NPC International, Inc. today announced its 2010 second fiscal quarter results conference call will be held on Monday, August 9, 2010 at 9:30 a.m. CDT. This call can be accessed in the U.S. by dialing 866-510-0712. The international number is 617-597-5380. The access code for the call is 72484555.

The conference call can also be accessed through the Company’s website at www.npcinternational.com by clicking on the Thomson Financial logo in the investor information section or by accessing the Thomson Financial website at www.earnings.com. For those unable to participate live, a replay of the call will be available until August 16, 2010 by dialing (888)286-8010 or by dialing international at (617)801-6888. The access code for the replay is 92746130. A replay of the call will also be available through the Company’s website.

The Company’s quarterly financial statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations will be included within the Company’s Form 10-Q to be filed with the SEC on Friday, August 6, 2010 which can be accessed at www.sec.gov.

NPC International, Inc. is the world’s largest Pizza Hut franchisee and currently operates 1,143 Pizza Hut restaurants and delivery units in 28 states.

Ruth’s Hospitality Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: RUTH) today reported unaudited financial results for its second quarter ended June 27, 2010.

Highlights for the second quarter of 2010 compared to the second quarter of 2009 were as follows:

• Total revenues were $89.0 million compared to prior year at $86.4 million.
• Net income available to preferred and common shareholders was $3.7 million, or $0.09 per diluted share, compared to $2.3 million, or $0.10 per diluted share, in the second quarter of 2009. The second quarter of 2010 included a net benefit of $0.3 million or $0.01 per diluted share. The second quarter of 2009 included net charges of $0.7 million or $0.03 per diluted share.
• Company-owned comparable restaurant sales for Ruth’s Chris Steak House increased 2.9%. Company-owned comparable restaurant sales for Mitchell’s Fish Market increased 0.9%.
• Food and beverage costs, as a percentage of restaurant sales, increased 60 basis points to 29.3%, which was primarily driven by unfavorable beef costs.
• Restaurant operating expenses, as a percentage of restaurant sales, increased 20 basis points to 53.4%.
• General and administrative expenses were $0.2 million less than prior year at $5.4 million.
• Depreciation and amortization expenses, as a percentage of total revenues, decreased 50 basis points to 4.3% primarily due to the home office building sale in the fourth quarter of 2009.
• Interest expense decreased by $0.8 million to $1.0 million in the second quarter of 2010. The second quarter of 2010 included a gain of $0.3 million for a mark-to-market non-cash adjustment relating to an interest rate swap agreement. Interest expense was $1.8 million in the second quarter of 2009, and included a gain of $0.4 million for a mark-to-market non-cash adjustment relating to an interest rate swap agreement.
• At the end of the second quarter of 2010, the Company had $69.0 million in debt outstanding under its senior credit agreement. This represents a reduction of $5.0 million from the March 28, 2010 balance of $74.0 million.
• During the period, the Company opened a new Mitchell’s Fish Market restaurant in Winter Park, Florida. In addition, a franchise partner opened a new Ruth’s Chris Steak House restaurant in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Michael P. O’Donnell, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ruth’s Hospitality Group, Inc., stated, “We generated substantial improvement in net income compared to the year-ago period as positive comparable restaurant sales translated into solid operating leverage. We credit four-wall-execution and solid expense management that, over time, should position our brands for further bottom-line improvement. O’Donnell continued, “In addition, our balance sheet remains a competitive advantage, giving us the financial flexibility to pursue opportunistic development. Accordingly, we are actively evaluating restaurant locations on our own and through strategic alliances. In the near-term, any development will be modest, but as always, we will be diligent to only commit capital when the returns are justified.”

Review of Operating Results

Total revenues, which include Company-owned restaurant sales, franchise income, and other operating income, were $89.0 million compared to $86.4 million in the second quarter of 2009.

Company-owned restaurant sales increased 2.6% to $83.8 million for the second quarter of 2010 from $81.7 million in the same quarter last year. Total operating weeks increased 0.2% to 1,120 from 1,118.

Average weekly sales for Ruth’s Chris Steak House were $76.9 thousand in the second quarter of 2010 compared to $74.7 thousand in the second quarter of 2009. Average weekly sales at Mitchell’s Fish Market were $71.8 thousand compared to $71.1 thousand in the prior year second quarter.

For the second quarter of 2010, Company-owned comparable restaurant sales at Ruth’s Chris Steak House increased 2.9%, which consisted of an average check decrease of 0.3% and an entrée increase of 3.2%. Company-owned comparable restaurant sales at Mitchell’s Fish Market increased 0.9%, which consisted of an entrée increase of 0.9%.

Franchise income increased 13.5% to $2.8 million from $2.5 million. Comparable franchise-owned restaurant sales increased 6.1%.

Operating income was $8.3 million in the second quarter of 2010 and $4.5 million in the prior year second quarter.

The Company recognized a $1.1 million pre-tax benefit to operating income primarily related to the termination of a lease in the second quarter of 2010. The Company recognized a pre-tax charge in discontinued operations of $1.1 million during the second quarter of 2010 related to a change in estimate of lease exit costs for two closed restaurants.

Net income available to preferred and common shareholders was $3.7 million, or $0.09 per diluted share, compared to $2.3 million, or $0.10 per diluted share, in the second quarter of 2009. The second quarter of 2010 included a net benefit of $0.3 million or $0.01 per diluted share. The second quarter of 2009 included net charges of $0.7 million or $0.03 per diluted share.

Financial Outlook

Based on current information, Ruth’s Hospitality Group, Inc. is updating its 2010 outlook as follows:

• Cost of goods sold of 29% to 30% of restaurant sales
• General and administrative expenses of $22 million to $24 million
• Effective tax rate of 25% to 30%
• Capital expenditures of $5 million to $6 million
• The Company completed its 2010 development plan with the opening of a Mitchell’s Fish Market in June and the opening of a franchised Ruth’s Chris Steak House in May.

Conference Call

The Company will host a conference call to discuss second quarter 2010 financial results today at 8:30 AM Eastern Time. Hosting the call will be Mike O’Donnell, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Bob Vincent, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.

The conference call can be accessed live over the phone by dialing 888-300-2343 or for international callers by dialing 719-325-2370. A replay will be available one hour after the call and can be accessed by dialing 888-203-1112 or 719-457-0820 for international callers; the password is 7184912. The replay will be available until August 6, 2010. The call will also be webcast live from the Company’s website at www.rhgi.com under the investor relations section.

About Ruth’s Hospitality Group, Inc.

Ruth’s Hospitality Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: RUTH) is a leading restaurant company focused exclusively on the upscale dining segment. The Company owns the Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Mitchell’s Fish Market, Mitchell’s Steakhouse and Cameron’s Steakhouse concepts. With more than 150 Company- and franchisee-owned locations worldwide, Ruth’s Hospitality Group, Inc. was founded in 1965 and is headquartered in Heathrow, Fla.

For further information about our restaurants, to make reservations, or to purchase gift cards, please visit: www.RuthsChris.com, www.MitchellsFishMarket.com, www.MitchellsSteakhouse.com and www.Camerons-Steakhouse.com. For more information about Ruth’s Hospitality Group, Inc., please visit www.rhgi.com.

Famous Dave’s of America, Inc. (Nasdaq:DAVE) today announced revenue and net income of $40.7 million and $2.5 million, respectively, or $0.29 per diluted share, for the second quarter ended July 4, 2010. This compares to revenue and net income of $36.3 million and $2.4 million, respectively, or $0.26 per diluted share for the comparable period in 2009. For the first six months of 2010, the Company had revenue and net income of $73.3 million and $5.2 million, respectively, or $0.58 per diluted share. For the 2009 comparable period, the Company had revenue and net income of $70.1 million and $3.7 million, respectively, or $0.40 per diluted share.

“Our operations team once again delivered a solid quarter,” said Christopher O’Donnell, president and CEO of Famous Dave’s. “Our results, during a time when consumers continue to be cautious in their spending behaviors, reflect the focused discipline of our organization and our passion to take care of our guests.”

Same store sales for company-owned restaurants open for 24 months or more increased 0.6 percent during the quarter, reflecting a meaningful improvement over a negative 9.4 percent for the second quarter of 2009. The comparable sales increase included a weighted average price increase of approximately 1.0 percent. Comparable sales for company-owned restaurants decreased 1.4% during the first half of 2010, compared to a decrease of 7.5% for the first half of 2009.

Franchise royalty revenue for the second quarter of 2010 totaled $4.2 million, a decrease of 5.0% from the comparable period in 2009. The decrease in royalty revenue primarily reflects the impact of lost royalties from eight New York and New Jersey locations, seven of which were purchased by the company in March of this year, along with a decrease in comparable sales of 0.6%. Franchise royalty revenue for the first half of 2010 totaled $8.2 million, with the year over year decrease of 4.8% again reflecting the impact of lost royalties from the NY/NJ acquisition as well as a decrease of 1.7% in comparable sales.

Stock-based and Board of Directors Cash Compensation and Common Share Repurchase

Earnings results for the second quarter of 2010 included approximately $340,000 or $0.03 per diluted share, in compensation expense related to the company’s stock-based incentive programs and board of directors’ cash compensation, as compared to approximately $237,000 or $0.02 per diluted share, for the prior year comparable period. The increase in stock-based compensation is primarily due to an increase in the Company’s stock price over the prior year. Stock-based compensation expense and board of directors’ cash compensation expense for the six months ended July 4, 2010 was approximately $696,000 or $0.05 per diluted share, compared to approximately $375,000 or $0.03 per diluted share for the prior year comparable period.

The company repurchased 224,150 shares of common stock during the fiscal 2010 second quarter at an average price of $8.66 per share, excluding commissions, for a total of approximately $1.9 million. The company has repurchased approximately 654,000 shares of common stock during the first six months of 2010 at an average price of $7.51 per share, excluding commissions, for a total of $4.9 million. The Company has now repurchased approximately 761,000 shares under its current 1,000,000 share authorization.

Marketing and Development

Development and marketing highlights during the quarter included a successful “limited time offer” of “80 Proof BBQ”. The current limited time offering, “USA of Barbeque,” highlights the return of a successful promotion from last summer with the addition of Santa Maria Tri Tip. On August 1^st, we will again be featuring “Dave’s Day” which honors our founder, Dave Anderson, and provides a free entree for those named Dave.

“We were pleased with the contributions from all of our restaurants during the quarter, including the seven New York and New Jersey restaurants which were added to our company-owned portfolio earlier this year,” O’Donnell said. ”Our operations team did a great job of controlling costs as well as continuing to enhance the overall guest experience.”

Famous Dave’s opened two new franchise-operated restaurants during the second quarter, in Gilbert, AZ and Idaho Falls, ID. Famous Dave’s ended the quarter with 177 restaurants, including 52 company-owned restaurants and 125 franchise-operated restaurants, located in 36 states.

The company is updating its guidance on restaurant development, and anticipates opening one company-owned restaurant and approximately eight to ten franchise-operated restaurants during fiscal 2010. The majority of the remaining openings for 2010 will be in the fourth quarter.

The company will host a conference call tomorrow, July 29, 2010, at 10:00 a.m. Central Time to discuss its second 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 52 locations and franchises 125 additional units in 36 states. Its menu features award-winning barbequed and grilled meats, an ample selection of salads, side items and 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 conditions, availability of financing, governmental approvals and other risks detailed from time to time in the company’s SEC reports.

Kona Grill, Inc. (Nasdaq:KONA), an American grill and sushi bar, today reported results for its second quarter ended June 30, 2010.

Second Quarter 2010 Highlights Include:

• Restaurant sales increased 5.7% to $22.7 million
• Same-store sales decreased 0.3%
• Restaurant operating profit margin of 16.3%
• Net income of $0.3 million, or $0.03 per share

“Top-line results met the high end of our sales guidance for the period, while we exceeded our own bottom-line expectations with our first profitable quarter in almost three years. We are excited by the positive response to our various marketing efforts in encouraging trial and building a loyal guest base. We continue to forge ahead in building the foundation for the long-term success of Kona Grill, however, given current economic headlines, we remain cautious with regards to our near-term outlook,” said Marc Buehler, Chief Executive Officer of Kona Grill.

Second Quarter 2010 Financial Results

Restaurant sales increased 5.7% to $22.7 million from $21.5 million during the same quarter last year. The increase in restaurant sales during the second quarter reflects additional revenue from two restaurants opened since September 2009. Same-store sales decreased 0.3% during the second quarter of 2010 compared to a decrease of 9.5% in the prior year period.

Average weekly sales for the 18 restaurants in the comparable base were $77,866 during the second quarter of 2010, compared to $78,107 in the prior year period. Average weekly sales for restaurants not in the comparable base were $58,801 during the second quarter of 2010 versus $69,190 last year. 

Net income was $0.3 million, or $0.03 per share, including $0.2 million or $0.02 per share in legal and professional fees associated with the contested proxy solicitation.  This compares to net loss of $0.2 million, or $0.03 per share, for the same period last year.

Financial Guidance

For the third quarter of 2010, the Company forecasts restaurant sales of $20.5 million to $21.5 million and a net loss of $0.5 million to $1.0 million, or $0.05 to $0.11 per share.  The Company anticipates opening one new restaurant in Baltimore, MD in the fall of 2010.

Conference Call

The Company will host a conference call to discuss second quarter 2010 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 1-888-395-3241 or 1-719-457-1506 for international callers. A replay of the call will be available until Tuesday, August 3, 2010, by dialing 1-888-203-1112 or 1-719-457-0820 for international callers; the password is 4233307.

About Kona Grill

Kona Grill features American favorites with an international influence and award-winning sushi in a casually elegant atmosphere. Kona Grill owns and operates 24 restaurants, guided by a passion for quality food and personal service. Restaurants are currently located in 15 states: Arizona (Chandler, Gilbert, Phoenix, Scottsdale); Colorado (Denver); Connecticut (Stamford); Florida (Tampa, West Palm Beach); Illinois (Lincolnshire, Oak Brook); Indiana (Carmel); Louisiana (Baton Rouge); Michigan (Troy); Minnesota (Eden Prairie); Missouri (Kansas City); Nebraska (Omaha); New Jersey (Woodbridge); Nevada (Las Vegas); Texas (Austin, Dallas, Houston, Sugar Land, San Antonio); Virginia (Richmond). For more information, visit www.konagrill.com

Forward-Looking Statements

The financial guidance we provide for our third quarter 2010 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. 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.

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants, Inc. (Nasdaq:MSSR) today announced that it will host a conference call to discuss second quarter 2010 financial results on Tuesday, August 3, 2010 at 5:00 PM ET. Hosting the call will be William Freeman, Chief Executive Officer, and Michelle Lantow, Chief Financial Officer. A press release with second quarter 2010 financial results will be issued after the market close that same day.

The conference call can be accessed live over the phone by dialing (877) 591-4956, or for international callers (719) 325-4833. A replay will be available one hour after the call and can be accessed by dialing (888) 203-1112 or (719) 457-0820 for international callers; the conference ID is 9243023. The replay will be available until Tuesday, August 17, 2010.

The call will be webcast live from the Company’s website at www.McCormickandSchmicks.com under the investor relations section.

About McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants, Inc.

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants, Inc. is a leading seafood restaurant operator in the affordable upscale dining segment. The Company now operates 96 restaurants, including 89 restaurants in the United States and seven restaurants in Canada under The Boathouse brand. McCormick & Schmick’s has successfully grown over the past 38 years by focusing on serving a broad selection of fresh seafood. The inviting atmosphere at McCormick & Schmick’s and its high quality, diverse menu offering and compelling price-value proposition appeal to a broad base of casual diners, families, travelers and the business community.

Granite City Food & Brewery Ltd. (Nasdaq: GCFB) today announced that it will report its second quarter 2010 earnings after the market closes Monday, August 9, 2010. The Company will host a conference call to discuss its second quarter financial results on Tuesday, August 10, 2010 at 10:00 am Central Time. The call may be accessed by calling 1-888-450-4823 and referencing code 495253. A replay of the call will be available for 30 days and may be accessed by calling 1-888-348-4629 and entering replay code 495253.

About Granite City

Granite City Food & Brewery Ltd. is a Modern American upscale casual restaurant chain that operates 26 restaurants in 11 states. The menu features affordable yet high quality family favorite menu items prepared from made-from-scratch recipes and served in generous portions. The sophisticated yet unpretentious restaurants, proprietary food and beverage products, attractive price points and high service standards combine for a great dining experience. Granite City opened its first restaurant in St. Cloud, Minnesota in 1999.

Luby’s, Inc. (NYSE: LUB) (“Luby’s”) announced today that it has completed the purchase of substantially all of the assets of Fuddruckers, Inc., Magic Brands, LLC and certain of their affiliates (collectively, “Fuddruckers”) for approximately $63.5 million in cash.  The transaction was financed with proceeds from the Company’s recently amended credit agreement and cash on hand.

“We are pleased to add Fuddruckers to our portfolio of restaurants,” said Christopher J. Pappas, Luby’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “We believe that the Fuddruckers brand is strong and has a great deal of customer appeal and opportunities for growth.  Hamburgers remain very relevant to consumers today.  We like the model and delivery system and believe that, along with its geographic overlay both in Texas and nationally, Fuddruckers is a brand that will become even more successful when paired with Luby’s.

“With 59 company-operated and 129 franchise locations, Fuddruckers and Koo Koo Roo brands both diversify our restaurant base and enhance our opportunities for growth.  We have already established transition teams to integrate our operations.  We will continue to operate the acquired restaurants under their existing names and formats.  Over time, we seek to enhance their guest experience, store level operations, facilities, and ultimately, their unit level financial performance.”

In conjunction with the closing of the Fuddruckers acquisition, Luby’s has amended its credit agreement, raising the facility size to $53 million and extending the maturity date to September 2011.

Conference Call

The management of Luby’s will host a conference call on Thursday, July 29, 2010 at 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time, to discuss further the Fuddruckers acquisition.  To access the call live, dial (480) 629-9678 and ask for the Luby’s conference call at least 10 minutes prior to the start time, or listen live over the Internet by visiting the events page in the investor relations section of www.lubys.com.  For those who cannot listen to the live call, a telephonic replay will be available through August 5, 2010 and may be accessed by calling (303) 590-3030 and using the pass code 4336023#.  Also, an archive of the webcast will be available after the call for a period of 90 days on the “Investors” section of the Company’s website.

About Luby’s, Inc.

Luby’s, Inc. operates restaurants under the brands Luby’s, Fuddruckers and Koo Koo Roo.  Its 96 Luby’s restaurants are located throughout Texas.  Its Fuddruckers restaurants include 56 company-operated locations and 129 franchises across the United States and in various countries.  Its 3 Koo Koo Roo California Kitchens are located in southern California. Luby’s Culinary Services provides food service management to 17 sites consisting of healthcare, higher education and corporate dining locations.

Uno Restaurant Holdings Corporation (“Uno” or the “Company”) today announced that it has emerged from chapter 11 pursuant to its plan of reorganization ( the “Plan”), confirmed by the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York on July 6, 2010.

“Today’s successful emergence from Chapter 11 completes the restructuring process in just six months and allows us to turn our full attention to the growth and development of the Uno brands, which consist of our flagship casual dining restaurant, Uno Chicago Grill®, our fast casual concept, Uno Due Go®, our quick service format, Uno Express®, and our packaged foods business, Uno Foods. We have emerged from this process with a strong balance sheet and enhanced liquidity, which will enable us to invest in our business. Today marks a new beginning for Uno,” said Frank Guidara, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company.

Guidara added, “During the past six months, while we have been busy implementing our financial restructuring, we have also worked hard to prepare for an exciting future. In addition to a new and innovative menu launched earlier this month in Uno Chicago Grill, we have introduced two new product lines in our packaged foods business consisting of a line of frozen entrees and our line of Tastefuls®, a hand-held, microwavable mini-calzone.

In the next few weeks, we will be completing the renovation and re-opening of our Warwick, Rhode Island restaurant which will showcase the new Uno prototype of the future. In August and September, we will be opening new Uno Due Go units on the campuses of two major colleges and universities. This is in addition to the two highly successful Uno Due Go units already in operation at the Dallas Forth Worth airport. In addition, over the next few months, we will be opening several new Uno Express locations in high-traffic, high-profile venues.”

Mr. Guidara continued, “We could not have accomplished so much without the steadfast support of our amazing employees, franchisees, vendors, lenders and other stakeholders. I appreciate everything they have done and continue to do on our behalf. Their commitment to our success is what fuels everything we do.”

Rob Webster, senior managing director and co-founder of Twin Haven Capital Partners, the new majority shareholder of the Company said, “We have been associated with Uno for several years and believe that Uno is a great company that was hampered by an over-leveraged balance sheet. We are excited about the potential of its great brands now that we have an appropriate capital structure for the Company. I am looking forward to working with Frank and the rest of the management team, along with our shareholder partners, which include Coliseum Capital and Newport Global Advisors, to help Uno achieve its goals.”

Pursuant to the Plan, 100 percent of the Company’s $142 million, 10 percent Senior Secured Notes, due in February 2011, has been converted into substantially all of the equity of the Company, thereby eliminating $14.2 million in annual interest payments and reducing total debt from $176.3 million to approximately $40 million.

In connection with the emergence from Chapter 11, the Company arranged for $55 million of permanent, long-term exit financing (the “Exit Facility”) comprised of a $30 million revolving credit facility, due in July 2015, provided by long-standing-lender Wells Fargo Capital Finance, part of Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC), and $25 million of new notes, due February 2016, provided by a majority of the new equity holders. The Exit Facility allowed the Company to repay all outstanding amounts under its former Debtor in Possession Credit Facility, implement the provisions of the Plan, pay transaction costs and provide significant liquidity going forward to fund working capital needs and the Company’s growth and investment plans.

About Uno

Based in Boston, Massachusetts, Uno Restaurant Holdings Corporation includes 166 company-owned and franchised restaurants located in 24 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, Honduras, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. The Company also operates a fast casual concept called Uno Due Go, a quick service concept called Uno Express and a consumer packaged foods business which supplies airlines, movie theatres, hotels, airports, travel plazas, schools and supermarkets with both frozen and refrigerated private-label foods and Uno branded products. For more information visit www.unos.com.

Frisch’s Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE Amex: FRS) reported sales of $292,872,174 for the fiscal year ended June 1, 2010.  Revenues declined $4,988,777, or 1.7%.  Net earnings for the year declined 6.7% to $9,998,931 compared to $10,720,855 last year.  Diluted earnings per share decreased to $1.93 per share, from $2.08 per share last year.  

For the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010, revenue declined 0.1% to $71,118,878 from $71,201,746 for the fourth quarter of last year.  Net earnings declined 10.3% to $2,618,339 compared to $2,920,254 in last year’s fourth quarter.  Earnings per share were $.51 compared to $.56 last year.  

Craig F. Maier, President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “Same store sales at our Big Boy Restaurants declined 1.6%, marking the end of a twelve year consecutive run of same store sales increases.  For the fourth quarter, Big Boy same store sales declined 2.7%.”  

Maier added, “Our Golden Corral restaurants posted a same store sales decrease of 2.9% during the year despite a sales improvement of 0.7% in the last quarter of the year.”

During the first half of the fiscal year, low commodity prices provided unusually low food costs, and as a result, even with reduced sales, earnings were up versus the prior year.  As the Company entered calendar 2010, the combination of inclement weather and the return of more normal costs for food had a negative impact on results for the second half of the year.  The decreases in same store sales in both concepts, along with higher commodity pricing, are challenges as the new fiscal year begins.  

During the year, the Company opened four new Big Boy restaurants, one of which replaced an older facility.  As of June 1, 2010, Frisch’s operated 35 Golden Corral restaurants and 91 company-owned Big Boy restaurants, and there were an additional 25 franchised Big Boy restaurants operated by licensees.  

Frisch’s Restaurants, Inc. is a regional company that operates full service family-style restaurants under the name “Frisch’s Big Boy.”  The Company also operates grill buffet style restaurants under the name “Golden Corral” pursuant to certain licensing agreements.  All Big Boy restaurants are currently located in various regions of Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana.  Golden Corral restaurants currently operate primarily in the greater metropolitan areas of Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton and Toledo, Ohio, Louisville, Kentucky and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  

The Company owns the trademark “Frisch’s” and has exclusive, irrevocable ownership of the rights to the “Big Boy” trademark, trade name and service marks in the states of Kentucky and Indiana, and in most of Ohio and Tennessee.  All of the Frisch’s Big Boy restaurants also offer “drive-thru” service.  The Company also licenses Big Boy restaurants to other operators, currently in certain parts of Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana.

The Company has reported a profit every year since going public in 1960, and paid cash dividends to shareholders every quarter over the same period.

Statements contained in this press release which are not historical facts are forward looking statements as that item is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Act of 1995. Such forward looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from estimated results. Such risks and uncertainties are detailed in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

McDonald’s Corporation today announced strong results for the second quarter driven by all areas of the world.

“McDonald’s second quarter reflects strong top-line and bottom-line results with each area of the world generating higher comparable sales, traffic and profits,” said Chief Executive Officer Jim Skinner.   “This performance demonstrates the popular appeal of McDonald’s relevant menu choices.  We’re delivering great tasting food to our 60 million customers around the world every day with the outstanding value and unmatched convenience they expect from McDonald’s.”

The Company reported the following highlights for the quarter:

• Global comparable sales increased 4.8%, with the U.S. up 3.7%, Europe up 5.2% and Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa up 4.6%
• Consolidated operating income increased 10%
• Diluted earnings per share were $1.13, up 15%
• Returned $1.6 billion to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends

In addition, the Company announced the following:

• On July 22, McDonald’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.55 per share of common stock, payable on September 16, 2010 to shareholders of record at the close of business on September 1, 2010

McDonald’s U.S. continued to deliver results by maintaining its commitment to high-quality food at a great value – a top priority for today’s consumer.  For the second quarter, U.S. operating income rose 7% as sales were driven by the beverage line-up, featuring the popular new Frappes and value-based beverages, as well as classic core menu favorites and the everyday affordability of the Dollar Menu.

McDonald’s Europe generated strong comparable sales for the second quarter against robust prior year results.  France, Russia and the U.K. fueled Europe’s 9% (14% in constant currencies) operating income increase.  Upgrading the customer experience with contemporary and inviting decors, signature menu options and unique marketing promotions contributed to Europe’s second quarter performance.

Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa’s (APMEA) second quarter results reflect broad-based strength across the segment.  Australia and China led the segment’s 19% (9% in constant currencies) quarterly operating income increase as everyday affordability, daypart expansion and core menu extensions continue to give customers even more reasons to visit McDonald’s in APMEA.

Jim Skinner concluded, “What makes McDonald’s unique is the distinctive experience we’re creating for our customers through menu innovation, restaurant reimaging and operations excellence.  I am pleased with our second quarter performance and confident in our ability to continue to deliver solid results.  As we begin the third quarter, our momentum continues with July global comparable sales trending in-line with or better than second quarter sales.”

THE FOLLOWING DEFINITIONS APPLY TO THESE TERMS AS USED THROUGHOUT THIS RELEASE

Comparable sales represent sales at all restaurants and comparable guest counts represent the number of transactions at all restaurants, whether operated by the Company or by franchisees, in operation at least thirteen months including those temporarily closed. Some of the reasons restaurants may be temporarily closed include reimaging or remodeling, rebuilding, road construction and natural disasters. Comparable sales exclude the impact of currency translation. Management reviews the increase or decrease in comparable sales and comparable guest counts compared with the same period in the prior year to assess business trends. The number of weekdays and weekend days, referred to as the calendar shift/trading day adjustment, can impact comparable sales and guest counts. In addition, the timing of holidays can impact comparable sales and guest counts.

Information in constant currency is calculated by translating current year results at prior year average exchange rates. Management reviews and analyzes business results excluding the effect of foreign currency translation and bases certain incentive compensation plans on these results because they believe this better represents the Company’s underlying business trends.

RELATED COMMUNICATIONS

McDonald’s Corporation will broadcast its investor conference call live over the Internet at 10:00 a.m. Central Time on July 23, 2010. A link to the live webcast will be available at www.investor.mcdonalds.com. There will also be an archived webcast and podcast available for a limited time.

See Exhibit 99.2 in the Company’s Form 8-K filing for supplemental information related to the Company’s results for the quarter and six months ended June 30, 2010.

The Company plans to release July 2010 sales information on August 9, 2010.

OTHER INFORMATION

McDonald’s Corporation announced that it has notified the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) of its intention to delist, effective August 20, 2010, its 8-7/8% Debentures due April 1, 2011 (NYSE:  MCD11; CUSIP:  580135BF7), and its 6-3/8% Debentures Due 2028 (NYSE:  MCD28; CUSIP:  580135BY6).  The debentures will continue to be quoted and traded on the NYSE Bond System.  The Company’s decision to delist the debentures was due to the increasing costs associated with maintaining listings on the NYSE and corresponding low trading volume for both classes of debentures.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This release contains certain forward-looking statements, which reflect management’s expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date hereof. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties. The factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations are detailed in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, such as its annual and quarterly reports and current reports on Form 8-K.

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) today reported financial results for its second quarter ended June 30, 2010.

Highlights for the second quarter of 2010 as compared to the second quarter of 2009 include:

• Revenue increased 20.1% to $466.8 million
• Comparable restaurant sales increased 8.7%
• Restaurant level operating margin was 26.9%, an increase of 90 basis points
• Net income was $46.5 million, an increase of 31.3%
• Diluted earnings per share was $1.46, an increase of 32.7%

Highlights for the six months ended June 30, 2010 as compared to the prior year include:

• Revenue increased 17.9% to $876.5 million
• Comparable restaurant sales increased 6.6%
• Restaurant level operating margin was 26.5%, an increase of 170 basis points
• Net income was $ 84.3 million, an increase of 38.7%
• Diluted earnings per share was $2.65, an increase of 41.0%

“The second quarter was filled with a number of very exciting milestones. We opened our first restaurant in London; we opened our 1,000th restaurant in Flower Mound, Texas; and we continued to advance our Food with Integrity program by introducing barbacoa made with naturally raised beef into all of our restaurants. We are excited about the progress we have made toward our vision to change the way the world thinks about and eats fast food and look forward to many more milestones as we begin our journey to the next 1,000 restaurants,” said Founder, Chairman, and Co-CEO Steve Ells.

Second quarter 2010 results

Revenue for the quarter was $466.8 million, up 20.1% from the prior year period. The growth in revenue was the result of new restaurants not in the comparable base and an 8.7% increase in comparable restaurant sales. Comparable restaurant sales growth was primarily driven by increased traffic in the quarter.

During the quarter Chipotle opened 25 new restaurants, bringing the total restaurant count to 1,001.

Restaurant level operating margin was 26.9% in the quarter, an increase of 90 basis points over the prior year period. The increase was primarily driven by the impact of comparable restaurant sales growth and a decline in food costs.

G&A costs were 6.5% of revenue, down 10 basis points from the prior year period. The improvement as a percent of revenue was attributed to the impact of comparable restaurant sales growth partially offset by increased stock based compensation expense.

Net income for the second quarter of 2010 was $46.5 million, or $1.46 per diluted share, compared to $35.4 million, or $1.10 per diluted share, in the second quarter of 2009.

Results for the six months ended June 30, 2010

Revenue for the first six months of 2010 was $876.5 million, up 17.9% from the prior year period. The growth in revenue was the result of new restaurants not in the comparable base and a 6.6% increase in comparable restaurant sales. Comparable restaurant sales growth was primarily driven by increased traffic during the first six months of 2010.

Restaurant level operating margin was 26.5% for the first six months, an increase of 170 basis points over the prior year period. The increase was primarily driven by the impact of comparable restaurant sales growth and a decline in food costs.

G&A costs for the first six months of 2010 were 6.4% of revenue, down 30 basis points from the prior year period. The improvement as a percent of revenue was attributed to the impact of comparable restaurant sales growth which was partially offset by higher stock based compensation expense.

Net income for the first six months of 2010 was $84.3 million, or $2.65 per diluted share, compared to $60.8 million, or $1.88 per diluted share, in the first six months of 2009.

“Our unique people culture-one that appeals to and rewards high performers-is the driving force behind all of our accomplishments. Our high performing managers are creating a culture of empowerment in their restaurants, enabling our energetic and ambitious crew to treat each customer to the best dining experience possible. And our strong comps are a clear indication that our restaurant teams’ efforts are paying off. As we look beyond our 1,000^th restaurant, we have a deeper bench of future leaders than ever before which keeps us well positioned for future growth,” commented Co-CEO Monty Moran.

Outlook

For 2010, management expects the following:

• 120-130 new restaurant openings
• Mid to high single digit comparable restaurant sales growth
• An effective tax rate of approximately 38.4%

Definitions

The following definitions apply to these terms as used throughout this release:

Comparable restaurant sales increases represent the change in period-over-period sales for the comparable restaurant base. A restaurant becomes comparable in its 13 ^th full calendar month of operation.

Average restaurant sales refers to the average trailing 12-month sales for restaurants in operation for at least 12 full calendar months.

Restaurant level operating margin represents total revenue less restaurant operating costs, expressed as a percent of total revenue.

Conference Call

Chipotle will host a conference call to discuss second quarter 2010 financial results today at 4:30 PM Eastern Time. The conference call can be accessed live over the phone by dialing 1-800-401-3551 or 1-913-643-4197 for international callers. A replay will be available one hour after the call and can be accessed by dialing 1-877-870-5176 or 1-858-384-5517 for international callers. The password is 2574255. The replay will be available until July 29, 2010. The call will be webcast live from the Company’s website at chipotle.com under the Investor Relations section. An archived webcast will be available approximately one hour after the end of the call.

About Chipotle

Steve Ells, Founder, Chairman and Co-Chief Executive Officer, started Chipotle with the idea that food served fast did not have to be a typical fast food experience. Today, Chipotle continues to offer a focused menu of burritos, tacos, burrito bowls (a burrito without the tortilla) and salads made from fresh, high-quality raw ingredients, prepared using classic cooking methods and served in a distinctive atmosphere. Through our vision of Food With Integrity, Chipotle is seeking better food not only from using fresh ingredients, but ingredients that are sustainably grown and naturally raised with respect for the animals, the land, and the farmers who produce the food. Chipotle opened its first restaurant in 1993 and currently operates more than 1000 restaurants. For more information, visit chipotle.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release, including statements under the heading “Outlook” of our expected comparable restaurant sales increases and effective tax rate in 2010, and statements there and elsewhere in the release regarding the number of restaurants we intend to open in 2010 and beyond, are forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We use words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “could”, “should”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, “may”, “predict”, “project”, “target”, and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions, to identify forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this press release are based on information available to us as of the date any such statements are made and we assume no obligation to update these forward-looking statements. 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, but are not limited to, the following: the uncertainty of our ability to achieve expected levels of comparable restaurant sales increases; factors that could affect our ability to achieve and manage our planned expansion, such as the availability of a sufficient number of suitable new restaurant sites and the availability of qualified employees; the performance of new restaurants and their impact on existing restaurant sales; changes in consumer preferences, general economic conditions or consumer discretionary spending; changes in the availability and costs of food; the risk of food-borne illnesses and other health concerns about our food products; the potential for increased labor costs or difficulty retaining qualified employees; the impact of federal, state or local government regulations relating to our employees and the sale of food or alcoholic beverages; risks relating to our expansion into new markets; risks related to our development and implementation of a new marketing strategy; the effects of continuing economic uncertainty on our business and on our suppliers, landlords and potential developers; our ability to protect our name and logo and other proprietary information; the potential effects of inclement weather; the effect of competition in the restaurant industry; risks related to the tax treatment of our separation from McDonald’s; and other risk factors described from time to time in our SEC reports, including our most recent annual report on Form 10-K and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, all of which are available on the Investor Relations page of our Web site at chipotle.com.

Ruby Tuesday, Inc. today reported diluted earnings per share of $0.33 on net income of $21.0 million for the Company’s fourth quarter of fiscal 2010, which ended on June 1, 2010. This compares to diluted earnings per share of $0.28 on net income of $14.4 million for the fourth quarter of the prior fiscal year. The fourth quarter fiscal 2010 results represent a 45% improvement in net income over the prior year quarter.

Same-restaurant sales for the fourth quarter increased 0.3% at Company-owned Ruby Tuesday restaurants and decreased by 0.5% for domestic franchised restaurants. The gap between franchise and Company-owned same-restaurant sales narrowed as the franchisees participated in virtually all promotional incentive programs during the quarter.

For the fiscal year ended June 1, 2010, the Company reported diluted earnings per share of $0.73 on net income of $45.3 million as compared to a loss per share of $0.35 on a net loss of $17.9 million for fiscal 2009. The fiscal 2009 loss includes after-tax charges for restaurant closures and impairments and the impairment of goodwill that totaled $0.92 per share, or $47.2 million. Excluding the impact of these 2009 charges, the fiscal year 2010 results represent a 55% improvement in net income over the prior year.

Sandy Beall, Founder and CEO, commented on the fiscal year results, saying, “Fiscal 2010 presented a number of economic challenges. I am very proud of the way our team members responded to these challenges and enabled us to create positive momentum throughout our business. We have remained focused on our mission to be the best in the bar and grill segment by delivering a high quality casual dining experience with compelling value to every guest.”

Our key accomplishments for the year included:

• Sales sequentially improved the last six quarters and turned positive in the latest quarter;
• Improving sales trends which outperformed Knapp-Track^TM, the industry benchmark, by approximately 3 points;
• Improving our restaurant operating margin to 17.3% compared with 17.2% for the prior year, including the absorption of higher food costs related to menu enhancements and a full year of promotional activity;
• Maintaining positive strong free cash flow and paying down $204 million of debt during the year, with approximately $73 million of this paydown coming from the proceeds of our equity offering in July 2009;
• Continuing to improve quality and value as indicated by our high guest satisfaction scores.

“We made solid progress on the corporate strategies we outlined at the beginning of the year. Our first goal was to increase same-restaurant sales and get guests in seats. We recognized sequential quarterly improvement in our same-restaurant sales throughout the year, on both a one and two-year basis, including positive fourth quarter same-restaurant sales of 0.3%, our best same-restaurant sales results in the last 16 quarters. Additionally, on a traffic basis, we outperformed the Knapp-Track industry benchmark on both a one and two-year basis.

The focus on our second goal, maximizing our cash flow and reducing debt, resulted in an improved balance sheet and leverage ratios. Our book debt to EBITDA ratio of 2.1 at the end of the fourth quarter represents a sizeable improvement from the prior-year ratio of 3.6. We continue to focus on paying down debt with our excess cash flow.

Our third goal was to further strengthen and differentiate our brand through quality and remain true to our core operating strategies: Uncompromising Freshness and Quality of our food; service with Gracious Hospitality; a Fresh New Look for our restaurants; and Compelling Value. We continue to focus on “Game Changers,” which are innovative product offerings that drive brand enhancement and increased sales. The momentum created by our Tuesday Steak and Lobster dinner and four-course Sunday brunch Game Changers is very positive, and we look forward to our upcoming new offerings which we believe will drive increased trial and momentum for our brand. These Game Changers are a critical component of our strategy to drive increased average restaurant volumes and EBITDA levels over the next three years.”

Other highlights for the 13-week fourth quarter included:

• Total revenue decreased 1.2% from the same period of the prior year, primarily driven by the decrease of 16 Company-owned restaurants from the same quarter of the prior year.
• The Company closed three restaurants during the quarter.
• Domestic and international franchisees opened two new Ruby Tuesday restaurants during the quarter and closed four.
• Sales at domestic and international franchise Ruby Tuesday restaurants (which is the basis for determining royalty fees included in franchise revenue on the Company’s statement of operations) totaled $93.7 million and $96.6 million for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010 and 2009, respectively.
• Total capital expenditures were $4.0 million.
• Debt was reduced by $33 million.
• The Company had 64 million shares of common stock outstanding at the end of the quarter.

Fiscal Year 2010 Highlights

• Debt was reduced by $204 million.
• Total revenue decreased 4.3% from the prior year, primarily driven by 16 fewer Company-owned restaurants from the prior year and a decline in same-restaurant sales.
• Same-restaurant sales decreased 1.3% and 4.3% at Company-owned and domestic franchise Ruby Tuesday restaurants, respectively.
• The Company did not open any new Ruby Tuesday restaurants and closed 16 restaurants.
• Domestic and international franchisees opened six new Ruby Tuesday restaurants and closed 12.
• Sales at domestic and international franchise Ruby Tuesday restaurants (which is the basis for determining royalty fees included in franchise revenue on the Company’s statement of operations) totaled $368.9 million and $383.7 million for fiscal 2010 and 2009, respectively.
• Total capital expenditures were $17.7 million.

Mr. Beall said, “We feel very good about our business as we head into fiscal 2011. The improvements in our sales and balance sheet have allowed us to begin focusing on longer-term strategies to further strengthen and grow the business and to create additional shareholder value.”

Fiscal Year 2011 Guidance

• Same-restaurant sales - We estimate same-restaurant sales for the year for Company-owned restaurants will be in the range of flat to positive 2%.
• Company-owned restaurant development - We expect to open one to two of our smaller prototype Company-owned restaurants in 2011, expect to close seven to nine Company-owned restaurants, and convert five to seven Company-owned restaurants to other high-end casual dining concepts. Additionally, we plan to buy back approximately 25 to 30 franchise restaurants.
• Franchise restaurant development - We project our franchisees will open eight to 13 restaurants, up to 10 of which will be international.
• Restaurant operating margins are anticipated to be down slightly, primarily reflecting the impact of our continued investment in higher-quality menu items and new product offerings, as well as investments in service to enhance our guest experience and drive sales, offset by slightly-lower promotional levels. The actual cost of our food products is expected to remain relatively stable compared to the prior year.
• Other expenses - Depreciation is projected in the $60-$63 million range and selling, general, and administrative expenses are targeted to be up 4%-6% from a year earlier, primarily reflecting higher advertising expenses. Interest expense is projected to be $10-$12 million and the effective tax rate is estimated to be 20-25%.
• Diluted earnings per share for the year are projected to be in the $0.76-$0.86 range. Fully-diluted weighted average shares outstanding are estimated to be approximately 64 million for the year.
• Capital expenditures are estimated to be $23-$26 million.

Regarding the fiscal 2011 outlook, Mr. Beall added, “We continue to feel good about our business model, our marketing and menu programs, and our ability to control costs through leveraging our technology platform. While the current volatile economic environment makes guiding future sales trends and earnings per share more difficult, we believe our guidance outlined above is reasonable based on the uncertainty in the economy.”

In closing, Mr. Beall said, “It has been a difficult two years and although the economy is still vulnerable, we have accomplished a lot and enter fiscal 2011 with the best momentum we have had in several years. We believe our repositioning efforts and investments in quality menu offerings, combined with targeted and effective marketing, are driving improved results, and we are excited about the strategies we have in place to rebuild shareholder value going forward.”

A FRESH NEW RUBY TUESDAY

Ruby Tuesday, Inc. has Company-owned and/or franchise Ruby Tuesday brand restaurants in 46 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, and 14 foreign countries. As of June 1, 2010, the Company owned and operated 656 Ruby Tuesday restaurants, while domestic and international franchisees (including Hawaii and Guam) operated 165 and 58 restaurants, respectively. Ruby Tuesday, Inc. is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (Symbol: RT).

The Company will host a conference call, which will be a live web-cast, this afternoon at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time. The call will be available live at the following websites:

http://www.rubytuesday.com

http://www.earnings.com

Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains various forward-looking statements, which represent our expectations or beliefs concerning future events, including one or more of the following: future financial performance and restaurant growth (both Company-owned and franchised), future capital expenditures, future borrowings and repayments of debt, availability of financing on terms attractive to the Company, payment of dividends, stock repurchases, and restaurant and franchise acquisitions and refranchises. We caution the reader that a number of important factors and uncertainties could, individually or in the aggregate, cause our actual results to differ materially from those included in the forward-looking statements (such statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to cost savings that we estimate may result from any programs we implement, our estimates of future capital spending and free cash flow, and our targets for annual growth in same-restaurant sales and average annual sales per restaurant), including, without limitation, the following: general economic conditions; changes in promotional, couponing and advertising strategies; changes in our guests’ disposable income; consumer spending trends and habits; increased competition in the restaurant market; laws and regulations affecting labor and employee benefit costs, including further potential increases in state and federally mandated minimum wages; guests’ acceptance of changes in menu items; guests’ acceptance of our development prototypes and remodeled restaurants; mall-traffic trends; changes in the availability and cost of capital; weather conditions in the regions in which Company-owned and franchised restaurants are operated; costs and availability of food and beverage inventory; our ability to attract qualified managers, franchisees and team members; impact of adoption of new accounting standards; impact of food-borne illnesses resulting from an outbreak at either Ruby Tuesday or other restaurant concepts; effects of actual or threatened future terrorist attacks in the United States; and significant fluctuations in energy prices.