Copyright AL.com
Is there hope for a twice-bankrupted restaurant that once boasted more than 700 locations but is now down to less than 75? Leaders at one iconic steakhouse chain believe there is and are banking on a new look as part of its comeback. Founded in 1958, Sizzler is in the process of updating its stores and, according to Chief Growth Officer Robert Clark, the work is paying off. Updated stores are seeing sales rise roughly 47%, Clark told restaurant website QSR. “We feel like we have a really great brand here,” Clark said. “And our results have been very solid. We constantly pop up in pop culture. I think what we’re trying to do with the remodel is really stay relevant and have facilities and assets that meet our reputation. We understand that remodeling is probably the single biggest driver of guests in the restaurant.” The redesign began in 2023 and includes such Sizzler staples as the all-you-can-eat salad bar. Updated dining rooms feature tile flooring, wood accents, refreshed paint and an added fireplace. So far, nine Sizzler restaurants have been updated with plans for franchisees to follow suit. ‘The revamp comes after two previous bankruptcy filings – the first in 1996 and the second in 2000. Sizzler remains in a handful of states, according to tracking by The Street. There are locations in Arizona (2), Idaho (3), New Mexico (1), Oregon (4) and Utah (4) as well as 10 restaurants in Puerto Rico. The chain recently closed its last Florida location in Kissimmee near Disney World.
