The recent bankruptcy of the Bennigan’s and Steak & Ale chains is one symptom of the struggle that casual dining establishments are facing during the economic downturn.
What are these restaurants doing to keep their customer base?
T.G.I. Friday’s: If you like something on the walls, go on and take it
Outback Steakhouse: No longer charging customers to see the menu
Chili’s: Unlimited napkins before 4:30 p.m.
Cheesecake Factory: Health insurance coverage extended to customers dining there three or more times a week
Olive Garden: Has stopped forcing diners to constantly smile, laugh, and eat endless pasta
Applebee’s: To warm the hearts of its patrons, every night at each franchise a troupe of young actors sits at an extra-long table and plays a defeated, but still proud, local high school sports team
Abuelo’s Mexican Food Embassy: Finally accepting the many asylum requests from desperate Chi-Chi’s refugees
Cracker Barrel: Now serves homosexuals
