Brinker International (NYSE:EAT) (NYSE:EAT) is a leading full-service restaurant company that owns, operates and franchises casual dining brands. The company’s flagship concept, Chili’s Grill & Bar, offers an American-inspired menu featuring signature items such as baby back ribs, burgers, fajitas and a selection of Tex-Mex dishes, complemented by a broad beverage program. In addition, Brinker operates Maggiano’s Little Italy, a full-service Italian-American restaurant chain known for classic pastas, family-style entrees and made-from-scratch desserts. Across both brands, Brinker emphasizes dine-in, carryout, off-premise catering and delivery services to meet evolving consumer preferences.
Since its founding in 1975 with the opening of the first Chili’s restaurant in Dallas, Texas, Brinker has grown into a global restaurant operator. In 1976, restaurateur Norman Brinker acquired the concept and orchestrated rapid expansion. The company went public in 1983, and in 1991 it launched Maggiano’s Little Italy in Chicago. Over the ensuing decades, Brinker's strategic focus on brand innovation, operational efficiency and guest engagement has driven the development of new menu items, digital ordering platforms and loyalty programs.
Brinker International serves guests across the United States and in more than 30 countries and U.S. territories through a mix of company-owned and franchised restaurants. Its international presence spans markets in Latin America, the Middle East, Europe, Asia Pacific and Canada, with master franchise agreements facilitating local partnerships and market entry. In the U.S., Brinker’s footprint extends to all 50 states, where it continues to pilot new restaurant designs, menu innovations and off-premise initiatives to stay ahead of consumer trends.
Leadership at Brinker is headed by President and Chief Executive Officer Wyman Roberts, who oversees strategy, brand development and digital transformation efforts. The company’s board of directors is chaired by David T. Bonner, providing governance and long-term oversight. Brinker places a strong emphasis on people-focused culture, community engagement and sustainability, leveraging its foundation and brand platforms to support charitable causes and responsible sourcing across its supply chain.
