McDonald's, Darden, and Yum! Brands all convert daily foot traffic into shareholder income, but only one of them kept raising its dividend when dining rooms went dark and customers disappeared.
Restaurants sell something people buy every day, and three of the industry’s biggest operators turn that regular foot traffic into a growing dividend. McDonald’s (NYSE:MCD | MCD Price Prediction), Darden Restaurants (NYSE:DRI), and Yum! Brands (NYSE:YUM) all paid last year’s dividends out of free cash flow, and McDonald’s just raised its quarterly payout to $1.93. Below, each one is graded on what matters most to an income investor: how well the dividend is covered, how much debt sits behind it, how the business held up when customers cut back, and what could go wrong.
McDonald’s: A Franchise Machine That Rose Through a Pandemic McDonald’s yields 3.18% on a forward basis at a recent price of $242.62. The quarterly dividend now stands at $1.93, up from $1.86.
Why the franchise model matters for your income: About 95% of its 46,028 restaurants are owned by independent franchisees. McDonald’s mostly collects rent and royalties based on a percentage of sales. Franchisees pay for the beef, the fryer oil, and the payroll, so food and wage inflation hit them first. That is why McDonald’s runs an operating margin near 46.1%, a level almost no restaurant operator can match.
Dividend safety: In fiscal 2025, operating cash flow came to $10.551 billion against capital spending of $3.365 billion. That left about $7.186 billion in free cash flow to cover $5.115 billion in dividends. The payout used roughly 71% of free cash flow and about 60% of net income. Interest coverage is 7.83x. Shareholders’ equity is negative because McDonald’s has spent years buying back stock, so lenders and investors judge its debt by cash flow instead.
When customers pulled back: In 2020, operating cash flow fell to $6.265 billion, and the second quarter actually came in negative at -$213.1 million. McDonald’s still paid every dividend. The full-year payout used about 81% of free cash flow, and the quarterly rate rose from $1.25 to $1.29 late in the year. Spending was softer more recently too: global comparable sales grew just 1.3% in the second quarter. Even so, adjusted EPS of $3.38 came in ahead of the $3.32 estimate.
Track record: Dividend data shows a higher payment rate each year from 2009 through the current year, climbing from $0.50 per quarter to $1.93.
Bull case: Shares are down 19.06% year-to-date and trade at about 20 times earnings, which has pushed the yield higher. Management expects about 2,600 new restaurants this year and is aiming for 50,000 units by 2028. Each new location adds another royalty stream.
Risk: Debt is the one to monitor. Net debt is 3.70x EBITDA, with interest expense expected to rise 4-6% this year because of higher rates. That cash goes to lenders instead of toward future raises.
Darden Restaurants: Biggest Payout Growth, With a Scar to Remember Darden yields 3.01% at a recent price of $215.41. Its quarterly dividend of $1.62 reflects an 8.0% raise from the prior $1.50.
Why the operating model matters: Darden operates its 2,218 restaurants itself, including Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, and The Capital Grille. It keeps all restaurant profit, but it also pays for every server, steak, and lease. Sales swings and costs hit its cash flow directly, with no franchisee to absorb them.
Dividend safety: In fiscal 2026, operating cash flow was $1.853 billion, and capital spending was $734 million, which produced about $1.119 billion in free cash flow. Dividends of $693 million used roughly 62% of that and about 57% of net income. Looking ahead, the forward annual dividend of $6.48 is about 58% of the low end of management’s fiscal 2027 EPS guidance of $11.10 to $11.35. Darden is also the only company in this group with positive shareholders’ equity, at $2.068 billion.
When customers pulled back: The pandemic hit Darden hard. Fiscal 2020 ended with a net loss of $49.2 million, and the quarterly dividend dropped from $0.88 to $0.30. The recovery was quick. By 2021, the payout was back up to $1.10, and it has risen each year since, through $1.21, $1.31, $1.40, and $1.50 to today’s rate.
Bull case: Every brand reported positive same-restaurant sales last quarter, led by LongHorn at 6.2%, and revenue rose 5.1%. Management confirmed its full-year outlook and still has $1.3 billion left on its buyback authorization. The stock is up 20.77% year to date, which tells you investors trust the earnings story.
Risk: The 2020 cut is a real data point. Because Darden runs its own restaurants, a deep drop in dining out hits its cash flow directly. In a severe recession, this dividend is the most likely of the three to shrink.
Yum! Brands: Lowest Payout Ratio and a Taco Bell Engine Yum yields 2.01% at a recent price of $149.24. It pays $0.75 per share per quarter, up from $0.71 last year.
Why the franchise model matters: Yum franchises or operates more than 64,000 restaurants in 157 countries and territories. Most of its revenue comes from franchise and property fees. That means its cash flow depends on system-wide sales more than on the margin of any one store, and the geographic spread keeps a slump in one market from taking down the whole business.
Dividend safety: Fiscal 2025 operating cash flow of $2.01 billion minus capital spending of $371 million left about $1.639 billion in free cash flow. Dividends of $789 million used only about 48% of that, the most room in this group, and about 51% of net income. Operating cash flow covered capital spending in each of the last six reported quarters.
When customers pulled back, Yum kept raising. The quarterly rate went from $0.42 in 2019 to $0.47 in 2020 and $0.50 in 2021. The data shows a higher annual rate every year from 2017 through the current year.
Bull case: Taco Bell same-store sales rose 7% last quarter, and the brand’s operating profit increased 19% to $311 million. KFC grew its unit count 7%. After the planned sale of Pizza Hut, Yum will be more focused on KFC, Taco Bell, and Habit Burger & Grill—management’s long-term target calls for at least 8% core operating profit growth, supporting further raises.
Risk: Selling Pizza Hut removes a source of franchise fees, so the smaller company will have to cover the dividend. At the same time, total liabilities of $15.789 billion exceed total assets of $8.682 billion. If the remaining brands grow more slowly than planned, raises could get smaller.
Which Restaurant Dividend Fits Your Income Plan All three paid their dividends from free cash flow last year, and all three are raising them. McDonald’s offers the highest yield and kept raising through 2020, which gives it the strongest dividend record in this group. Yum has the most room in its payout and a growth story built around Taco Bell. Darden gives you the quickest recent raises, with the clear warning that a company that runs its own restaurants cut its dividend the last time customers stayed home.
Contact [email protected] for any questions or corrections.
MILL VALLEY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Four Corners Property Trust (NYSE:FCPT), a real estate investment trust primarily engaged in the ownership and acquisition of high-quality, net-leased restaurant and retail properties (“FCPT” or the “Company”), is pleased to announce the execution of a master agreement, extension and exercise (“Master Agreement”) with Darden Restaurants, Inc. and certain of its affiliates (“Darden”) (NYSE:DRI) with respect to all 66 Olive Garden and LongHorn leases previousl.
Two restaurant stocks pay nearly identical dividends, but one cut its payout to the bone during the last downturn while the other kept raising through every storm. For retirees, that difference changes everything about which one belongs in a portfolio.
Darden Restaurants (NYSE:DRI | DRI Price Prediction) or McDonald’s (NYSE:MCD): which restaurant stock better matches the needs of a retirement-focused income investor right now? The two pay nearly the same forward yield. Darden’s is about 3.25% and McDonald’s is about 3.26%. The choice then comes down to dividend reliability, business model and price. Investor sentiment has gone in opposite directions. McDonald’s shares are down 21.07% year to date, while Darden is up 11.77%.
Dividend Profile: McDonald’s Wins on Reliability
Darden makes a strong case on paper. In June it raised its quarterly payout 8.0% to $1.62, which works out to $6.48 a year. Fiscal 2027 EPS guidance is $11.10 to $11.35, so that dividend uses about 58% of earnings at the midpoint. McDonald’s forward dividend of $7.72 equals roughly 63% of trailing EPS of $12.31. Its latest raise, to $1.93 from $1.86, comes to about 3.8%.
A retiree’s first question, though, is whether the dividend holds up in a bad year. Darden fails that test. Its quarterly dividend fell to $0.30 in October 2020, down from $0.88 a year earlier. McDonald’s has raised its quarterly payout every year on record since it paid $0.375 in 2008 (that half-century-plus run is the kind of thing we screen for in our free Dividend Kings report). An continuous record matters more to retirees than faster raises, so McDonald’s takes this round.
Business Model Durability: Franchising Gives McDonald’s the Edge
Darden owns and runs its 2,218 restaurants, including Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse and Yard House. That means it covers food, labor and occupancy costs directly. Its restaurant-level EBITDA margin last quarter was 18.8%. McDonald’s is mostly franchised, with about 46,028 restaurants and a large real estate business underneath, so it takes in rent and royalties. The result is a 46.1% operating margin and fiscal 2025 free cash flow of $7.19 billion.
Darden is performing better right now. Combined same-restaurant sales rose 3.1% in fiscal Q1, every segment grew, and LongHorn posted its 22nd consecutive quarter of positive same-restaurant sales. On the call, the chief executive said “Consumers are still spending. They’re still resilient.” McDonald’s global comps slowed to 1.3% in Q2, and July U.S. comps were “slightly negative.” Its chief executive said, “We simply didn’t execute at the level we needed to in the second quarter.”
Execution problems can be fixed. A margin built into the business model stays put. McDonald’s also has a lower beta, 0.447 against Darden’s 0.618. Its debt load is real: buybacks have pushed shareholders’ equity negative, and net debt to EBITDA is 3.70x. Interest coverage of 7.83x keeps that manageable. McDonald’s wins this round.
Valuation and Total Return: Darden Has Earned Its Premium
McDonald’s is cheaper, at 17 times forward earnings versus 19 for Darden. But Darden’s track record justifies the gap. Over 10 years its shares rose 326.23%, compared with 163.77% for McDonald’s. Over five years the gap widens: 56.34% against 8.72%. Darden earned $10.64 per share last fiscal year and guides higher this year. A small premium for that growth is reasonable, so Darden wins this round.
Verdict: McDonald’s Is the Retirement Income Pick Now
McDonald’s comes out ahead on two of three measures, and they are the two that matter most to retirees. The yield is the same as Darden’s, the dividend record has no breaks, franchise margins provide a cushion, and the stock is less volatile. The selloff has also brought down its multiple. One CNBC Halftime Report guest called it a “steady eddy value play.” The test ahead is the turnaround: management expects the business to be “fully back to where we need to be in 2027.”
Darden fits a younger investor with a longer horizon who cares most about total return and dividend growth, and who can live with a payout that was cut in the last downturn. For a retiree who depends on that quarterly check, McDonald’s profile lines up more closely with those needs.
Contact [email protected] for any questions or corrections.
Darden Restaurants TodayDRIDarden Restaurants$199.42 -7.82 (-3.77%) As of 09/25/2026 03:59 PM Eastern This is a fair market value price provided by Massive. Learn more.52-Week Range$169.00▼$229.76Dividend Yield3.25%P/E Ratio19.49Price Target$232.38Add to WatchlistDarden Restaurants' NYSE: DRI late-September post-earnings release price pullback could be a sell-the-news, buy-the-dip event because the strengths were expected.
SummaryDarden Restaurants is holding up but appears fairly valued amid macroeconomic pressures.Q1 2027 saw revenue up 5.1% to $3.20B and blended same-restaurant sales rise 3.1%, with Yard House and LongHorn outperforming.Margins were pretty mixed, and frankly, the outlook is underwhelming for growth.Shareholder returns are a bright spot with a nice dividend and buybacks.Looking for more investing ideas like this one? Get them exclusively at BAD BEAT Investing. Learn More »Trevor Srednick/iStock Editorial via Getty Images
It has been some time since we checked in on Darden Restaurants, Inc. (DRI). That said, we continue to like it as a quality Hold at these levels, considering the macroeconomic pressure we are seeing. All
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Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of DRI either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
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Darden Restaurants Inc. (NYSE:DRI) stock is trading lower Friday after the company reported fiscal 2027 first-quarter results Thursday that narrowly missed Wall Street estimates for both revenue and earnings.
Revenue rose 5% year over year to $3.20 billion, missing the analyst consensus estimate of $3.206 billion. Darden reported earnings of $2.05 per share, missing the analyst consensus estimate of $2.06 per share.
Blended same-restaurant sales rose 3.1% on a fiscal calendar basis and 3.2% on a comparable calendar basis. The company reaffirmed its full-year outlook. Darden continues to expect diluted EPS from continuing operations of $11.10 to $11.35.
Here are some key analyst actions following the results.
Guggenheim analyst Gregory Francfort reiterated a Buy rating and maintained a $235 price forecast.BTIG analyst Peter Saleh maintained a Buy rating and a $235 price forecast.Freedom Capital Markets analyst Lynne Collier maintained a Buy rating and raised the price forecast to $260 from $255.Stephens & Co. analyst Jim Salera reiterated an Equal-Weight rating and maintained a $220 price forecast.Mizuho analyst Nick Setyan maintained an Outperform rating and raised the price forecast to $245 from $235.Citigroup analyst Jon Tower maintained a Buy rating and lowered the price forecast to $247 from $248.BMO Capital analyst Andrew Strelzik maintained a Market Perform rating and lowered the price forecast to $220 from $225.Guggenheim Sees Improving Traffic TrendsGuggenheim said Darden continues to gain market share as industry capacity rationalization supports larger restaurant operators.
Francfort noted that management reaffirmed its inflation assumptions and EPS outlook. Traffic trends also improved during the quarter and accelerated further into September.
The analyst said Darden has outperformed peer Texas Roadhouse, Inc. (NASDAQ:TXRH) over the past month as Olive Garden trends strengthened.
Guggenheim sees potential upside if Olive Garden comparable sales move toward 3%. However, that scenario depends on continued strength in Darden’s other businesses, stable oil prices, contained labor and cost inflation, and further easing in steak costs.
The firm maintained its estimates. It expects Darden to sustain mid-single-digit revenue growth and mid- to high-single-digit EBITDA growth.
BTIG Highlights LongHorn StrengthBTIG said Darden’s 3.2% same-store sales growth on a calendar basis was broadly in line with its 2.9% estimate and Wall Street expectations.
Olive Garden comparable sales rose 1%, about 50 basis points below BTIG’s forecast. LongHorn Steakhouse sales climbed 6.8%, beating the firm’s estimate by about 130 basis points, Saleh said.
EPS increased 4.1% year over year to $2.05. However, it came in slightly below BTIG’s $2.08 estimate. Saleh attributed the difference to restaurant margins that were about 25 basis points below expectations and slightly higher general and administrative expenses.
Menu pricing averaged 3.7% during the quarter, roughly in line with inflation across Darden’s portfolio.
BTIG expects pricing to moderate toward the low-to-mid 2% range by year-end. It forecasts commodity inflation of about 3% for the full year.
Freedom Raises Price ForecastFreedom Capital Markets described Darden’s fiscal first-quarter 2027 performance as solid. Revenue was in line with its expectations, while EPS came in 11 cents above its estimate despite temporary headwinds at Olive Garden.
All operating segments posted positive comparable sales, led by LongHorn Steakhouse and Yard House, Collier said.
The analyst also highlighted Darden’s reaffirmed fiscal 2027 outlook. The company expects sales of $13.6 billion to $13.75 billion, same-store sales growth of 2.5% to 3.5% and 75 to 80 new restaurant openings.
Darden also expects about $875 million in capital spending, roughly 3% inflation, EBITDA of $2.26 billion to $2.29 billion and an effective tax rate of about 13.5%. Adjusted EPS is expected to range from $11.10 to $11.35.
Collier continues to view Darden’s pricing discipline as a competitive advantage.
Freedom raised its fiscal 2027 EPS estimate to $11.30 from $11.23. It also increased its fiscal 2028 estimate to $12.40 from $12.25.
Stephens Flags Olive Garden DebateStephens said Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse both showed sequential deceleration from the fiscal fourth quarter of 2026. However, LongHorn remains the strongest performer in the portfolio.
Fine Dining posted another quarter of positive comparable sales but again missed Wall Street expectations amid softer business spending, Salera said.
Portfolio-wide comparable sales accelerated into September. Stephens also said Darden continues to outperform casual dining peers despite a weak industry backdrop.
Still, Salera said investors continue to debate the trajectory of Olive Garden traffic.
Stephens said Darden continues to outperform its casual dining peers and remains well positioned, but sees limited room for further valuation expansion. The firm said the stock appears fairly priced at current levels.
Stephens lowered its fiscal 2027 adjusted EPS estimate to $11.29 from $11.30 and cut its EBITDA estimate to $2.275 billion from $2.289 billion.
For fiscal 2028, the firm reduced its adjusted EPS estimate to $12.35 from $12.49 and lowered its EBITDA estimate to $2.440 billion from $2.459 billion.
Darden Price ActionDRI Price Action: Darden Restaurants shares were down 2.29% at $202.50 at the time of publication on Friday, according to Benzinga Pro data.
Darden reported quarterly earnings of $2.05 per share which missed the analyst consensus estimate of $2.06 per share. The company reported quarterly sales of $3.200 billion which missed the analyst consensus estimate of $3.206 billion.
Looking ahead, Darden left its fiscal 2027 guidance untouched, still projecting diluted earnings per share between $11.10 and $11.35 from continuing operations, a range that brackets the $11.27 figure analysts are currently modeling.
“The first quarter was a solid start to our fiscal year with each of our segments delivering positive same-restaurant sales,” said Darden President & CEO Rick Cardenas. “The performance across our portfolio reinforces the importance of having distinctive brands, each with a clear strategy, supported by Darden’s scale and other competitive advantages. Looking ahead, our focus remains the same: operate our restaurants at a high level, strengthen guest loyalty, invest in our people and brands, and deploy capital in ways that support long-term shareholder value.”
Darden shares closed at $207.24 on Thursday.
These analysts made changes to their price targets on Darden following earnings announcement.
BMO Capital analyst Andrew Strelzik maintained the stock with a Market Perform and lowered the price target from $225 to $220. Freedom Capital Markets analyst Lynne Collier maintained the stock with a Buy and raised the price target from $255 to $260. Mizuho analyst Nick Setyan maintained the stock with an Outperform rating and raised the price target from $235 to $245. Considering buying DRI stock? Here’s what analysts think:
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Darden Restaurants, Inc. (DRI) Q1 2027 Earnings Call September 24, 2026 8:30 AM EDT
Company Participants
Courtney Aquilla - Vice President of Finance & Investor Relations
Ricardo Cardenas - CEO, President & Director
Rajesh Vennam - Senior VP & CFO
Conference Call Participants
Christopher O'Cull - Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated, Research Division
Christopher Carril - KeyBanc Capital Markets Inc., Research Division
Brian Bittner - Oppenheimer & Co. Inc., Research Division
Andrew Charles - TD Cowen, Research Division
Jon Tower - Citigroup Inc., Research Division
David Palmer - Evercore ISI Institutional Equities, Research Division
James Salera - Stephens Inc., Research Division
Brian Harbour - Morgan Stanley, Research Division
Jacob Aiken-Phillips - Melius Research LLC
Peter Saleh - BTIG, LLC, Research Division
Sara Senatore - BofA Securities, Research Division
Andrew Strelzik - BMO Capital Markets Equity Research
Danilo Gargiulo - Bernstein Institutional Services LLC, Research Division
John Ivankoe - JPMorgan Chase & Co, Research Division
Presentation
Operator
Welcome to the Darden Fiscal Year 2027 First Quarter Earnings Call. [Operator Instructions] The conference is being recorded. If you have any objections, please disconnect at this time.
I will now turn the call over to Ms. Courtney Aquilla. Thank you. You may begin.
Courtney Aquilla
Vice President of Finance & Investor Relations
Thank you, Donna. Good morning, and thank you for participating on today's call. Joining me are Rick Cardenas, Darden's President and CEO; and Raj Vennam, CFO.
As a reminder, comments made during this call will include forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations and projections. Those risks are described in the company's press release, which was distributed this morning and in its filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
A supplemental materials presentation containing information shared on today's
Darden Restaurants (DRI) experienced a slight decline in stock value following its Q1 report, which was generally in line with expectations. The company reporte
Key Takeaways DRI's first-quarter fiscal 2027 results show sales and EPS rising year over year but missing estimates.DRI's blended same-restaurant sales increased 3.1% on a fiscal-calendar basis, with all four segments growing.LongHorn Steakhouse led segment growth, with sales up 10.9% and same-restaurant sales rising 6.2%. Darden Restaurants, Inc. (DRI - Free Report) reported first-quarter fiscal 2027 results, with earnings and revenues missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate. However, the top and bottom lines increased on a year-over-year basis.
The quarter benefited from a blended same-restaurant sales increase of 3.1% on a fiscal-calendar basis, with all four segments delivering positive same-restaurant sales. The company ended the quarter with 2,218 company-owned restaurants in continuing operations.
Following the results, the stock inched down 5% in today's pre-market trading session, likely reflecting the earnings and revenue misses and lower operating income despite the reaffirmed fiscal 2027 outlook.
DRI's Q1 Earnings & RevenuesDuring the fiscal first quarter, Darden reported adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $2.05, which missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.06. In the prior-year quarter, DRI reported adjusted EPS of $1.97.
Total sales during the quarter were $3.20 billion, missing the consensus mark of $3.21 billion. Sales increased 5.1% from the prior-year quarter's level of $3.04 billion.
DRI's Sales by SegmentsDarden reports business under four segments — Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Fine Dining and Other Business. Due to the transition from a 53-week to a 52-week fiscal year, year-over-year fiscal-period comparisons are offset by one week. Consolidated same-restaurant sales increased 3.2% on a comparable-calendar basis.
During the fiscal first quarter, sales at Olive Garden increased 2.2% year over year to $1.33 billion. Our estimate for the metric was $1.38 billion. Same-restaurant sales in the segment increased 1.1% on a fiscal-calendar basis and 1% on a comparable-calendar basis.
At LongHorn Steakhouse, sales were up 10.9% year over year to $860.9 million. Our estimate for the metric was $844.5 million. Same-restaurant sales in the segment rose 6.2% on a fiscal-calendar basis and 6.8% on a comparable-calendar basis.
Sales in Fine Dining increased 6.2% year over year to $304.2 million. Our estimate for the metric was $300.6 million. Same-restaurant sales in the segment rose 1.6% on a fiscal-calendar basis and 1% on a comparable-calendar basis.
Sales in Other Business increased 3.6% year over year to $705.4 million. Our estimate for the metric was $672.7 million. Same-restaurant sales in the segment rose 3.8% on a fiscal-calendar basis and 4.5% on a comparable-calendar basis.
DRI's Q1 Operating HighlightsIn the fiscal first quarter, total operating costs and expenses increased 6.5% year over year to $2.88 billion. This increase was primarily due to higher food and beverage costs, restaurant labor expenses, restaurant expenses, marketing expenses, pre-opening costs and depreciation and amortization.
Operating income decreased to $319.3 million from $339.2 million reported in the prior-year quarter. The year-ago period included a $42 million gain on the Olive Garden Canada sale. Adjusted earnings per share from continuing operations increased 4.1% year over year to $2.05.
Darden's Balance SheetAs of Aug. 30, 2026, cash and cash equivalents were $220.5 million compared with $219.5 million as of May 31, 2026.
Inventories were $321 million compared with $326.3 million at the end of fiscal 2026. Long-term debt was $1.64 billion, largely unchanged from the level of May 31, 2026.
During the quarter, the company repurchased approximately 1.1 million shares for $222.3 million. Darden had $1.3 billion remaining under its $1.5 billion share repurchase authorization. The company also declared a quarterly cash dividend of $1.62 per share.
Darden's Fiscal 2027 OutlookFor fiscal 2027, the company reaffirmed its full-year financial outlook. Darden expects total sales in the range of $13.60-$13.75 billion. Same-restaurant sales growth is anticipated to be between 2.5% and 3.5%.
Darden expects to open 75-80 new restaurants and incur total capital spending of approximately $875 million. The company projects earnings per share from continuing operations between $11.10 and $11.35, EBITDA in the range of $2.26-$2.29 billion, an effective tax rate of approximately 13.5% and about 114 million weighted average shares outstanding.
DRI’s Zacks Rank & Key PicksDarden currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Some better-ranked stocks in the Zacks Retail-Wholesale sector have been discussed below.
The Cheesecake Factory (CAKE - Free Report) currently sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks Rank #1 stocks here.
The Cheesecake Factory has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 10.1%, on average. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CAKE’s fiscal 2026 sales and EPS indicates growth of 7% and 20.2%, respectively, from the year-ago period’s levels.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store (CBRL - Free Report) presently flaunts a Zacks Rank of 1. Cracker Barrel has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 228.6%, on average.
The consensus estimate for CBRL’s fiscal 2026 EPS indicates growth of 60%, from the year-ago period’s levels.
Brinker International (EAT - Free Report) currently holds a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy). Brinker has a trailing four-quarter average earnings surprise of 6.2%.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for EAT’s fiscal 2027 sales and EPS indicates growth of 8.1% and 22.7%, respectively, from the year-ago period’s levels.
Darden reported quarterly earnings of $2.05 per share which missed the analyst consensus estimate of $2.06 per share. The company reported quarterly sales of $3.200 billion which missed the analyst consensus estimate of $3.206 billion.
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Stitch Fix Inc (NASDAQ:SFIX) shares dropped 22% to $2.20 after the company reported mixed fourth-quarter financial results and issued weak fiscal 2027 sales guidance. Shares of ACADIA Pharmaceuticals Inc (NASDAQ:ACAD) were down 10% to $22.82 after the company disclosed Phase 3 enabling topline results from Phase 2 RADIANT study of remlifanserin for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease psychosis. Viking Therapeutics Inc (NASDAQ:VKTX) was down, falling 14% to $35.99 after the company announced a pair of proposed public offerings. Commodities
In commodity news, oil traded up 4.4% to $96.25 while gold traded down 0.4% at $4,300.70.
Silver traded down 1.8% to $63.785 on Thursday, while copper rose 0.1% to $6.7540.
Euro zone
European shares were mixed today. The eurozone’s STOXX 600 slipped 0.1%, while Spain’s IBEX 35 Index rose 0.3%, London’s FTSE 100 rose 0.3%, Germany’s DAX fell 0.1%, while France’s CAC 40 declined 0.1%.
Asia Pacific Markets
Asian markets closed mostly lower on Thursday, with Japan’s Nikkei 225 gaining 0.76%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index dipping 0.29%, China’s Shanghai Composite falling 1.22% and India’s BSE Sensex dropping 1.67%.
Economics
The U.S. current account deficit increased to $246 billion in the second quarter, from a revised $212.6 billion gap in the previous quarter, versus market estimates of a $255 billion gap. U.S. initial jobless claims fell by 1,000 to 197,000 in the second week of September, compared to market estimates of 201,000. U.S. building permits fell 2.1% month-over-month to 1.403 million units in August, versus initial estimates of a 2.7% decline. Photo via Shutterstock
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Is Darden Restaurants Inc (DRI) Still a Good Buy After Q1 Earnings Miss? EPS at $2.05, Revenue $3.2 Billion -- GF Score: 87/100 A Strong Start to Fiscal 2027 Amid Positive Same-Store Sales Growth
Darden Restaurants Inc DRI released its 8-K filing on September 24, 2026, detailing its financial results for the first quarter ended August 30, 2026. The company, known for its extensive portfolio of casual and fine dining restaurants, achieved total sales of $3.2 billion, reflecting a 5.1% increase compared to the prior year's quarter. However, the reported diluted net earnings per share (EPS) of $2.05 was slightly below the analyst estimate of $2.06.
Darden Restaurants Inc. operates a variety of popular dining establishments, with Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse serving as its flagship brands. The company generates its revenue predominantly through direct sales at its company-owned restaurants, complemented by royalties from franchised locations primarily across the U.S. and Canada. With several hundred outlets including Yard House, Ruth's Chris Steak House, and The Capital Grille, Darden is headquartered in Orlando, Florida.
In its latest earnings report, Darden highlighted challenges and opportunities that provide critical insights into its operational health. The overall blended same-restaurant sales increased by 3.1% on a fiscal calendar basis, with LongHorn Steakhouse showing a robust 6.2% growth. Conversely, Olive Garden had slower same-restaurant sales at 1.1%. This divergence underscores the varying performance across Darden’s brands and presents a challenge as they work to drive customer traffic and preference at each location.
While the positive sales growth signifies resilience, Darden's slightly below-par EPS could raise concerns among investors about potential pressure on margins or expenses in a competitive market environment. A focus on cost management and disciplined operational execution will be key to sustaining profitability and market share.
SegmentQ1 Sales 2027 (in millions)Q1 Sales 2026 (in millions)Q1 Segment Profit 2027 (in millions)Q1 Segment Profit 2026 (in millions)Consolidated Darden$3,200.3$3,044.7--Olive Garden$1,329.8$1,301.1$270.8$267.6LongHorn Steakhouse$860.9$776.4$154.6$134.9Fine Dining$304.2$286.5$39.6$38.7Other Business$705.4$680.7$111.5$109.3Despite facing challenges, Darden's financial accomplishments are noteworthy. The company declared a quarterly cash dividend of $1.62 per share, underlining its commitment to returning value to shareholders. Additionally, the continued share repurchase strategy exemplifies Darden's confidence in its financial position, with $222.3 million allocated for repurchases in the first quarter.
“The first quarter was a solid start to our fiscal year with each of our segments delivering positive same-restaurant sales,” said Darden President & CEO Rick Cardenas. “The performance across our portfolio reinforces the importance of having distinctive brands, each with a clear strategy, supported by Darden’s scale and other competitive advantages.”GuruFocus Valuation CheckAccording to GuruFocus’s proprietary metrics, Darden Restaurants Inc DRI holds a GF Score of 87/100, indicating strong business performance. The stock's current price of $213.69 sits slightly above the GF Value of $211.74, marking it as 0.9% overvalued. A score of 87 along with a high profitability rank of 8/10 suggests that Darden maintains solid operational efficiency and returns on investment, making it a compelling candidate for potential investors.
With a financial strength rank of 4/10 and a growth rank of 8/10, Darden exhibits solid but cautious performance in financial security and expansion potential. Notably, insider activity revealed that insiders sold $25.5 million worth of shares over the past 12 months, which may warrant a level of caution for potential investors. Insider selling can sometimes signal a lack of confidence in the near-term outlook.
For a deeper dive, visit the Darden Restaurants Inc stock page on GuruFocus.
Explore the complete 8-K earnings release (here) from Darden Restaurants Inc for further details.
GuruFocus context: GuruFocus’ GF Value™ estimates fair value near $211.74 (0.9% overvalued); its GF Score™ is 87/100; 4 gurus currently hold the stock, with 2 adding and 4 trimming positions in recent quarters — guru 13F data Simply Wall St and Morningstar don’t have. See the full Darden Restaurants Inc DRI research.
This stock alert was generated using automated technology and GuruFocus financial data to provide readers with timely and accurate market reporting. This content was reviewed by GuruFocus editorial team prior to publication. Please send any questions or comments about this story to [email protected].
Darden Restaurants (DRI - Free Report) came out with quarterly earnings of $2.05 per share, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.06 per share. This compares to earnings of $1.97 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.
This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of -0.49%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this owner of Olive Garden and other chain restaurants would post earnings of $3.63 per share when it actually produced earnings of $3.66, delivering a surprise of +0.83%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates just once.
Darden Restaurants, which belongs to the Zacks Retail - Restaurants industry, posted revenues of $3.2 billion for the quarter ended August 2026, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 0.14%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $3.04 billion. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates two times over the last four quarters.
The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call.
Darden Restaurants shares have added about 16.1% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's gain of 12.6%.
What's Next for Darden Restaurants?While Darden Restaurants has outperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock?
There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.
Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions.
Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for Darden Restaurants was mixed. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to perform in line with the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and the current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $2.30 on $3.27 billion in revenues for the coming quarter and $11.26 on $13.68 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year.
Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Retail - Restaurants is currently in the top 44% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
Domino's Pizza (DPZ - Free Report) , another stock in the same industry, has yet to report results for the quarter ended September 2026. The results are expected to be released on October 13.
This pizza chain is expected to post quarterly earnings of $4.33 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +6.1%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 0.1% higher over the last 30 days to the current level.
Domino's Pizza's revenues are expected to be $1.17 billion, up 1.6% from the year-ago quarter.
Darden Restaurants Inc (NYSE:DRI), the owner of Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse, reported a 5.1% rise in quarterly revenue to $3.2 billion, but sales missed Wall Street estimates for its fiscal 2027 first quarter.
Revenue rose from $3.04 billion in the same quarter last year, while same-restaurant sales increased 3.1% across Darden's restaurant portfolio.
LongHorn Steakhouse was the strongest performer, with same-restaurant sales increasing 6.2%, while Olive Garden's same-restaurant sales rose 1.1%.
Earnings from continuing operations fell 9.2% to $234.3 million from $257.9 million a year earlier, partly reflecting the absence of a $42 million gain from the sale of Olive Garden Canada.
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations declined to $2.05 from $2.19 in the year-earlier quarter.
On an adjusted basis, which excludes specified items from both years, diluted earnings per share rose 4.1% to $2.05 from $1.97.
The company repurchased $222.3 million of shares during the quarter, leaving $1.3 billion under its $1.5 billion share repurchase authorization.
Chief executive Rick Cardenas said every Darden segment delivered positive same-restaurant sales, describing the quarter as a solid start to the fiscal year.
Darden reaffirmed its fiscal 2027 outlook, forecasting diluted earnings per share from continuing operations of $11.10 to $11.35.
The company has 2,218 restaurants in continuing operations across brands including Yard House, Ruth's Chris Steak House, The Capital Grille and Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen.
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
EPS and sales both made a slight miss in earnings for Darden Restaurants (DRI), though as Diane King Hall points out, the company still sees strength in Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse. MGM Resorts (MGM) sold off sharply after Diller's withdrew its takeover bid, while Everpure (P) hit a new all-time high after it issued positive guidance just after it joined the S&P 500 (SPX).
Darden Restaurants (DRI - Free Report) reported $3.2 billion in revenue for the quarter ended August 2026, representing a year-over-year increase of 5.1%. EPS of $2.05 for the same period compares to $1.97 a year ago.
The reported revenue represents a surprise of -0.14% over the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.2 billion. With the consensus EPS estimate being $2.06, the EPS surprise was -0.49%.
While investors closely watch year-over-year changes in headline numbers -- revenue and earnings -- and how they compare to Wall Street expectations to determine their next course of action, some key metrics always provide a better insight into a company's underlying performance.
As these metrics influence top- and bottom-line performance, comparing them to the year-ago numbers and what analysts estimated helps investors project a stock's price performance more accurately.
Here is how Darden Restaurants performed in the just reported quarter in terms of the metrics most widely monitored and projected by Wall Street analysts:
Same-restaurant sales - LongHorn Steakhouse - YoY change: 6.8% versus 6.3% estimated by seven analysts on average.Company-owned restaurants - Olive Garden: 953 versus the seven-analyst average estimate of 954.Same-restaurant sales - Olive Garden - YoY change: 1% versus the seven-analyst average estimate of 1.7%.Same-restaurant sales - Consolidated - YoY change: 3.2% compared to the 3.1% average estimate based on seven analysts.Company-owned restaurants - LongHorn Steakhouse: 624 versus the seven-analyst average estimate of 624.Company-owned restaurants - Total: 2,218 versus the six-analyst average estimate of 2,214.Same-restaurant sales - Other Business - YoY change: 4.5% versus the six-analyst average estimate of 2.7%.Same-restaurant sales - Fine Dining - YoY change: 1% versus 1.5% estimated by six analysts on average.Sales- Olive Garden: $1.33 billion compared to the $1.35 billion average estimate based on six analysts. The reported number represents a change of +2.2% year over year.Sales- Other Business: $705.4 million versus $684.66 million estimated by six analysts on average. Compared to the year-ago quarter, this number represents a +3.6% change.Sales- Fine Dining: $304.2 million versus $302.67 million estimated by six analysts on average. Compared to the year-ago quarter, this number represents a +6.2% change.Sales- LongHorn Steakhouse: $860.9 million versus the six-analyst average estimate of $859.29 million. The reported number represents a year-over-year change of +10.9%.View all Key Company Metrics for Darden Restaurants here>>>
Shares of Darden Restaurants have returned -2.3% over the past month versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +1.3% change. The stock currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), indicating that it could perform in line with the broader market in the near term.
Darden Restaurants Inc. (NYSE:DRI) shares are slipping Thursday after the company reported first-quarter results that narrowly missed Wall Street’s expectations on both the top and bottom lines. Here’s what you should know.
Darden Restaurants stock is facing resistance. Why is DRI stock trading lower? Darden Narrowly Misses On Both Earnings and RevenuePer-share profit landed at $2.05 for the quarter, coming in just a hair below the $2.06 Wall Street had penciled in, even though that figure still represented roughly 4% growth from the $1.97 posted a year earlier. Revenue told a similar story, with the company bringing in $3.2 billion against expectations closer to roughly $3.21 billion, a gap of less than a quarter percentage point. Revenue still climbed about 6.5% from the approximate $3 billion recorded during the same stretch last year.
Every single brand under Darden’s umbrella posted growth in same-restaurant sales during the period. LongHorn Steakhouse paced the pack, climbing 6.2% on the fiscal calendar and 6.8% on the comparable basis, while Olive Garden added 1.1% and 1.0%, Fine Dining rose 1.6% and 1.0% and the company’s other restaurant holdings gained 3.8% and 4.5%, respectively.
President and CEO Rick Cardenas pointed to “each of our segments delivering positive same-restaurant sales” as evidence the quarter got the fiscal year off to a strong start. He tied that performance to the strength of running a portfolio of distinct restaurant brands, each with its own strategy, while benefiting from Darden’s overall scale.
Cardenas said the company plans to keep executing well at the restaurant level, deepen guest loyalty, invest in employees and brands and deploy capital in ways designed to build long-term value for shareholders.
Darden Reaffirms Full-Year Guidance and Continues BuybacksDarden’s board approved a quarterly dividend of $1.62 a share, set to go out November 2 to shareholders on record as of October 9. On the buyback front, the company bought back about 1.1 million shares for roughly $222.3 million during the quarter, leaving $1.3 billion still available under its broader $1.5 billion repurchase authorization.
Looking ahead, Darden left its fiscal 2027 guidance untouched, still projecting diluted earnings per share between $11.10 and $11.35 from continuing operations, a range that brackets the $11.27 figure analysts are currently modeling.
DRI Shares Are DippingDRI Price Action: Darden shares were down 1.53% at $210.43 at the time of publication on Thursday, according to Benzinga Pro.
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Despite Record Sales, Texas Roadhouse Has Beef With Beef CostsDarden Restaurants NYSE: DRI reported fiscal 2027 first-quarter results that management said met expectations, supported by positive same-restaurant sales across each of its business segments, sales growth from new units and continued strength at LongHorn Steakhouse and Yard House.
Total sales rose 5.1% year over year to $3.2 billion, driven by 3.2% comparable-calendar same-restaurant sales growth and the addition of 53 net new restaurants. Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations increased 4.1% from the prior year's adjusted result to $2.05. The company generated $464 million in EBITDA and returned $406 million to shareholders through $184 million in dividends and $222 million in share repurchases.
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Darden Restaurants Just Hit a 52-Week High–Is the Olive Garden Comeback Story Legit?“The first quarter was a solid start to fiscal 2027,” President and CEO Rick Cardenas said. He said restaurant teams maintained a focus on operations and guest satisfaction, with scores at or near record levels across the company’s brands.
Brand Performance LongHorn Steakhouse led the portfolio with 6.8% comparable-calendar same-restaurant sales growth and a 10.9% increase in total sales, including 29 net new restaurants. The brand recorded its 22nd consecutive quarter of positive same-restaurant sales, according to CFO Raj Vennam. LongHorn’s segment profit margin rose 60 basis points to 18%.
Texas Roadhouse and Brinker International Have the Recipe Rivals Are MissingOlive Garden posted 1% same-restaurant sales growth and 2.2% total sales growth, including 20 net new restaurants. Vennam said guest counts at the Italian dining chain were affected by the World Cup and consumer concerns around lettuce, which together reduced traffic by an estimated 150 to 200 basis points. A lighter-portion section of the menu also created a 50-basis-point mix headwind to average check.
Olive Garden’s performance also faced difficult comparisons from the prior year, when its results included an Uber Direct promotion offering 1 million free deliveries and a week of Never-Ending Pasta Bowl in the comparable calendar period. Still, Olive Garden’s same-restaurant sales were up 7% on a two-year basis. Its segment profit margin was 20.4%, down 20 basis points year over year, including about 30 basis points of margin investment related to the lighter-portion menu.
Cardenas said Olive Garden’s Never-Ending Pasta Bowl, which launched at the beginning of the second quarter, has started better than expected. The offering includes new Spicy Alfredo sauce and crispy Shrimp Fritta as a protein option. The company held the price for unlimited protein add-ons at $4.99, while increasing the base price of the promotion after keeping it at $13.99 for nearly five years, Vennam said.
The company also brought back its Never-Ending Pasta Pass after a six-year hiatus. Darden said 3 million devices logged in during the sale and all 10,000 passes sold out immediately.
Fine Dining segment sales increased 6.2%, supported by 1% comparable-calendar same-restaurant sales growth and six net new restaurants. Segment profit margin declined 50 basis points from the prior year. Vennam said traffic in fine dining remains below pre-pandemic levels, although declines have moderated, while business spending remains soft. He said the company has seen growth in private dining.
The other business segment posted 4.5% same-restaurant sales growth and 3.6% total sales growth. Yard House delivered 10% same-restaurant sales growth, benefiting from group occasions tied to the World Cup. The tournament contributed approximately 180 basis points to Yard House’s same-restaurant sales, but negatively affected the company’s other brands, producing an estimated net 80-basis-point headwind to Darden’s same-restaurant sales.
Yard House reached $1 billion in trailing 52-week sales, becoming Darden’s third billion-dollar brand. The company plans to open 13 Yard House locations during the fiscal year, including five conversions from Bahama Breeze restaurants. About half of the remaining openings will use the brand’s smaller prototype, which management said should lower construction costs while supporting the brand’s $10.5 million average unit volume.
Margins, Costs and Outlook Restaurant-level EBITDA margin was 18.8%, unchanged from the prior year. Food and beverage expense increased 30 basis points as brand sales mix shifted toward concepts with above-average food costs. Restaurant labor expense fell 30 basis points, reflecting productivity improvements and sales mix. Restaurant expenses and marketing expenses were flat as pricing and savings from prior initiatives offset inflation and incremental marketing activity.
Pricing during the quarter was 3.7%, broadly in line with 3.5% commodity inflation. Vennam said pricing is expected to moderate through the year, reaching the low-to-mid-2% range by the fourth quarter. The company continues to expect roughly 3% commodity inflation for the full fiscal year, with second-quarter inflation anticipated in a range of 2.5% to 3%.
Darden reaffirmed its fiscal 2027 financial outlook, including diluted earnings per share of $11.10 to $11.35. Management expects a calendar shift involving Thanksgiving to create an approximately 1% sales headwind in the fiscal second quarter, with an offsetting benefit in the third quarter.
Growth Priorities Management identified weekday lunch as a meaningful opportunity for Olive Garden. Cardenas said weekday lunch has weakened more than other dayparts since the end of the pandemic, while Vennam said it represents roughly 20% of the brand’s traffic from Monday through Friday. Olive Garden plans to market its unlimited soup, salad and breadsticks lunch offer later in the current quarter and test a new lunch platform with added variety and a value-oriented proposition.
Cardenas also discussed expansion opportunities for Yard House, Cheddar’s and Chuy’s. He said Yard House is targeting high-single-digit unit growth over the long term, while Cheddar’s could reach mid-single-digit growth as operations improve. For Chuy’s, which Darden acquired nearly two years ago, Cardenas said the brand delivered positive same-restaurant sales in its first full fiscal year under Darden ownership and is expected to grow at a mid- to high-single-digit rate over time.
Management said consumer behavior remained resilient during the quarter despite weaker consumer sentiment indicators. “If the consumer is wavering, we’re not seeing it,” Cardenas said, adding that Darden remains focused on restaurant execution, guest experience and value.
About Darden Restaurants (NYSE:DRI)Darden Restaurants, Inc NYSE: DRI is a full-service restaurant company headquartered in Orlando, Florida. It operates and franchises a portfolio of dining brands serving a range of cuisines, price points and occasions, with restaurants primarily located in the United States and select international markets.
Its restaurant portfolio includes Olive Garden, an Italian-American dining chain; LongHorn Steakhouse; Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen; Yard House; The Capital Grille; Seasons 52; Bahama Breeze; Eddie V's; Ruth's Chris Steak House; and Chuy's.
This instant news alert was generated by narrative science technology and financial data from MarketBeat in order to provide readers with the fastest reporting and unbiased coverage. Please send any questions or comments about this story to [email protected].
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, /PRNewswire/ -- Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE:DRI) today reported its financial results for the first quarter ended August 30, 2026.
First Quarter 2027 Financial Highlights
Total sales increased 5.1% to $3.2 billion. Blended same-restaurant sales1 for the quarter increased 3.1% on a fiscal calendar basis and increased 3.2% on a comparable calendar basis.
Fiscal Calendar
Comparable Calendar
Consolidated Darden1
3.1 %
3.2 %
Olive Garden
1.1 %
1.0 %
LongHorn Steakhouse
6.2 %
6.8 %
Fine Dining
1.6 %
1.0 %
Other Business1
3.8 %
4.5 %
Note: Due to the transition from a 53-week to a 52-week fiscal year, year-over-year fiscal period comparisons are offset by one week. Fiscal calendar is June 1, 2026 - August 30, 2026 vs. May 26, 2025 - August 24, 2025. Using comparable calendar periods helps account for the one-week shift and is intended to provide a clearer year-over-year comparison. Comparable calendar is June 1, 2026 - August 30, 2026 vs. June 2, 2025 - August 31, 2025.
Reported diluted net earnings per share from continuing operations were $2.05, an increase of 4.1% from last year's adjusted diluted net earnings per share from continuing operations2 The Company repurchased $222.3 million3 of its outstanding common stock "The first quarter was a solid start to our fiscal year with each of our segments delivering positive same-restaurant sales," said Darden President & CEO Rick Cardenas. "The performance across our portfolio reinforces the importance of having distinctive brands, each with a clear strategy, supported by Darden's scale and other competitive advantages. Looking ahead, our focus remains the same: operate our restaurants at a high level, strengthen guest loyalty, invest in our people and brands, and deploy capital in ways that support long-term shareholder value."
Segment Performance
Segment profit represents sales, less costs for food and beverage, restaurant labor, restaurant expenses and marketing expenses. Segment profit excludes non-cash real estate related expenses.
Q1 Sales
Q1 Segment Profit
($ in millions)
2027
2026
2027
2026
Consolidated Darden
$3,200.3
$3,044.7
Olive Garden
$1,329.8
$1,301.1
$270.8
$267.6
LongHorn Steakhouse
$860.9
$776.4
$154.6
$134.9
Fine Dining
$304.2
$286.5
$39.6
$38.7
Other Business
$705.4
$680.7
$111.5
$109.3
1 Quarter same-restaurant sales is a 13-week metric and excludes the impact of Bahama Breeze as all locations are expected to be closed
or converted to other brands by Q4 fiscal 2027.
2 See the "Non-GAAP Information" below for more details.
3 Inclusive of 1% excise tax incurred on net repurchases, resulting from the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.
Dividend Declared
Darden's Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $1.62 per share on the Company's outstanding common stock. The dividend is payable on November 2, 2026 to shareholders of record at the close of business on October 9, 2026.
Share Repurchase Program
During the quarter, the Company repurchased approximately 1.1 million shares of its common stock for a total of $222.3 million3. As of the end of the fiscal first quarter, the Company had $1.3 billion remaining under the current $1.5 billion repurchase authorization.
Fiscal 2027 Financial Outlook
The Company reaffirmed all aspects of its full year financial outlook for fiscal 2027, culminating in diluted net earnings per share from continuing operations of $11.10 to $11.35.
Investor Conference Call
The Company will host a conference call today, Thursday, September 24, 2026 at 8:30 am ET to review its recent financial performance, which will be available via a live webcast through the Company's Investor Relations website at investor.darden.com. Please allow extra time prior to the call to visit the site and download any software required to listen to the webcast. Supplemental materials will be available on the Investor Relations website prior to the start of the conference call. For those who are unable to listen to the live broadcast, a replay will be available shortly after the call.
About Darden
Darden is a full-service restaurant company featuring a portfolio of differentiated brands that include Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Yard House, Ruth's Chris Steak House, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, The Capital Grille, Chuy's, Seasons 52, and Eddie V's. For more information, please visit www.darden.com.
Information About Forward-Looking Statements
Forward-looking statements in this communication regarding our expected earnings performance and all other statements that are not historical facts, including without limitation statements concerning our future economic performance, are made under the Safe Harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are generally identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms "may," "will," "expect," "intend," "focus," "anticipate," "continue," "could," "estimate," "project," "believe," "plan," "outlook," "seek," or similar expressions. Any forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which such statements are first made, and we undertake no obligation to update such statements to reflect events or circumstances arising after such date. We wish to caution investors not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to materially differ from those anticipated in the statements. The most significant of these uncertainties are described in Darden's Form 10-K, Form 10-Q, and Form 8-K reports. These risks and uncertainties include: a failure to address cost pressures and a failure to effectively deliver cost management activities and achieve some economies of scale in purchasing, certain economic and business factors, and their impacts on the restaurant industry, and other general macroeconomic factors including unemployment, energy prices, tariffs and interest rates, the inability to hire, train, reward, and retain restaurant team members and determine and maintain adequate staffing, a failure to recruit, develop, and retain effective leaders or the loss or shortage of personnel with key capacities and skills that could impact our strategic direction, increased labor and insurance costs, health concerns arising from food-related pandemics, outbreaks of flu, viruses, or other diseases, food safety and food-borne illness concerns, insufficient guest or employee facing technology or a failure to maintain a continuous and secure cyber network, compliance with privacy and data protection laws and risks of failures or breaches of our data protection systems, risks relating to public policy changes and federal, state and local regulation of our business, intense competition, changing consumer preferences, an inability or failure to recognize, respond to, and effectively manage the accelerated impact of social media, a failure to identify and execute innovative marketing and guest relationship tactics, ineffective or improper use of other marketing initiatives, and increased advertising and marketing costs, climate change, adverse weather conditions, and natural disasters, long-term and non-cancelable property leases, inability or failure to execute a business continuity plan following a major natural disaster, shortages, delays, or interruptions in the delivery of food and other products and services from our third-party vendors and suppliers, failure to drive profitable sales growth, a lack of availability of suitable locations for new restaurants or a decline in the quality of locations of our current restaurants, higher-than-anticipated costs associated with the opening of new restaurants or with the closing, relocating, or remodeling of existing restaurants, risks associated with doing business with franchisees, licensees, and vendors in foreign markets, volatility in the market value of derivatives, volatility in the U.S. equity markets affecting our ability to efficiently hedge exposures, failure to protect our intellectual property, our reporting on environmental, social, and governance matters or our sustainability ratings, litigation, unfavorable publicity or failure to respond effectively to adverse publicity, disruptions in the financial and credit markets, impairment of the carrying value of our goodwill or other intangible assets, changes in tax laws or unanticipated tax liabilities, failure of our internal controls over financial reporting and future changes in accounting standards, and other factors and uncertainties discussed from time to time in reports filed by Darden with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Non-GAAP Information
The information in this press release includes financial information determined by methods other than in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"), such as adjusted diluted net earnings per share from continuing operations. The Company's management uses these non-GAAP measures in its analysis of the Company's performance. The Company believes that the presentation of certain non-GAAP measures provides useful supplemental information that is essential to a proper understanding of the operating results of the Company's businesses. These non-GAAP disclosures should not be viewed as a substitute for operating results determined in accordance with GAAP, nor are they necessarily comparable to non-GAAP performance measures that may be presented by other companies. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP measures are included in this release.
(Analysts) Courtney Aquilla, (407) 245-5054; (Media) Rich Jeffers, (407) 245-4189
Fiscal Q1 Reported to Adjusted Earnings Reconciliation
Q1 2027
Q1 2026
$ in millions, except per share amounts
Earnings
Before
Income
Tax
Income
Tax
Expense
Net
Earnings
Diluted
Net
Earnings
Per
Share
Earnings
Before
Income
Tax
Income
Tax
Expense
Net
Earnings
Diluted
Net
Earnings
Per
Share
Reported Earnings from Continuing Operations
$ 269.0
$ 34.7
$ 234.3
$ 2.05
$ 293.8
$ 35.9
$ 257.9
$ 2.19
Adjustments:
Chuy's transaction and integration related costs
—
—
—
—
3.6
0.9
2.7
0.02
Closed restaurants4
—
—
—
—
3.1
0.8
2.3
0.02
Gain on Olive Garden Canada Sale
—
—
—
—
(42.0)
(10.5)
(31.5)
(0.26)
Adjusted Earnings from Continuing Operations
$ 269.0
$ 34.7
$ 234.3
$ 2.05
$ 258.5
$ 27.1
$ 231.4
$ 1.97
% Change vs Prior Year
4.1 %
4 Costs related to the closure of 22 underperforming restaurants that were permanently closed during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2025
DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.
NUMBER OF COMPANY-OWNED RESTAURANTS
8/30/26
8/24/25
Olive Garden
953
933
LongHorn Steakhouse
624
595
Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen
187
182
Chuy's
112
108
Yard House
95
89
Ruth's Chris Steak House
83
82
The Capital Grille
75
73
Seasons 52
44
43
Eddie V's
32
29
Bahama Breeze
10
28
The Capital Burger
3
3
Darden Continuing Operations
2,218
2,165
DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
(In millions, except per share data)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
8/30/2026
8/24/2025
Sales
$ 3,200.3
$ 3,044.7
Costs and expenses:
Food and beverage
984.9
929.1
Restaurant labor
1,028.9
988.0
Restaurant expenses
530.5
504.2
Marketing expenses
53.1
49.1
Pre-opening costs
8.5
5.9
General and administrative expenses
134.8
136.1
Depreciation and amortization
144.2
135.1
Impairments and (gain) loss on disposal of assets, net
(3.9)
(42.0)
Total operating costs and expenses
$ 2,881.0
$ 2,705.5
Operating income
319.3
339.2
Interest, net
50.3
45.4
Earnings before income taxes
269.0
293.8
Income tax expense
34.7
35.9
Earnings from continuing operations
$ 234.3
$ 257.9
Losses from discontinued operations, net of tax benefit of $0.3 and $0.4, respectively
(0.9)
(0.1)
Net earnings
$ 233.4
$ 257.8
Basic net earnings per share:
Earnings from continuing operations
$ 2.06
$ 2.21
Losses from discontinued operations
(0.01)
—
Net earnings
$ 2.05
$ 2.21
Diluted net earnings per share:
Earnings from continuing operations
$ 2.05
$ 2.19
Losses from discontinued operations
(0.01)
—
Net earnings
$ 2.04
$ 2.19
Average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic
113.6
116.7
Diluted
114.4
117.6
DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In millions)
8/30/2026
5/31/2026
(Unaudited)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
$ 220.5
$ 219.5
Receivables, net
118.0
129.9
Inventories
321.0
326.3
Prepaid income taxes
146.3
139.8
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
147.3
127.4
Total current assets
$ 953.1
$ 942.9
Land, buildings and equipment, net
5,122.2
5,048.6
Operating lease right-of-use assets
3,713.8
3,433.1
Goodwill
1,658.2
1,658.2
Trademarks
1,346.4
1,346.4
Other assets
432.9
433.2
Total assets
$ 13,226.6
$ 12,862.4
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable
$ 470.0
$ 427.7
Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt
979.7
693.6
Accrued payroll and employee benefits
596.6
648.1
Accrued taxes
95.9
87.0
Unearned revenues
571.5
606.0
Other current liabilities
485.3
543.0
Total current liabilities
$ 3,199.0
$ 3,005.4
Long-term debt
1,636.1
1,637.7
Deferred income taxes
367.6
343.6
Operating lease liabilities - non-current
4,009.7
3,722.3
Other liabilities
1,945.8
1,945.9
Total liabilities
$ 11,158.2
$ 10,654.9
Stockholders' equity:
Common stock and surplus
$ 2,307.5
$ 2,296.3
Retained earnings (deficit)
(259.5)
(108.4)
Accumulated other comprehensive income
20.4
19.6
Total stockholders' equity
$ 2,068.4
$ 2,207.5
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
$ 13,226.6
$ 12,862.4
DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In millions)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
8/30/2026
8/24/2025
Cash flows—operating activities
Net earnings
$ 233.4
$ 257.8
Losses from discontinued operations, net of tax
0.9
0.1
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings from continuing operations to cash flows:
Depreciation and amortization
144.2
135.1
Impairments and (gain) loss on disposal of assets, net
(3.9)
(42.0)
Stock-based compensation expense
26.6
25.0
Change in current assets and liabilities and other, net
(122.2)
(33.5)
Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations
$ 279.0
$ 342.5
Cash flows—investing activities
Purchases of land, buildings and equipment
(175.3)
(174.1)
Proceeds from disposal of land, buildings and equipment
8.8
20.3
Purchases of capitalized software and changes in other assets, net
(4.8)
(5.5)
Net cash used in investing activities of continuing operations
$ (171.3)
$ (159.3)
Cash flows—financing activities
Net proceeds from issuance of common stock
20.0
8.8
Dividends paid
(184.2)
(175.1)
Repurchases of common stock, inclusive of excise taxes paid
(220.8)
(182.7)
Proceeds from (repayments of) short-term debt, net
285.9
142.0
Principal payments on finance leases, net
(5.3)
(5.2)
Net cash used in financing activities of continuing operations
$ (104.4)
$ (212.2)
Cash flows—discontinued operations
Net cash used in operating activities of discontinued operations
(2.3)
—
Net cash used in discontinued operations
$ (2.3)
$ —
Increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash
1.0
(29.0)
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash - beginning of period
227.6
254.5
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash - end of period
$ 228.6
$ 225.5
Reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash:
8/30/2026
8/24/2025
Cash and cash equivalents
$ 220.5
$ 211.0
Restricted cash included in prepaid expenses and other current assets
8.1
14.5
Total cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash shown in the statement of cash flows
The parent of Olive Garden and Longhorn Steakhouse said fiscal first-quarter earnings fell to $233.4 million, or $2.04 a share, from $257.8 million, or $2.19 a share, a year earlier.
Darden Restaurants on Thursday reported quarterly earnings and revenue that narrowly missed analysts' expectations as same-store sales growth at Olive Garden slows.
Shares of the company fell 5% in premarket trading.
Here's what the company reported for the quarter ended Aug. 30 compared with what Wall Street was expecting, based on a survey of analysts by LSEG:
Earnings per share: $2.05 vs. $2.06 expectedRevenue: $3.20 billion vs. $3.21 billion expectedDarden reported fiscal first-quarter net income of $233.4 million, or $2.04 per share, down from $257.8 million, or $2.19 per share, a year earlier.
Net sales rose 5.1% to $3.20 billion.
The company's same-store sales increased 3.1% during the fiscal quarter as each of Darden's business units reported growth.
LongHorn Steakhouse was once again the top performer of the portfolio this quarter, as same-store sales rose 6.2%. The chain has overtaken Olive Garden to become Darden's top performer, although it still accounts for a smaller share of the company's overall revenue.
Olive Garden saw its same-store sales inch up 1.1%. While it is still the company's largest chain by both number of locations and sales, Olive Garden has seen its growth weaken as diners have become more choosy about their spending.
Darden's fine-dining business reported same-store sales growth of 1.6%. The segment includes chains like The Capital Grille and Ruth's Chris.
The company's remaining chains, which are grouped under its "other business" division, saw same-store sales grow 3.8% in the quarter.
Darden also reiterated its forecast for fiscal 2027. The company is projecting total sales of $13.60 billion to $13.75 billion and net earnings per share from continuing operations in a range of $11.10 to $11.35.
Americký provozovatel restaurací Darden Restaurants dnes představil své hospodářské výsledky za první kvartál fiskálního roku 2027, který skončil 30. srpna 2026. Růst porovnatelných tržeb celé skupiny nepatrně překonal tržní očekávání, nejvýnosnější řetězec Olive Garden však za odhady analytiků zaostal. Společnost potvrdila celoroční výhled.
Výsledky společnosti Darden Restaurants (DRI) za 1Q FY 2027 1Q FY 2027 Konsensus 1Q 2027 1Q FY 2026 Tržby (mld. USD) 3,20 3,21 3,04 Čistý zisk (mil. USD) 233,4 -- 257,8 Očištěný zisk na akcii z pokračujících činností (EPS, USD/akcie) 2,05 2,05 1,97 Výsledky Tržby zaznamenaly meziroční růst o 5,1 % na 3,2 mld. USD, když porovnatelné tržby byly meziročně vyšší o 3,2 %, přičemž se očekávalo +3,11 %.
Růst porovnatelných tržeb zaznamenaly všechny segmenty společnosti. Nejvýrazněji rostly restaurace LongHorn Steakhouse o 6,8 % při konsensu +6,4 %. Porovnatelné tržby nejvýnosnější restaurace Olive Garden vzrostly meziročně pouze o 1 % při očekávání +1,58 %. Luxusní restaurace vykázaly růst porovnatelných tržeb o 1 % při konsensu +1,45 % a ostatní podniky o 4,5 % při očekávání +2,75 %.
Tržby Darden Restaurants ve 1Q dle segmentu
(mld. USD) Divize Tržby Konsenzus Meziroční změna Olive Garden 1,33 1,35 +2,2 % LongHorn Steakhouse 0,86 0,86 +11 % Luxusní restaurace 0,30 0,30 +6,2 % Ostatní podniky 0,71 0,70 +3,6 % Provozní zisk zaznamenal meziroční pokles o 5,9 % na 319,3 mil. USD. Projekce trhu činily 319,6 mil. USD.
Výhled Společnost potvrdila všechny parametry celoročního výhledu na fiskální rok 2027. Zisk na akcii z pokračujících činností by měl dosáhnout 11,10 až 11,35 USD.
Návrat kapitálu akcionářům V průběhu kvartálu společnost zpětně odkoupila své akcie za celkem 222,3 mil. USD. Ke konci kvartálu zbývalo v rámci aktuálního programu zpětných odkupů 1,3 mld. USD. Představenstvo také deklarovalo kvartální dividendu ve výši 1,62 USD na akcii.
Komentář CEO „První kvartál byl solidním začátkem našeho fiskálního roku, přičemž všechny naše segmenty vykázaly kladný vývoj porovnatelných tržeb,“ uvedl generální ředitel Rick Cardenas. „Výkonnost napříč naším portfoliem potvrzuje, jak důležité je mít výrazné značky, z nichž každá má jasnou strategii a opírá se o velikost společnosti Darden a její další konkurenční výhody. Do budoucna se naše priority nemění: provozovat naše restaurace na vysoké úrovni, posilovat loajalitu hostů, investovat do našich lidí a značek a alokovat kapitál způsobem, který podporuje dlouhodobou hodnotu pro akcionáře,“ dodal Cardenas.
Vývoj akcie Akcie společnosti Darden Restaurants (DRI) v předburzovní fázi obchodování oslabují o 4,78 % na 203,48 USD.
Akcie Darden Restaurants (DRI) před výsledky na 213,69 USD Ukazatel Ukazatel Kapitalizace (mld. USD) 24,3 P/E 19,9 Vývoj za letošní rok (%) +16,1 Očekávané P/E 18,9 52týdenní minimum (USD) 169,0 Prům. cílová cena (USD) 234,3 52týdenní maximum (USD) 229,8 Dividendový výnos (%) 2,9 Zdroj: Darden Restaurants, Bloomberg
With U.S. stock futures trading lower this morning on Thursday, some of the stocks that may grab investor focus today are as follows:
Wall Street expects Darden Restaurants Inc. (NYSE:DRI) to post quarterly earnings of $2.05 per share on revenue of $3.21 billion before the opening bell, according to data from Benzinga Pro. Darden shares fell 0.2% to $213.25 in the after-hours trading session. Stitch Fix Inc. (NASDAQ:SFIX) reported mixed fourth-quarter financial results and issued weak first-quarter sales guidance. Stitch Fix shares dipped 16% to $2.37 in the after-hours trading session. Analysts are expecting TD Synnex Corp. (NYSE:SNX) to post quarterly earnings at $4.70 per share on revenue of $18.90 billion. The company will release earnings before the markets open. TD Synnex shares gained 0.5% to $289.42 in after-hours trading. Check out our premarket coverage here
H.B. Fuller Company (NYSE:FUL) reported mixed results for the third quarter. The company posted quarterly earnings of $1.52 per share, which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $1.46 per share. The company reported quarterly sales of $938.175 million, which missed the analyst consensus estimate of $945.535 million. H.B. Fuller shares gained 0.6% to $50.50 in the after-hours trading session. Analysts expect Costco Wholesale Corp. (NASDAQ:COST) to post quarterly earnings at $6.53 per share on revenue of $94.82 billion after the closing bell. Costco shares slipped 0.1% to $904.60 in the after-hours trading session. Photo via Shutterstock
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Despite Record Sales, Texas Roadhouse Has Beef With Beef CostsDarden Restaurants NYSE: DRI shareholders elected all nine nominees to the company’s board of directors and approved each management proposal presented at the company’s 2026 annual meeting, according to preliminary voting results announced during the virtual event.
Chair Cindy Jamison said the company again held the annual meeting virtually, citing the format’s popularity and accessibility. Shareholders representing approximately 90.04% of Darden’s common stock outstanding and eligible to vote as of the July 29, 2026 record date were represented by proxy, establishing a quorum for the meeting.
Get Darden Restaurants alerts:
Darden Restaurants Just Hit a 52-Week High–Is the Olive Garden Comeback Story Legit?The directors elected were Shannon Atkins, Rick Cardenas, Juliana Chugg, James P. Fogarty, Daryl Kenningham, William S. Simon, Charles M. Sonsteby, Tim J. Wilmott and Jamison.
Shareholder Proposal Rejected Shareholders rejected a proposal submitted by The Accountability Board that asked Darden’s board to adopt a policy requiring it to review and disclose findings when a director receives less than 80% support in an uncontested election.
Texas Roadhouse and Brinker International Have the Recipe Rivals Are MissingMatt Prescott, president and chief operating officer of The Accountability Board, briefly addressed the proposal during the meeting. Prescott thanked Darden’s board for considering the measure but said the parties did not ultimately agree on the issue.
“We think the proposal is self-explanatory,” Prescott said, referring shareholders to the company’s proxy materials for further details.
Lindsay Koren, Darden’s senior vice president, general counsel, chief compliance officer and corporate secretary, said the board’s full opposition statement was included in the proxy statement. Koren reported that the shareholder proposal, identified as Proposal Four, was rejected.
Final Results to Be Filed Koren said the preliminary results were certified by Peter Descovich of IVS Associates Inc., an affiliate of Broadridge Financial Solutions, who served as inspector of elections. The final certificate will be filed with the meeting minutes, while final voting results are expected to be included in a Form 8-K filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
No other shareholder business was brought before the meeting. Koren said the company had not received advance notice of any additional matters, and Jamison advised that the board had no other items of business to present.
Company to Report First-Quarter Results During the meeting, Koren reminded attendees that Darden planned to release its fiscal 2027 first-quarter financial results before the market opened the following day, followed by a conference call at 8:30 a.m. She noted that President and Chief Executive Officer Rick Cardenas would not address those results during the annual meeting.
Cardenas thanked shareholders for their continued confidence in the company and said Darden looked forward to providing a broader update on the business alongside its quarterly results. No shareholder questions were submitted during the question-and-answer portion of the meeting.
The meeting was then adjourned.
About Darden Restaurants (NYSE:DRI)Darden Restaurants, Inc NYSE: DRI is a full-service restaurant company headquartered in Orlando, Florida. It operates and franchises a portfolio of dining brands serving a range of cuisines, price points and occasions, with restaurants primarily located in the United States and select international markets.
Its restaurant portfolio includes Olive Garden, an Italian-American dining chain; LongHorn Steakhouse; Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen; Yard House; The Capital Grille; Seasons 52; Bahama Breeze; Eddie V's; Ruth's Chris Steak House; and Chuy's.
This instant news alert was generated by narrative science technology and financial data from MarketBeat in order to provide readers with the fastest reporting and unbiased coverage. Please send any questions or comments about this story to [email protected].
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Darden Restaurants Inc (NYSE:DRI) saw stronger aggregate sales momentum through August, prompting Bank of America (BofA) to raise its LongHorn forecast while cutting its Olive Garden estimate.
The bank raised its estimate for LongHorn’s first-quarter fiscal 2027 same-store sales growth to 6.5% from 4.2%, citing sustained market share gains and stronger category trends.
The bank lowered its Olive Garden forecast to 1.7% from 2.6%, reflecting a softer start to the quarter that it attributed to World Cup disruption and spending shifting toward bars.
Credit and debit card data showed LongHorn’s observed sales growth accelerating to 13.8% in August from 6.8% in July, while Olive Garden improved to 6.7% from 1.2%.
Darden’s aggregate observed sales growth rose to 8.3% in August from 4.1%, despite casual-dining spending growth slowing to 1.7% from 2.6% over the same period.
BofA said August’s acceleration provides a stronger starting point for the second quarter, although the Thanksgiving calendar shift is expected to create a 100-basis-point headwind to casual-dining same-store sales growth.
The shift is also expected to provide a 150-basis-point benefit to fine-dining comparable sales, partly offsetting the stronger exit from the first quarter.
LongHorn’s August sales growth also outpaced Texas Roadhouse at 6.7% and Outback at 0.3%, supporting Bank of America’s view that the brand’s momentum has persisted.
BofA expects Darden’s first-quarter restaurant-level margin to expand 50 basis points year-on-year to 20.8% despite elevated beef costs.
The bank raised its first-quarter earnings forecast to $2.16 a share from $2.14 and maintained its $276 price objective and 'buy' rating.
As Darden Restaurants, Inc (NYSE:DRI) prepares to release its fiscal first-quarter earnings report before the opening bell on Thursday, Sept. 24, investors may be eyeing potential gains from the company’s dividends.
Currently, the restaurant chain operator offers an annual dividend yield of 3.03%, with a quarterly dividend of $1.62 per share ($6.48 a year).
So, how can investors exploit its dividend yield to pocket a regular $500 monthly?
To earn $500 per month, or $6,000 annually, from dividends alone, you would need an investment of about $197,738, or around 926 shares. For a more modest $100 per month or $1,200 per year, you would need $39,505 or around 185 shares.
To calculate: Divide the desired annual income ($6,000 or $1,200) by the dividend ($6.48 in this case). So, $6,000 / $6.48 = 926 ($500 per month), and $1,200 / $6.48 = 185 shares ($100 per month).
Note that dividend yield can change on a rolling basis, as dividend payments and stock prices both fluctuate over time.
How that works: The dividend yield is computed by dividing the annual dividend payment by the stock’s current price.
For example, if a stock pays an annual dividend of $2 and is currently priced at $50, the dividend yield would be 4% ($2/$50). However, if the stock price increases to $60, the dividend yield drops to 3.33% ($2/$60). Conversely, if the stock price falls to $40, the dividend yield rises to 5% ($2/$40).
Similarly, changes in dividend payments can affect yield. If a company increases its dividend, the yield will also increase, provided the stock price stays the same. Conversely, if the dividend payment decreases, the yield will too.
DRI Price ActionShares of Darden Restaurants gained 1.1% to close at $213.54 on Tuesday.
Analysts expect the company, which owns Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse, to report quarterly earnings of $2.05 per share. That’s up from $1.97 per share in the year-ago period. The consensus estimate for DRI’s quarterly revenue is $3.21 billion. It reported $3.04 billion last year, according to Benzinga Pro.
Ahead of quarterly earnings, Seaport Global analyst Eric Gonzalez initiated coverage on Darden Restaurants on Sept. 16 with a Buy rating and a price target of $240.
The upcoming report from Darden Restaurants (DRI - Free Report) is expected to reveal quarterly earnings of $2.06 per share, indicating an increase of 4.6% compared to the year-ago period. Analysts forecast revenues of $3.2 billion, representing an increase of 5.3% year over year.
The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has undergone a downward revision of 0.2% in the past 30 days, bringing it to its present level. This represents how the covering analysts, as a whole, have reassessed their initial estimates during this timeframe.
Before a company announces its earnings, it is essential to take into account any changes made to earnings estimates. This is a valuable factor in predicting the potential reactions of investors toward the stock. Empirical research has consistently shown a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and the short-term price performance of a stock.
While investors typically use consensus earnings and revenue estimates as a yardstick to evaluate the company's quarterly performance, scrutinizing analysts' projections for some of the company's key metrics can offer a more comprehensive perspective.
Bearing this in mind, let's now explore the average estimates of specific Darden Restaurants metrics that are commonly monitored and projected by Wall Street analysts.
Analysts predict that the 'Sales- Olive Garden' will reach $1.35 billion. The estimate points to a change of +3.9% from the year-ago quarter.
The collective assessment of analysts points to an estimated 'Sales- Other Business' of $684.66 million. The estimate suggests a change of +0.6% year over year.
Based on the collective assessment of analysts, 'Sales- Fine Dining' should arrive at $302.67 million. The estimate points to a change of +5.6% from the year-ago quarter.
Analysts forecast 'Sales- LongHorn Steakhouse' to reach $859.29 million. The estimate indicates a year-over-year change of +10.7%.
The average prediction of analysts places 'Same-restaurant sales - LongHorn Steakhouse - YoY change' at 6.3%. Compared to the present estimate, the company reported 5.5% in the same quarter last year.
According to the collective judgment of analysts, 'Company-owned restaurants - Olive Garden' should come in at 954 . Compared to the current estimate, the company reported 933 in the same quarter of the previous year.
The consensus estimate for 'Same-restaurant sales - Olive Garden - YoY change' stands at 1.7%. Compared to the current estimate, the company reported 5.9% in the same quarter of the previous year.
Analysts expect 'Same-restaurant sales - Consolidated - YoY change' to come in at 3.1%. The estimate compares to the year-ago value of 4.7%.
Analysts' assessment points toward 'Company-owned restaurants - LongHorn Steakhouse' reaching 624 . Compared to the current estimate, the company reported 595 in the same quarter of the previous year.
The consensus among analysts is that 'Company-owned restaurants - Total' will reach 2,214 . Compared to the present estimate, the company reported 2,165 in the same quarter last year.
The combined assessment of analysts suggests that 'Same-restaurant sales - Other Business - YoY change' will likely reach 2.7%. Compared to the present estimate, the company reported 3.3% in the same quarter last year.
It is projected by analysts that the 'Company-owned restaurants - Ruth's Chris Steak House' will reach 83 . The estimate is in contrast to the year-ago figure of 82 .
View all Key Company Metrics for Darden Restaurants here>>>
Over the past month, Darden Restaurants shares have recorded returns of -5.6% versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -1.3% change. Based on its Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), DRI will likely exhibit a performance that aligns with the overall market in the upcoming period. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Key Takeaways DRI is expected to report Q1 fiscal 2027 revenue growth, supported by customer value and restaurant expansion.Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse revenues are projected to rise 6% and 8.8%, respectively.Productivity gains and expense controls may offset commodity inflation and near-term cost pressures. Darden Restaurants, Inc. (DRI - Free Report) is scheduled to report first-quarter fiscal 2027 results on Sept. 24, before the opening bell.
In the last reported quarter, its earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 0.8%. DRI’s earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in one of the trailing four quarters, missed on two occasions and met once, with an average surprise of negative 0.3%.
Trend in the Estimate Revision of DRIThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for fiscal first-quarter earnings per share (EPS) is $2.06, up 4.6% from $1.97 in the year-ago quarter.
For revenues, the consensus estimate is $3.20 billion. The projection implies a 5.3% rise from the year-ago quarter’s reported figure.
Let us take a look at how things might have shaped up in the quarter to be reported.
Factors Likely to Shape Darden’s Quarterly ResultsDarden’s fiscal first-quarter 2027 revenues are likely to have benefited from its ability to attract customers across different income groups. The company’s emphasis on affordability and value is expected to have maintained dining frequency despite cautious consumer sentiment. Its diverse restaurant portfolio, covering casual dining and higher-growth concepts, provides multiple avenues for generating sales. Management’s same-restaurant sales growth outlook of 2.5-3.5% for fiscal 2027 reflects expectations for continued business expansion.
Restaurant development is another potential contributor to revenue growth. Darden plans to open 75-80 new restaurants and convert 11 Bahama Breeze locations during fiscal 2027. These initiatives should expand the company’s operating footprint and increase its sales capacity. LongHorn Steakhouse’s expansion plans are particularly important, as the brand offers significant growth potential within Darden’s portfolio.
Menu enhancements and improved customer experiences might have further strengthened sales. Olive Garden’s focus on faster service and smoother restaurant operations might have improved guest satisfaction and encouraged repeat visits. Meanwhile, new menu offerings and targeted marketing campaigns bode well.
Our model predicts revenues from Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse to rise 6% and 8.8%, respectively, year over year to $1.38 billion and $844.5 million. We expect revenues from fine dining to increase 4.9% year over year to $300.6 million.
Darden’s fiscal first-quarter 2027 earnings are expected to have been supported by productivity improvements, careful expense management and operating leverage. Better labor efficiency might have helped contain rising wage costs, while revenue growth could spread fixed expenses across a larger sales base. However, commodity inflation of approximately 4% and certain near-term expenses are expected to have created pressure during the quarter. The company’s ability to balance pricing, cost control and customer value is expected to remain important for protecting profitability.
What Our Model Says About DRI StockOur proven model does not conclusively predict an earnings beat for Darden this time around. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the odds of an earnings beat, which is not the case here.
Earnings ESP for DRI: Darden has an Earnings ESP of -0.32%. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
Darden’s Zacks Rank: The company currently has a Zacks Rank #3.
Stocks Poised to Beat on EarningsHere are some stocks from the Zacks Retail-Wholesale sector that investors may consider, as our model shows that these have the right combination of elements to post an earnings beat.
The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated (CAKE - Free Report) currently has an Earnings ESP of +25.86% and a Zacks Rank of 1. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
In the to-be-reported quarter, CAKE’s earnings are expected to rise 27.9% year over year. CAKE’s earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, the average surprise being 10.1%.
Domino's Pizza, Inc. (DPZ - Free Report) has an Earnings ESP of +0.73% and a Zacks Rank of 3 at present.
In the to-be-reported quarter, Domino's earnings are expected to register 5.9% year-over-year growth. DPZ’s earnings missed estimates in the trailing three out of four quarters and beat once, with an average miss of 0.6%.
Shake Shack Inc. (SHAK - Free Report) has an Earnings ESP of +6.62% and a Zacks Rank of 3 at present.
In the to-be-reported quarter, SHAK’s earnings are expected to register an 11.1% year-over-year decline. SHAK’s earnings beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate in three of the trailing four quarters and missed on one occasion, with an average negative surprise of 10.6%.
Darden Restaurants (DRI - Free Report) is expected to deliver a year-over-year increase in earnings on higher revenues when it reports results for the quarter ended August 2026. This widely-known consensus outlook gives a good sense of the company's earnings picture, but how the actual results compare to these estimates is a powerful factor that could impact its near-term stock price.
The earnings report, which is expected to be released on September 24, might help the stock move higher if these key numbers are better than expectations. On the other hand, if they miss, the stock may move lower.
While the sustainability of the immediate price change and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's discussion of business conditions on the earnings call, it's worth handicapping the probability of a positive EPS surprise.
Zacks Consensus EstimateThis owner of Olive Garden and other chain restaurants is expected to post quarterly earnings of $2.05 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +4.1%.
Revenues are expected to be $3.2 billion, up 5.3% from the year-ago quarter.
Estimate Revisions TrendThe consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 0.32% lower over the last 30 days to the current level. This is essentially a reflection of how the covering analysts have collectively reassessed their initial estimates over this period.
Investors should keep in mind that an aggregate change may not always reflect the direction of estimate revisions by each of the covering analysts.
Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Earnings WhisperEstimate revisions ahead of a company's earnings release offer clues to the business conditions for the period whose results are coming out. Our proprietary surprise prediction model -- the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction) -- has this insight at its core.
The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a more recent version of the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.
Thus, a positive or negative Earnings ESP reading theoretically indicates the likely deviation of the actual earnings from the consensus estimate. However, the model's predictive power is significant for positive ESP readings only.
A positive Earnings ESP is a strong predictor of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold). Our research shows that stocks with this combination produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time, and a solid Zacks Rank actually increases the predictive power of Earnings ESP.
Please note that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss. Our research shows that it is difficult to predict an earnings beat with any degree of confidence for stocks with negative Earnings ESP readings and/or Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) or 5 (Strong Sell).
How Have the Numbers Shaped Up for Darden Restaurants?For Darden Restaurants, the Most Accurate Estimate is lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate, suggesting that analysts have recently become bearish on the company's earnings prospects. This has resulted in an Earnings ESP of -0.45%.
On the other hand, the stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of #3.
So, this combination makes it difficult to conclusively predict that Darden Restaurants will beat the consensus EPS estimate.
Does Earnings Surprise History Hold Any Clue?Analysts often consider to what extent a company has been able to match consensus estimates in the past while calculating their estimates for its future earnings. So, it's worth taking a look at the surprise history for gauging its influence on the upcoming number.
For the last reported quarter, it was expected that Darden Restaurants would post earnings of $3.63 per share when it actually produced earnings of $3.66, delivering a surprise of +0.83%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has beaten consensus EPS estimates just once.
Bottom LineAn earnings beat or miss may not be the sole basis for a stock moving higher or lower. Many stocks end up losing ground despite an earnings beat due to other factors that disappoint investors. Similarly, unforeseen catalysts help a number of stocks gain despite an earnings miss.
That said, betting on stocks that are expected to beat earnings expectations does increase the odds of success. This is why it's worth checking a company's Earnings ESP and Zacks Rank ahead of its quarterly release. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.
Darden Restaurants doesn't appear a compelling earnings-beat candidate. However, investors should pay attention to other factors too for betting on this stock or staying away from it ahead of its earnings release.
An Industry Player's Expected ResultsCracker Barrel Old Country Store (CBRL - Free Report) , another stock in the Zacks Retail - Restaurants industry, is expected to report earnings per share of $0.2 for the quarter ended August 2026. This estimate points to a year-over-year change of -73%. Revenues for the quarter are expected to be $831.12 million, down 4.3% from the year-ago quarter.
The consensus EPS estimate for Cracker Barrel has been revised 4.5% higher over the last 30 days to the current level. However, a lower Most Accurate Estimate has resulted in an Earnings ESP of -84.75%.
When combined with a Zacks Rank of #1 (Strong Buy), this Earnings ESP makes it difficult to conclusively predict that Cracker Barrel will beat the consensus EPS estimate. Over the last four quarters, the company surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times.
Stay on top of upcoming earnings announcements with the Zacks Earnings Calendar.
Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE:DRI) will release its first-quarter earnings report before the opening bell on Thursday, Sept. 24.
Analysts expect the Orlando, Florida-based company to report quarterly earnings of $2.05 per share, up from $1.97 per share in the year-ago period. The consensus estimate for DRI’s quarterly revenue is $3.21 billion. It reported $3.04 billion last year, according to Benzinga Pro.
On June 25, Darden Restaurants posted mixed fourth-quarter results.
Darden shares fell 0.5% to close at $208.08 on Wednesday.
Benzinga readers can access the latest analyst ratings on the Analyst Stock Ratings page. Readers can sort by stock ticker, company name, analyst firm, rating change or other variables.
Let’s have a look at how Benzinga’s most-accurate analysts have rated the company in the recent period.
Seaport Global analyst Eric Gonzalez initiated coverage on the stock with a Buy rating and a price target of $240 on Sept. 16, 2026. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 66%. Oppenheimer analyst Brian Bittner maintained an Outperform rating and raised the price target from $235 to $245 on Sept. 15, 2026. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 63%. Morgan Stanley analyst Brian Harbour maintained an Overweight rating and increased the price target from $236 to $255 on Sept. 14, 2026. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 56%. Citigroup analyst Jon Tower maintained a Buy rating and increased the price target from $245 to $248 on Sept. 11, 2026. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 67%. Keybanc analyst Christopher Carril maintained an Overweight rating and raised the price target from $228 to $237 on Aug. 27, 2026. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 59%. Trending
Considering buying DRI stock? Here’s what analysts think:
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Teledyne Qioptiq Receives First Option from Germany for Additional PHOENIX-XR Cooled Thermal Weapon Sights Valued at More Than $21 Million Teledyne Technologies Incorporated NYSE:TDY announced that Teledyne Qioptiq has received the first option from the German Bundeswehr for PHOENIX-XR cooled weapons sights valued at more than $21 million. This is part of the previously announced framework agreement between Germany and Teledyne Qioptiq valued at up to $175 million. Upon completion of this tranche, Teledyne Qioptiq will have delivered more than 1,000 PHOENIX-XR units to the German Ministry of Defence, reinforcing the company's position as Europe's leading supplier of ITAR-free cooled thermal weapon sights.
This award marks the largest European procurement of cooled thermal weapon sights in Teledyne Qioptiq's history and highlights the company's growing momentum in advanced soldier-system imaging technologies. Teledyne Qioptiq continues to support major defence programmes across Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America with advanced optical and imaging solutions for dismounted soldier systems, vehicle platforms and airborne applications.
"This contract underscores our commitment to equipping today's soldiers with the most advanced and dependable optical capabilities available," said Peter White, Senior Vice President, Optical Systems & Managing Director, Teledyne Qioptiq. "Our systems are designed to perform in the most challenging conditions, and we are proud to support our customer's mission readiness and long-term modernisation goals."
The PHOENIX-XR is a high-performance cooled Medium Wave Infrared (MWIR) clip-on thermal weapon sight engineered for long-range precision engagement. Its advanced sensor delivers significantly enhanced Detection, Recognition and Identification (DRI) capability, giving dismounted soldiers superior situational awareness and target acquisition in complex operational environments.
Deliveries under this option are scheduled to begin early next year, with completion aligned to the Bundeswehr's deployment timeline.
About Teledyne Qioptiq Optical Solutions
Teledyne Qioptiq Optical Solutions has over 60 years of experience delivering advanced optical and optronic solutions for defence, aerospace, and space applications. The company specialises in high-performance imaging, precision optics, and integrated systems that enable mission success in the world's most demanding environments. For more information, visit www.teledyneqioptiq.co.uk.
About Teledyne
Teledyne is a leading provider of sophisticated digital imaging products and software, instrumentation, aerospace and defense electronics, and engineered systems. Teledyne's operations are primarily located in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Western and Northern Europe. For more information, visit Teledyne's website at www.teledyne.com.
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260904556728/en/
Disclosures I/we have no positions in any stocks mentioned, and have no plans to buy any new positions in the stocks mentioned within the next 72 hours.
Callan Family Office LLC purchased a new stake in Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE:DRI – Free Report) in the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor purchased 4,840 shares of the restaurant operator’s stock, valued at approximately $997,000.
A number of other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of DRI. BlackRock Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Darden Restaurants in the second quarter worth about $2,015,109,000. Wellington Management Group LLP lifted its holdings in shares of Darden Restaurants by 81.0% during the 4th quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 8,077,567 shares of the restaurant operator’s stock valued at $1,486,434,000 after purchasing an additional 3,613,781 shares in the last quarter. Bank of America Corp DE grew its position in shares of Darden Restaurants by 44.6% in the 1st quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 3,212,283 shares of the restaurant operator’s stock valued at $629,736,000 after purchasing an additional 991,230 shares during the period. Bank of New York Mellon Corp acquired a new position in shares of Darden Restaurants in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $204,099,000. Finally, Norges Bank bought a new stake in Darden Restaurants during the 4th quarter worth approximately $144,483,000. 93.64% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.
Darden Restaurants Stock Up 1.8% Shares of DRI stock opened at $225.56 on Tuesday. The firm’s fifty day moving average price is $208.63 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $204.61. The company has a current ratio of 0.31, a quick ratio of 0.21 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.74. Darden Restaurants, Inc. has a 1 year low of $169.00 and a 1 year high of $229.76. The firm has a market capitalization of $25.73 billion, a P/E ratio of 21.73, a PEG ratio of 2.20 and a beta of 0.60.
Darden Restaurants (NYSE:DRI – Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, June 25th. The restaurant operator reported $3.66 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.63 by $0.03. The company had revenue of $3.72 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $3.73 billion. Darden Restaurants had a return on equity of 57.44% and a net margin of 9.13%.Darden Restaurants’s revenue for the quarter was up 13.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $2.98 EPS. Darden Restaurants has set its FY 2027 guidance at 11.100-11.350 EPS. On average, equities analysts predict that Darden Restaurants, Inc. will post 11.28 EPS for the current fiscal year. Darden Restaurants Increases Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, August 3rd. Stockholders of record on Friday, July 10th were issued a $1.62 dividend. This represents a $6.48 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.9%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, July 10th. This is a boost from Darden Restaurants’s previous quarterly dividend of $1.50. Darden Restaurants’s payout ratio is currently 62.43%.
Insiders Place Their Bets In other Darden Restaurants news, SVP Susan M. Connelly sold 9,930 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, July 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $206.21, for a total value of $2,047,665.30. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president owned 4,165 shares in the company, valued at $858,864.65. This trade represents a 70.45% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Also, CEO Ricardo Cardenas sold 39,134 shares of the business’s stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, July 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $209.06, for a total transaction of $8,181,354.04. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 86,146 shares in the company, valued at $18,009,682.76. This represents a 31.24% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Insiders sold 70,185 shares of company stock valued at $14,636,984 in the last ninety days. 0.67% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.
Analysts Set New Price Targets Several brokerages have commented on DRI. Stephens raised their target price on shares of Darden Restaurants from $210.00 to $216.00 and gave the stock an “equal weight” rating in a report on Friday, June 26th. BTIG Research increased their price objective on shares of Darden Restaurants from $225.00 to $235.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a research report on Friday, June 26th. Citigroup raised their price objective on shares of Darden Restaurants from $238.00 to $245.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a report on Monday, June 15th. Bank of America boosted their price objective on shares of Darden Restaurants from $272.00 to $276.00 and gave the company a “buy” rating in a research report on Friday, June 5th. Finally, Oppenheimer reaffirmed an “outperform” rating and issued a $235.00 target price on shares of Darden Restaurants in a research note on Thursday, June 18th. Eighteen research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and nine have issued a Hold rating to the company’s stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Darden Restaurants currently has an average rating of “Moderate Buy” and an average price target of $230.12.
View Our Latest Research Report on Darden Restaurants
Darden Restaurants Profile (Free Report)
Darden Restaurants, Inc is a multi-brand, full-service restaurant company headquartered in Orlando, Florida. The company owns and operates a portfolio of casual and fine-dining concepts that together serve millions of guests through company-owned and franchised locations. Its well-known brands include Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse, alongside other dining concepts that span Italian, American, steakhouse and upscale casual formats.
Darden’s restaurants provide a range of guest-facing services including dine-in, takeout, delivery and catering, and feature menus tailored to each brand’s positioning—Italian-American fare at Olive Garden, steaks and grilled items at LongHorn, and more premium steakhouse and chef-driven offerings at its upscale concepts.
Featured Stories Five stocks we like better than Darden Restaurants Visa Just Put Hims & Hers in the Penalty Box—Here’s Why It Matters Treasury Yields Are Surging Again: 3 Stocks That Could Feel the Pain Snowflake Could Be Headed for New Highs Despite Insider Selling MongoDB Is Surging—And the Next Catalyst Is Almost Here Want to see what other hedge funds are holding DRI? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE:DRI – Free Report).
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, /PRNewswire/ -- Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE: DRI) plans to release its fiscal 2027 first quarter financial results before the market opens on Thursday, September 24, 2026. The Company will host a conference call, led by Rick Cardenas, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Raj Vennam, Chief Financial Officer, to review first quarter results and conduct a question‑and‑answer session on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. ET.
The conference call will be webcast and can be accessed through the Company's Investor Relations website at investor.darden.com. Supplementary materials will be available on the website prior to the start of the conference call. A replay of the webcast will be available on the Company's Investor Relations website shortly after the conclusion of the call.
About Darden
Darden is a restaurant company featuring a portfolio of differentiated brands that include Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Yard House, Ruth's Chris Steak House, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, The Capital Grille, Chuy's, Seasons 52, and Eddie V's. For more information, please visit www.darden.com.
Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades, downgrades and initiations, please see our analyst ratings page.
Baird analyst Chris O’Cull upgraded Darden Restaurants Inc (NYSE:DRI) from Neutral to Outperform and raised the price target from $220 to $250. Darden closed at $221.60 on Friday. See how other analysts view this stock. Wolfe Research analyst Kalpit Patel upgraded Janux Therapeutics Inc (NASDAQ:JANX) from Peer Perform to Outperform and announced a $23 price target. Janux Therapeutics shares closed at $17.9390 on Friday. See how other analysts view this stock. UBS analyst David Vogt upgraded Celestica Inc (NYSE:CLS) from Neutral to Buy and raised the price target from $410 to $430. Celestica closed at $296.55 on Friday. See how other analysts view this stock. Wolfe Research analyst Trevor Allinson upgraded PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE:PHM) from Peer Perform to Outperform and announced a $129 price target. PulteGroup shares closed at $129.00 on Friday. See how other analysts view this stock. Considering buying DRI stock? Here’s what analysts think:
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Ricardo Cardenas, president and CEO of Darden Restaurants, Inc. (DRI +1.34%), sold 39,134 shares of common stock on July 28, according to a recent SEC Form 4 filing.
Transaction summaryMetricValueShares sold39,134Transaction value$8.2 millionPost-transaction shares (directly held)86,145Post-transaction value$17.83 millionTransaction value based on SEC Form 4 weighted average sale price ($209.06); post-transaction value based on the July 28 market close ($206.98).
Key questionsWhat was the primary driver of this transaction?
The activity involved an exercise of 39,134 stock options at a strike price of $124.24, allowing the executive to realize the spread between the exercise price and the $209.06 execution price while disposing of the underlying shares immediately.How does this affect the insider's total equity exposure?
Despite the reduction in direct holdings, Ricardo Cardenas remains a significant stakeholder with 86,145 shares held directly and additional derivative securities.What is the current operational and valuation context for the company?
Headquartered in Orlando, the company manages 2,200 restaurants through brands such as Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse. As of the July 29 market close, the stock was priced at $212.23, reflecting a 2% gain over the 12 months ending on the transaction date.Company OverviewMetricValueShare Price (as of market close 2026-07-29)$212.23Market Capitalization$24.3 billionRevenue (TTM)$13.2 billionNet Income (TTM)$1.2 billionCompany SnapshotDarden Restaurants operates a diverse portfolio of full-service dining establishments across the United States and Canada, generating revenue primarily through restaurant operations across its flagship brands, including Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchens, Yard House, Capital Grille, and Seasons 52.The company generates revenue through the direct operation of approximately 2,200 company-managed restaurants, leveraging a multi-brand strategy spanning casual dining, steakhouse, and upscale dining segments to optimize market penetration and customer acquisition across diverse demographics.Darden's primary customer base comprises middle to upper-middle income consumers seeking full-service dining experiences, with particular strength in family dining and special occasion dining across North American markets.Darden Restaurants is a leading full-service restaurant operator with a market capitalization of $24.3 billion and TTM revenues of $13.2 billion, positioning it as a significant player in the casual and upscale dining segment. The company's multi-brand portfolio strategy enables diversified revenue streams across varying price points and dining occasions, while its scale of 2,200 locations provides operational leverage and brand recognition. Darden's competitive advantages include established brand equity, operational efficiency in restaurant management, and a geographically diversified footprint that mitigates regional economic volatility.
What this transaction means for investorsThe options behind this sale were struck at $124.24, so with Darden near $209 Cardenas was sitting on about $85 a share in built-up gain, which is the kind of deep-in-the-money position that rewards exercising while the stock is high. There was no trading plan mentioned in the filing, which signals that the sale involved discretion around timing, but he kept 86,145 shares.
The results underneath, meanwhile, tell a split story. Darden crossed $13 billion in annual sales for the first time and lifted adjusted earnings 11.4% to $10.64 a share, but the growth is lopsided, with LongHorn Steakhouse comps up 9.5% last quarter while flagship Olive Garden managed just 2.4% and missed expectations. Beef inflation ran hotter than planned, pressuring the steakhouse that is otherwise carrying the company, but Cardenas still called the quarter "a strong finish to an excellent year."
One tension worth noting is that Darden's biggest brand is its slowest right now, and its fastest one depends on beef prices it does not control, so the split beneath the record top line is what the next few quarters will test, and what might help the stock mint a turnaround, or further pressure shares.
Jonathan Ponciano has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Rajesh Vennam, CFO of Darden Restaurants, Inc. (DRI +1.34%), sold 8,478 shares of common stock on July 29, according to a recent SEC Form 4 filing.
Transaction summaryMetricValueTransaction value$1.8 millionShares sold8,478Post-transaction shares (directly held)8,569Post-transaction value$1.82 millionTransaction value based on SEC Form 4 weighted average sale price ($210.00); post-transaction value based on the July 29 market close ($212.23).
Key questionsHow did this transaction affect the CFO's direct equity exposure?
Vennam reduced his direct common stock position from 17,047 shares to 8,569 sharesWhat is the current valuation context for Darden Restaurants?
As of the July 29 market close, the company had a market capitalization of $24.3 billion and was priced at $212.23. This represents a 5% one-year total return as of the transaction date, while the company maintains a trailing-12-month revenue base of $13.2 billion and net income of $1.2 billion.Company OverviewMetricValueShare Price (as of market close 2026-07-29)$212.23Market Capitalization$24.3 billionRevenue (TTM)$13.2 billionNet Income (TTM)$1.2 billionCompany SnapshotDarden Restaurants operates a diversified portfolio of full-service dining establishments across the United States and Canada, generating revenue through restaurant operations and food service delivery across multiple branded concepts, including Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, Yard House, Capital Grille, and Seasons 52.The company's business model centers on the ownership and operation of company-managed restaurants that generate revenue through food and beverage sales, with a focus on casual and upscale dining segments that emphasize consistent execution, operational efficiency, and brand differentiation.Darden's primary customers are middle- to upper-middle-income consumers seeking casual- to upscale dining experiences, with the company's portfolio strategically positioned to capture demand across multiple price points and dining occasions in both the United States and Canadian markets.Darden Restaurants operates one of the largest full-service restaurant portfolios in North America, with approximately 2,200 company-managed locations generating $13.2 billion in TTM revenue. The company maintains a competitive advantage through its multi-brand strategy, which allows it to serve diverse customer preferences and dining occasions while leveraging operational scale and supply chain efficiencies across its portfolio. With a market capitalization of $24.3 billion and net income of $1.2 billion TTM, Darden demonstrates strong profitability and market positioning within the consumer cyclical restaurant sector.
What this transaction means for investorsVennam sold at $210, close to where the stock traded, and kept 8,569 shares. Coming a day after the company's chief executive sold, it reads as senior leaders taking money off the table after a stock bump (shares had climbed nearly 10% in the preceding few days) rather than a coordinated signal, though the size of his cut is worth noting.
What they sold into was a strong year with a cautious outlook. Darden crossed $13 billion in sales for the first time and grew adjusted earnings 11.4%, but its guidance for the year ahead landed below what analysts wanted, projecting earnings of $11.10 to $11.35 a share against a Street looking for more. And as CFO, Vennam owns that forecast. Ultimately, the gap between a record year just posted and a cautious fiscal outlook is the tension here that long-term investors should watch, and it’s this performance in the short and medium term that will set the tone for the stock.
Jonathan Ponciano has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Laura B. Williamson, president of LongHorn Steakhouse at Darden Restaurants, Inc. (DRI +1.34%), sold 1,553 shares of common stock on July 31, according to a recent SEC Form 4 filing.
Transaction summaryMetricValueTransaction value$317,557Shares sold (total)1,553Shares sold (direct)1,110Shares sold (indirect)443Post-transaction shares (directly held)10,754Post-transaction shares (indirectly held)6,471Transaction value based on SEC Form 4 weighted average sale price ($204.48); post-transaction value based on the July 31 market close ($203.58).
Key questionsWhat entities represent the executive's remaining indirect ownership?
Following the sale of 443 indirect shares, Williamson maintains a position of 6,471 shares held through indirect entities, which includes 5,535 shares held by her spouse and 936 shares held via a 401 (k) plan.How does the current market price compare to the execution levels?
As of the August 3 market close, shares were priced at $206.24, approximately 1% higher than the weighted-average price of $204.48 at which the executive sold her shares on July 31.What is the significance of the remaining direct equity stake?
The executive continues to hold 10,754 shares directly, representing a position valued at approximately $2.2 million based on the August 3 market close.Company OverviewMetricValueShare Price (as of market close 2026-08-03)$206.24Market Capitalization$23.6 billionRevenue (TTM)$13.2 billionNet Income (TTM)$1.2 billionCompany SnapshotDarden Restaurants operates a diversified portfolio of full-service dining establishments across the United States and Canada, generating revenue through restaurant operations and food service delivery across multiple branded concepts, including Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchens, Yard House, Capital Grille, and Seasons 52.The company's business model centers on the ownership and operation of company-managed restaurants that generate revenue through in-restaurant dining, takeout, and delivery, with a focus on operational efficiency and brand-specific customer experiences.Darden's primary customer base comprises middle-market to affluent consumers seeking casual-to-upscale dining experiences, with its portfolio of brands positioned to capture demand across various price points and dining occasions throughout North America.Darden Restaurants operates one of North America's largest full-service restaurant portfolios with approximately 2,200 company-managed locations as of the most recent reporting period, generating $13.2 billion in TTM revenue. The company maintains a diversified brand strategy that enables it to serve multiple consumer segments and dining occasions, providing competitive resilience across varying economic conditions. With a market capitalization of $23.6 billion and a substantial employee base, Darden leverages operational scale and brand recognition to maintain pricing power and operational efficiency in the competitive casual and upscale dining sectors.
What this transaction means for investorsWilliamson runs a Darden brand that has been firing on all cylinders, which makes her sale among the most interesting of the several the company has seen this week. LongHorn Steakhouse posted 9.5% comparable sales growth last quarter, roughly four times what flagship Olive Garden managed, so if any executive had reason to feel good about her corner of the business, it is the person running LongHorn. She still sold, trimming a small slice and keeping more than 10,000 shares directly.
The catch for her brand sits in its own success. LongHorn's growth leans on steak, and Darden has been absorbing beef inflation that ran hotter than it planned, squeezing the margins of its best performer. Nevertheless, Cardenas called the past quarter "a strong finish to an excellent year," and the company crossed $13 billion in annual sales for the first time. LongHorn is carrying Darden right now, and it is doing so while seemingly paying more for the beef at the center of its menu, which is the balance the brand's momentum ultimately rests on.
Jonathan Ponciano has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The transaction involved the sale of 4,373 shares at $210.42 per share on July 29 for a total value of roughly $920,200. The sale represented an 85% reduction in King's total direct common stock holdings.
One Darden executive sold 2,226 shares for about $463,386 based on the July 29 weighted average execution price. The transaction reduced the executive's direct common stock holdings by 35% in this filing.
Empowered Funds LLC lifted its holdings in Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE:DRI – Free Report) by 34.3% in the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 12,762 shares of the restaurant operator’s stock after purchasing an additional 3,262 shares during the quarter. Empowered Funds LLC’s holdings in Darden Restaurants were worth $2,502,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.
Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in DRI. Capital World Investors boosted its stake in Darden Restaurants by 2.2% in the 4th quarter. Capital World Investors now owns 15,161,277 shares of the restaurant operator’s stock worth $2,790,128,000 after purchasing an additional 322,079 shares in the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Darden Restaurants by 0.3% in the fourth quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 14,063,355 shares of the restaurant operator’s stock worth $2,587,939,000 after buying an additional 43,965 shares during the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP raised its holdings in shares of Darden Restaurants by 81.0% in the fourth quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 8,077,567 shares of the restaurant operator’s stock worth $1,486,434,000 after buying an additional 3,613,781 shares during the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Darden Restaurants by 1.7% during the fourth quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 4,189,868 shares of the restaurant operator’s stock worth $771,020,000 after buying an additional 68,245 shares during the period. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted its stake in shares of Darden Restaurants by 9.4% during the fourth quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 2,918,165 shares of the restaurant operator’s stock worth $537,001,000 after buying an additional 251,246 shares during the period. 93.64% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.
Darden Restaurants Price Performance NYSE:DRI opened at $208.51 on Thursday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.21, a current ratio of 0.31 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.74. Darden Restaurants, Inc. has a 52 week low of $169.00 and a 52 week high of $220.65. The stock’s 50-day moving average price is $203.86 and its 200-day moving average price is $203.08. The stock has a market capitalization of $23.79 billion, a PE ratio of 20.09, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.04 and a beta of 0.60.
Darden Restaurants (NYSE:DRI – Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, June 25th. The restaurant operator reported $3.66 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts’ consensus estimates of $3.63 by $0.03. The company had revenue of $3.72 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $3.73 billion. Darden Restaurants had a return on equity of 57.44% and a net margin of 9.13%.Darden Restaurants’s quarterly revenue was up 13.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $2.98 EPS. Darden Restaurants has set its FY 2027 guidance at 11.100-11.350 EPS. As a group, equities analysts expect that Darden Restaurants, Inc. will post 11.28 EPS for the current fiscal year.
Darden Restaurants Increases Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, August 3rd. Investors of record on Friday, July 10th were paid a $1.62 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, July 10th. This represents a $6.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.1%. This is an increase from Darden Restaurants’s previous quarterly dividend of $1.50. Darden Restaurants’s dividend payout ratio is 62.43%.
Insider Activity at Darden Restaurants In related news, CFO Rajesh Vennam sold 8,478 shares of the business’s stock in a transaction on Wednesday, July 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $210.00, for a total value of $1,780,380.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer owned 8,569 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $1,799,490. The trade was a 49.73% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, CEO Ricardo Cardenas sold 39,134 shares of Darden Restaurants stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, July 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $209.06, for a total transaction of $8,181,354.04. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer owned 86,146 shares in the company, valued at approximately $18,009,682.76. This trade represents a 31.24% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders sold a total of 61,321 shares of company stock worth $12,790,347 over the last 90 days. 0.49% of the stock is owned by insiders.
Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several equities analysts recently issued reports on DRI shares. Weiss Ratings downgraded Darden Restaurants from a “buy (b)” rating to a “buy (b-)” rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 28th. Evercore cut Darden Restaurants from an “outperform” rating to an “in-line” rating and set a $230.00 price target for the company. in a research report on Tuesday, June 23rd. KeyCorp boosted their price target on Darden Restaurants from $226.00 to $228.00 and gave the company an “overweight” rating in a research note on Wednesday, May 27th. Bank of America increased their price objective on Darden Restaurants from $272.00 to $276.00 and gave the company a “buy” rating in a report on Friday, June 5th. Finally, Guggenheim raised their price objective on Darden Restaurants from $230.00 to $235.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a research note on Wednesday, June 24th. Seventeen investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and ten have issued a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus price target of $228.88.
View Our Latest Stock Report on DRI
Darden Restaurants Profile (Free Report)
Darden Restaurants, Inc is a multi-brand, full-service restaurant company headquartered in Orlando, Florida. The company owns and operates a portfolio of casual and fine-dining concepts that together serve millions of guests through company-owned and franchised locations. Its well-known brands include Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse, alongside other dining concepts that span Italian, American, steakhouse and upscale casual formats.
Darden’s restaurants provide a range of guest-facing services including dine-in, takeout, delivery and catering, and feature menus tailored to each brand’s positioning—Italian-American fare at Olive Garden, steaks and grilled items at LongHorn, and more premium steakhouse and chef-driven offerings at its upscale concepts.
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Ricardo Cardenas, President and CEO of Darden Restaurants, Inc. (DRI -1.64%), reported the disposition of 17,449 shares of common stock on July 26, 2026, and July 27, 2026, according to a recent SEC Form 4 filing. The transaction was non-discretionary, executed to cover tax obligations resulting from the exercise of 17,449 options, and does not reflect the insider's view on the stock.
Transaction summaryMetricValueTransaction value~$3.4 millionShares sold17,449Post-transaction shares (directly held)106,188Post-transaction value$21.67 millionTransaction value based on SEC Form 4 weighted average sale price ($196.31); post-transaction value based on July 27, 2026, market close ($204.10).
Key questionsWhat is the context of this transaction?
This was a non-discretionary sell-to-cover event associated with the vesting and exercise of equity awards. The firm withheld 17,449 shares to satisfy the insider's tax withholding requirements, an automated mechanism that is distinct from an open-market discretionary sale.What is the insider's remaining exposure to the company?
Following this transaction, Ricardo Cardenas maintains significant alignment with shareholders through the direct ownership of 106,188 shares, representing a 0.0927% stake in the company. Additionally, the insider continues to hold 11,625 direct derivative securities, maintaining long-term exposure to the firm's equity performance.How does the current valuation compare to the transaction price?
The transaction was executed at $196.31 per share during a period in which the stock had a one-year total return of -0.19% as of the July 27, 2026, transaction date. As of the July 28, 2026 market close, the stock was priced at $206.98, which was 5.44% higher than the transaction’s weighted-average price.What is the company's current financial profile?
Darden Restaurants operates a significant portfolio of 1,867 directly managed restaurants, including major brands such as Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse. The company reported trailing-twelve-month revenue of $13.2 billion and net income of $1.2 billion, supporting a market capitalization of $23.7 billion as of the latest data.Company OverviewMetricValueShare Price (as of market close 2026-07-28)$206.98Market Capitalization$23.7 billionRevenue (TTM)$13.2 billionNet Income (TTM)$1.2 billionCompany SnapshotDarden Restaurants operates a diversified portfolio of full-service dining establishments across the United States and Canada, generating revenue through restaurant operations across flagship brands including Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, Yard House, Capital Grille, and Seasons 52.The company's business model centers on the ownership and operation of company-managed restaurants that generate revenue from food and beverage sales, with a focus on casual dining and steakhouse concepts that appeal to a broad consumer base seeking full-service dining experiences.Darden's primary customers are middle- to upper-middle-income consumers seeking casual-to-upscale dining experiences, with a target market spanning families, business diners, and special-occasion celebrants across North American markets.Darden Restaurants operates one of North America's largest full-service restaurant portfolios, comprising approximately 1,867 directly managed locations that collectively generated $13.2 billion in TTM revenue. The company leverages its multi-brand strategy to capture diverse consumer preferences across casual dining and steakhouse segments, while maintaining operational scale and purchasing power that provide competitive advantages in a fragmented industry. With a market capitalization of $23.7 billion and net income of $1.2 billion TTM, Darden demonstrates strong profitability and market positioning within the consumer cyclical restaurant sector.
What this transaction means for investorsRicardo Cardenas, the CEO of Darden Restaurants (DRI), sold around 17,500 shares of Darden stock, according to a recent filing with the SEC. Here are some key takeaways for investors.
To start, insider sales are common. They happen for a variety of reasons, many of which have nothing to do with an insider’s conviction about the stock’s short-term prospects. For example, some sales are made as part of a long-standing stock management plan, family estate planning, or for tax purposes. Therefore, investors should always be careful not to read too much into an insider stock sale.
As for Darden stock, it has been a steady performer in recent years, though it has failed to outperform the benchmark S&P 500 index. Darden stock has delivered a total return of 67% over the last five years, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.9%. The S&P 500, meanwhile, has generated an 81% total return, with a 12.6% CAGR.
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The company reported earnings in late June, with earnings per share (EPS) slightly beating consensus estimates. Revenue grew nearly 14% year-over-year, falling just shy of estimates. All in all, Darden appears to be operating well. Its core Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse brands continue to drive steady same-store sales. What’s more, margins have remained robust, despite rising labor and commodity costs. The company also expanded its share buyback program to $1.5 billion. Last, Darden’s stock carries a sturdy dividend yield of 3.2%, making it enticing for income-oriented investors.
To sum up, Darden stock has slightly underperformed the market in recent years. However, after a solid recent earnings report, investors, particularly those seeking income, may want to take a closer look at the stock.
Chief People Officer Sarah H. King reported a sale of 4,373 shares of Darden Restaurants, Inc. (DRI -2.48%) on July 29, 2026, according to an SEC Form 4 filing.
Transaction summaryMetricValueTransaction value~$920,200Shares sold (direct)4,373Post-transaction shares (directly held)742Post-transaction value$157,474.66Transaction value based on SEC Form 4 weighted average sale price ($210.42); post-transaction value based on July 29, 2026 market close ($212.23).
Key questionsWhat was the primary driver of this transaction?
The transaction represented the sale of common shares at a weighted average price of $210.42.How does this sale align with the stock's recent performance?
The transaction occurred with the stock having delivered a roughly flat one-year gain. The shares were sold at $210.42, slightly below the trade-date market close of $212.23.What is the status of King's remaining equity exposure?
Following the 85% liquidation of her direct common stock position, King's direct ownership is reduced to 742 shares. However, she retains over 7,000 derivative securities, which provide continued exposure to the company's long-term equity performance.What is the company's current valuation context?
Darden Restaurants holds a market capitalization of $24 billion as of the July 29, 2026, market close. The company reported trailing twelve-month revenue of $13.2 billion and net income of $1.2 billion.Company OverviewMetricValueShare Price (as of market close 2026-07-29)$212.23Market Capitalization$24.3 billionRevenue (TTM)$13.2 billionNet Income (TTM)$1.2 billionCompany SnapshotDarden Restaurants operates a diversified portfolio of full-service dining establishments across the United States and Canada, generating revenue through restaurant operations and food service delivery across multiple branded concepts including Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, Yard House, Capital Grille, and Seasons 52.The company's business model centers on the ownership and operation of company-managed restaurants that generate revenue through food and beverage sales, with a focus on casual and upscale dining segments that emphasize consistent execution, operational efficiency, and brand differentiation.Darden's primary customers are middle to upper-middle income consumers seeking casual to upscale dining experiences, with the company's portfolio strategically positioned to capture demand across multiple price points and dining occasions in both the United States and Canadian markets.Darden Restaurants operates one of the largest full-service restaurant portfolios in North America, with approximately 1,867 company-managed locations generating $13.2 billion in TTM revenue. The company maintains a competitive advantage through its multi-brand strategy, which allows it to serve diverse customer preferences and dining occasions while leveraging operational scale and supply chain efficiencies across its portfolio. With a market capitalization of $24.3 billion and net income of $1.2 billion TTM, Darden demonstrates strong profitability and market positioning within the consumer cyclical restaurant sector.
What this transaction means for investorsKing was far from the only Darden executive to sell, joining the CEO and CFO, and like them she kept her options while shrinking her common stock, here down to 742 shares against more than 7,000 derivative securities. A few insiders lightening up together can spook investors, but the pattern might just point to a shared post-fiscal-year window rather than a coordinated verdict, and each of these insiders kept the bulk of their upside in options. Though shares are roughly flat over the past year, they’re still close to record levels, and ultimately, that just makes this seem more like ordinary diversification.
As chief people officer, King oversees the labor side of a business where staffing and wages drive costs. Darden crossed $13 billion in annual sales for the first time in fiscal 2026, with adjusted earnings up 11.4% to $10.64 per share, and it opened 71 restaurants while planning 75 to 80 more. CEO Ricardo Cardenas called the portfolio "more balanced and more diversified" than years past. That expansion pace will be more important to watch longer term than sales like this one. Staffing dozens of new restaurants a year is likely King's challenge, and labor costs are the line that could pressure margins as Darden grows.
Jonathan Ponciano has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Susan M. Connelly, the Chief Communications and Public Affairs Officer at Darden Restaurants (DRI -2.48%), sold 2,226 shares of common stock on July 29, 2026, according to a recent SEC Form 4 filing.
Transaction summaryMetricValueShares sold2,226Transaction value$463,386Post-transaction shares (directly held)4,165Post-transaction value$883,937.95Transaction value based on SEC Form 4 weighted average sale price ($208.17); post-transaction value based on July 29, 2026 market close ($212.23).
Key questionsWhat is the executive's remaining equity exposure following this disposal?
Despite the reduction in direct common stock, Connelly continues to hold 4,165 shares directly and a portfolio of derivative securities, which includes both vested and unvested awards.How does the execution price compare to recent market performance?
The weighted average execution price of $208.17 occurred on a day when the stock closed at $212.23 and reflects a period where Darden Restaurants has generated a 5% total return over the 12 months ending July 29, 2026.What are the fundamental metrics of the underlying company?
Darden Restaurants reported trailing twelve-month revenue of $13.2 billion and net income of $1.2 billion, with a total market capitalization of $24 billion as of the July 29, 2026 market close.Company OverviewMetricValueShare Price (as of market close 2026-07-29)$212.23Market Capitalization$24 billionRevenue (TTM)$13.2 billionNet Income (TTM)$1.2 billionCompany SnapshotDarden Restaurants operates a diversified portfolio of full-service dining establishments across the United States and Canada, generating revenue through restaurant operations and food service delivery across multiple branded concepts including Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, Yard House, Capital Grille, and Seasons 52.The company's business model centers on the ownership and operation of company-managed restaurants that generate revenue through food and beverage sales, with a focus on casual and upscale dining segments that emphasize consistent execution, operational efficiency, and brand differentiation.Darden's primary customers are middle to upper-middle income consumers seeking casual to upscale dining experiences, with the company's portfolio strategically positioned to capture demand across multiple price points and dining occasions in both the United States and Canadian markets.Darden Restaurants operates one of the largest full-service restaurant portfolios in North America, with over 2,000 locations generating $13.2 billion in TTM revenue. The company maintains a competitive advantage through its multi-brand strategy, which allows it to serve diverse customer preferences and dining occasions while leveraging operational scale and supply chain efficiencies across its portfolio. With a market capitalization of $24.3 billion and net income of $1.2 billion TTM, Darden demonstrates strong profitability and market positioning within the consumer cyclical restaurant sector.
What this transaction means for investorsConnelly is among several Darden executives who sold shares this week, and hers is the smallest of the batch, 2,226 shares at $208.17. Like her colleagues, she kept common stock and a mix of vested and unvested awards, so this trims rather than unwinds her position. Four insiders selling at once looks like a signal until you notice the timing, days after the fiscal year closed, when trading windows open and executives routinely rebalance. Selling below the day's close, near a stock that's roughly flat over the past year, points to housekeeping rather than a call on the business.
The business itself, meanwhile, has been a story of steady expansion. Darden topped $13 billion in annual sales for the first time in fiscal 2026, lifting adjusted earnings 11.4% to $10.64 per share. It returned $310 million to shareholders in the fourth quarter alone through dividends and buybacks. CEO Ricardo Cardenas said the portfolio has grown "more balanced and more diversified." For long-term investors, the firm’s shareholder returns are a meaningful anchor. A flat stock paired with buybacks and an 8% dividend hike (now up to $1.62 per share last quarter) means patience is being paid while the share price catches up.
Jonathan Ponciano has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Ricardo Cardenas, President and CEO of Darden Restaurants, Inc. (DRI -2.48%), sold 39,134 shares of common stock on July 28, 2026, according to a recent SEC Form 4 filing.
Transaction summaryMetricValueShares sold39,134Transaction value$8.2 millionPost-transaction shares (directly held)86,145Post-transaction value$17.83 millionTransaction value based on SEC Form 4 weighted average sale price ($209.06); post-transaction value based on July 28, 2026 market close ($206.98).
Key questionsWhat was the primary driver of this transaction?
The activity was a cashless exercise of 39,134 stock options at a strike price of $124.24, allowing the executive to realize the spread between the exercise price and the $209.06 execution price while disposing of the underlying shares immediately.How does this affect the insider's total equity exposure?
Despite the 31% reduction in direct holdings, Ricardo Cardenas remains a significant stakeholder with 86,145 shares held directly and additional derivative securities.Company OverviewMetricValueShare Price (as of market close 2026-07-29)$212.23Market Capitalization$24.3 billionRevenue (TTM)$13.2 billionNet Income (TTM)$1.2 billionCompany SnapshotDarden Restaurants operates a diverse portfolio of full-service dining establishments across the United States and Canada, generating revenue primarily through restaurant operations across its flagship brands including Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchens, Yard House, Capital Grille, and Seasons 52.The company generates revenue through the direct operation of company-managed restaurants, leveraging a multi-brand strategy that spans casual dining, steakhouse, and upscale dining segments to optimize market penetration and customer acquisition across diverse demographic segments.Darden's primary customer base comprises middle to upper-middle income consumers seeking full-service dining experiences, with particular strength in family dining and special occasion dining across North American markets.Darden Restaurants is a leading full-service restaurant operator with a market capitalization of $24 billion and TTM revenues of $13.2 billion, positioning it as a significant player in the casual and upscale dining segment. The company's multi-brand portfolio strategy enables diversified revenue streams across varying price points and dining occasions. Darden's competitive advantages include established brand equity, operational efficiency in restaurant management, and a geographically diversified footprint that mitigates regional economic volatility.
What this transaction means for investorsOptions struck at $124.24 against a stock trading near $209 is an $85 spread, and Cardenas converted 39,134 of them in one cashless move, selling the shares the same day. That surrenders 31% of his direct holdings, a bigger bite than most executive filings, but he still holds 86,145 shares plus a significant number of options. Cashing out a large in-the-money grant is exactly what you'd expect a CEO to do with vested compensation, and it says little about the road ahead.
Darden's own road is a study in contrasts by brand. Fourth-quarter sales for its fiscal year (reported last month) rose 13.7% to $3.7 billion, but the results were split: LongHorn Steakhouse posted 9.5% same-restaurant sales growth while flagship Olive Garden managed only 2.4%, missing expectations. Management guided fiscal 2027 to slower blended growth of 2.5% to 3.5%. Cardenas said the portfolio has grown "more balanced and more diversified" over seven years. For long-term investors, that Olive Garden softness is an important number to track. It's still the biggest brand at 42% of sales, so its deceleration could end up mattering more than LongHorn's strength, and management's cautious guidance suggests the slowdown may carry into the new year.
Jonathan Ponciano has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Rajesh Vennam, the CFO of Darden Restaurants (DRI -2.48%), sold 8,478 shares of common stock on July 29, 2026, according to a recent SEC Form 4 filing.
Transaction summaryMetricValueTransaction value$1.8 millionShares sold8,478Post-transaction shares (directly held)8,569Post-transaction value$1.82 millionTransaction value based on SEC Form 4 weighted average sale price ($210.00); post-transaction value based on July 29, 2026 market close ($212.23).
Key questionsHow did this transaction affect the CFO's direct equity exposure?
Rajesh Vennam reduced his direct common stock position from 17,047 shares to 8,569 shares.What is the current valuation context for Darden Restaurants?
As of the July 29, 2026, market close, the company had a market capitalization of $24 billion and was priced at $212.23. This represents a 5% one-year total return as of the transaction date, while the company maintains a trailing-twelve-month revenue base of $13.2 billion and net income of $1.2 billion.Company OverviewMetricValueShare Price (as of market close 2026-07-29)$212.23Market Capitalization$24 billionRevenue (TTM)$13.2 billionNet Income (TTM)$1.2 billionCompany SnapshotDarden Restaurants operates a diversified portfolio of full-service dining establishments across the United States and Canada, generating revenue through restaurant operations and food service delivery across multiple branded concepts, including Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, Yard House, Capital Grille, and Seasons 52.The company's business model centers on the ownership and operation of company-managed restaurants that generate revenue through food and beverage sales, with a focus on casual and upscale dining segments that emphasize consistent execution, operational efficiency, and brand differentiation.Darden's primary customers are middle to upper-middle income consumers seeking casual to upscale dining experiences, with the company's portfolio strategically positioned to capture demand across multiple price points and dining occasions in both the United States and Canadian markets.Darden Restaurants operates one of the largest full-service restaurant portfolios in North America, with approximately 1,867 company-managed locations generating $13.2 billion in TTM revenue. The company maintains a competitive advantage through its multi-brand strategy, which allows it to serve diverse customer preferences and dining occasions while leveraging operational scale and supply chain efficiencies across its portfolio. With a market capitalization of $24.3 billion and net income of $1.2 billion TTM, Darden demonstrates strong profitability and market positioning within the consumer cyclical restaurant sector.
What this transaction means for investorsVennam sold at $210, a shade under where the stock closed that day, trimming his directly held shares to 8,569. On its face, that looks like a big cut, but it misses the fuller picture: He still holds close to 15,000 options, according to the Form 4 filing, so his economic exposure to Darden is largely intact. A finance chief converting a slice of vested stock into cash while keeping the bulk of his upside in options is doing ordinary diversification, not backing away, and the timing days after the fiscal year closed is when insiders often act.
The numbers he oversees, meanwhile, show a company managing cost pressure well. Darden crossed $13 billion in annual sales for the first time, with fiscal 2026 adjusted earnings up 11.4% to $10.64 per share. Margins will be important to watch, though: Restaurant-level EBITDA margin compressed 20 basis points in the fourth quarter on elevated commodity costs. On the earnings call, Vennam said beef inflation for fiscal 2027 is "projected to be low single digits." For long-term investors, that beef inflation could be the swing factor. Darden's brands are performing, but the CFO's own words flag the cost line that could squeeze an otherwise steady year.
Jonathan Ponciano has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Dai ichi Life Insurance Company Ltd increased its position in shares of Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE:DRI – Free Report) by 66.7% in the first quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 7,495 shares of the restaurant operator’s stock after purchasing an additional 3,000 shares during the quarter. Dai ichi Life Insurance Company Ltd’s holdings in Darden Restaurants were worth $1,469,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.
A number of other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of DRI. Capital World Investors lifted its stake in Darden Restaurants by 2.2% during the 4th quarter. Capital World Investors now owns 15,161,277 shares of the restaurant operator’s stock valued at $2,790,128,000 after acquiring an additional 322,079 shares during the period. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Darden Restaurants by 0.3% in the 4th quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 14,063,355 shares of the restaurant operator’s stock valued at $2,587,939,000 after acquiring an additional 43,965 shares during the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP increased its stake in shares of Darden Restaurants by 81.0% in the fourth quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 8,077,567 shares of the restaurant operator’s stock worth $1,486,434,000 after acquiring an additional 3,613,781 shares during the period. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Darden Restaurants by 1.7% during the fourth quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 4,189,868 shares of the restaurant operator’s stock worth $771,020,000 after purchasing an additional 68,245 shares during the last quarter. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised its holdings in shares of Darden Restaurants by 9.4% during the fourth quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 2,918,165 shares of the restaurant operator’s stock worth $537,001,000 after purchasing an additional 251,246 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 93.64% of the company’s stock.
Darden Restaurants Price Performance NYSE:DRI opened at $196.28 on Monday. Darden Restaurants, Inc. has a 52 week low of $169.00 and a 52 week high of $220.65. The company has a quick ratio of 0.21, a current ratio of 0.31 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.74. The stock has a market capitalization of $22.48 billion, a PE ratio of 18.91, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.95 and a beta of 0.60. The stock’s 50-day moving average price is $202.76 and its 200-day moving average price is $203.00.
Darden Restaurants (NYSE:DRI – Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, June 25th. The restaurant operator reported $3.66 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts’ consensus estimates of $3.63 by $0.03. The company had revenue of $3.72 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $3.73 billion. Darden Restaurants had a return on equity of 57.44% and a net margin of 9.13%.Darden Restaurants’s quarterly revenue was up 13.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $2.98 EPS. Darden Restaurants has set its FY 2027 guidance at 11.100-11.350 EPS. As a group, equities analysts expect that Darden Restaurants, Inc. will post 11.28 EPS for the current fiscal year.
Darden Restaurants Increases Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, August 3rd. Stockholders of record on Friday, July 10th will be paid a dividend of $1.62 per share. This represents a $6.48 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.3%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, July 10th. This is a positive change from Darden Restaurants’s previous quarterly dividend of $1.50. Darden Restaurants’s dividend payout ratio is currently 62.43%.
Analysts Set New Price Targets Several equities research analysts have weighed in on DRI shares. Bank of America increased their price target on Darden Restaurants from $272.00 to $276.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a research report on Friday, June 5th. Stephens boosted their price objective on Darden Restaurants from $210.00 to $216.00 and gave the company an “equal weight” rating in a report on Friday, June 26th. Robert W. Baird upped their target price on Darden Restaurants from $210.00 to $220.00 and gave the stock a “neutral” rating in a research note on Friday, June 26th. Piper Sandler raised their target price on Darden Restaurants from $208.00 to $212.00 and gave the stock a “neutral” rating in a report on Friday, June 26th. Finally, Guggenheim raised their target price on Darden Restaurants from $230.00 to $235.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a report on Wednesday, June 24th. Seventeen investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and ten have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and an average target price of $228.88.
View Our Latest Stock Report on DRI
Insider Buying and Selling at Darden Restaurants In other news, SVP Susan M. Connelly sold 9,930 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, July 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $206.21, for a total transaction of $2,047,665.30. Following the transaction, the senior vice president owned 4,165 shares in the company, valued at $858,864.65. This trade represents a 70.45% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. 0.49% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.
About Darden Restaurants (Free Report)
Darden Restaurants, Inc is a multi-brand, full-service restaurant company headquartered in Orlando, Florida. The company owns and operates a portfolio of casual and fine-dining concepts that together serve millions of guests through company-owned and franchised locations. Its well-known brands include Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse, alongside other dining concepts that span Italian, American, steakhouse and upscale casual formats.
Darden’s restaurants provide a range of guest-facing services including dine-in, takeout, delivery and catering, and feature menus tailored to each brand’s positioning—Italian-American fare at Olive Garden, steaks and grilled items at LongHorn, and more premium steakhouse and chef-driven offerings at its upscale concepts.
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