion option called BUCA Mio, which we believe are resonating well with our guests. On the cost side, we implemented a new labor management system, which is beginning to drive improvement as shown by our year over year labor savings in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007, and we delivered improvement in product costs on a year-over-year basis.”

Fourth Quarter Results
Total restaurant sales were $64.1 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 as compared to $71.5 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006. The decrease in total restaurant sales was due to the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 being a 13-week period as compared to 14-week in fiscal 2006, the closure of two underperforming restaurants in the first half of fiscal 2007, the loss of sales due to the temporary closure of the Company's San Francisco restaurant during parts of the quarter and the fact that the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 did not include New Year's Eve. No new restaurants opened in the period.

Buca di Beppo comparable restaurant sales decreased 2.5% for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 as compared to the same period last year. The comparable restaurant sales numbers reported exclude the results of the Company’s San Francisco restaurant for the entire fourth fiscal quarters for each of 2006 and 2007. The restaurant, one of the Company’s highest sales locations, was closed for renovation beginning September 24, 2007 and reopened on November 20, 2007.

The company reported a net loss of $5.3 million, or ($0.26) per share, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 as compared to net income of $0.9 million, or $0.05 per share, in the same period of the prior year. The net loss in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 includes a loss on disposal of assets of $0.5 million related to repairs and renovation of the Company’s San Francisco restaurant and asset impairment charges of $4.3 million.

Total restaurant costs in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 were $60.1 million, as compared to $64.5 million in the same period of the prior year. As a percentage of restaurant sales, these costs were 93.8% for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007, as compared to 90.1% in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006.

Fiscal Year 2007 Results
For fiscal 2007, total restaurant sales were $245.6 million as compared to $253.8 million in fiscal 2006. The decrease in restaurant sales was primarily due to a shift in the Company's fiscal calendar caused by the 53rd week of fiscal 2006 which removed the relatively high sales week prior to and including New Year's Eve from the Company's first quarter of fiscal 2007 and New Year's Eve from the Company's fourth quarter of fiscal 2007. The Company's fiscal 2007 results also reflect the closure of two underperforming restaurants in the first half of 2007, the loss of sales due to the temporary closure of the Company's San Francisco restaurant during parts of the third and fourth fiscal quarters and a decrease in beverage sales.
Buca di Beppo comparable restaurant sales increased 0.7% for fiscal 2007 as compared to the same period last year. The comparable restaurant sales numbers reported exclude the results of the Company’s San Francisco restaurant for the entire third and fourth fiscal quarters for each of 2006 and 2007. The reported revenue numbers include all of the Company's revenues for all periods, including those of the San Francisco restaurant.

The company reported a net loss of $16.2 million, or ($0.79) per share, in fiscal 2007, as compared to a net loss from continuing operations of $4.6 million, or ($0.23) per share, in fiscal 2006. The fiscal 2007 net loss includes a loss on disposal of assets of $0.9 million related to repairs and renovation of the Company's San Francisco restaurant and asset impairment charges of $5.1 million.

Total restaurant costs were $233.4 million in fiscal 2007 as compared to $234.7 million in fiscal 2006. As a percentage of restaurant sales, these costs were 95.1% for fiscal 2007, as compared to 92.5% in fiscal 2006.

Conference Call
BUCA, Inc. will host a conference call on Tuesday, March 11, 2008 at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time (3:30 p.m. Central Time) to discuss these results. John Bettin the company’s Chief Executive Officer, and Dennis Goetz Chief Financial Officer, will be hosting the call. The participant call in number is 1-888-778-9067 or 1-913-312-0962 for international callers. The passcode is 6484508. The call will be webcast and can be accessed but cutting and pasting the following link: http://viavid.net/dce.aspx?sid=00004B3A into your browser. If you are unable to join the call, a replay will be available beginning at 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time on March 11, 2008 and can be accessed by dialing 1-888-203-1112 or 1-719-457-0820 (international), passcode 6484508.

About the Company:
BUCA, Inc. owns and operates 89 highly acclaimed Italian restaurants under the name Buca di Beppo in 25 states and the District of Columbia.

[nostinkinc]

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[MWM]

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[nostinkinc]

Hard times are on the menu at restaurants

By Bruce Horovitz, USA TODAY

The restaurant industry has fallen, and it can't get up. To add insult: The worst may be yet to come.
Same-store sales are sliding. Commodity prices are climbing. Units are closing. Customers are dwindling. Some of the top names in all ends of dining are in pain, from Starbucks (SBUX) to Applebee's to The Cheesecake Factory (CAKE).

"Whether or not the rest of the economy is in a recession, the restaurant industry certainly is," says Ron Paul, president of restaurant researcher Technomic.

The financial squeeze is hitting hardest at dinner. Dinner traffic fell 2% last year, says research giant NPD Group. Lunch is slowing, too, says Dave Jenkins, president of NPD's U.S. foodservice business.

More serious troubles may be ahead for the $558 billion industry. Except at McDonald's (MCD)— which posted a mostly terrific 2007 — same-store sales at the nation's largest restaurant chains grew a paltry 0.3% last year, Technomics says. Same-store sales are those at stores open at least a year.

Worse, 49% of restaurants surveyed by the National Restaurant Association reported same-store sales fell in January, and 54% said customer traffic fell in January, the fifth month in a row.

"In the lifespan of casual dining, we haven't seen economic times like this," says Marc Buehler, CEO of Lone Star Steakhouse, which just closed 27 of 179 stores.

Evidence of tough times:

•Restaurants are closing. After the Lone Star closings, 1,500 employees lost their jobs. "We're gonna get through this," says Buehler. "But it won't be easy."

Starbucks plans to close 100 low-performing units and will unveil a strategy of key changes at its annual meeting on March 19. Pick Up Stix, a fast-casual Chinese chain, closed 26 of its nearly 100 locations in January.

•Same-store sales are falling. Few chains have been hit as hard as Ruby Tuesday (RT), whose same-store sales at company-owned stores fell 10.8% in the fourth quarter. "Unlike paying the mortgage, going out to eat is discretionary and can be changed easily," laments Richard Johnson, senior vice president.

Same-store sales at Applebee's dropped 2.9% in the fourth quarter. "Despite a challenging environment, we believe we can reverse this trend," says Julia Stewart, CEO of parent IHop (IHP). She says a new menu is in the works.

Steak 'n Shake's (SNS) same-store sales dived 9.5% in the fourth quarter at company units. Chili's fell 2.4%. And Wendy's (WEN) sales at company-owned stores fell 0.8%.

Cheesecake Factory fell 0.4%, and Howard Gordon, senior vice president, says that since going public in 1992, "We've never seen a time like this."

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This will get really interesting...