BUSINESS

Orlando restaurant giant Darden beats profit forecasts

PUBLISHED Jun 25, 2026, 9:10 AM ET

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ORLANDO, Florida – Darden Restaurants Inc. reported fiscal fourth-quarter and full-year results on Thursday that beat Wall Street expectations, supported by robust growth at LongHorn Steakhouse and steady gains at Olive Garden. The company posted quarterly net income of $404.9 million, or $3.51 per share, and said adjusted earnings were $3.66 per share, topping the $3.63 consensus estimate from Zacks Investment Research. Fourth-quarter sales rose 13.7% to $3.72 billion, driven by a 4.6% blended increase in same-restaurant sales, the opening of 43 net new locations and the benefit of a 53rd week in the fiscal year. Brand performance varied across the portfolio, with Olive Garden generating $1.54 billion in quarterly sales, up from $1.38 billion a year earlier, on a 2.4% rise in same-restaurant sales. LongHorn Steakhouse recorded $1.02 billion in sales and led growth with a 9.5% jump in same-restaurant sales, while the Fine Dining segment grew 1.9%. For the full fiscal year 2026, Darden’s total sales increased 9.4% to $13.21 billion, and diluted net earnings per share were $10.44, or $10.64 on an adjusted basis. The company also disclosed $0.12 per share in costs related to restaurant closures during the quarter.

By Sarah Whitman | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Fiscal 2026 year Darden sales rise 9.4 percent
Fiscal 2026 year adjusted EPS hits $10.64
Fourth quarter sales climb to $3.72 billion
Fourth quarter same-restaurant sales up 4.6 percent
Fourth quarter net income totals $404.9 million
Olive Garden quarterly sales reach $1.54 billion
LongHorn Steakhouse same-restaurant sales surge 9.5 percent
Board approves new $1.5 billion share repurchase

News Intelligence

Darden's strong performance could mean more stability for its workers. If you're a Darden employee, this could mean job security. If you're a customer, expect your favorite restaurants like Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse to keep serving up meals. Check your local listings for any new openings.