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Chili's Plans Major Expansion in US
Developing
In Short: Chili's is not limiting its expansion to traditional markets. The company is actively seeking opportunities in new areas, such as Washington state, where it currently has only one streetside restaurant compared to its competitors, which have around 35 to 40 locations.
Chili's, the casual dining chain, announced plans to significantly expand its footprint in the United States, targeting a 2% to 3% annual increase in restaurant count. According to Brinker International’s 2026 Investor Day presentation, the company has identified up to 300 potential sites for future locations.
Sales at Chili's restaurants that have been open for at least a year have climbed 71% over the period, indicating strong consumer demand. Additionally, the company reported a 5.6% increase in same-store sales during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2026.
Chili's is not limiting its expansion to traditional markets. The company is actively seeking opportunities in new areas, such as Washington state, where it currently has only one streetside restaurant compared to its competitors, which have around 35 to 40 locations.
Brinker CEO Kevin Hochman emphasized the relevance of Chili's in today's market, stating, 'Chili’s has never been more relevant.' He noted that the chain has fewer restaurants in Washington state than its two closest competitors, which together have about four times as many locations there.
The expansion will occur alongside a nationwide redesign of existing Chili’s restaurants. New Chili’s restaurants cost about $5 million to $6 million to build, while newer locations are generating more than $5 million in annual sales, according to CFO Mika Ware.
Brinker International, Chili’s parent company, plans to add 20 to 30 restaurants a year through fiscal 2029 as part of a broader growth strategy.
What this adds
Chili's expansion strategy includes a focus on newer markets where it sees growth potential, such as Washington state, which currently has limited Chili's presence.
What's still developing
- Nothing material beyond the confirmed record.