Full Service Restaurants

Holiday dining patterns highlight upscale and fine-dining restaurants as the strongest seasonal performers, with coffee, casual dining, and eatertainment showing targeted lifts. Emerging YoY trends point to premium full-service concepts leading demand again this December.

Darden is heading into the holiday season with accelerating visit growth across its portfolio. Olive Garden, LongHorn, and Cheddar’s continue to deliver strong same-restaurant gains, while upscale banners like Seasons 52 and Ruth’s Chris are positioned for another robust holiday surge based on early 2025 trends.

Technology is taking retail full circle, reviving old models like the milkman and general store. Dive into the data to see how innovations in retail apply new tools to old habits, bringing the industry back to basics with authenticity and a hyper-local focus.

Following its acquisition by TriArtisan Capital Advisors, Denny’s is entering a new chapter. With Keke’s Breakfast Café gaining momentum and loyalty at Denny’s holding steady, the iconic diner brand is well-positioned to rebuild and modernize for long-term growth.

Summary: Full-service restaurants across the U.S. see major traffic spikes on Veterans Day as they honor service members with free meals and special offers. Data from last year shows how these gestures strengthen community connection and business performance.

Amid economic headwinds, Texas Roadhouse and Chili’s are outperforming full-service peers. Location analytics show both brands sustaining traffic through strong value, efficiency, and higher-income appeal — key factors for continued growth.

Holiday 2025 reveals a split in consumer behavior. Affluent shoppers drive luxury growth, while budget-conscious consumers seek deals. Retail success depends on timing, precision, and understanding shifting priorities.‍

Q2 2025 restaurant trends highlight a cautious consumer. QSRs and fast casuals face headwinds as diners trade down to cheaper options, while casual dining brands like Chili’s and Applebee’s outperform with value-driven promotions and bundled meals.