BUSINESS

Orlando restaurant giant Darden beats profit forecasts

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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.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.

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

Why This Matters to You

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.

The Bottom Line

Darden is cooking up success with robust growth and steady gains. It's a testament to the resilience of the restaurant industry. If you're an investor, Darden's numbers are worth a second look. Worth forwarding if you know someone who loves a good business comeback story.