Two months ago, we reported the
end of restaurant chains Bennigan's and Steak & Ale. Well, we've just learned that they're
coming back to life! Private equity firm Atalaya is buying the two brands and their trademarks.
Restaurant chain
Ruby Tuesday announced its plans to
destroy one of its locations next Tuesday in an explosion that will be broadcast live on its website. The explosion signals a new era for the chain, something the company has been trying to do with its slogan, "It's a brand new Tuesday."
The bomb will go off on Aug.
A Video Ode to Bennigan's: R.I.P. Bennigan's is no more. Let us watch this video — which highlights everything virtuous about the bar and grill — in remembrance.
It's a sad week, people.
Bennigan's has filed for bankruptcy. Where, oh, where am I going to get my deep-fried cheese sticks, chicken strips (aka "Chicken Fingers"), and well, fried whatever with a blue cheese dipping sauce in a friendly, corporate, nondescript atmosphere?
For national chains
Bennigan's and
Steak and Ale, there is no pot o' gold at the end of the rainbow: The companies
filed for bankruptcy protection and shut down all 292 corporate locations yesterday.
For the two bar and grill chains, the downhill slope has come steep and fast. In June, parent company
Metromedia Restaurant Group asked lenders to restructure its debt, as earnings were lower than expected.
