#United States #Orlando #Darden Restaurants #Olive Garden #LongHorn Steakhouse

Darden Restaurants Shows Impressive Growth in Q2 Fiscal 2026

Darden Restaurants, Inc., a leader in the dining industry, proudly announced its financial outcomes for the second quarter ending November 23, 2025. The results highlight a robust sales increase and an overall positive trajectory for the company.

Financial Performance Overview

In comparison to the same fiscal quarter from the previous year, Darden experienced a significant total sales growth of 7.3%, reaching $3.1 billion. This increase was boosted by a blended same-restaurant sales uptick of 4.3%, alongside the addition of 30 new locations.

Same-Restaurant Sales Breakdown

• - Consolidated Darden: 4.3%
• - Olive Garden: 4.7%
• - LongHorn Steakhouse: 5.9%
• - Fine Dining: 0.8%
• - Other Business: 3.1%

The reported diluted net earnings per share from continuing operations was $2.03. After adjusting for certain costs related to the Chuy's acquisition and closed restaurants, the adjusted net earnings were $2.08, marking a 2.5% improvement from the previous year.

Strategic Initiatives and Investments

President and CEO Rick Cardenas expressed pride in the company’s performance, noting that the restaurant teams excelled in delivering exceptional customer satisfaction scores across all brands despite facing several challenges, including commodity price increases. Cardenas emphasized Darden's commitment to providing value and making investments aimed at long-term success.

Shareholder Returns

In another positive development, Darden's Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $1.50 per share, set to be paid out on February 2, 2026. This decision reaffirms the company’s dedication to returning value to its shareholders, as Darden also repurchased approximately $222 million worth of its stock during the quarter.

Fiscal Outlook for 2026

Darden has updated its financial outlook for fiscal 2026, projecting total sales growth of 8.5% to 9.3%, which takes into account the addition of a 53rd week in the fiscal year. Notable expectations include:

• - Growth in same-restaurant sales between 3.5% and 4.3%.
• - Opening of 65 to 70 new restaurants.
• - Total capital expenditures estimated at $750 to $775 million.
• - Anticipated total inflation around 3.5% and an effective tax rate of approximately 13%.
• - Adjusted diluted net earnings per share expected to fall between $10.50 and $10.70, which includes contributions from the additional week.

Darden continues to foster strategic growth plans by focusing on operational excellence and embracing innovations in its customer offerings, aiming for sustained expansion within the thriving restaurant sector.

Conclusion

Darden Restaurants' commitment to delivering a premium dining experience, coupled with a firm financial foundation, positions the company well for future growth. Stakeholders can remain optimistic as the company navigates challenges while pursuing its strategic objectives aimed at enhancing value for customers and investors alike.

For more updates, Darden will host a conference call to discuss these results in depth, ensuring transparency and continued engagement with shareholders and analysts alike.