2013

Applebee's Tops $3 Million in "Toys for Tots" Contributions

This Year $262,878 Was Raised Locally to Support U.S. Marine Corps Program

Long Island, NY - February 25, 2013 – Over the past fourteen years, Applebee's Breakfast with Santa events on Long Island and at participating restaurants in New Jersey have raised a combined total of over $3 million for the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots program. Every year, neighborhood Applebee's in our area donate 100% of the proceeds from each of their local events and from guest purchases of paper "gift packages." This year, $262,878 was raised to help provide happiness and hope to disadvantaged children and to kids whose homes and gifts were destroyed during super storm Sandy. Dollars raised in each community benefitted that local community. On Long Island alone, over $107,000 was raised.

For just $7.99, diners can choose one wrap or quesadilla, one soup or salad, and one side dish from the special Mix 'n' Match Lunch Combo menu. A soft drink is included too.

Applebee's Raises $262,878 for Local Kids – Now in its 14th year, Applebee's Breakfast with Santa events on Long Island and at participating restaurants in New Jersey have raised over $3 million for the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots program. This year, $107,280 was raised on Long Island alone to help provide happiness and hope to disadvantaged children and to kids whose homes and holiday gifts were destroyed during super storm Sandy. Pictured are (L-R): U.S. Marine Corporal Adam Adams, U.S. Marine Staff Sergeant Fredrick Wiedenmann and David DiBartolo, Vice President of Operations for Doherty Enterprises, Inc., Applebee's area franchisee.

About Applebee's
Applebee's is the world's largest casual dining chain, with approximately 2,000 locations in 49 states, 15 countries and one U.S. territory. Based in Kansas City, Mo., Applebee's takes pride in providing a welcoming, neighborhood environment where everyone can enjoy the dining experience. Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar® is a DineEquity, Inc. (NYSE: DIN) brand, and is franchised and operated by Applebee's Services, Inc. and its affiliates. Recently, Applebee's was voted top national chain for "Best Dinner Deal" in the 2013 Bethpage FCU Best of Long Island rankings.

Long Island Locations
Nassau County
Baldwin, Bellmore, Bethpage, Elmont, New Hyde Park, Rosedale, Valley Stream and Westbury

Suffolk County
Bohemia, Brentwood, Commack, East Farmingdale, East Islip, Farmingville, Huntington, Lake Grove, Lindenhurst, Miller Place, North Babylon, Patchogue, Riverhead and Shirley

About Doherty Enterprises, Inc.
Doherty Enterprises, Inc. was established in 1985 and is the 10th largest franchisee in the United States, operating five restaurant concepts including: Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Panera Bread, Chevys Fresh Mex, and two of their own concepts, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub and Spuntino Wine Bar and Italian Tapas. To date, Doherty Enterprises owns and operates 100 restaurants in northern and central New Jersey, Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn and Staten Island. The Doherty vision is to be the "Best Food Service Company in the Tri-State Area" and its mission is to "Wow Every Guest Every Time, Wow Our People, Wow Our Communities and Wow Our Suppliers." (www.DohertyInc.com)

Gilda's Club NYC Beneficiary of Local Panera Bread Fundraiser

Pink Ribbon Bagels Raise $5,211 for Gilda's Club Programs

New York City, NY – February 18, 2013 - Gilda's Club NYC was selected as the beneficiary of the Pink Ribbon Bagel campaign initiated by Panera Bread bakery-cafes in Staten Island, Queens and Brooklyn this past October. Proceeds from the sale of thousands of hand-twisted Pink Ribbon bagels, totaling $5,211, went directly to benefit the vital support services that GCNYC offers individuals who are battling cancer.

Panera Bread was among the dozens of donors who attended GCNYC's Donor Appreciation Ceremony at the clubhouse at 195 W Houston Street in Manhattan on Thursday, February 7.

"This is the second year that our Panera Bread bakery-cafes have teamed up to help out Gilda's Club NYC," says Greg George, Vice President of Operations for the local Panera Bread bakery-cafes operated by Doherty Enterprises, Inc. "We hope that the monies we have raised will go a long way in helping to advance the good work they do in support of the social and emotional needs of individuals impacted by cancer."

Gilda's Club NYC recently celebrated its 17th anniversary and now has over 6,000 members, including many at community satellites in Brooklyn and the Bronx. Since its inception, the Manhattan Clubhouse has seen over 100,000 member visits. Named in honor of Gilda Radner, the clubhouses provide welcoming communities of free support for everyone living with cancer along with their families and friends. GCNYC offers a crucial complement to medical care by providing networking and support groups, workshops, educational lectures and social activities, all offered without charge to those it serves. To volunteer, make a donation or learn more about their services, visit www.gildasclubnyc.org.

Panera Bread Pink Ribbon Bagels Raise $5,200 for Gilda's Club NYC – At a recent Donors Appreciation Ceremony held at Gilda's Club NYC (GCNYC), donors had the opportunity to tour the "clubhouse" and hear members stories about their club member experiences. GCNYC provides networking and support groups, workshops, lectures and social activities, all free of charge to men, women, teens and children facing cancer. Pictured above in front of the club's colorful and creative donor's wall are (left to right): Eileen Jackson, Associate Director of Special Events GCNYC, Ashley Cabarcas, representing Panera Bread, Robert J. Easton, Chairman, GCNYC Board of Directors, Lily Safani, GCNYC CEO, and Deborah Wilson, GCNYC Director of Development receiving a check from Panera Bread to help further the club's efforts.

About Panera Bread
Panera Bread Company owns and franchises 1,591 bakery-cafes as of June 26, 2012 under the Panera Bread®, Saint Louis Bread Co.®, and Paradise Bakery & Café® names. We feature high quality, reasonably priced food in a warm, inviting and comfortable environment. With our identity rooted in handcrafted, fresh-baked, artisan bread, we are committed to providing great tasting, quality food that people can trust. Nearly all of our bakery-cafes have a menu highlighted by antibiotic free chicken, whole grain bread and select organic and all natural ingredients, with zero grams of artificial trans fat per serving, which provide flavorful, wholesome offerings. Our menu includes a wide variety of year-round favorites complemented by new items introduced seasonally with the goal of creating new standards in everyday food choices. In neighborhoods across this country and in Ontario, Canada, our customers enjoy our warm and welcoming environment featuring comfortable gathering areas, relaxing decor and free internet access. Our bakery-cafes routinely donate bread and baked goods to community organizations in need. An essential sponsor, Panera Bread's Long Island, Brooklyn and Queens locations provide over 2200 pounds of bread each week from its area bakery-cafes to Island Harvest and City Harvest its Operation Dough-nation® partners. In the 2012 Zagat Fast Food Survey, Panera Bread was voted #1 in the Best Healthy Options category. While in October 2012, Nation's Restaurant News reported a consumer survey ranking Panera Bread America's #1 favorite sandwich chain. Additional information about Panera Bread is available on the Company's website, http://www.panerabread.com.

Queens locations
Bayside, Glendale, Little Neck, Long Island City and Rego Park.

Staten Island locations
Charleston's South Shore Commons at 2935 Veteran's Road West and near the Staten Island Mall on Marsh Avenue.

Brooklyn locations
Kings Plaza (Flatbush Avenue) and 345 Adams Street (just north of the Fulton Street Mall)

Long Island locations
Bay Shore, Bohemia, Bridgehampton, Carle Place, East Meadow, East Northport, Farmingdale, Hauppauge, Hampton Bays, Hicksville, Huntington, Lake Grove, Lawrence, Massapequa, Mineola, New Hyde Park, North Babylon, Port Jefferson, Riverhead, Rockville Centre, Syosset and West Babylon.

About Doherty Enterprises, Inc.
Doherty Enterprises, Inc. was established in 1985 and is the 10th largest franchisee in the United States, operating five restaurant concepts including: Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Panera Bread, Chevys Fresh Mex, and two of their own concepts, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub and Spuntino Wine Bar and Italian Tapas. To date, Doherty Enterprises owns and operates 100 restaurants in northern and central New Jersey, Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn and Staten Island. The Doherty vision is to be the “Best Food Service Company in the Tri-State Area” and its mission is to “Wow Every Guest Every Time, Wow Our People, Wow Our Communities and Wow Our Suppliers.” (www.DohertyInc.com)

About Gilda's Club New York City
Named after comedienne Gilda Radner, Gilda's Club New York City opened its clubhouse red door in 1995 to address the social and emotional needs of individuals impacted by cancer along with their families and friends. In New York City alone, over 37,000 individuals are newly diagnosed with cancer annually and 3 out of every 4 families are impacted by cancer. Gilda's Club NYC ensures that men, women, teens and children receive the support they need at our downtown clubhouse and six satellite locations throughout New York City. Through our support and networking groups, educational lectures, social events and teen and children's programs, Gilda's Club NYC supports the entire family so no one has to face cancer alone.

Applebee's Apple "Goes Green" for St. Pat's Day

Celebrate with three days of Irish food and drink specials

Long Island, NY – February 4, 2013 – For St. Patrick's Day everyone turns Irish! Even Applebee's iconic red apple is "going green" and the restaurant will be serving up some special dishes and drinks for all who are Irish or Irish at heart. The celebrating starts Friday, March 15 and runs through Sunday, March 17 at Applebee's Neighborhood Grill and Bar in (Town).

"In honor of St. Patrick's Day people wear green, go out and have a good time and, of course, eat corned beef and cabbage while enjoying a draft or two. So, Applebee's, which is operated by Doherty Enterprises, is honoring those traditions with food and drink specials served up just for the occasion," says Marc Prince, Director of Operations for the Long Island Applebee's.

All weekend long, Applebee's St. Patrick's Day menu will include Corned Beef & Cabbage for $11.99 as well as its Corned Beef Reuben & Fries for $9.99. For those in the mood for appetizers, the luck of the Irish is with them; Applebee's is offering its Green Bean Crispers and its Brew Pub Pretzels & Beer Cheese Dip each for only $6.00 during the celebration. The restaurant will also be offering drink specials including Miller Lite drafts for $3 as well as $4 Irish coffees and $5 Mucho Sangrias including Applebee's signature Red Apple Sangria.

Like all night's, Applebee's is open until midnight or later and the St. Pat's special pricing and menu items are being offered from opening to close at all Applebee's in Nassau and Suffolk counties from March 15 through 17th. To locate the Applebee's nearest you, visit www.applebees.com.

Applebee's Honors St. Patrick's Traditions…Applebee's Neighborhood Grill and Bar is celebrating St. Patrick's Day from Friday, March 15 through Sunday, March 17, with Irish-themed food and drink specials all-day long, including Corned Beef & Cabbage, Reuben & Fries and Green Apple Sangrias for all who are Irish at heart! To locate a participating Applebee's near you, visit www.applebees.com.

Long Island Locations
Nassau County
Baldwin, Bellmore, Bethpage, Elmont, New Hyde Park, Rosedale, Valley Stream and Westbury

Suffolk County
Bohemia, Brentwood, Commack, East Farmingdale, East Islip, Farmingville, Huntington, Lake Grove, Lindenhurst, Miller Place, North Babylon, Patchogue, Riverhead and Shirley

Make Valentine's Day, Valentine's Weekend

Long Island, NY – January 30, 2013 – Valentine's Day is officially February 14 and many couples will undoubtedly make Thursday their big night out. But, if your love has no limits, then why limit Valentine's Day to just one day? Applebee's expects to see many twosomes cozying up to their two for $20 specials all weekend long. Couples can express their togetherness with a shared appetizer; then each can express his or her individuality with an entrée of their choice. The deal has become so popular with guests that Applebee's was recently voted top national chain for "Best Dinner Deal" in the 2013 Bethpage FCU Best of Long Island.

"Couples who are too busy to eat out, or prefer to cozy up at home, can also order a 2 for $20 to share from our convenient Carside-to-Go option," says Marc Prince, Vice President of Operations for the Long Island Applebee's.

To locate an Applebee's near you, visit www.Applebees.com.

Long Island Locations
Nassau County
Baldwin, Bellmore, Bethpage, Elmont, New Hyde Park, Rosedale, Valley Stream and Westbury

Suffolk County
Bohemia, Brentwood, Commack, East Farmingdale, East Islip, Farmingville, Huntington, Lake Grove, Lindenhurst, Miller Place, North Babylon, Patchogue, Riverhead and Shirley

Applebee's Kicks Off the Big Game with a Big Party Platter Deal

New York – January 16, 2013 – In just a few weeks, all eyes will be on the Big Game and Long Island fans can get in the game with a real deal. Applebee's restaurants in Nassau and Suffolk are offering a pre-game special that includes one free Spinach & Artichoke Dip Platter with any pre-ordered Party Platter. Choose from regular or boneless Chicken Wings with your choice of Honey BBQ, Hot Buffalo, Classic Buffalo or Sweet & Spicy sauce, or get a platter of Chicken Fingers or Cheeseburger Sliders; around $30 each on Applebee's Party Platter Pre-Order Form. Then, pick up your pre-ordered platters on Sunday, February 3rd for the game, turn on the television, pop open a few cold ones and enjoy the game with friends. It doesn't get easier than that! Offer is valid at all 22 Nassau and Suffolk County Applebee's.

Long Island Locations
Nassau County
Baldwin, Bellmore, Bethpage, Elmont, New Hyde Park, Rosedale, Valley Stream and Westbury

Suffolk County
Bohemia, Brentwood, Commack, East Farmingdale, East Islip, Farmingville, Huntington, Lake Grove, Lindenhurst, Miller Place, North Babylon, Patchogue, Riverhead and Shirley

About Doherty Enterprises, Inc.
Doherty Enterprises, Inc. was established in 1985 and is the 12th largest franchisee in the United States, operating five restaurant concepts including: Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Panera Bread, Chevys Fresh Mex, and their own concepts, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub and Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas. To date, Doherty Enterprises owns and operates 97 restaurants in northern and central New Jersey, Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn and Staten Island. The Doherty vision is to be the "Best Food Service Company in the Tri-State Area" and its mission is to "Wow Every Guest Every Time, Wow Our People, Wow Our Communities and Wow Our Suppliers." (www.DohertyInc.com)

Celebrate Mardi Gras New Orleans Style at Applebee's

New York – January 16, 2013 – In New Orleans, Mardi Gras is a time of masquerading, merrymaking, parades, pageantry, and good food. During Carnevale, people stroll along the canal lined streets of Venice in ornate costumes and, in Rio, Carnaval is one big happy party. Here, you can celebrate Fat Tuesday, February 12, with spicy Cajun-inspired dishes like Applebee's Bourbon Street Steak, Bourbon Street Chicken & Shrimp, Cajun Shrimp Pasta in a Cajun scampi sauce, and Sizzling N'Awlins Skillet with blackened chicken, shrimp and andouille sausage served with jambalaya.

To add to the N'Awlins style celebration, Applebee's is serving up Hurricanes, a mixture of Myer's dark rum and Captain Morgan spiced rum mixed with sweet and sour, together with a combination of pineapple and orange juice.

Those who can't make it down to the Big Easy this Mardi Gras season, can still enjoy Cajun-style cooking at their neighborhood Applebee's. To find a location near you, visit www.Applebees.com.

Long Island Locations
Nassau County
Baldwin, Bellmore, Bethpage, Elmont, New Hyde Park, Rosedale, Valley Stream and Westbury

Suffolk County
Bohemia, Brentwood, Commack, East Farmingdale, East Islip, Farmingville, Huntington, Lake Grove, Lindenhurst, Miller Place, North Babylon, Patchogue, Riverhead and Shirley

2012

Mix 'N' Match Lunch Combos Offered At Clifton, NJ Chevys Fresh Mex

Endless Lunch Options Possible as Lunch Guests Create Unique Combinations

Clifton, NJ – October 2, 2012 – With the new Mix 'n' Match Lunch Combos at Chevys Fresh Mex, patrons no longer have to make the difficult choice between one tempting taste treat or another from Chevys' appetizing lunchtime menu. Instead, each guest can create his or her own unique lunch combo with selections from three different categories.

For just $7.99, diners can choose one wrap or quesadilla, one soup or salad, and one side dish from the special Mix 'n' Match Lunch Combo menu. A soft drink is included too.

The wrap or quesadilla options include a California Wrap (vegetarian), Sante Fe Wrap, Philly Cheese Steak Wrap, Chicken Club Wrap, Buffalo Chicken Wrap, Salsa Chicken Quesadilla and Veggie Quesadilla. The soup or salad choices are Kickin' Corn Chowder, Chicken Tortilla Soup, House Salad and Caesar Salad. Last but not least is a choice of a side dish from among French Fries, Rice, and Beans (black or refried).

And if these options still aren't enough, there's also the $7.99 Build Your Own Burrito selection. This one's tasty too, but even tougher because you need to make four decisions: 1) Beef, Chicken or Veggie; 2) Green, Meat or Red Sauce; 3) Black or Refried Beans; and 4) Cheddar, Jack or Mixed Cheese. Build Your Own Burrito also comes with a soft drink and a side of rice and sour cream.

"We're thrilled to offer our guests this exciting new lunchtime menu that will delight their palates," said Derek Nittoli, Area Director, Chevys, for Doherty Enterprises, Inc., which operates the Chevys Fresh Mex restaurants in Clifton and Linden. "Suit your mood or your craving and put together your own Mix 'n' Match Combo Lunch or Build Your Own Burrito here at Chevys."

Chevys Fresh Mex resembles a Mexican border town café or cantina, with a vibrant and contemporary décor. The menu features an extensive variety of Mexican dishes, including traditional enchiladas, burritos and tacos, as well as combination platters. Innovative items such as mesquite broiled skirt steak, fresh fish, and shrimp fajitas are available too. Chevys also serves a variety of salads and desserts and offers a full bar as well.

Chevys Fresh Mex in Clifton is located at Clifton Commons, 365 Route 3 East.

About Chevys Fresh Mex
Chevys Fresh Mex® is an ultra-casual restaurant offering an array of freshly prepared Mexican dishes in a festive atmosphere. Designed to offer a fiesta for the senses where every experience is fresh, fun and full of flavor, Chevys is the trend on Fresh Mex food, drink and hospitality through a commitment to continuous innovation. Chevys Fresh Mex® fired up a Mexican restaurant revolution in the mid-80's driven by an unswerving commitment to fresh food prepared in our own kitchens from scratch every day. No cans! Nada! It's fresh or forget it!

Linden's Chevys Fresh Mex Offers Mix 'N' Match Lunch Combos, Is Now 'Home Of The $3 Margarita'

Linden, NJ – October 2, 2012 - With the new Mix 'n' Match Lunch Combos at Chevys Fresh Mex, patrons no longer have to make the difficult choice between one tempting taste treat or another from Chevys' appetizing lunchtime menu. Instead, each guest can create his or her own unique lunch combo with selections from three different categories.

For just $7.99, diners can choose one wrap or quesadilla, one soup or salad, and one side dish from the special Mix 'n' Match Lunch Combo menu. A soft drink is included too.

"We're thrilled to offer our guests this exciting new lunchtime menu that will delight their palates," said Derek Nittoli, Area Director, Chevys, for Doherty Enterprises, Inc., which operates the Chevys Fresh Mex restaurants in Linden and Clifton. "Suit your mood or your craving and put together your own Mix 'n' Match Lunch Combos or Build Your Own Burrito here at Chevys."

Along with its new Mix 'n' Match Lunch Combo menu, the Linden Chevys is proud to announce that it's now the new "Home of the $3 Margarita." Margaritas are offered all day, every day, for just $3 at the Linden Chevys Fresh Mex location.

Chevys Fresh Mex in Linden is located at 1150 South Stiles Street.

Clifton Chevys Fresh Mex Hosts New Jersey's Largest Cinco De Mayo Party

Drink Specials, Mexican Food and Live Entertainment Keep the Fiesta Going All Day and All Night

Clifton, NJ - April 27, 2012 - At Chevys Fresh Mex located in Clifton, it's a fiesta every day! But on Saturday, May 5th, this Mexican eatery will be celebrating Cinco de Mayo with the largest fiesta in New Jersey featuring fun new outdoor events, live music, beverage stations, contests with great prizes and more!

The fiesta kicks-off at 3:00 p.m. with great events including mechanical bull-riding, Red Bull MXT mobile party truck, Summer fashion show featuring some of the area's best fashion designers, taco-eating contest & more. The live music will be going all day including some of New Jersey's most popular cover bands, The Flying Mueller Brothers, The Replicants & Nine Deeez Nite will perform under Chevys outdoor tented stage and DJ Denny Tsettos and DJ Cruel 1 will keep the music going inside and out. Later in the evening, Chevys host its' first annual "Miss Cinco" contest where contestants will vie for this coveted crown. Tickets for the outdoor party are $10 (cash only) $5 before 6pm.

"Cinco de Mayo is a joyous holiday commemorated with food, fun, parades, and plenty of cerveza," said Tim Mahoney, Chevys General Manager. "Raise a toast to the Battle of Puebla--Chevys Cinco Celebration is going to be a fiesta for the senses."

Chevys Fresh Mex is designed to resemble a Mexican border town café or cantina with a vibrant and contemporary décor. In addition to more-traditional Mexican fare, the menu offers innovative items, including the mesquite broiled skirt steak, Portobello mushrooms and asparagus fajitas and crab and shrimp enchiladas. Chevys also offers a variety of salads and desserts. The theme of every Chevys dish is freshness, a characteristic understanding by the restaurants' signature, in-house fresh tortilla maker, known as "El Machino," who helps create a fun atmosphere for everyone, including adults and children as guests are able to watch the tortilla making process in the dining room. The food menu is complemented by a wide selection of house-made margaritas, premium tequilas and an assortment of Mexican and American beers.

Chevys Fresh Mex is located at Clifton Commons, 365 Route 3 East in Clifton. Chevys-Linden location will also be celebrating on May 5. To purchase pre-event tickets to the Outdoor Fiesta on May 5 in Clifton, stop by Clifton Chevys Fresh Mex restaurant or visit www.cinconj.com for more information.

Linden Chevys Fresh Mex Celebrates Cinco De Mayo

Drink Specials, Mexican Food and Live Music Keep the Fiesta Going All Day and All Night

Linden, NJ – April 27, 2012 – At Chevys Fresh Mex located in Linden, it's a fiesta every day! But on May 5, this Mexican eatery will be celebrating Cinco de Mayo with freshly prepared Mexican dishes, drink specials, giveaways and live music with the area's hottest DJs starting at 5:00 p.m. that will put everyone in a fiesta mood.

"Cinco de Mayo is a joyous holiday commemorated with food, fun, parades, and plenty of cerveza," said Sam Tecchio, Chevys General Manager. "Raise a toast to the Battle of Puebla with a Corona and pair that with one of our mesquite grilled flaming fajitas, traditional enchiladas, burritos or tacos, all made fresh daily from scratch. Chevys Cinco Celebration is going to be a fiesta for the senses."

Chevys Fresh Mex is located at 1150 South Stiles Street at Aviation Plaza in Linden. Chevys-Clifton location will also be celebrating on May 5 with their Grande Outdoor Fiesta.

Chevys Fresh Mex Restaurant in Clifton, NJ Is The Place To Watch Giants & Jets Football Games

Drink Specials, Mexican Food and Live Music Keep the Fiesta Going All Day and All Night

Clifton, NJ – August 31, 2012 – Chevys Fresh Mex patrons can watch Jets and Giants games this season along with their favorite Mexican food. Either before or after the games, fans can also enjoy Chevys recently launched "7 Days of Happy Hour".

Every day from 3 to 7 p.m. and from 10 p.m. to closing, Chevys offers both drink and light menu item specials. For the thirsty, featured domestic drafts are $2, select drinks are $3, and featured Tequila flights are $4 during these times. Along with customers' Happy Hour beverages, Chevys offers an appetizing variety of items specially priced at just $3.99 or $4.99, including tacos, firecracker empanadas, flautas, barbecue wings basket, chicken and cheese quesadilla, buffalo shrimp basket, and happy hour nachos.

Chevys Fresh Mex restaurants are located at Clifton Commons, 365 Route 3 East in Clifton; at 1150 South Stiles Street at Aviation Plaza in Linden; and Brick Plaza, 1036 Cedar Bridge Ave., Brick, NJ.

"At Chevys, our goal is to serve our customers the freshest Mexican food made from scratch every day," said Derek Nittoli, the Chevys Area Director for Doherty Enterprises, Inc., which operates the Clifton, Linden and Brick Chevys restaurants. "With our '7 Days of Happy Hour' and Jets and Giants football, we also aim to delight them."

Chevys Fresh Mex Restaurant Introduces New '7 Days Of Happy Hour' And 'Weekly Fiesta'

Clifton/Linden – JULY 5, 2012 – Chevys Fresh Mex patrons are enjoying some exciting changes in the restaurant's daily events and menu specials.

Last week, Chevys launched its "7 Days of Happy Hour." Every day from 3-7 p.m. and from 10 p.m.-closing, Chevys now offers both drink and light menu item specials. For the thirsty, featured domestic drafts are $2, select drinks are $3 and featured Tequila flights are $4 during these times.

Along with customers' Happy Hour beverages, Chevys offers an appetizing variety of items specially priced at just $3.99 or $4.99, including tacos, firecracker empanadas, flautas, barbecue wing basket, chicken and cheese quesadilla, buffalo shrimp basket and happy hour nachos.

This week, also making its debut is Chevys' "Weekly Fiesta," featuring a different menu special every day of the week. On Monday it's "Kids Eat Free" all day (one free kid's meal with the purchase of an adult entrée), followed by "Taco Tuesdays" with salsa chicken or ground beef tacos all day for just $2. Fiesta-goers find $2 house Margaritas all day on "Margarita Wednesdays" and on "Pollo Fajita Thursdays," delicious chicken fajitas tempt the hungry at just $9.99 all day.

Chevys' "Weekly Fiesta" weekends kick off with "Tequila Fridays," when $4.99 featured Tequila flights and shots are available all day. On "Seafood Saturdays," dine all day on fresh seafood fajita combos for just $19.99. Wrap up the week with "Sangria Sundays," complementing your meal with $3 sangria glasses or an $11.99 sangria pitcher all day.

Chevys Fresh Mex restaurants are located at Clifton Commons, 365 Route 3 East in Clifton and at 1150 South Stiles Street at Aviation Plaza in Linden.

"At Chevys, our goal is to serve our customers the freshest Mexican food made from scratch every day," said Derek Nittoli, the Chevys Area Director for Doherty Enterprises, Inc., which operates both the Clifton and Linden Chevys restaurants. "With our '7 Days of Happy Hour' and 'Weekly Fiesta,' we also aim to delight them."

Dreams DO Come True for Sports Fans at The Shannon Rose in Woodbridge

New "Above the Pub Sports Club" Features Multi-Screen Viewing

Woodbridge, NJ – August 9, 2012 – It can be an agonizing dilemma for diehard sports fans, which game to watch – the Giants over on Fox or the Patriots on ESPN? With the grand opening of the spectacular "Above the Pub Sports Club" upstairs at The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Woodbridge, patrons will never face such difficult choices again.

That's because the Above the Pub Sports Club, launched this month, features a total of seven giant-screen 70-inch and 80-inch TVs: making viewing multiple sports contests a pleasure for sports fans, fans of out-of-state teams and fantasy sports fanatics alike. There's no need to squint across a room, trying to make out the action on a tiny screen, the usual scenario in a typical restaurant or bar. Instead, seven huge screens offer over 500 inches of high-definition football, baseball, basketball, hockey or other sports coverage in one spacious, comfortable setting.

"With our new Above the Pub Sports Club, we can offer our guests the ultimate sports fan viewing experience," said Guy Dupont, Director of Operations for The Shannon Rose.

So make the only choice you need to make now: check out the Above the Pub Sports Club at The Shannon Rose in Woodbridge! The Shannon Rose Irish Pub is located at St. George's Crossing, 855 St. George's Avenue (Route 35 and U.S. 1/9. For more information, call the Pub at 732-636-6100.

The Shannon Rose Irish Pub

Sports fans will enjoy the newly remodeled The Shannon Rose in Woodbridge with its "Above the Pub Sports Club" and the Multi-Screen Viewing Features.

About Shannon Rose Irish Pub
Shannon Rose Irish Pub was established in 2012 and is a concept restaurant launched by Doherty Enterprises, Inc., the 12th largest franchisee in the United States. Currently, three locations, Ramsey, Clifton, and Woodbridge, are open and gaining enormous popularity. Known for perfect pub-style food and drinks, their kitchens are open until at least 2 a.m. and there is never a cover to see the great entertainment frequently performing. Take-out food is available. (www.TheShannonRose.com)

About Doherty Enterprises, Inc.
Doherty Enterprises, Inc. was established in 1985 and is the 12th largest franchisee in the United States, operating four restaurant concepts including: Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Panera Bread, Chevys Fresh Mex, and their own concept, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub. To date, Doherty Enterprises owns and operates 97 restaurants in northern and central New Jersey, Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn and Staten Island. The Doherty vision is to be the "Best Food Service Company in the Tri-State Area" and its mission is to "Wow Every Guest Every Time, Wow Our People, Wow Our Communities and Wow Our Suppliers." (www.DohertyInc.com)

Wfan 'Monday Night Live!' Show With Giants Legend Carl Banks Broadcasts On Mondays From The Shannon Rose Irish Pub, Clifton

Clifton, NJ – October 5, 2012 - Legendary NY Giants linebacker Carl Banks, part of the Giants' 1986 and 1990 SuperBowl championship teams, hosts WFAN's "Monday Night Live!" radio broadcast live, along with co-host Kimberly Jones, every Monday at 6:30 p.m. from The Shannon Rose Irish Pub at Clifton Commons, 98 Kingsland Road.

Carl's pregame show on Sports Radio 66 WFAN NY includes in-depth analysis, interviews and a preview of that evening's upcoming NFL Monday Night Football game on ESPN. Shannon Rose joins in the weekly pigskin festivities with $2.50 Bud, Bud Light, and Bud Light Lime Specials and a great $5.00 Football Food menu all night long. During the game, the fun continues as Shannon Rose patrons can enter drawings to win fabulous football prizes.

"We've added more TVs this season! With TVs in every room and our multiple big flat screen TVs, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub is already the best place to watch Monday Night Football, "said Carolyn Blagojevic, General Manager of the Pub. "Now it's even more exciting with former New York Giants star Carl Banks joining us here every Monday night, through December 10th, with his live radio show."

Fun & Fundraising for New Jersey PBA at The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Clifton, NJ

Clifton, NJ – May 29, 2012 – Special prices, prizes, t-shirts and giveaways will mark the celebration of "Law Enforcement Honor & Valor Week" at The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Clifton during the week of Monday, June 4 through Sunday, June 10, 2012. The purpose of the week's activities is to support the Survivor and Welfare Fund, the official charity of the New Jersey State Policemen's Benevolent Association (NJSPBA).

Along with menu and drink specials each day, The Shannon Rose will offer a commemorative "Honor & Valor Week" t-shirt for purchase all week for just $10, with proceeds to benefit the Survivor and Welfare Fund. The attractive shirt will sport the logos of the NJSPBA, the Survivor and Welfare Fund, The Shannon Rose and Bud Light.

Highlighting Law Enforcement Honor & Valor Week will be "Badge Day" on Wednesday, June 6. Combining fun with fundraising, select appetizers will be available at The Shannon Rose for half price, drinks will be $2 off and prizes and giveaways will be featured all day. Bud and Bud Light beers for $2 (while supplies last) and live entertainment by the band "Jeckers Peckers" will cap off the day's festivities at 9 p.m.

The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Clifton is located at the Clifton Commons at 70 Kingsland Road/Route 3 and can be reached at 973-284-0200.

For the menu, band calendar and directions to The Shannon Rose Irish Pub near you, visit www.TheShannonRose.com.

Fun & Fundraising for New Jersey PBA at The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Ramsey, NJ

Ramsey, NJ – May 29, 2012 – Special prices, prizes, t-shirts and giveaways will mark the celebration of "Law Enforcement Honor & Valor Week" at The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Ramsey during the week of Monday, June 4 through Sunday, June 10, 2012. The purpose of the week's activities is to support the Survivor and Welfare Fund, the official charity of the New Jersey State Policemen's Benevolent Association (NJSPBA).

Highlighting Law Enforcement Honor & Valor Week will be "Badge Day" on Wednesday, June 6. Combining fun with fundraising, select appetizers will be available at The Shannon Rose for half price, drinks will be $1 off and prizes and giveaways will be featured all day. Bud and Bud Light beers for $3 (while supplies last) and live entertainment by the "Last Minute Band" will cap off the day's festivities at 9 p.m.

The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Ramsey is located at 1200 Route 17 and can be reached at 201-962-7602.

For the menu, band calendar and directions to The Shannon Rose Irish Pub near you, visit www.TheShannonRose.com.

Fun & Fundraising for New Jersey PBA at The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Woodbridge, NJ

Woodbridge, NJ – May 29, 2012 – Special prices, prizes, t-shirts and giveaways will mark the celebration of "Law Enforcement Honor & Valor Week" at The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Woodbridge during the week of Monday, June 4 through Sunday, June 10, 2012. The purpose of the week's activities is to support the Survivor and Welfare Fund, the official charity of the New Jersey State Policemen's Benevolent Association (NJSPBA).

Highlighting Law Enforcement Honor & Valor Week will be "Badge Day" on Wednesday, June 6. Combining fun with fundraising, select appetizers will be available at The Shannon Rose for half price, drinks will be $2 off and prizes and giveaways will be featured all day. Bud and Bud Light beers for $2 each (while supplies last) will cap off the day's festivities at 9 p.m.

The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Woodbridge is located at St. George's Crossing at 855 St. George's Avenue (Route 35 & U.S. 1/9) and can be reached at 732-636-6100.

For the menu, band calendar and directions to The Shannon Rose Irish Pub near you, visit www.TheShannonRose.com.

Shannon Rose Irish Pub In Clifton, NJ Is The Place To Watch Football

Clifton, NJ – Aug. 31, 2012 – The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Clifton is the place to watch football this season. Recently added TVs in every room will allow football fans to follow ALL of their favorite teams – pros and college. Throughout the 2013 NFL regular season, the Pub will feature NFL "front-row seats" while guests enjoy special prices on beers and food. Every weekend, fans can enter to win Jets or Giants tickets. College games will also be featured, like the Notre Dame Fighting Irish versus Navy game, played in Dublin, Ireland held on September 1.

All day on Sunday "Game Days" (starting September 9), the Pub offers $2.50 Coors Light and a special $5 football food menu. On Monday and Thursday nights (starting September 10 and September 13), from 8 pm to closing, the Pub features $2.50 Bud, Bud Light, and Bud Light Lime, and $3 Bud Light Platinum, with football prize drawings throughout the games.

Don't miss a football game this season – come out to the Shannon Rose Irish Pub located at Clifton Commons, 98 Kingsland Road, Clifton, NJ. For more information and directions, visit the Pub's website at www.theshannonrose.com/shannon-rose-clifton/.

Shannon Rose Irish Pub In Ramsey, NJ Is The Place To Watch Football

Ramsey, NJ – Aug. 31, 2012 - The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Ramsey is the place to watch football this season. Recently added TV setups in all rooms will allow football fans to follow ALL of their favorite teams – pros and college. Throughout the 2013 NFL regular season, the Pub will feature NFL "front-row seats" while guests enjoy special prices on beers and food. Every Monday, fans can enter to win Jets or Giants tickets. College games will also be featured, like the Notre Dame Fighting Irish versus Navy game, played in Dublin, Ireland on September 1.

All day on Sunday "Game Days" (starting September 9), the Pub offers $3 Bud, Bud Light, and Bud Light Lime, and $4 Bud Light Platinum, a special $5 football food menu, and drawings for football prizes. On Monday and Thursday nights (starting September 10 and September 13), from 8 pm to closing, the Pub features $3 Coors Light, with football prize drawings throughout the games.

Don't miss a football game this season – come out to the Shannon Rose Irish Pub located at 1200 Route 17 North, Ramsey, NJ. For more information and directions, visit the Pub's website at www.theshannonrose.com/shannon-rose-ramsey/.

Shannon Rose Irish Pubs Raise Thousands For PBA Charity

Clifton/Ramsey/Woodbridge, NJ – July 2, 2012 - The Shannon Rose Irish Pubs in Ramsey, Clifton and Woodbridge recently raised a collective $3,300 for the New Jersey State PBA Survivor & Welfare Fund (NJSPBA S&WF) during Law Enforcement Honor & Valor Week (June 6-10).

"An integral part of Doherty Enterprises mission is community involvement", the NJS PBA S&WF supports the families of fallen, disabled and sick officers and their families, it is important for us to support our local law enforcement and their families with this donation", explained Kurt Pahlitzsch, VP of Specialty Concepts at Doherty Enterprises which developed and operates the three Shannon Rose Irish Pubs.

During the week, all three Pub locations had special menu items and prices, prizes and giveaways, as well as the sale of commemorative t-shirt. "We were happy to focus our attention to this worthy charity during Law Enforcement Honor & Valor Week", said Kurt Pahlitzsch.

SHANNON ROSE IRISH PUBS RAISE THOUSANDS FOR PBA CHARITY – (from left to right) Keith Dunn, Executive Vice President NJS PBA; Cathy Maddalena J, Marketing Coordinator; Guy Dupont, Area Director; Anthony Weirner, President NJS PBA; John Mattaice, Allendale Detective; Lauren Pescatore, Manager The Shannon Rose; Paul Fowler, Shannon Rose Marketing Manager. The money raised will go towards the New Jersey State PBA Survivor & Welfare Fund

Shannon Rose Irish Pub In Clifton, NJ Celebrates Halfway To St. Patrick's Day And Arthur Guinness Day

Clifton, N.J. – Aug. 31, 2012 – We may be saying good-bye to summer, but at The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Clifton they are looking ahead with two great celebrations. On Sunday and Monday, September 16 and 17, it's the Halfway to St. Patrick's Day Party with food and drink specials and live Irish music. And then on Saturday, September 22, celebrate Arthur Guinness Day.

The Halfway to St. Patrick's Day Party features all Irish fare for $9.99, $3 Murphy drafts, $4 Guinness pints and Guinness mixes, and $3 Tullamore Dew shots. Each day, starting at 4 p.m., enjoy Irish music, bagpipes, and step-dancers. There will be prizes and giveaways both days.

Join the special celebration on Arthur Guinness Day, honoring the man who invented our favorite beer. Guinness pints and Guinness mixes are only $4. Every item on the special Guinness food menu contains Guinness. At 5:59 p.m. (17:59 on the 24-hour clock), join in a Great Guinness toast celebrating 1759, the year Arthur signed the lease for the brewery. There will be exclusive Guinness prizes and giveaways all day.

Don't miss these great Irish celebrations -- come out to the Shannon Rose Irish Pub located at Clifton Commons, 98 Kingsland Road, Clifton, NJ. For more information and directions, visit the Pub's website at www.theshannonrose.com/shannon-rose-clifton/.

Shannon Rose Irish Pub In Ramsey, NJ Celebrates Halfway To St. Patrick's Day And Arthur Guinness Day

Ramsey, N.J. – Aug. 31, 2012 - We may be saying good-bye to summer, but at The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Ramsey they are looking ahead with two great celebrations. On Sunday and Monday, September 16 and 17, it's the Halfway to St. Patrick's Day Party with food and drink specials and live Irish music. And then on Saturday, September 22, celebrate Arthur Guinness Day.

Don't miss these great Irish celebrations -- come out to the Shannon Rose Irish Pub located at 1200 Route 17 North, Ramsey, NJ. For more information and directions, visit the Pub's website at www.theshannonrose.com/shannon-rose-ramsey/.

Shannon Rose Irish Pub In Woodbridge, NJ Celebrates Halfway To St. Patrick's Day And Arthur Guinness Day

Woodbridge, N.J. – Aug. 31, 2012 - We may be saying good-bye to summer, but at The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Woodbridge they are looking ahead with two great celebrations. On Sunday and Monday, September 16 and 17, it's the Halfway to St. Patrick's Day Party with food and drink specials and live Irish music. And then on Saturday, September 22, celebrate Arthur Guinness Day.

Don't miss these great Irish celebrations -- come out to the Shannon Rose Irish Pub located at St. George's Crossing, 855 St. George's Avenue (Route 35 and U.S. 1/9). For more information and directions, visit the Pub's website at www.theshannonrose.com/shannon-rose-woodbridge/.

Winemaker Pasqua And Chef Bernstein Suggest Ideal Wine And Food Pairings To Spuntino Guests At Special Event

Clifton, N.J. – June 15, 2012 - Italian vintner Riccardo Pasqua and chef Joshua Bernstein offered expert recommendations to diners at Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas in Clifton Commons about perfect wine pairings: not only with cheese, but with any of the 60-plus tapas or Salumi and Formaggi Corner selections at Spuntino. This unique event took place on Thursday evening, June 7, 2012 between 6 and 8:30 p.m.

Pasqua, Export Manager for Pasqua Wines of Verona, Italy, had this advice for wine novices: "Just explore!" he said, noting that Pasqua bottles creative new blends that cater to contemporary attitudes while adhering to classic old-world production methods.

Bernstein, a first-in-his-class graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, recommended Pasqua Passimento, a Merlot blend, for pairing with meat or mushroom dishes such as capocollo (traditional Calabrian dried salume), spicy pork meatball or funghi alla griglia (grilled Portobello mushroom). "This wine is modestly fruity, full red, and has a nice balance of acids which breaks down the fats in meats," he explained. (more)

Another exceptional pairing is the Prosecco Pasqua, a sparkling wine, with goat cheese and caramelized onions, Italian chopped insalata or cod con pomodori arrosto (cod with roasted tomatoes). "This wine pairs well with vinaigrettes and fattier items such as goat cheese because it sparkles, has acid and is crisp," Bernstein said.

For more information about Spuntino, call 973-661-2435 or view their menu at www.spuntinowinebar.com. Spuntino is located in Clifton Commons on Route 3 East, 70 Kingsland Road (across from Target).

To learn more about Pasqua Wines, visit their website at www.pasqua.it/eng/home.html.

Standing ready to recommend the perfect wine-food pairings at Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas in Clifton on June 7, 2012 were, from left to right: Dan Sliwinski, Manager; Kerry Doherty, Director of New Concept Development, Doherty Enterprises; Joshua Bernstein, Chef; Riccardo Pasqua, Export Manager, Pasqua Wines; Michael Guido, Manager; and Joel Liscio, Sommelier.

Panera Bread Raises a Sweet $30,000 for Local Breast Cancer Groups

Women are reminded to make a life-saving New Year's resolution

Long Island, NY — December 17, 2012 - The annual Pink Ribbon Bagel campaign run by Panera Bread raised more than $30,000 this year to benefit several local breast cancer organizations. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Panera Bread bakers hand twisted thousands of cherry vanilla bagels into the iconic "pink ribbon" shape to raise funds for prevention and a cure, but, as the New Year approaches, they also hope the bagels have served as a reminder to women to take control of their own health by scheduling their yearly mammograms.

"Women need to make this an annual New Year's resolution that they actually keep," says Greg George, Vice President of Operations for Doherty Enterprises, franchisee of the Long Island bakery-cafes.

"Get screened regularly," urges Linda Healy, herself a breast cancer survivor and Promotion Coordinator for WALK 97.5, Panera Bread's media partner throughout the campaign. "Detecting cancer in its earliest stages improves survival. Speak up for yourself. If something doesn't look right or feel right don't take no for an answer. Insist on further action. Be your own advocate."

Karen Joy Miller, Huntington Breast Cancer Action Coalition, Inc., agrees, "Keep abreast of current health information, ask questions, and take charge of your breast health screening."

The beneficiaries of this year's funds were the Adelphi Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program whose goal is to educate, support, empower and advocate for breast cancer patients, professionals and the community; Prevention is the Cure which seeks to increase public awareness of environmental links to breast cancer and promotes a precautionary health model; and the Breast Cancer Research Program at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory where innovative breast cancer research is being performed.

Recently, Panera Bread presented each of the Long Island organizations with a check for nearly $8,500 to help advance their work. A check for $5,200 was also given to Gilda's Club New York City which creates welcoming communities of free support for everyone living with cancer – men, women, teens and children – along with their families and friends.

For information on breast health, contact Prevention is the Cure at (631) 547-1518 or visit www.preventionisthecure.org or contact the Adelphi Breast Cancer Hotline at 800-877-8077 with questions or concerns about breast cancer and for support services and other referrals.

Panera Bread "Pink Ribbon Bagels" Raise $30,000 for Local Breast Cancer Programs - Panera Bread presented three checks recently to beneficiaries of its 2012 Pink Ribbon Bagel campaign. Pictured (left to right) are: Charlie Prizzi and Paula Smith, representing Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory: Breast Cancer Research Program,; Caroline Riley from WALK 97.5 Panera Bread's media partner in the campaign; Hillary Rutter and Lyn Dobrin with the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline & Support Program; Tim Magorrian, Area Director for Panera Bread; and Karen Joy Miller, president and founder of the Huntington Breast Cancer Action Coalition's Prevention is the Cure.

About Panera Bread
Panera Bread Company owns and franchises 1,591 bakery-cafes as of June 26, 2012 under the Panera Bread®, Saint Louis Bread Co.®, and Paradise Bakery & Café® names. We feature high quality, reasonably priced food in a warm, inviting, and comfortable environment. With our identity rooted in handcrafted, fresh-baked, artisan bread, we are committed to providing great tasting, quality food that people can trust. Nearly all of our bakery-cafes have a menu highlighted by antibiotic free chicken, whole grain bread, and select organic and all-natural ingredients, with zero grams of artificial trans fat per serving, which provide flavorful, wholesome offerings. Our menu includes a wide variety of year-round favorites complemented by new items introduced seasonally with the goal of creating new standards in everyday food choices. In neighborhoods across the United States and in Ontario, Canada, our customers enjoy our warm and welcoming environment featuring comfortable gathering areas, relaxing decor, and free internet access. Our bakery-cafes routinely donate bread and baked goods to community organizations in need. An essential sponsor, Panera Bread's Long Island, Brooklyn and Queens locations provide over 2200 pounds of bread each week from its area bakery-cafes to Island Harvest and City Harvest its Operation Dough-nation® partners. Additional information is available on the Company's website, http://www.panerabread.com.

About Doherty Enterprises, Inc.
Doherty Enterprises, Inc. was established in 1985 and is the 12th largest franchisee in the United States, operating five restaurant concepts including: Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Panera Bread, Chevys Fresh Mex, and two of their own concepts, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub and Spuntino Wine Bar and Italian Tapas. To date, Doherty Enterprises owns and operates 100 restaurants in northern and central New Jersey, Long Island, Queens, Brooklyn and Staten Island. The Doherty vision is to be the "Best Food Service Company in the Tri-State Area" and its mission is to "Wow Every Guest Every Time, Wow Our People, Wow Our Communities and Wow Our Suppliers." (www.DohertyInc.com)

2011

Applebee's Celebrates Elmont Opening and Gives Back to the Neighborhood

ELMONT, NY – June 14, 2011 – Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar celebrated the opening of its newest location, at 1710 Hempstead Turnpike in Elmont, on Monday, June 13^th. This is the 22^nd Long Island Applebee’s restaurant opened by Doherty Enterprises, Inc., the 12^th largest franchisee in the United States. Edward W. Doherty owns and operates a total of 61 Applebee’s throughout Long Island and Northern and Central New Jersey.

“Applebee's has a strong commitment to supporting the neighborhoods we serve," said Doherty, president and chief executive officer, Doherty Enterprises, Inc. "We look forward to getting to know our new neighbors here in Elmont’s close-knit community."

Councilman Edward Ambrosino and members of the Elmont Fire Department gathered to help commemorate the opening with a traditional ribbon cutting ceremony.

As a good neighbor, Applebee’s donated 10% of food sales and all funds raised during its pre-opening “Friends & Family” event to the Elmont Fire Department. Fire Chief Mike Capoziello accepted the $2,000 check on behalf of the Elmont FD from Kevin Heir, General Manager of the Elmont Applebee’s; Adam Eury, Applebee’s Area Director and Marc Prince, Applebee’s Director of Operations were also on hand for the presentation.

Applebee’s offers moderately-priced, high-quality food and beverage items complemented by friendly hometown service and atmosphere. Full-service casual dining is available seven days a week – Sunday through Thursday: 11 AM–1 AM; Friday & Saturday: 11 AM--2 AM. Late-night half-price appetizers and late-night drink specials will be offered daily from 10 PM to close. Applebee’s offers two for one drink specials weekdays from 3pm to 6pm during Happy Hour.

The Elmont restaurant features Applebee’s new interior design with comfortable, casual seating in the bar area and bold, floor-to-ceiling color wall murals throughout the restaurant that depict a montage of students and athletes from neighboring schools as well as local firemen, police and other members of the community.

An entertainment package is also part of the new look which includes sixteen flat-screen TV’s placed in the dining room and bar areas which allow guests to watch their favorite sporting events.

Applebee's menu features its famed "Sizzling Fajitas” a variety of salads and entrees ranging from Bourbon Street Steak to Fiesta Lime Chicken as well as an assortment of exciting under 550 calorie entrees. "We've got something for everyone on our menu," said Ed Doherty, "and make sure to save room for dessert!" A complete children's menu is also offered. In addition, several special "limited time" menu offerings will be introduced throughout the year featuring new twists on foods and beverages.

Applebee’s Gives Back to the Elmont Community...

Applebee’s Gives Back to the Elmont Community... As a way of being a good neighbor, Applebee’s, which opened on Monday, at 1710 Hempstead Turnpike in Elmont, donated 10% of food sales and all funds raised during its “Friends & Family” pre-opening event and presented a check for $2,000 to the Elmont Fire Department. On hand were members of the Elmont FD, including Chief Mike Capoziello, Assistant Chiefs Domenic Francavilla and Brian Schriefer, as well as Councilman Edward Ambrosino. Presenting the check is the General Manager of Applebee’s, Kevin Hehir.

Applebee’s Opens in Elmont...

Applebee’s Opens in Elmont... Applebee’s General Manager, Kevin Hehir and Councilman Edward Ambrosino today officially marked the grand opening of the new Applebee’s in Elmont with a traditional ribbon cutting ceremony. Also on hand were Applebee’s Director of Operations Marc Prince and the Chief of the Elmont Fire Department, Mike Capoziello.

About Applebee’s
Applebee’s (www.applebees.com) is the world’s largest casual dining chain, with more than 2,000 locations in 49 states, 16 countries and one U.S. territory. Based in Lenexa, Kan., Applebee’s takes pride in providing a welcoming, neighborhood environment where everyone can enjoy the dining experience. Applebee’s Services, Inc., and its affiliates franchise and operate restaurants under Applebee’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill and are a DineEquity, Inc. (NYSE: DIN) brand. On Long Island, Applebee’s is located in Nassau County: Baldwin, Bellmore, Bethpage, Elmont, New Hyde Park, Rosedale, Valley Stream and Westbury and in Suffolk County: Bohemia, Brentwood, Commack, East Farmingdale, East Islip, Farmingville, Huntington, Lake Grove, Lindenhurst, Miller Place, North Babylon, Patchogue, Riverhead and Shirley.

About Doherty Enterprises, Inc.
Doherty Enterprises, Inc. was established in 1985 and is the 12th largest franchisee in the United States, operating five restaurant Pages including: Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Panera Bread, Chevys Fresh Mex, Carino’s Italian Grill, and their own Page, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub. To date, Doherty Enterprises owns and operates 92 restaurants in northern and central New Jersey, Long Island, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and Queens. The Doherty vision is to be the “Best Food Service Company in the Tri-State Area” and its mission is to “Wow Every Guest Every Time, Wow Our People, Wow Our Communities and Wow Our Suppliers.” (www.DohertyInc.com)

Applebee's® Rekindles Friendships with "Girls' Night Out" Every Wednesday

Applebee’s® Rekindles Friendships with “Girls’ Night Out” Every Wednesday

LONG ISLAND, NY – June 8, 2011 - In a national campaign, Applebee’s is making it easier for girlfriends to get together every week or once a month. With crazy calendars and obligation overload, women are finding it nearly impossible to get away for an evening out with girlfriends. Applebee’s Facebook page can help. Organizers can send out customized “Girls’ Night Out” invitations to their friends—by sending a personalized message with a specific date, time and Applebee’s neighborhood gathering place, women are more likely to make room for some fun in their busy schedules—and responses to invitations are a simple click away.

“We knew women needed time away from work and family responsibilities to just unwind,” says Applebee’s Director of Operations for Long Island, Marc Prince. “Applebee’s informal Facebook survey proved us right. It showed that only 9 percent of women get together weekly with friends and a whopping 34 percent never get a night out with girlfriends. We think women deserve to take a break.”

Some good food, good conversation, a little venting, and a whole lot of laughing, before or after a movie, are the goals of Applebee’s new Wednesday evening neighborhood “Girls’ Night Out.” Applebee’s Nassau and Suffolk county restaurants will be offering monthly drink specials along with some creative ideas each month that will ensure an enjoyable “GNO.”

Chevys Fresh Mex is located at Clifton Commons, 365 Route 3 East in Clifton with two participating New Jersey locations in Linden and Brick celebrating on May 5. To purchase pre-event tickets to the Outdoor Fiesta on May 7 (Clifton location only), stop by Clifton Chevys Fresh Mex restaurant or visit www.cinconj.com for more information.

Calorie counters need not worry. With six Unbelievably Great Tasting and Under 550 CaloriesTM entrees and Skinny Bee cocktails, lower calorie versions of the Margarita, Mojito and Long Island Iced Tea on its menu, Applebee’s has made Girls’ Night Out “affordable” for those on tight calorie budgets as well as for those with tight purse strings.

To find out more or to locate an Applebee’s in your area, visit www.Applebee’s.com.

Applebee’s Girls’ Night Out Offers a Wednesday Escape...

Applebee’s Girls’ Night Out Offers a Wednesday Escape...Starting June 15^th, Applebee’s neighborhood restaurants in Nassau and Suffolk counties are making it easier for girlfriends to get together and turning Wednesdays into a special Girls’ Night Out. The popular casual dining chain is also partnering with local businesses to build in a few added surprises each Wednesday night.

Applebee’s News Bite: Parents can celebrate the red, white and blue and save this July 4^th when kids eat free in Nassau and Suffolk county Applebee’s restaurants. Watch for details.

About Applebee’s
Applebee’s (www.applebees.com) is the world’s largest casual dining chain, with approximately 2,000 locations in 49 states, 16 countries and one U.S. territory. Based in Lenexa, Kan., Applebee’s takes pride in providing a welcoming, neighborhood environment where everyone can enjoy the dining experience. Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar® is a DineEquity, Inc. (NYSE: DIN) brand, and is franchised and operated by Applebee’s Services, Inc. and its affiliates. Applebee's is open until midnight or later.

Applebee’s Long Island locations
Nassau County: Baldwin, Bellmore, Bethpage, New Hyde Park, Rosedale, Valley Stream, Westbury and Elmont (opens June 13^th).
Suffolk County: Bohemia, Brentwood, Commack, East Farmingdale, East Islip, Farmingville, Huntington, Lake Grove, Lindenhurst, Miller Place, North Babylon, Patchogue, Riverhead and Shirley.

About Doherty Enterprises, Inc.
Doherty Enterprises, Inc. was established in 1985 and is the 12^th largest franchisee in the United States, operating five restaurant Pages including: Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Panera Bread, Chevys Fresh Mex, Carino’s Italian Grill, and their own Page, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub. To date, Doherty Enterprises owns and operates 93 restaurants in northern and central New Jersey, Long Island, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and Queens. The Doherty vision is to be the “Best Food Service Company in the Tri-State Area” and its mission is to “Wow Every Guest Every Time, Wow Our People, Wow Our Communities and Wow Our Suppliers.” (www.DohertyInc.com)

Nassau and Suffolk Applebee's Celebrate America's Independence With Free Meals for Kids This July 4th

Nassau and Suffolk Applebee’s Celebrate America’s Independence With Free Meals for Kids This July 4^th

Long Island, NY – June 6, 2011?This Independence Day, the 22 Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar restaurants in Nassau and Suffolk will get into the spirit of the red, white and blue by celebrating with “free meals for kids.” Families who dine at Applebee’s anytime on Monday, July 4 will receive up to two free Kids’ Meals with each adult entrée purchase. The free meals are valid for children ages 12 and under, on any Applebee’s “Kids’ Menu” entrée, dine-in only.

“Whether you join us for lunch after your town parade or on your way to or from fireworks, come celebrate America’s birthday at America’s favorite neighborhood restaurant,” said Marc Prince, Director of Operations for Applebee’s Long Island. “We’ll be open on July 4^th, like any night, to midnight or later.” While the kids enjoy lunch or dinner from the Kids’ Menu, adults may want to try one of Applebee’s brand new “Stacked, Stuffed & Topped” entrees like Florentine Topped House Sirloin, Chicken Parmesan Stack, Bruschetta Topped Chicken Salad, Provolone-Stuffed Meatballs with Fettuccine or Stuffed Meatballs & Mozzarella Scoops which are being introduced to the menu starting June 20^th. “We’ve gone over the top with these delicious new offerings that satisfy those looking for something unique and exciting,” says Prince. “Inspired by some of our guests’ favorite entrees, these dishes pack even more flavor for a taste experience that really stacks up.” To locate the Applebee’s restaurant nearest you or for more information, visit www.applebees.com. The “free meals for kids” offer is valid on Monday, July 4 and is only available at participating Applebee's restaurants in Nassau and Suffolk counties.

ALL-AMERICAN FUN AT APPLEBEE’S...

ALL-AMERICAN FUN AT APPLEBEE’S... Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar restaurants in Nassau and Suffolk counties are getting into the spirit of the red, white and blue this July 4^th by offering “free meals for kids.” All day, Monday, July 4, children ages 12 and under can celebrate Independence Day with their families at Applebee’s where up to two kids will receive free Kids’ Meals with every adult entrée purchase.

Applebee’s Fresh News Bite: Applebee’s new “Stacked, Stuffed and Topped” menu items roll out June 20^th in all 22 Long Island locations. We’re inviting editors to a taste test. More details coming soon.

Applebee’s Long Island Locations:
Nassau County: Baldwin, Bellmore, Bethpage, Elmont (new), New Hyde Park, Rosedale, Valley Stream and Westbury
Suffolk County: Bohemia, Brentwood, Commack, East Farmingdale, East Islip, Farmingville, Huntington, Lake Grove, Lindenhurst, Miller Place, North Babylon, Patchogue, Riverhead and Shirley.

About Doherty Enterprises, Inc.
Doherty Enterprises, Inc. was established in 1985 and is the 12^th largest franchisee in the United States, operating five restaurant Pages including: Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Panera Bread, Chevys Fresh Mex, Carino’s Italian Grill, and their own Page, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub. To date, Doherty Enterprises owns and operates 93 restaurants in northern and central New Jersey, Long Island, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and Queens. The Doherty vision is to be the “Best Food Service Company in the Tri-State Area” and its mission is to “Wow Every Guest Every Time, Wow Our People, Wow Our Communities and Wow Our Suppliers.” (www.DohertyInc.com)

Applebee's Honors Dads this Father's Day with Pair of Sam Adams Pint Glasses Designed to Enhance Taste Experience

Applebee’s Honors Dads this Father’s Day with Pair of Sam Adams Pint Glasses Designed to Enhance Taste Experience

LONG ISLAND, NY – June 3, 2011 – When the science of design meets the craft of beer brewing extraordinary things can happen. That is what the folks at Sam Adams set out to do. After two years of research and thousands of hours of taste tests, a unique beer glass emerged where form definitely has function. These specially created Samuel Adams Boston Lager® glasses were designed to help build the ultimate beer tasting experience. This Father’s Day, Sunday, June 19^th, the Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar restaurants in Nassau and Suffolk counties have teamed up with Sam Adams to offer a pair of these pint glasses free when dad orders a steak and brew.

"We wanted to create a glass that offers beer lovers a full sensory drinking experience by fully showcasing Samuel Adams Boston Lager's complex balance of malt and hop flavors. This glass achieves that mission,” said Founder Jim Koch, a pioneer in the craft beer movement.

The specially engineered glasses promise to maximize the enjoyment of Sam Adams. While the glass allows dad to experience the full sweetness of the malt, it also helps retain the aroma, sustain the head, and promote proper beer temperature.

One free pair of pint glasses is available with the purchase of a steak dinner and an iced cold glass of Sam Adams draft at any Nassau or Suffolk county Applebee’s only on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 19th while supplies last. Offer does not apply to Applebee’s 2 for $20 entrée specials.

If you can’t be with dad this Father’s Day, you can send him a gift card digitally. Log on to Applebee’s website or Facebook page to send an Applebee’s digital gift card with a personalized audio, video or text message. You decide the amount and send your gift directly to dad’s email or mobile device?or post it to his “wall” on Facebook.

To locate an Applebee’s near you, visit www.Applebees.com.

A Glass Crafted with Dad in Mind...

A Glass Crafted with Dad in Mind... Sam Adams Boston Lager® has designed a new pint glass that promises to enhance the sensory tasting experience for beer lovers. As a special thank you to Long Island dads, Applebee’s has teamed up with Sam Adams to give away pairs of these specially-crafted pint glasses on Father’s Day. The free glasses are available, while supplies last, only at Nassau and Suffolk county Applebee’s restaurants on Sunday, June 19^th, with the purchase of a steak entrée, not including 2 for $20 specials, and an iced cold Sam Adams brew.

Another Applebee’s News Bite: Parents can celebrate the red, white and blue and save this July 4^th when kids eat free in Nassau and Suffolk county Applebee’s restaurants. Watch for details.

Applebee’s Long Island locations
Nassau County: Baldwin, Bellmore, Bethpage, New Hyde Park, Rosedale, Valley Stream and Westbury
Suffolk County: Bohemia, Brentwood, Commack, East Farmingdale, East Islip, Farmingville, Huntington, Lake Grove, Lindenhurst, Miller Place, North Babylon, Patchogue, Riverhead and Shirley.

Rego Park Center Welcomes Panera Bread®

Opening Slated for May 31st

Rego Park, NY (May 5, 2011) - Panera Bread plans to open its newest bakery-cafe in Rego Park, inside the Rego Park Center on Junction Boulevard, on Tuesday, May 31st. This will be the fifth Panera Bread to open in Queens.

With its identity rooted in handcrafted, freshly-baked, artisan bread, Panera Bread is committed to providing great tasting, quality food that people can trust. Highlighted by antibiotic-free chicken, whole grain bread, select organic and all-natural ingredients and a menu with zero grams added trans fat, Panera’s bakery-cafe selection offers flavorful, wholesome choices. The menu includes a variety of year-round favorites to complement seasonal items and breads baked fresh daily in each bakery-cafe by skilled bakers.

“We look forward to serving the Rego Park community and sharing our signature Panera warmth,” says Greg George, Vice President of Operations for Panera. “The Rego Park Center is a growing retail hub and our bakery-cafe will provide shoppers with a comfortable place to unwind and enjoy quality food.”

Panera Bread bakery-cafes were voted ‘Most Popular’ among large chain restaurants and received top ranking for Best Salads and Best Facilities in last year’s Zagat Survey. Panera was also rated the #1 Quick Service Restaurant in New York in a recent JD Power & Associates satisfaction survey.

Panera Bread will offer a warm and welcoming environment including cozy seating areas and free WiFi Internet access.

The bakery-cafe will open its doors at 6:30 AM daily offering hot soufflés and nourishing grilled choices like a whole-grain breakfast power sandwich or French Toast Bagel Breakfast sandwich as well as freshly baked artisan pastries, sweet rolls, muffins and scones and bagels.

Parents will find comfort in the nourishing, kid-friendly choices: Grilled Cheese, made with organic American cheese and white whole grain bread, PB&J, creamy Mac & Cheese and a selection of Kid’s Deli sandwiches. Each Panera Kids’ Meal is served with a fun, squeezable organic yogurt?one reason Parents Magazine ranked Panera Bread among its Top 10 Best Family Restaurants.

Calorie-conscious guests, and even those who are not, enjoy Panera Bread’s You-Pick-Two® which allows them to manage calories by choosing a half sandwich together with a cup of hearty soup or half salad. The option helped Panera Bread earn its #1 ranking for healthy eating on the go from Health magazine.

Panera Catering
A full catering menu will be offered at the new bakery-cafe. Available for breakfast, lunch and snacks, Panera Catering is ideal for any group from five to five hundred. Panera Catering emphasizes accuracy and efficiency in delivering the experience of fresh, handcrafted, quality meals to any workplace setting, social event or gathering. In addition, every bakery-cafe has a dedicated Panera Catering Coordinator on site to manage the entire process, from order to pick up or delivery, to ensure customer satisfaction.

For employment opportunities with Panera, visit www.panerabread.jobs.

Panera Bread Coming Soon to Rego Park Center--with cozy nooks, free WiFi and a menu of seasonally-changing items, the new Panera Bread bakery-cafe in Rego Park will provide comfort, convenience and healthier-for-you casual dining choices. It is slated to open Tuesday, May 31st in Rego Center on Junction Boulevard. Panera Bread will be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner—and provide catering-featuring fresh salads, sandwiches and soups along with grilled breakfast sandwiches and a full array of breads and pastries.

About Panera Bread
Panera Bread Company owns and franchises 1,453 bakery-cafes as of December 28, 2010 under the Panera Bread®, Saint Louis Bread Co.®, and Paradise Bakery & Café® names. We feature high quality, reasonably priced food in a warm, inviting, and comfortable environment. With our identity rooted in handcrafted, fresh-baked, artisan bread, we are committed to providing great tasting, quality food that people can trust. Nearly all of our bakery-cafes have a menu highlighted by antibiotic-free chicken, whole grain bread, and select organic and all natural ingredients, with zero grams of artificial trans fat per serving, which provide flavorful, wholesome offerings. Our menu includes a wide variety of year-round favorites complemented by new items introduced seasonally with the goal of creating new standards in everyday food choices. In neighborhoods across the United States and in Ontario, Canada, our customers enjoy our warm and welcoming environment featuring comfortable gathering areas, relaxing decor, and free internet access. Our bakery-cafes routinely donate bread and baked goods to community organizations in need. An essential sponsor, Panera Bread’s Long Island and Queens locations provide over 2200 pounds of bread each week from its area bakery-cafes to Island Harvest and City Harvest its Operation Dough-nation® partners. In Queens, Panera Bread has bakery-cafes in Long Island City at 38-01 35th Avenue, between Steinway and 38th Street, in Little Neck at 254-41 Horace Harding Expressway in the Douglaston Shopping Center, just north of the LIE, in Glendale at 73-25 Woodhaven Boulevard, just south of Metropolitan Avenue at 73rd Avenue, near The Home Depot, and in the Bay Terrace Shopping Center at the corner of Bell Boulevard and 24th Avenue in Bayside. Additional information is available on the Company’s website, http://www.panerabread.com.

About Doherty Enterprises, Inc.
Doherty Enterprises, Inc. was established in 1993 and is the 12th largest franchisee in the United States, operating five restaurant Pages including: Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Panera Bread, Chevys Fresh Mex, Carino’s Italian Grill, and their own Page, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub. To date, Doherty Enterprises owns and operates 93 restaurants in northern and central New Jersey, Long Island, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and Queens. The Doherty vision is to be the “Best Food Service Company in the Tri-State Area” and its mission is to “Wow Every Guest Every Time, Wow Our People, Wow Our Communities and Wow Our Suppliers.” (www.DohertyInc.com)

Panera Bread® to Kickoff Summer with Free Lemonade Day

Thursday, May 26th

LONG ISLAND, NY - April 29, 2011 - It may be sunny outside on Thursday, May 26th, but it will be pouring inside Panera Bread. That’s right—nearly a thousand gallons of free lemonade are expected to be poured on Free Lemonade Day.

“With Memorial Day right around the corner, it’s Panera Bread’s way of celebrating the start of summer,” says Greg George, Vice President of the Long Island bakery-cafes. “Guests can toast to the warmer weather with a cool, tall, 16-ounce cup that’s only 90 calories without upsetting their summer shape-up plans.”

Panera Bread will be handing out free 16-ounce cups of thirst-quenching lemonade “on the house” in each of its Long Island, Queens and Staten Island cafes all day Thursday May 26th. The offer is limited to: one free lemonade per person upon request and does not include Panera’s frozen lemonade drinks. No purchase is necessary.

About Panera Bread
Panera Bread Company owns and franchises 1,453 bakery-cafes as of December 28, 2010 under the Panera Bread®, Saint Louis Bread Co.®, and Paradise Bakery & Café® names. We feature high quality, reasonably priced food in a warm, inviting, and comfortable environment. With our identity rooted in handcrafted, fresh-baked, artisan bread, we are committed to providing great tasting, quality food that people can trust. Nearly all of our bakery-cafes have a menu highlighted by antibiotic-free chicken, whole grain bread, and select organic and all natural ingredients, with zero grams of artificial trans fat per serving, which provide flavorful, wholesome offerings. Our menu includes a wide variety of year-round favorites complemented by new items introduced seasonally with the goal of creating new standards in everyday food choices. In neighborhoods across the United States and in Ontario, Canada, our customers enjoy our warm and welcoming environment featuring comfortable gathering areas, relaxing decor, and free internet access. Our bakery-cafes routinely donate bread and baked goods to community organizations in need An essential sponsor, Panera Bread’s Long Island and Queens locations provide over 2200 pounds of bread each week from its area bakery-cafes to Island Harvest and City Harvest its Operation Dough-nation® partners. On Long Island, Panera Bread has locations in: Bay Shore, Bohemia, Bridgehampton, Carle Place, East Meadow, East Northport, Farmingdale, Hauppauge, Hampton Bays, Hicksville, Huntington, Lawrence, Massapequa, Mineola, New Hyde Park, North Babylon, Port Jefferson, Riverhead, Rockville Centre and West Babylon. Additional information is available on the Company’s website, http://www.panerabread.com.

About Doherty Enterprises, Inc.
Doherty Enterprises, Inc. was established in 1985 and is the 12th largest franchisee in the United States, operating five restaurant Pages including: Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Panera Bread, Chevys Fresh Mex, Carino’s Italian Grill, and their own Page, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub. To date, Doherty Enterprises owns and operates 93 restaurants in northern and central New Jersey, Long Island, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and Queens. The Doherty vision is to be the “Best Food Service Company in the Tri-State Area” and its mission is to “Wow Every Guest Every Time, Wow Our People, Wow Our Communities and Wow Our Suppliers.” (www.DohertyInc.com)

Show Your Appreciation with a Thank You Gift on Admin Day

Remember Administrative Professionals on April 27^th

(Allendale, NJ) –April 7, 2011- Nearly sixty years ago, America celebrated the first Secretary’s Day thanks to one New York City public relations professional who dreamed up the holiday as a way of encouraging more women to become secretaries. His idea was to promote the importance of their role in business by honoring them with a special day. Since then, Secretary’s Day has been renamed Admin Day, and has expanded its scope to pay tribute to all Administrative Professionals and Executive Admins—men as well as women.

April 27 is a day of recognition and thank you on which gratitude is shown in a variety of ways from the traditional bouquet of flowers or box of candy to lunch out with the boss.

One popular gift choice is a restaurant gift card. This month, Applebee’s is giving a $10 bonus gift card for every $50 in gift cards purchased. The bonus gift cards are available starting April 25 through June 19 only at participating Applebee’s in northern and central New Jersey and on Long Island and are redeemable May 9 to July 10.

For more information, visit a neighborhood Applebee's or www.applebees.com.

Panera Bread's Operation Dough-nation® Helps Feed LI's Hungry

Panera Bread’s Operation Dough-nation® Helps Feed LI’s Hungry – As an essential sponsor for Long Island’s largest hunger relief organization, Island Harvest, Panera Bread provides over 1,000 pounds of bread daily from its area bakery-cafes. In addition, the Long Island bakery-cafes contributed $47,000 to help support the efforts of Island Harvest, their longstanding Operation Dough-nation® partner. Pictured (left to right) are: Island Harvest Board Member, Barry Chandler; Area Director for Panera Bread, Tim Magorrian; and the president and CEO of Island Harvest, Randi Shubin Dresner. These monies will help provide critical food support to the more than 570 food pantries, soup kitchens and emergency feeding programs that Island Harvest serves in Nassau and Suffolk. Last September, Panera Bread also conducted its “Take a Bite out of Hunger” campaign in which 2,350 lbs of non-perishable food items were collected from guests in exchange for over 2000 grilled breakfast sandwiches.

CLIFTON CHEVYS FRESH MEX HOSTS NEW JERSEY'S LARGEST CINCO DE MAYO PARTY

Drink Specials, Mexican Food and Live Entertainment Keep the Fiesta Going All Day and All Night

CLIFTON CHEVYS FRESH MEX HOSTS NEW JERSEY'S LARGEST CINCO DE MAYO PARTY (Clifton, NJ) – April 26, 2011 - At Chevys Fresh Mex located in Clifton, it’s a fiesta every day! But on Thursday, May 5 this Mexican eatery will be celebrating Cinco de Mayo with freshly prepared Mexican dishes, $3 Coronas, giveaways and live music with the area's hottest DJs starting at 5:00 p.m. that will put everyone in a fiesta mood.

The party continues on Saturday, May 7 when Chevys Fresh Mex hosts the largest fiesta in New Jersey featuring multiple outdoor beverage stations, contests with great prizes and live entertainment. The fiesta kicks-off at 3:00 p.m. New Jersey's most popular cover bands, Amish Outlaws and The Nerds will perform under Chevys outdoor tented stage and DJ Prime from 103.5 FM will keep the music going all day and all night. Tickets for the outdoor party are $5 (cash only, before May 7) and $10 (day of event), while supplies last.

"Cinco de Mayo is a joyous holiday commemorated with food, fun, parades, and plenty of cerveza," said Tim Mahoney, Chevys General Manager. "Raise a toast to the Battle of Puebla with a $3 Corona and pair that with one of our mesquite grilled flaming fajitas, traditional enchiladas, burritos or tacos, all made fresh daily from scratch. Chevys Cinco Celebration is going to be a fiesta for the senses."

About Chevys Fresh Mex
Chevys Fresh Mex® is an ultra-casual restaurant offering an array of freshly prepared Mexican dishes in a festive atmosphere. Designed to offer a fiesta for the senses where every experience is fresh, fun and full of flavor, Chevys is the trend on Fresh Mex food, drink and hospitality through a commitment to continuous innovation. Chevys Fresh Mex® fired up a Mexican restaurant revolution in the mid-80’s driven by an unswerving commitment to fresh food prepared in our own kitchens from scratch every day. No cans! Nada! It’s fresh or forget it!

APPLEBEE'S SPRINGS FOR FREE KIDS MEALS ON EASTER

APPLEBEE’S SPRINGS FOR FREE KIDS MEALS ON EASTER

Clifton/Ramsey/Woodbridge, NJ –March 22, 2011- On Easter, Applebee’s in (TOWN) is celebrating this colorful holiday by “springing” for free meals for kids. Families who dine at Applebee’s anytime on Sunday, April 24 will receive up to two free Kids’ Meals with each adult entrée purchase. The free meal is valid for children ages 12 and under, on any Applebee’s “Kids’ Menu” entrée, dine-in only.

“After the egg hunts and pictures with the Easter bunny, families can hop on over to Applebee’s and let us treat the kids to an Easter Sunday meal on us,” said Kevin Coughlin, Director of Operations for Applebee’s New Jersey. “We’re happy to spread some joy to families in our neighborhood this Easter.”

To locate the Applebee’s restaurant nearest you or for more information, visit www.Applebees.com. This offer is valid at Applebee's in North and Central New Jersey only.

APPLEBEE'S CELEBRATES CINCO DE MAYO SOUTH-OF-THE-BORDER-STYLE

APPLEBEE’S CELEBRATES CINCO DE MAYO SOUTH-OF-THE-BORDER-STYLE

With Drink Specials and Sizzling Skillet Fajitas

(Allendale, NJ) –April 11, 2011- Cinco de Mayo is an occasion of ethnic pride celebrated throughout Mexico and the United States and marks a victorious battle that took place in Puebla, Mexico. There 4,000 brave Mexican soldiers triumphed over twice as many French fighters on May 5, 1862. Today, Cinco de Mayo is a joyous holiday commemorated with food, fun, parades, and plenty of cerveza.

Applebee’s restaurants in northern and central New Jersey and on Long Island are celebrating Cinco de Mayo south-of-the border style with $3 Corona beer and $3 House Margarita drink specials. As always, a variety of sizzling skillet fajitas with steak, chicken, shrimp or a combination of two for $12.99, are available to choose from. Add guacamole to any skillet entree for an additional ninety-nine cents.

"Raise a toast to the Battle of Puebla with a well-made Applebee's House Margarita and pair that with one of our sizzling skillet fajitas. These money-saving specials are sure to get everyone in a fiesta mood this Cinco de Mayo," said Kevin Coughlin, Director of Operations for Applebee’s New Jersey.

As always, Applebee's is open until midnight or later. To locate the Applebee's nearest you, visit www.applebees.com. This offer is valid at Applebee's in Northern and Central New Jersey only.

March Hoops' Excitement in Your Neighborhood

Follow Your Brackets and the Excitement at Applebee's

(Long Island, NY) -- March 10, 2011– Game on! It’s time to watch the best teams in NCAA college basketball battle it out during the March Tournament. Catch up with friends, classmates and co-workers while watching all of the college hoops action at Applebee's Neighborhood Grill and Bar.

Starting on Thursday, March 17 through the Championship game, April 4, participating Applebee's restaurants in Nassau and Suffolk counties are offering a slam dunk deal during any NCAA basketball game: get any burger and a Miller Lite draft for $9.99. Applebee's everyday 2 for $20 (one shared appetizer and two entrees) is another bracket-busting bargain.

"There's no place better in the neighborhood for college basketball fans to track their brackets and cheer on their favorite teams than at Applebee's," said Kurt Pahlitzsch, Director of Operations for Applebee’s Long Island. "We offer ample bar seating and plenty of flat screen televisions to catch all of the hardwood action. It's the perfect atmosphere for March basketball excitement."

As always, Applebee's is open until midnight or later. To locate the Applebee's nearest you, visit www.applebees.com.

Applebee's Red Turning Green on St. Patrick's Day

Offers Irish food and drink specials all day to celebrate this festive holiday

Long Island, NY(March 3, 2011)- On March 17, everyone is Irish! It's a day to wear green, have a good time and, of course, to eat corned beef and cabbage and down a draft or two. Applebee's Neighborhood Grill and Bar restaurants in Nassau and Suffolk counties are "going green" this St. Patrick's Day by serving up leprechaun-approved dishes and drink specials for all who are Irish at heart.

"St. Patrick’s Day is one of the best party days of the year and we'll be doing it up right with food and drink specials all-day long for everyone--Irish or not," said Kurt Pahlitzsch, Director of Operations for Applebee’s Long Island. "There's no place better in the neighborhood to celebrate this festive holiday than at Applebee's."

Applebee's St. Patrick’s Day Irish-themed menu items include Corned Beef and Cabbage for $11.99 and Reuben and Fries for $9.99. If guests are craving Applebee's famous wings, then this will be their lucky day because wings will be offered for only fifty cents each. The restaurant will also be offering drink specials including $3 Bud Light and Bud drafts, $4 Irish coffees and $5 Sangrias including Applebee's signature Green Apple Sangria.

Applebee's is open until midnight or later. The special pricing and menu items are being offered all day at participating Applebee's in Nassau and Suffolk counties. To locate the Applebee's nearest you, visit www.applebees.com.

Panera Bread's Popularity and Growth Build Area Job Opportunities

Doherty Enterprises Employs 6,300 in Food Service Industry

(Long Island, NY) February 28, 2011 -- Since its first bakery-café opened in Carle Place in 2002, Doherty Enterprises, the local franchisee for Panera Bread, has grown the popular chain to 20 Long Island cafes, generated four in Queens and produced two in Staten Island. This month's opening of Panera Bread in Lawrence marked the 20th bakery-cafe to appear here on Long Island in just over eight years and the company has plans to open four more cafes this year including two in Brooklyn.

"With such noticeable growth, comes an ever-growing demand for good people, who uphold the Panera culture and can staff, manage and oversee our bakery-cafes," says Ed Doherty, Panera Bread franchisee for Long Island, Staten Island, Queens and Brooklyn. "It’s a critical ingredient to our success," he adds.

"With such noticeable growth, comes an ever-growing demand for good people, who uphold the Panera culture and can staff, manage and oversee our bakery-cafes," says Ed Doherty, Panera Bread franchisee for Long Island, Staten Island, Queens and Brooklyn. “It’s a critical ingredient to our success,” he adds.

Doherty doesn’t just give lip service to that idea. He truly believes that the associates and managers who interact with guests are the heart of the Page. In fact, his appreciation shows. Recently, Doherty Enterprises regaled over 800 of its key people at its annual WOW Awards Dinner held at Chelsea Piers honoring many individual and group achievements for, as he states, helping to “WOW Every Guest Every Time, Wow Our People, Wow Our Communities and Wow Our Suppliers.”

Not only that, the company offers generous management perks like paid vacations, 401k with company match, quarterly incentives, insurance and annual performance reviews.

What does Doherty Enterprises look for in those it hires? The job description for Assistant Manager asks, for instance, “Are you a warmhearted person with an appetite for success?” That’s what is required. In return, employees enjoy a balanced work-life environment in a fun and wholesome working atmosphere with plenty of time for family, friends and hobbies.

“Striking a balance between work and outside life is essential to attracting and retaining talented managers who enjoy what they are doing-it shows in how they interact with our guests and associates,” says Greg George, Panera Bread’s Vice President of Operations for Doherty Enterprises and father of two.

In addition to the local Panera Bread bakery-cafes, Doherty Enterprises operates Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar restaurants in Nassau and Suffolk counties and Carino’s Italian Grill, Chevy’s Fresh Mex and its own Page The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in New Jersey. Owner/operator Ed Doherty was himself recently honored at the 2010 WOW Awards where NJ Senator Kevin O’Toole, on behalf of Governor Chris Christie, presented a proclamation commending the company for its strong commitment to promoting employment opportunities to area residents through the creation and retention of jobs.

Doherty Enterprises, established in 1985, is presently the nation’s 12th largest franchisee.

To learn more about career opportunities with Doherty/Panera Bread click on to http://doherty.standoutjobs.com

Applebee's New All-You-Can-Eat Soup, Salad & Bread Lunch Offers Value and Choices

Applebee’s New All-You-Can-Eat Soup, Salad & Bread Lunch Offers Value and Choices

Guests to Mix and Match a Hardy Weekday Lunch

Long Island, NY (February 25, 2011) - Applebee’s is introducing the neighborhood to an affordable weekday lunch option that’s a big improvement over brown bagging it. In an economy that has everyone tightening their belts, Applebee’s brings to the table a weekday All-You-Can-Eat Soup, Salad and Bread lunch for the trim price of only $6.99. Now, guests can take advantage of the specially priced deal that runs Monday to Friday, from 11AM to 3PM.

“What we are offering is a weekday lunch that’s easy on today’s wallets. It’s a better-for-you alternative to fast food,” said Kurt Pahlitzsch, Director of Operations for Applebee’s Long Island restaurants. “And, it’s a great money saving value.”

What about those who are budgeting calories? Applebee's has guests covered there, too. With its mix and match menu, guests can select from lower calorie options like Tomato Basil Soup at 220 calories and Spinach Salad at 220 calories or for $2 more choose a Shrimp 'n Spinach Salad that's only 250 calories.

As part of the new $6.99 All-You-Can-Eat menu, guests can opt for unlimited French Onion Soup, Tomato Basil Soup, Chili or the Soup of the Day (with daily selections like Broccoli Cheese, Chicken Tortilla, Potato Cheese Bacon, Chicken Noodle and New England Clam Chowder). They also receive limitless Caesar, Spinach or House salads and breadsticks.

For those who are craving a little more than greens, Applebee’s will be offering their four popular specialty salads: Oriental Chicken Salad, Chicken Caesar Salad, Fried Chicken Salad and Shrimp ‘n Spinach Salad for just $2 more. Depending on their appetite guests can order one or as many portions as they'd like.

For those who feel like adding something sweet to top off their meal, Applebee’s has the perfect treat. For just $1, guests can finish their lunch with a delicious Brownie Bite that’s served with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream.

The affordable All-You-Can-Eat menu is available at all Long Island Applebee’s. To locate the Applebee’s nearest you, visit www.applebees.com.

A New Love Arrived in Lawrence on Valentine's Day

A New Love Arrived in Lawrence on Valentine’s Day

Panera Bread Bakery-Cafe Opened February 14^th

A New Love Arrived in Lawrence on Valentine’s Day Lawrence, NY (February 15, 2011)- Not only was love in the air this February 14^th, but so was the tantalizing aroma of fresh-baked breads, as Panera Bread-a bakery-cafe known for its fresh salads, sandwiches and soups—opened on Valentine’s Day, near Best Buy, in the Bay Harbour Shopping Center on Bay/Penisula Boulevard between Rockaway Turnpike and Nassau Expressway.

Here, bread lovers can enjoy sandwiches and panini made on bread baked each morning on Panera’s stone hearth. Soup lovers can swoon over a variety of daily favorites like broccoli cheddar, French onion and low-fat garden vegetable with pesto. While, salad lovers can crunch their way through healthful salads, made with crisp, exciting ingredients, with new selections introduced each season.

“Our guests love us,” says Greg George, Vice President of Operations for Panera, “we were voted ‘Most Popular’ among large chain restaurants and received top ranking for Best Salads and Best Facilities in last year’s Zagat Survey. Panera was also rated the #1 Quick Service Restaurant in New York in a recent JD Power & Associates satisfaction survey and earned five Best of Long Island awards including Best Soup, Best Sandwich Deal and Best Healthy Eatery.”

Breakfast lovers can start their day bright and early at Panera. The bakery-cafe will open its doors weekdays at 7AM to share the warmth of hot soufflés as well as a variety of nourishing grilled choices like a whole-grain breakfast power sandwich or French Toast Bagel Breakfast sandwich made with a freshly cracked egg, Vermont white cheddar and all-natural sausage. Breakfast also comes in the shape of a dozen mouth-watering varieties of bagels and an irresistible assortment of artisan pastries, sweet rolls, muffins and scones that can be paired with Panera’s fresh-perked coffee or hot tea selections.

When it comes to tiny taste buds, kids will fall in love with wholesome choices like Grilled Cheese, made with organic American cheese and white whole grain bread, their perennial favorite PB&J, creamy Mac & Cheese and a selection of Kid’s Deli sandwiches. Each Panera Kids’ Meal is served with a fun, squeezable organic yogurt.

Calorie-conscious guests, and even those who are not, adore Panera Bread’s You-Pick-Two® which allows them to manage calories by choosing a half sandwich together with a cup of hearty soup or half salad. The option helped Panera Bread earn its #1 ranking for healthy eating on the go from Health magazine.

What else is there to love about Panera? How about free WiFi served up in cozy nooks with electrical outlets that let guests comfortably surf the web from their laptops?

If you’ve got a meeting, sales call or special occasion, the Lawrence bakery-cafe offers Panera Catering. They will meticulously package breakfast, lunch or dinner for your group and deliver it directly to your door or have it ready for pickup.

For employment opportunities with Panera, visit www.panerabread.jobs.

Panera Bread "Pink Ribbon Bagels" Raise $22,000 for Long Island Breast Cancer Organizations

Panera Bread “Pink Ribbon Bagels” Raise $22,000 for Long Island Breast Cancer Organizations

(Long Island, NY) February 9, 2011 – Each fall, Panera Bread rolls out its Pink Ribbon Bagels, symbols of hope, to help support local area breast cancer organizations. This year, the month-long campaign raised more than $22,000 for the WALK for Women Breast Cancer Fund whose aim is to provide funding to help ensure that the lifesaving screening and support services, which many women count on, continue to operate.

Thanks to the money raised by Panera Bread and other sponsors of the WALK for Women Breast Cancer Fund, nearly a dozen breast cancer education, screening, research and emotional and daily living support programs across Long Island and New York will benefit. Among those organizations are the local Lending a Helping Hand Programs, Prevention is the Cure, a collaborative educational program spearheaded by the Huntington Breast Cancer Action Coalition, The Breast Cancer Research Program at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and the Latina Breast Cancer Support Group which helps Long Island’s minority underserved, uninsured and underinsured population.

“WALK 97.5 does an amazing job each year of getting the word out to women on Long Island about breast cancer prevention,” says Greg George, Director of Operations for Panera Bread. “We are proud to partner with them, for a second year, and we’re delighted to present a check for $22,155 to the WALK for Women Breast Cancer Fund.”

Women who have not had a recent mammogram are reminded that early detection saves lives. To access a helpful Breast Cancer Resource Directory with a listing of local support groups, visit www.walkradio.com and click on WALK Cares.

Applebee's Offers Super Bowl Party Deal on Pre-Orders

Applebee’s Offers Super Bowl Party Deal on Pre-Orders

(Long Island, NY) January 25, 2011 -- If you’re planning a Super Bowl party, you can get in the game with a deal that’s a real “steal” for Steelers fans and “packs” a punch for Packers fans. Long Island Applebee’s restaurants are offering a pre-game special that includes one free Spinach & Artichoke Dip Platter with any Party Platter pre-order. Choose regular or boneless Chicken Wings with your choice of Honey BBQ, Hot Buffalo, Classic Buffalo, Southern BBQ or Sweet & Spicy sauce, or get a platter of Chicken Fingers or Cheeseburger Sliders for around $30 each on Applebee’s Party Platter Pre-Order Form. Then, just pick up your pre-ordered platters on Super Bowl Sunday, turn on the television, pop open a few cold ones and enjoy the game with friends. It doesn’t get easier than that! Offer is valid at all 21 Long Island Applebee’s only.

Panera Bread® Enhances Menu with Addition of Calorie-Conscious Menu Offerings

Panera Introduces New Thai Chopped Chicken Salad and Low-Fat Wild Berry Smoothie

Long Island, NY – January 12, 2011 – To start off the year, Panera Bread is adding new delicious and nutritious items to help stick to those freshly-made resolutions.

Panera's new Thai Chopped Chicken Salad has only 390 calories and 33 grams of protein, which will not only leave you feeling full and satisfied but also transport you a little with each taste. Made with fresh chopped romaine lettuce, wonton strips, and a medley of vegetables including fire-roasted edamame, red bell peppers, and carrots, this salad is topped with strips of seasoned grilled chicken, Thai roasted cashews, fresh cilantro, and finished with a Thai-style peanut drizzle. This salad achieves an authentic Thai flavor through Panera's Thai Chili Vinaigrette, a low-fat vinaigrette with lemongrass and red chili flecks, toasted sesame oil, kaffir lime and soy sauce.

Dan Kish, Panera's head chef and former associate dean at the Culinary Institute of America, reveals, "In the test kitchen, we looked at each ingredient and considered how to best bring out the individual flavors. We found that roasting select ingredients intensified the flavors – and as an added bonus – allowed us to maintain a raw food crunch, which contributes to the textural variety and intrigue of the salad." Kish adds, "It's a little bit of Bangkok in every bite."

Also new to the menu is the Low-Fat Wild Berry Smoothie, the fourth addition to Panera's smoothie line-up. Made with a wild berry fruit base of apple and blueberry purees and blueberry and raspberry juices blended with organic vanilla yogurt from Stonyfield Farm®, you can enjoy this fusion of berry flavors year round. As is true with most of Panera’s smoothies, the new Low-Fat Wild Berry Smoothie has less than 300 calories, contains 100% daily value of vitamins B6 and B12 and does not have any high-fructose corn syrup.

Panera Bread® Enhances Menu with Addition of Calorie-Conscious Menu Offerings

Panera Introduces New Thai Chopped Chicken Salad and Low-Fat Wild Berry Smoothie; Celebrates the Return of Festive Bakery Favorites

Long Island, NY – January 12, 2011 – To start off the year, Panera Bread is adding new delicious and nutritious items to help stick to those freshly-made resolutions – as well as some festive treats for when you want to cheat a little.

Panera’s new Thai Chopped Chicken Salad has only 390 calories and 33 grams of protein, which will not only leave you feeling full and satisfied but also transport you a little with each taste. Made with fresh chopped romaine lettuce, wonton strips, and a medley of vegetables including fire-roasted edamame, red bell peppers, and carrots, this salad is topped with strips of seasoned grilled chicken, Thai roasted cashews, fresh cilantro, and finished with a Thai-style peanut drizzle. This salad achieves an authentic Thai flavor through Panera’s Thai Chili Vinaigrette, a low-fat vinaigrette with lemongrass and red chili flecks, toasted sesame oil, kaffir lime and soy sauce.

Dan Kish, Panera’s head chef and former associate dean at the Culinary Institute of America, reveals, “In the test kitchen, we looked at each ingredient and considered how to best bring out the individual flavors. We found that roasting select ingredients intensified the flavors – and as an added bonus – allowed us to maintain a raw food crunch, which contributes to the textural variety and intrigue of the salad.” Kish adds, “It’s a little bit of Bangkok in every bite.”

Also new to the menu is the Low-Fat Wild Berry Smoothie, the fourth addition to Panera’s smoothie line-up. Made with a wild berry fruit base of apple and blueberry purees and blueberry and raspberry juices blended with organic vanilla yogurt from Stonyfield Farm®, you can enjoy this fusion of berry flavors year round. As is true with most of Panera’s smoothies, the new Low-Fat Wild Berry Smoothie has less than 300 calories, contains 100% daily value of vitamins B6 and B12 and does not have any high-fructose corn syrup.

“People are seeking better-for-you options when they eat out,” says Greg George, Vice President of Panera Bread, Long Island. “When it comes to creating new wholesome food choices, Panera enjoys being seen as a forerunner. The fact is, several years ago, Panera led the way in converting its entire menu to zero trans fat, introduced a more nourishing kids menu, and, more recently, was one of the first to voluntarily include calorie counts on its menu boards. It’s no wonder that Panera has been voted Best Healthy Eatery in the Best of LI several years running.”

Panera’s Trail Mix Bagel makes its return to the menu to kick start the New Year. The bagel is filled with apples, bananas, cherries, cranberries, peanut butter flavored chips, cinnamon chips, maple bits and raisins, then enhanced even further with a topping of honey-roasted sunflower seeds. This bagel is best enjoyed toasted, because when heated, the peanut butter chips melt to create a truly unique and warming bagel experience.

From new calorie-conscious menu items to freshly-baked, handcrafted artisan breads and pastries, there truly is something for everyone at Panera Bread. And with Valentine’s Day fast approaching, isn’t it time that someone spoiled you?

In celebration of Valentine’s Day, Panera’s bakers will create heart-shaped shortbread cookies, available now through February 14. Each Valentine Cookie is frosted with pink icing that has a hint of citrus and is sprinkled with granulated sugar. Our bakers will also offer six miniature versions of the heart-shaped shortbread cookies, covered with the same pink icing and sugar, but with an extra surprise – red chocolate gems. These Valentine Petites will be pre-packaged and tied with a ribbon, ready to be picked up as a treat for your Valentine.

From March 11 – 17, Panera will offer a St. Patrick’s Day favorite, Irish Soda Bread. Panera’s artisan bakers put their own spin on this traditional recipe, adding currants and a hint of caraway.

Tom Gumpel, Panera’s head baker and former associate dean at the Culinary Institute of America, brings an inventive twist to Panera’s original Hot Cross Bun recipe with the addition of dried strawberries. The Strawberry Hot Cross Buns are made with soft egg bread, orange zest, and of course dried strawberries, topped with a sweet icing. This Lenten tradition will be available Fridays through Sundays March 11 – April 10; and everyday from April 15 – 24.

Applebee's® has Dining-Out Solutions for America's New Year's Resolutions

Applebee’s® has Dining-Out Solutions for America’s New Year’s Resolutions

New to the Neighborhood Three Additional “Under 550 Calories™” Entrees

(Allendale, NJ) –January 4, 2011- Whether counting calories in the New Year or just looking for better-for-you meals, guests at Applebee's Neighborhood Grill and Bar restaurants located in northern and central New Jersey and on Long Island are finding that dining out and taking their diet seriously are not mutually exclusive. With three new tasty entrees Under 550 Calories, Applebee’s has expanded its lower-calorie line-up to six selections that provide satisfying, flavorful and affordable options starting at $8.99.

As the world’s largest casual dining chain, Applebee’s conducted an online poll via Harris Interactive®, one of the world’s leading market research companies, concerning adults’ attitudes toward choices offered in restaurants and how they feel about New Year’s food-related solutions.

Some findings among U.S. adults surveyed include:

60 percent plan to make food-related New Year’s resolutions.
Among these adults,
- 71 percent agree that it is more difficult to keep their food-related resolutions when dining out than when eating at home;
- 75 percent say that having a wide variety of lower-calorie meals to choose from when dining out would make it easier for them to keep those resolutions; and
- 41 percent resolve to lower their overall calorie intake.
69 percent will dine out at restaurants more often or equally as often in 2011 as they did in 2010.
76 percent say they would choose a lower-calorie item over a higher-calorie item if taste and portion size were comparable.

“Our guests want more choices and they don’t want to sacrifice flavor or portion size,” said Kevin Coughlin, Director of Operations, New Jersey. “We offer our guests choices of flavor-packed, full portion entrées under 550 calories. It’s more of what they want for their resolutions or their dietary choices year-round.”

Applebee’s new “Unbelievably Great Tasting & Under 550 Calories” items include:

Teriyaki Shrimp Pasta or Teriyaki Chicken Pasta – grilled seasoned shrimp (or chicken), broccoli, red peppers, carrots, sugar snap peas, bok choy, water chestnuts and mushrooms top steaming whole wheat Asian noodles in a rich teriyaki sauce with cilantro

Signature Sirloin with Garlic Herb Shrimp – a 7oz. sirloin grilled and topped with succulent shrimp in a light cream sauce and served with herb potatoes, seasonal vegetables, fresh bruschetta, sliced almonds and chopped parsley

Applebee's® has Dining-Out Solutions for America's New Year's Resolutions New to the Neighborhood Three Additional "Under 550 Calories™" Entrees

Applebee’s® has Dining-Out Solutions for America’s New Year’s Resolutions
New to the Neighborhood Three Additional “Under 550 Calories™” Entrees

(Long Island, NY) –January 6, 2011- Whether counting calories in the New Year or just looking for better-for-you meals, guests at Applebee's Neighborhood Grill and Bar restaurants on Long Island are finding that dining out and taking their diet seriously are not mutually exclusive. With three new tasty entrees Under 550 Calories, Applebee’s has expanded its lower-calorie line-up to six selections that provide satisfying, flavorful and affordable options starting at $8.99.

Some findings among U.S. adults surveyed include:

60 percent plan to make food-related New Year’s resolutions.
Among these adults,
- 71 percent agree that it is more difficult to keep their food-related resolutions when dining out than when eating at home;
- 75 percent say that having a wide variety of lower-calorie meals to choose from when dining out would make it easier for them to keep those resolutions; and
- 41 percent resolve to lower their overall calorie intake.
69 percent will dine out at restaurants more often or equally as often in 2011 as they did in 2010.
76 percent say they would choose a lower-calorie item over a higher-calorie item if taste and portion size were comparable.

“Our guests want more choices and they don’t want to sacrifice flavor or portion size,” said Kurt Pahlitzsch, Director of Operations for Applebee’s Long Island. “We offer our guests six selections of flavor-packed, full portion entrées under 550 calories. It’s more of what they want for their resolutions or their dietary choices year-round.”

Applebee’s new “Unbelievably Great Tasting & Under 550 Calories” items include:

Teriyaki Shrimp Pasta or Teriyaki Chicken Pasta – grilled seasoned shrimp (or chicken), broccoli, red peppers, carrots, sugar snap peas, bok choy, water chestnuts and mushrooms top steaming whole wheat Asian noodles in a rich teriyaki sauce with cilantro Signature Sirloin with Garlic Herb Shrimp – a 7oz. sirloin grilled and topped with succulent shrimp in a light cream sauce and served with herb potatoes, seasonal vegetables, fresh bruschetta, sliced almonds and chopped parsley.

Signature Sirloin with Garlic Herb Shrimp – a 7oz. sirloin grilled and topped with succulent shrimp in a light cream sauce and served with herb potatoes, seasonal vegetables, fresh bruschetta, sliced almonds and chopped parsley.

2010

Ed Doherty Recognized for Outstanding Service and Achievement by the NJRA

TRENTON - The New Jersey Restaurant Association (NJRA) hosted its 30th anniversary celebration with recognizing their 2010 award winners on Monday, November 29, 2010 at The Palace at Somerset Park in Somerset, New Jersey

The 2010 Gold Plate Award was given to Ed Doherty of Doherty Enterprises: Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Chevy's Fresh Mex, Panera Bread Cafes, Carino’s Italian Grill and The Shannon Rose Irish Pubs. The Gold Plate Award recognizes current outstanding service and achievement in the food service industry. According to Ed Doherty, “I am proud to accept this recognition on behalf of the 6,200+ team members dedicated to WOW every guest, every time.

"New Jersey is privileged to have so many wonderful restaurants, and we are honored to represent them through our association. This anniversary celebration was a fitting way of honoring all of our members who serve New Jersey and to recognize those that have particularly distinguished themselves as industry legends over the last 30 years," said Deborah Dowdell, President, New Jersey Restaurant Association.

Ed Doherty Recognized for Outstanding Service and Achievement by the NJRA

Bellmore Applebee's Gives Back To Veterans And Active Military

Veterans Day celebration incredibly successful as hundreds of veterans grab a free meal at Applebee’s.

By Matthew Hogan | November 13, 2010

(L-R): Doherty Enterprises COO Ed Choe, CEO Ed Doherty, WWII and Korean War vets Phil Chapman and Art Armstrong

As Ed Doherty walked around and thanked the hundreds of veterans that had come out to Applebee's in Bellmore for their free Veterans Day meal, it was obvious how sincere and genuine his efforts were.

Doherty, the president and chief executive officer of Doherty Enterprises, owns and operates over 60 Applebee's in Long Island and New Jersey.

"The best part about this is going around and thanking all of the vets for how much they've done for the country because we wouldn't be as great without the veterans," Doherty said.

By 1 p.m. on Thursday, the Bellmore Applebee's was filled to capacity with veterans and active members of the military who were treated to a free meal. The veterans on hand were incredibly grateful for what Applebee's was doing.

"I think that the display that Applebee's has made today is stupendous. They're probably the only ones that I'm aware of that are really remembering Veterans Day," said Al Coli, a World War II veteran. "… What Applebee's is doing is just tremendous. We were here last year and they treated us like visiting royalty and they did the same thing today."

Applebee's initiated this program nationwide for the first time last year. As a result, Applebee's provided over one million free meals to members of the military. Veterans Day turned into a military reunion at Applebee's in neighborhoods across the country. Veterans and active duty military from across generations enjoyed great food as they shared their service stories.

"We look at it as our opportunity to give back to our communities," said Ed Choe, Chief Operating Officer of Doherty Enterprises. "We don't really look at it as anything else other than it's a great opportunity to give back. Everyone has fun doing it."

Choe added: "We prepare for it days and days and days in advance. Ed and I will go around and we'll visit as many restaurants as we can. … It's just a great day."

This year, Applebee's Veterans Day menu included a seven-ounce House Sirloin, Bacon Cheeseburger, Fiesta Lime Chicken, Double Crunch Shrimp, Three-Cheese Chicken Penne, Chicken Tenders Platter and Oriental Chicken Salad. All of the selections were more than enough to keep the local veterans happy.

"I think it's fantastic and it's greatly appreciated," said Sal Fiorelli a veteran of the Korean War. "I don't know what else to say, but I want to thank them. They're the only ones around that I know that recognize us."

While the veterans were more than appreciative of the free meal, along with the unforgettable experience, they were also thinking of those still serving overseas.

"I think it's wonderful, I think it's a great thing," said Art Armstrong, who served with the Navy between World War II and the Korean War. "It shows that they appreciate what people have done for them and I just hope this other war ends soon and they can be veterans. … I hope they get back soon."

In the end, Doherty, along with his gracious staff, was just looking to thank the people who have been keeping this country safe for years. Veterans young and old acknowledged one another with thanks as they entered and exited the restaurant, making the day even more memorable for everyone involved.

"We own the Applebee's on Long Island and New Jersey and last year in our Applebee's we gave away 26,000 meals, and Applebee's across the country gave a million meals away," Doherty said. "When I go around thanking these people, they are thanking me for giving them a free me and I say 'no, it's you that makes our country great.' It's the least we can do. It's just an exciting, fun day."

Applebee's To Serve Up a Million Thanks To U.S. Veterans And Active Duty Military

Applebee’s To Serve Up a Million Thanks To U.S. Veterans And Active Duty Military

Free Meals for Servicemen and Women This Veterans Day

October 18, 2010 – Once again this Veterans Day, Thursday, November 11, Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar will thank our nation’s veterans and active duty military by inviting them to their neighborhood Applebee’s for a well-deserved free meal. A selection of complimentary entrees will be available for these local heroes on this day as dine-in guests at all Applebee’s restaurants throughout the United States. Due to the popularity of last year’s event, New Jersey and Long Island Applebee’s will open one hour earlier for lunch starting at 10:00 a.m. and continue serving dinner until midnight or later in order to accommodate more of our deserving military.

Applebee’s initiated this program nationwide for the first time last year. As a result, Applebee’s provided over one million free meals to members of the military. Veterans Day turned into a military reunion at Applebee’s in neighborhoods across the country. Veterans and active duty military from across generations enjoyed great food as they shared their service stories.

“It’s an honor to host this event each year. It helps the neighborhood come together and say ‘thanks’ to our veterans and active servicemen and women,” said Kevin Coughlin, Director of Operations for Applebee’s New Jersey. “We feel a special connection to everyone who wears or has worn our nation’s uniform to protect our freedoms. We’re proud of their courage and happy to have this opportunity to offer a great meal with our compliments,” said Kurt Pahlitzsch, Director of Operations for Applebee’s Long Island.

This year, Applebee’s Veterans Day menu includes: 7 oz. House Sirloin, Bacon Cheeseburger, Fiesta Lime Chicken, Double Crunch Shrimp, Three-Cheese Chicken Penne, Chicken Tenders Platter and Oriental Chicken Salad. All U.S. veterans and active duty personnel with proof of current or former military service can choose one complimentary entrée from this selection of favorites. Proof of service includes the following: U.S. Uniform Services Identification Card, U.S. Uniform Services Retired Identification Card, Current Leave and Earnings Statement, Veterans Organization Card, photograph in uniform or wearing uniform, DD214, Citation or Commendation. To locate the Applebee’s restaurant nearest you or for more information, visit www.applebees.com

Applebee’s Again To Honor Those Who Have Served This Veterans Day…On Thursday, November 11, Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar restaurants throughout the United States invite our nation’s veterans and active duty military to enjoy a free meal piled high with thanks. Applebee’s initiated its Veterans Day program nationwide for the first time last year and served over one million free meals to members of the military. Applebee’s hopes to exceed that number this year. Due to the popularity of last year’s event, Applebee’s restaurants in northern and central New Jersey and on Long Island will open one hour earlier for lunch starting at 10:00 a.m. and continue serving dinner through midnight or later in order to accommodate more of our deserving military. To locate an Applebee’s near you, visit www.applebees.com

A Delicious Way to Make a Difference

Panera Bread’s Pink Ribbon Bagels Benefit
the 2010 WALK For Women Breast Cancer Fund

(Long Island, NY – August 17, 2010) Pink Ribbon Bagels will once again appear at 19 Panera Bread bakery-cafes on Long Island this October. Panera bakers will twist brown-sugar sweetened, wholesome cranberry-cherry chip bagels into “pink ribbons,” a symbol of hope to help support local breast cancer organizations. The month-long fundraiser kicks off on Friday, October 1 with Panera’s THINK PINK DAY. Every Pink Ribbon Bagel or baker’s dozen of 13 Pink Ribbon Bagels sold on October 1 or preordered for pickup that day will provide a 100% donation to WALK 97.5’s 2010 WALK for Women Breast Cancer Fund. Businesses, organizations and individuals are encouraged to plan a THINK PINK DAY bagel party at work or with friends that Friday. During the rest of October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Panera will donate 25 cents from every Pink Ribbon Bagel sold.

“We’re really excited about THINK PINK DAY. On October 1st, all Long Island Panera Bread bakery-cafes will be quadrupling their donation to help jumpstart the month-long Pink Ribbon Bagel campaign,” says Linda Healy organizer of the WALK 97.5 fund. “Call now to reserve your Pink Ribbon Bagels for October 1, in that way $1.19 for each bagel, $9.99 for each baker’s dozen of these special bagels will go directly to the WALK for Women Breast Cancer Fund.”

Panera Bread’s Pink Ribbon Bagel sales help provide WALK 97.5 with funding for nearly a dozen breast cancer education, screening, research and emotional and daily living support programs across Long Island. Among the organizations it benefits are the local Lending a Helping Hand Programs, Prevention is the Cure, a collaborative educational program spearheaded by the Huntington Breast Cancer Action Coalition, The Breast Cancer Research Program at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and the Latina Breast Cancer Support Group which helps Long Island’s minority, underserved, uninsured and underinsured population.

“We’re hoping that businesses all across Long Island will hold THINK PINK DAY bagel parties on Friday, October 1^st,” says Greg George, Vice President of Operations for Panera Bread. “Last year, we sold over 53,000 Pink Ribbon Bagels to benefit the WALK for Women Breast Cancer Fund. This year our goal is to top 70,000 Pink Ribbon Bagels and we’re hoping to do that with the help of individuals and groups.” Starting today, businesses, organizations and individuals can call Laura 516-307-7248, Catering Sales Manager for Suffolk, or Sandra 516-712-7561, Catering Sales Manager for Nassau, Queens and Staten Island, to place their October 1^st Pink Ribbon Bagel pre-orders. Or, for a listing of bakery-cafes nearest you visit: www.panerabread.com.

IT HELPS TO THINK PINK AT PANERA BREAD - All 19 Panera Bread bakery-cafes across Long Island will kick off a month-long fundraiser for the WALK for Women Breast Cancer Fund with THINK PINK DAY on October 1^st. Panera will make a 100% donation for every Pink Ribbon Bagel or baker’s dozen of these special bagels sold that day or preordered for pickup on Friday, October 1. Throughout the remainder of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Panera will contribute 25 cents for each Pink Ribbon Bagel sold to help breast cancer organizations on Long Island.

The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Clifton Debuts Expanded Patio with Fire Pit

Enjoy Outdoor Dining on Cooler Autumn Nights

(Clifton, NJ) - September 29, 2010 – The Shannon Rose, an authentic Irish Pub located in the Clifton Commons, Route 3 East, recently debuted its newly renovated outdoor patio with a cozy fire pit for extended outdoor dining into the fall season.

“As the nights get cooler, the fire pit provides the perfect way to enjoy a great dinner or drinks in a very unique setting,” says Guy DuPont, director of operations of The Shannon Rose Irish Pub. “Our guests can continue summer’s spirit by sitting outside and enjoying authentic Irish food, music and drinks.”

The Shannon Rose’s new outdoor patio offers more seating, an outdoor bar and twenty-six tables with views of the beautiful landscaping. The Shannon Rose Irish Pub also has plenty of seating inside, a full bar and a private dining room available for parties and special events. For more information about menu, drink specials and live entertainment schedule, visit www.TheShannonRose.com

# # #

Photo caption: Nights Heat Up At The Shannon Rose Irish Pub…

The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Clifton has extended outdoor dining into the fall by adding a new fire pit to its newly expanded patio. Guests can now sit outside around a cozy fire while enjoying authentic Irish food, music and drinks. For more information, visit www.theshannonrose.com

Panera Bread Takes A Bite Out Of Hunger On Long Island

(Long Island, N.Y.) - September is National Hunger Awareness Month and Panera Bread hopes to take a big bite out of hunger here on Long Island. From Monday through Friday, September 20 to 24, Panera Bread is stepping up its support of Island Harvest, Long Island’s largest hunger relief organization. Guests who drop off a non-perishable food item for Island Harvest by 11AM at any of Panera Bread’s 19 Long Island bakery-cafes from September 20th to 24th will receive a free Grilled Breakfast Sandwich of their choice right on the spot.

“Island Harvest needs these contributions to help provide critical food support to over 570 pantries, soup kitchens and emergency feeding programs they serve in Nassau and Suffolk counties,” says Greg George, Vice President of Operations for Panera Bread here on Long Island. “Every day we package up all the bread, bagels, and pastries that remain on our shelves at the end of the day and donate them to help Island Harvest. Now, we’re inviting our guests to help too? and we’re saying thanks with a free grilled breakfast sandwich for each guest that makes a non-perishable food donation.”

“Over 285,000 people, including 110,000 children face the reality of hunger each day right here on Long Island,” said Randi Shubin Dresner, president and CEO of Island Harvest. “The slumping economy has thrown many of our neighbors into a crisis, forcing them to choose between paying the rent, a utility bill and buying food. Contributions from businesses like Panera Bread help address the growing problem of hunger in our communities.”

Panera Bread hopes to encourage its guests to help take a bite out of hunger here on Long Island by providing each donor with a nutritious hot breakfast sandwich, during its campaign to help Island Harvest.

About Island Harvest
Fighting hunger and touching lives, Island Harvest serves as the bridge between those who have surplus food and those who need it, supplying over 570 community-based nonprofit organizations on Long Island with critical food support to help stem the advancing tide of hunger in our communities. Island Harvest has delivered more than 63 million pounds of food, supplementing nearly 49 million meals, since its inception in 1992. In support of its mission to end hunger and reduce food waste on Long Island, the organization is actively involved in education, outreach, advocacy, job training and hunger awareness programs. Island Harvest is a member of Feeding America. For more information about Island Harvest, visit www.islandharvest.org.

PANERA BREAD SAYS THANKS WITH FREE BREAKFAST SANDWICH
Sept. 20-24th – Guests who donate a non-perishable food item at any of Panera’s 19 Long Island bakery-cafes, to help Island Harvest will receive a free Grilled Breakfast Sandwich. The offer which is part of Panera Bread’s plan to take a bite out of hunger is valid Monday September 20 to Friday September 24 until 11AM. (NOTE TO EDITOR: Hi-res photo available upon request; contact patfriia@optonline.net.)

Customers Vote Panera Bread® Most Popular in 2010 Zagat Survey

America’s Leading Bakery-Cafe Page Also Recognized for Best Salad and Top Facilities

ST. LOUIS, MO, August 16, 2010 - Zagat Survey®, the world’s leading provider of consumer survey-based leisure information, has named Panera Bread (NASDAQ: PNRA) the Most Popular large restaurant chain in the United States in its 2010 Zagat Fast-Food Survey. Panera Bread topped the list of 90 restaurants in this category (defined as chains with less than 5,000 locations). Panera Bread was also recognized with number one rankings for its salads and facilities.

Survey respondents separately rated each chain’s food, facilities and service on Zagat’s signature 30-point scale. More than 6,500 diners participated in the 2010 survey.

“It is an honor to be recognized by our customers as their favorite restaurant for a second consecutive year,” said Bill Moreton, Chief Executive Officer and President of Panera Bread. “We strive to provide our customers with wholesome, quality menu options and a relaxing environment in which to enjoy their meal. This recognition serves as great reinforcement for Panera Bread to keep giving our customers the dining experience they love.”

Panera Bread also ranked second for Healthy Options, Best Value and Best Breakfast Sandwich in its category.

“Panera is particularly proud to be recognized in the food categories of this year’s Zagat survey,” said Scott Davis, Panera’s Executive Vice President and Chief Page Officer. “We’ve worked hard to create wholesome, cravable menu items, like our salads and breakfast sandwiches, and we’re very pleased our customers can taste the care that goes into each bite.”

About Panera Bread
Panera Bread Company owns and franchises 1,399 bakery-cafes as of June 29, 2010 under the Panera Bread®, Saint Louis Bread Co.®, and Paradise Bakery & Café® names. With our identity rooted in handcrafted, fresh-baked, artisan bread, we are committed to providing great tasting, quality food that people can trust. Nearly all of our bakery-cafes have a menu highlighted by antibiotic free chicken, whole grain bread, select organic and all-natural ingredients, with zero grams of artificial trans fat per serving, which provide flavorful, wholesome offerings. Our menu includes a wide variety of year-round favorites, complemented by new items introduced seasonally with the goal of creating new standards in everyday food choices. In neighborhoods across this country and in Ontario, Canada, our customers enjoy our warm and welcoming environment featuring comfortable gathering areas, relaxing decor, and free internet access. Our bakery-cafes routinely donate bread and baked goods to community organizations in need. Additional information is available on the Company’s website, www.panerabread.com.

Applebee's Pays Tribute to Working Parents with Free Meals for Kids This Labor Day

Applebee’s Pays Tribute to Working Parents With Free Meals for Kids This Labor Day

(Paramus, NJ) - August 10, 2010 - This Labor Day, Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar in Paramus, NJ will pay tribute to working parents by “paying” for kids’ meals. Families who dine at Applebee’s anytime on Monday, September 6, will receive up to two free Kids’ Meals with each adult entrée purchase. The free meals are valid for children ages 12 and under, on any Applebee’s “Kids’ Menu” entrée, dine-in only.

“We’re giving parents a well-deserved break --from the kitchen. We’ll do all the work this Labor Day by serving up lunch or dinner for families as they sit back, relax and enjoy one more family night out before the kids go back to school,” said Jared Deo, General Manager of Applebee’s in Paramus. “Our 2 for $20 menu, which includes one appetizer and two entrees, will really stretch parents’ hard-earned dollars and is available not just on Labor Day but all year round for lunch or dinner.”

While the kids enjoy lunch or dinner from the Kids’ Menu, adults may want to try one of Applebee’s new Sizzling Entrees. Hot bubbling cheeses, caramelizing sauce, fresh steamed vegetables and choice of shrimp, steak and chicken on sizzling skillets give neighborhood guests what they’re craving, at a price they can swallow. All of Applebee’s new Sizzling Skillets start at $8.99.

To locate the Applebee’s restaurant nearest you or for more information, visit www.applebees.com. The “free meals for kids” Labor Day offer is valid on Monday September 6, and is only available at participating Applebee's restaurants in northern and central New Jersey and Long Island.

Panera Bread Welcomes Summer's Return with Free Lemonade Day on Wednesday, May 26th

Panera Bread Welcomes Summer’s Return with Free Lemonade Day on Wednesday, May 26th

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Local media contact:
Patricia Friia / Castle Rock Communications / 631-585-5901 or
Dave Kuhnlein / Doherty Enterprises / 201-818-4669 x102

(Long Island -- May 14, 2010) There’s no better way to kick off summer than with a tall glass of refreshing, old-fashioned lemonade. On May 26th, Panera Bread is toasting the start of the summer season. All day Wednesday, May 26th, guests can order a free thirst-quenching lemonade at any of the 19 Long Island Panera Bread bakery-cafes. Just stop in and ask for your free lemonade – you’ll receive a 16-oz. cup on the house.

“At only 90 calories, it’s a great way to stay cool while getting in shape for summer,” says Greg George, Vice President of Operations for Panera.

Offer is limited to: one free lemonade per person and does not include Panera’s frozen lemonade. No purchase is necessary.

If you’re feeling hungry, Panera has two new seasonal additions to its menu. Its spicy Cuban Chicken Panini is made with all-natural chicken, lean smoked ham, Swiss cheese, zesty chipotle mayo, savory sun-dried tomato ale mustard and incorporates sweet and spicy pickle chips; it’s grilled so that the bold flavors blend together beautifully on freshly-baked Focaccia. Or you can treat yourself to a summertime favorite, Panera Bread’s new Lobster Sandwich.

About Panera Bread

Panera Bread Company owns and franchises 1,388 bakery-cafes as of March 30, 2010 under the Panera Bread®, Saint Louis Bread Co.®, and Paradise Bakery & Café® names. Our bakery-cafes are principally located in suburban, strip mall and regional mall locations. We feature high quality, reasonably priced food in a warm, inviting, and comfortable environment. With our identity rooted in handcrafted, fresh-baked, artisan bread, we are committed to providing great tasting, quality food that people can trust. Nearly all of our bakery-cafes have a menu highlighted by antibiotic free chicken, whole grain bread, and select organic and all-natural ingredients, with zero grams of artificial trans fat per serving, which provide flavorful, wholesome offerings. Our menu includes a wide variety of year-round favorites complemented by new items introduced seasonally with the goal of creating new standards in everyday food choices. In neighborhoods across this country and in Ontario, Canada, our customers enjoy our warm and welcoming environment featuring comfortable gathering areas, relaxing decor, and free internet access. Our bakery-cafes routinely donate bread and baked goods to community organizations in need. An essential sponsor, Panera Bread’s Long Island and Queens locations provide over 2200 pounds of bread each week from its area bakery-cafes to Island Harvest and City Harvest its Operation Dough-nation® partners. On Long Island, Panera Bread has 19 locations: Bay Shore, Bohemia, Bridgehampton, Carle Place, East Meadow, East Northport, Farmingdale, Hauppauge, Hampton Bays, Hicksville, Huntington, Massapequa, Mineola, New Hyde Park, North Babylon, Port Jefferson, Riverhead, Rockville Centre and West Babylon. Additional information is available on the Company’s website, http://www.panerabread.com.

About Doherty Enterprises, Inc.

Doherty Enterprises, Inc. was established in 1985 and is the 14th largest franchisee in the United States, operating six restaurant Pages including: Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Panera Bread, Chevys Fresh Mex, El Pollo Loco, Carino’s Italian Grill, and their own Page, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub. To date, Doherty Enterprises owns and operates 92 restaurants in northern and central New Jersey, Long Island, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and Queens. The Doherty vision is to be the “Best Food Service Company in the Tri-State Area” and its mission is to "Wow Every Guest Every Time, Wow Our People, Wow Our Communities and Wow Our Suppliers."( www.DohertyInc.com).

Applebee's Celebrates America's Independence With Free Meals for Kids This July 4

Applebee’s Celebrates America’s Independence With Free Meals for Kids This July 4

(Long Island, NY―May 26, 2010) This Independence Day, 21 Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar restaurants on Long Island will show their patriotism by offering “free meals for kids.” Families who dine at Applebee’s anytime on Sunday, July 4 will receive up to two free Kids’ Meals with each adult entrée purchase. The free meals are valid for children ages 12 and under, on any Applebee’s “Kids’ Menu” entrée, dine-in only.

While the kids enjoy lunch or dinner from the Kids’ Menu, adults may want to try one of Applebee’s new Realburgers from Across America.

“We’ve captured some of the best flavors in America in these new burgers; they’re fresh, neighborhood-inspired recipes that are so good neighborhoods put their names on them,” said Shannon Johnson, CEC, executive chef, who oversees development of new Realburgers and all menu items at Applebee’s. “These burgers taste like America: big and unique.”

The new Realburgers from Across America lineup includes:

Philly Burger

Applebee’s interpretation of a sandwich so bold it represents a city. Crowned with fresh, sautéed onions, peppers and mushrooms, it’s topped with a rich, aged white cheddar cheese sauce and served “Philly Style” on a toasted hoagie roll.

Southwest Jalapeno Burger

Inspired by the high desert of the southwest where chili peppers abound, this burger warms things up with a masterful combination of ingredients: habanero-jack cheese, tangy chipotle mayo and unique candied jalapeno peppers.

Cowboy Burger

Topped with Applebee’s hand-breaded crispy onion strings, applewood-smoked bacon and Applebee’s zesty barbecue sauce for a wild west, down-home kick.

To locate the Applebee’s restaurant nearest you or for more information, visit www.applebees.com. The “free meals for kids” offer is valid on Sunday, July 4 and is only available at participating Applebee's restaurants in Nassau and Suffolk counties.

About Doherty Enterprises, Inc.

Doherty Enterprises, Inc. was established in 1985 and is the 12th largest franchisee in the United States, operating six restaurant Pages including: Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Panera Bread, Chevys Fresh Mex, El Pollo Loco, Carino’s Italian Grill, and their own Page, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub. To date, Doherty Enterprises owns and operates 92 restaurants in northern and central New Jersey, Long Island, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and Queens. The Doherty vision is to be the “Best Food Service Company in the Tri-State Area” and its mission is to “Wow Every Guest Every Time, Wow Our People, Wow Our Communities and Wow Our Suppliers.”( www.DohertyInc.com)

About Applebee’s Services, Inc.

Applebee's Services Inc., and its affiliates, franchise and operate restaurants under Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar and is a DineEquity, Inc. (NYSE: DIN) brand. As of June 30, 2009, there were 1,994 Applebee's restaurants operating system-wide in 49 states, 16 international countries and one U.S. territory, of which 400 were company-owned. Additional information on Applebee's can be found at the company's website (www.applebees.com).

Applebee's Launches New Neighborhood-Inspired Burgers

Applebee’s Launches New Neighborhood-Inspired Burgers

(Long Island, NY – May 27, 2010) A year ago, Applebee’s won the hearts – and taste buds – of burger lovers coast-to-coast when it debuted Realburgers, handcrafted burgers made from scratch and packed with flavor. The launch was so successful that one year later, Applebee’s has added another layer to its Realburgers – rich regional tastes as distinct as the neighborhoods they represent.

“At Applebee’s we take our burgers very seriously,” said Mike Archer, president, Applebee’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill. “Our new Realburgers from Across America at Applebee’s^® have flavors that are as unique as the neighborhoods that have inspired them.”

Three new Realburgers are now available at all 21 Applebee’s locations on Long Island.

The Philly Burger, the Southwest Jalapeno Burger and the Cowboy Burger get their neighborhood-inspired flavors from: fresh, sautéed peppers and onions, tangy chipotle mayo and candied jalapenos, and applewood smoked bacon and zesty barbecue sauce.

We’ve captured some of the best flavors in America in these new burgers; they’re fresh, regionally-inspired recipes that are so good neighborhoods put their names on them,” said Shannon Johnson, CEC, executive chef, who oversees development of new Realburgers and all menu items at Applebee’s. “These burgers taste like America: big and unique.”

The new Realburgers from Across America lineup includes:

Philly Burger

Southwest Jalapeno Burger

Cowboy Burger

Topped with Applebee’s hand-breaded crispy onion strings, applewood-smoked bacon and Applebee’s zesty barbecue sauce, this burger offers a wild west, down-home kick.

The new burgers complement Applebee’s existing Realburgers lineup which launched last year and includes the Quesadilla Burger, Bacon Cheddar Cheeseburger, Steakhouse Burger with A.1.^® Steak Sauce and the Fire Pit Bacon Burger.

If hunger strikes late at night, no worries. All 21 Long Island Applebee’s offer their complete kitchen lineup through midnight or later.

Clifton battle of the bands is also a job tryout

Tuesday, July 13, 2010
BY JIM BECKERMAN

WHEN: 10 p.m. Wednesdays, through Aug. 25.

Clifton battle of the bands is also a job tryout MICHAEL KARAS/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Buy this Photo

Jason Hartelius, left, and Tom Moloney and the band Daddy NoBux perform at Shannon Rose pub, which is hosting a summer-long weekly talent search to find the best cover band.

WHERE: Shannon Rose Irish Pub, Clifton Commons, 98 Kingsland Road, Clifton;
973-284-0200 973-284-0200 or theshannonrose.com.

HOW MUCH: No cover.

As Bruce Springsteen said: "Cover me."

Like anyone needed an invitation. Springsteen, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Green Day – whatever the artist, you'll find a cover band that can comp them, note for note, at your local bar.

But there are songs that send even cover bands running for cover.

Some draw the line at "Brown Eyed Girl." For others, it's "Mustang Sally" or "Whipping Post." And for guitarist-singer Tom Moloney, playing with his band Daddy NoBux last month at the "Ultimate Cover Band Search" at Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Clifton, the big stinky Southern chestnut is "Sweet Home Alabama."

"I'm just not a big Southern rock guy," says Moloney, 32, a Rutherford resident. "It's like the one song I've heard, every room I've gone into, every cover band I've ever seen. It's a common request. We refuse to play it."

The Wednesday night crowd of more than 50 people cheered as the band rocked such favorites as "Blister in the Sun" (Violent Femmes), "American Girl" (Tom Petty), "Ants Marching" (Dave Matthews Band) and "Down Under" (Men at Work).

"Where's the didgeridoo? Where's the didgeridoo?" Moloney yelled as the crowd hooted and hollered.

In a post-"American Idol" world, where everything from pop stardom to a date with Tila Tequila is a contest, the Clifton bar has come up with the ultimate recession-era sweepstakes. First prize: a job.

"The winning band gets a contract to play at the pub for a year," says Paul Fowler, marketing manager for Shannon Rose. A total of 27 bands – three a night, and yes, they've all been selected already – are playing at the 13-week event, which climaxes on Aug. 25 with the crowning of the winner and the signing of the contract.

Working, indeed, is the whole point of a cover band.

Creativity? Unassailable artistic integrity? Leave that to the "original" bands that write their own songs, go their own way and – alas – sometimes go nowhere at all.

Cover bands are all about pleasing the audience – and the bar owners. Some of them do well enough to have full-time careers, working five and six nights a week. Top bands like the Nerds, the Benjamins, Lifespeed, Johnny Drama and Big Bang Baby give rowdy pleasure to huge crowds, and cry about their lack of originality all the way to the bank.

"It's about being more entertainers, if you will," Moloney says. "Stage presence is a big thing. It's really about providing a fun atmosphere. You're in a bar. People are already drinking, having a good time. You want to take it to the next level."

Given the huge rewards to be reaped, it's not surprising that some 60 to 70 bands answered the call to compete in the Shannon Rose showcase – a number that was eventually more than halved.

And the management makes no bones about its criteria: Bands in the "Ultimate Cover Band Search" are ranked (by the manager on duty, the bartenders and the representative from 107 Productions, which is co-sponsoring the event) not only by their sound, songs and presentation, but also the size of the crowd they bring. Daddy NoBux is ranked No. 2.

"They did very well," Fowler said later. "They had great stage presence, and I think they had a really diverse song list."

On their big night, it was all about energy.

"Give it up for Peter on the drums back there!" Moloney yelled to the crowd — many invited friends.

Peter is drummer-vocalist Pete Cetinich of Clifton, who along with guitarist Jason Hartelius (Hoboken) and bassist Jason Lynch (Clifton) make up the four-year-old, Clifton-based band.

Diverse repertoire

The combo prides itself on putting its own spin on songs, rather than simply doing note-for-note re-creations – adding a touch of ska to "American Girl," for instance, or some extra power guitar to "Down Under." And they do more esoteric covers as well: like "Send Me on My Way" (Rusted Root) and "Date Rape" (Sublime).

"They have so many types of music, and so many voices," said Angela DeCarlo, 23, of Rutherford, a fan who came out to support the group. "I think it's pretty amazing that they get an opportunity to perform, and they get to win stuff."

Cover bands, while not quite the Rodney Dangerfields of the musical world (that would be their cousins, the tribute bands, which actually impersonate other bands), still don't always get the respect they deserve.

"They're all entertainers and they put a lot of hard work in what they do," says Scott Rush of 107 Productions, which represents many of the most successful. "A lot of the biggest bands we know are cover bands as well. The Grateful Dead probably did 40 percent covers."

And cover bands do have standards. At least, you're not going to hear Daddy NoBux doing "Sweet Home Alabama" anytime soon.

"I don't want to hear it anymore," Moloney says. "I certainly don't want to play it."

SOURCE: NorthJersey.com

East End TEENY AWARDS© Gains Applebee Support And Momentum Across Long Island

April 16, 2010

East End Teeny Awards (Riverhead, N.Y.) In a time when budgets for education are tight, high school theatre arts programs are often at risk of seeing harsh cuts, but the East End Arts Council (EEAC) hopes to change that and vows to continue its work in bolstering the arts by maintaining its theatre recognition program. Now in its 8th year, the TEENY AWARDS© celebrates the talents of high school theatre students across the East End of Long Island and counts on the support of local businesses. Applebee’s, a strong sponsor of the program, recently held a celebratory luncheon on behalf of the Teeny Awards organizers, local dignitaries and other local advocates.

“Unlike high school sports programs which receive strong community and budgetary support, theatre arts programs are typically less fortunate,” says Mike Murnyack, General Manager of Applebee’s in Riverhead. “From our perspective, what’s being overlooked is the role these programs play in building self esteem, communication skills and teamwork. We’re proud to support EEAC’s efforts to keep the arts alive.” Using the Tony Awards as its model, the Teeny Awards program relies on qualified volunteer judges to view performances at 14 area high schools and score performers in a variety of categories from Best Actor/Actress in a drama, musical and comedy to set design, choreography, lighting and poster design. The top scorers become the nominees with the highest scoring individuals in each category receiving trophy recognition and a scholarship.

Currently, EEAC’s Teeny Awards is sustained through the backing of area businesses like Suffolk County National Bank, Target, Panera Bread and Applebee’s.

And, like most good ideas, the Page is spreading and the program is being initiated elsewhere on Long Island. Last year, the Islip Arts Council launched its first annual Teeny Awards and, the Port Jefferson Northern Brookhaven Arts has it own ongoing program. EEAC invites other arts councils throughout Long Island to develop theatre recognition programs.

The 8th annual Teeny Awards will take place on Sunday, June 6th. For more information contact EEAC at 631-727-0900 or visit www.eastendarts.org.

Applebee’s Proud Supporter of the East End’s TEENY AWARDS© – Pat Snyder, Executive Director of the East End Arts Council and Toni Munna, Teeny Awards Coordinator (left), organizers of the Teeny Awards that annually recognize student theatre talent from 14 area high schools, celebrate the program’s 8th year. Here, Joe Cella, Daron Hosie, and Mike Murnyack (right) representing Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar in Riverhead, a financial supporter of the Teeny Awards, reveal the restaurant’s newest community memorabilia which will be displayed in the restaurant as a tribute to this landmark EEAC community accomplishment.

Source: NewsLI.com

Dine Out Thursday for a Good Cause

Over 130 Area Restaurants Are Helping Out and Ask You to Dine Out

Staten Island, NY (April 12, 2010) – On Thursday, April 22, thousands of friends, families and co-workers will head out to restaurants all over Staten Island for some good food and to support a good cause. Project Hospitality has gathered the backing of over 130 local restaurants who vow to help the fight against hunger in our communities by donating 20% of their full day’s dining tabs, exclusive of liquor, on behalf of the organization’s 12th annual “Dine Out Against Hunger” fundraiser. Not only will restaurant goers enjoy getting out to their favorite eateries on Thursday, but each will receive a free raffle entry and could win free lunch or dinner for an entire year.

To find out if your top pick is participating, visit www.dineoutsi.com for a full listing.

According to Terry Troia, Project Hospitality’s Executive Director, the mission of the organization is reach out to members of the local community who are hungry, homeless or otherwise in need and to work toward helping them achieve their self-sufficiency. The program relies on a caring cadre of more than 1,000 community, corporate, interfaith and student volunteers and the generosity of its donors to sustain this critical lifeline for thousands of men, women and children in need. With this cooperation and numerous contributions, Project Hospitality is able to help more than 25,000 individuals each year.

“Each of us can do our part by planning to get out and eat out at participating restaurants for lunch or dinner with our family and friends this Thursday,” says Claire Regan, co-chair of Dine Out Against Hunger.

To learn more about Project Hospitality visit online at www.projecthospitality.org.

Thursday’s Dine Out to Help Local Food Pantries -- Claire Regan and Frank Lombardi, co-chairs of this coming Thursday’s “Dine Out Against Hunger” fundraiser, are joined by Brian Panzarino (left), general manager of Panera Bread, to discuss the bakery-cafe’s participation in Thursday’s Dine Out event. Panera and more than 130 area restaurants will be donating 20% of their day’s sales on April 22nd to help support the efforts of Project Hospitality. Funds raised will help the organization sustain its vital soup kitchen and food pantry programs.

New York Jets WR David Clowney Exchanges his Helmet for an Applebee's Apron

New York Jets WR David Clowney Exchanges his Helmet for an Applebee’s Apron

May 11, 2010

The David Clowney Foundation will host a fundraising event at Applebee’s of East Hanover on Tuesday, May 18 to raise funds for David’s planned humanitarian efforts in Ghana, West Africa, July 9-16.

For one night, David and his teammates will take over Applebee’s and serve as waiters for the evening. Leaving their helmets on the field, the guys will don aprons and give the Applebee’s waiting staff time off. Tickets can be purchased online at davidclowneyfoundation.eventbrite.com or by calling 1.866.958.9991. All money raised will go to the David Clowney Foundation and its efforts in Ghana, West Africa.

Panera Bread® Turns Up the Heat with Bold & Spicy Flavors for Spring

New Cuban Chicken Panini, Jalapeño and Cheddar Bagel Breakfast Sandwich Introduced

(Long Island, NY – April 9, 2010) – Panera Bread is tempting the wilder side of taste buds this spring with its new bold and spicy Cuban Chicken Panini and new Jalapeño and Cheddar Bagel Breakfast Sandwich.

The new Cuban Chicken Panini is the latest example of Panera’s unique version of an iconic recipe. Made with all-natural antibiotic-free chicken, lean smoked ham, Swiss cheese, chipotle mayo, sun-dried tomato ale mustard and served on freshly baked focaccia, this panini showcases the flavor profile of a traditional Cuban sandwich in a novel way. Panera’s Cuban sandwich also incorporates sweet and spicy pickle chips. These pickle chips―marinated in a jalapeño-infused brine―add an extra kick of heat and crunch and are undoubtedly the star of this new sandwich.

For those looking to spice up their You Pick Two® combination, the low-fat, vegetarian Black Bean Soup is a tasty complement to this new panini.

Another flavorful addition to the menu is the Jalapeño and Cheddar Bagel Breakfast Sandwich. The base for this sandwich is the newly created Jalapeño and Cheddar Bagel, which brings a new level of spice and flavor to breakfast. The traditional flour has been replaced with corn flour for an intense, authentic roasted flavor with mild yellow cheddar added to the dough for a touch of smooth creaminess. The sandwich also features an all-natural, freshly-cracked egg, Vermont white cheddar and a slice of lean smoked ham. Panera’s Head Chef Dan Kish says, “As the bagel sandwich heats up in our panini press, it intensifies the flavors of the bagel, melding together the roasted notes of the corn, the smokiness of the ham, the sharpness of the cheese and subtle heat of the jalapeños.”

Panera’s bakers have also been busy crafting some delectable new baked goods including a Strawberries & Cream Scone and Apple Crunch Muffin. The cream-based Strawberries and Cream scone is made with dried infused strawberries, white chocolate chips and strawberry bits. These five basic ingredients―flour, sugar, heavy cream, baking soda and salt―all help create an airy and delicate texture. The reduced fat, sweet Apple Crunch Muffin features freshly chopped apple chunks, topped with the crumbly cinnamon and sugar topping from Panera’s signature Cinnamon Crunch Bagel.

Long Island Restaurants Gain Local Support for Haiti Relief

April,5,2010

(Long Island, N.Y.) Doherty Enterprises Inc, a franchisee headquartered in Allendale, operating 60 Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar restaurants in northern and central New Jersey and on Long Island, recently raised $10,000 for the American Red Cross' Haiti Relief Fund through a fundraising campaign in which guests purchased a "paper apple" for $1 and up that was posted in each restaurant. One hundred percent of the proceeds from this campaign benefited the Red Cross relief effort. Applebee's in Totowa was among those that participated in this philanthropic effort.
Doherty Enterprises Inc., a franchisee headquartered in Allendale, operating 60 Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar restaurants in northern and central New Jersey and on Long Island, recently raised $10,000 for the American Red Cross' Haiti Relief Fund through a fundraising campaign in which guests purchased a "paper apple" for $1 and up that was posted in each restaurant. One hundred percent of the proceeds from this campaign benefited the Red Cross relief effort. Applebee's in Totowa was among those that participated in this philanthropic effort.
Edward Doherty, president of Doherty Enterprises Inc. said, "It's not just about supporting our local neighbors; it's also about helping our global neighbors in need. We have several Haitian employees with family in Haiti so we organized this fundraiser to do our part to provide aide to their homeland."
This fundraiser was part of Doherty Enterprises' "good neighbor" mission to WOW their people and communities, whether locally or globally.

Photo:Panera Bread Shares the Warmth to Help Aid Earthquake Victims… When the call for help came from the American Red Cross, Panera Bread and its guests throughout Long Island responded with generosity. Greg George (left), Vice President of Panera Bread LI, presented a check for $15,400 to Frank Cassano (right), representative and CEO of American Red Cross, from cash donations made at the registers of its 19 Long Island bakery-cafes. All funds will go directly to support the Haiti Relief effort.

About Doherty Enterprises, Inc.
Doherty Enterprises, Inc. was established in 1993 and is the 14th largest franchisee in the United States, operating six restaurant Pages including: Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, Panera Bread, Chevys Fresh Mex, El Pollo Loco, Carino’s Italian Grill, and their own Page, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub. To date, Doherty Enterprises owns and operates 92 restaurants in northern and central New Jersey, Long Island, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and Queens. The Doherty vision is to be the “Best Food Service Company in the Tri-State Area” and its mission is to “Wow Every Guest Every Time, Wow Our People, Wow Our Communities and Wow Our Suppliers.” ( www.DohertyInc.com)

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation’s blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org . ,
This fundraiser was part of Doherty Enterprises’ "good neighbor" mission to WOW their people and communities, whether locally or globally.

Applebee's donates $10,000 to Red Cross' Haiti Relief Fund

Thursday, March 18, 2010
PASSAIC VALLEY TODAY

Doherty Enterprises Inc., a franchisee headquartered in Allendale, operating 60 Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar restaurants in northern and central New Jersey and on Long Island, recently raised $10,000 for the American Red Cross' Haiti Relief Fund through a fundraising campaign in which guests purchased a "paper apple" for $1 and up that was posted in each restaurant. One hundred percent of the proceeds from this campaign benefited the Red Cross relief effort. Applebee's in Totowa was among those that participated in this philanthropic effort.
Doherty Enterprises Inc., a franchisee headquartered in Allendale, operating 60 Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar restaurants in northern and central New Jersey and on Long Island, recently raised $10,000 for the American Red Cross' Haiti Relief Fund through a fundraising campaign in which guests purchased a "paper apple" for $1 and up that was posted in each restaurant. One hundred percent of the proceeds from this campaign benefited the Red Cross relief effort. Applebee's in Totowa was among those that participated in this philanthropic effort.
Edward Doherty, president of Doherty Enterprises Inc. said, "It's not just about supporting our local neighbors; it's also about helping our global neighbors in need. We have several Haitian employees with family in Haiti so we organized this fundraiser to do our part to provide aide to their homeland."
This fundraiser was part of Doherty Enterprises' "good neighbor" mission to WOW their people and communities, whether locally or globally.

Pictured are Assistant General Manager Richard Rosius (left), key holder Rose Vasquez (middle) and Manager Smitty Jean on behalf of the 39 New Jersey Applebee's that participated in this philanthropic effort, including Applebee's in Totowa.

Way to Wow

By Nancy Weingartner
As published in: Franchise Times - February 2010

It takes a whole family to raise the guest experience to a new high. Employing family doesn’t always work out, but when it does—wow. Here’s how Ed Doherty of Doherty Enterprises in New Jersey runs his multiple brands with a lot of help from his fam.

Wouldn’t it be nice if you could know everything important about an employee since birth? If you could know how they were raised; what their family values are; and how their work ethic was shaped?

Well, hire your children and you can. OK, so a parent never knows everything about a son or daughter, but at least they’ve been on the sidelines coaching.

Way to Wow

Working with family members is not for everyone. When it succeeds, it provides rich layers to family life. When something goes wrong—a grown child resents mom or dad being the boss at home and work, or one sibling is named president over another—it can shake a nuclear family down to its extended family roots.

"Wow" was a fairly new buzz word when Ed Doherty adopted it as his goal for customer satisfaction. Wowing coworkers is every bit as important for the boss’ kids when they join the family business.

The franchise model—like most small businesses—is a natural for including family members. When Ed Doherty left his corporate career with Marriott to become a Roy Rogers franchisee, he wasn’t thinking about family business, but rather family restaurants.

As an only child raised by a single mother, Doherty grew up in the restaurant business. His mother owned a restaurant/nightclub and then a deli, and didn’t want that life for her son. But when Marriott decided to sell off 19 Roy Rogers in Connecticut around the mid-1980s, management offered Doherty a "sweetheart deal." "One day I was corporate, the next day I had hundreds of employees and was worried about making payroll," he says.

Under his leadership the restaurants’ sales went from around $650,000 to $1.1 million. He may have stayed that course forever, but the chain was sold to Hardee’s. "They thought breakfast (what Hardee’s was known for) at Roy Rogers would work, but by 1992, myself and virtually every other franchisee were on our rear ends," he says.

This is where Doherty’s story differs from the norm. Doherty made a deal with Hardee’s and his bank. As he was trying to locate other chains to take over his real estate, he called Applebee’s and found the north and central New Jersey markets were open. "The challenge was to get approved when you’re going down the tube with another Page," he says.

Divesting himself from his Roy Rogers and getting into the Applebee’s chain was a combination of luck and hard work. Doherty had worked with some of the decision-makers at Applebee’s during his tenure at Marriott, so he had one foot in the door. "Abe (Gustafson) was running Applebee’s at the time and he wanted to grow through franchisees," Doherty says. And better yet, the chain was guaranteeing 100 percent of the loans. "That allowed me to borrow on the first two," he says.

At the same time, he was still trying to find good homes for his Roy Rogers units. "I would look at the locations and think, ‘who would this be good for?’ and then I’d call McDonald’s (or whoever) to see if they’d want it." He called the local Wendy’s franchisee to see if he would be interested in the locations, but he refused Doherty’s offer. Doherty assumed the franchisee was "thinking I’d go broke and he’d get them cheaper." Not one to give up, Doherty took his offer to Wendy’s corporate. "I got lucky," he says. "Wendy’s was looking to buy all the Roy Rogers. They loaned me 100 percent to convert (six) locations to Wendy’s," he says. Wendy’s sales proved to be much higher than what Roy Rogers managed to rope in.

To help on the expense side, Doherty did another unusual thing. He called all his restaurant managers together and told them that although the chain was failing, he still needed them to work until they were sold. He informed them that although there would be no more raises or bonuses, if they hung in there with him, he’d ensure the new owner of the restaurant would retain them as managers. If not, he would keep them on his payroll.

"The best of the best stayed," he says. At the end of the transition period, the managers hadn’t received a raise or bonus in three years. "I raised their salaries to what they would have been (if they had been receiving regular raises)," Doherty says.

By late 1995, he had five Applebee’s and six Wendy’s. Today Doherty Enterprises is the 14th largest restaurant franchisee company, according to the Restaurant Finance Monitor, with 2008 revenues of $264 million. The company has 60 Applebee’s, 25 Panera Bread, three Chevy’s Fresh Mex, one Carino’s Italian Grill, one El Pollo Loco and two Shannon Rose, an independent Irish pub Page he developed with silent partner, Harry Rose, also an Applebee’s franchisee. He sold the Wendy’s along the way.

Working with children

The first family member to join him was his wife, Joan. When Doherty became an Applebee’s franchisee, he needed help bringing the "neighborhood" into the decor. It was Joan Doherty’s job to visit all the schools, fire and police stations, historical societies, service clubs and kids activities in town to meet the community leaders and to ask for memorabilia to hang on the walls. "It was a nice entree into the community," she says, adding that they expanded their "neighborhood place" into surrounding towns more than most Applebee’s franchisees.

Their daughter, Shannon Portell, Doherty Enterprises’ vice president of marketing and public relations, remembers their kitchen island covered with collages her mother was putting together for one or another Applebee’s. Among the donated items would be a football helmet the players could no longer use, a band jacket someone had left behind, or old hoses from the local fire station, Portell says. One of her mother’s best scores was the side of a police car.

Working with children

All three children worked at the Applebee’s when they were in high school and college. "Busy teenagers make for a happy parent," Joan Doherty explains.

Both Portell and her older brother, Tim, didn’t mind working at the restaurant, but they didn’t want the rest of the staff to know they were the boss’ kids. Their younger sister also worked in the restaurants, but hasn’t joined the family business—yet.

"I didn’t want to be treated any differently," Tim says. "Because of my work ethic I always wanted to be the hardest worker in the restaurant." Portell agrees. "I grew up knowing not everything would come easy for us," she says. "We had to earn money for the things we wanted. I played volleyball all through high school and college, but working at the restaurant was fun." Joan admits she was impressed with the kids’ devotion to their jobs—even when she wanted them to attend family events. "If they were working on family function days, they’d get subs," she said. Or they missed the family get-togethers if they couldn’t find one.

"My kids didn’t grow up rich," Doherty says. "I didn’t make my money until the last 10 years. They’re hard-working, stable kids who don’t expect anything (to be handed to them). They had to work harder than anyone else because their name is on the company (masthead). Fortunately, my kids bought in to that."

Doherty’s rule was that the three were welcome to work in the company, if that’s what they wanted, but they couldn’t apply for a job with him until they had worked for a large company for at least four years.

Tim, 32, now heads the company’s real estate and development functions for all the brands, and also is in charge of their El Pollo Loco unit. Since the company’s philosophy is to develop large territories of specific brands, he envisions opening more units.

Before deciding to join the family business, Tim worked for Allied Irish Bank, in the Dublin, Ireland, branch for several years.

"As time went on and I got further involved in the bank, I missed the restaurant business and serving people," he says.

When he approached his dad about coming back, Doherty says he put some careful thought into it. "I figured everyone would suck up to him as the boss’ kid and he’d get the best schedules, so I told him, ‘Let me teach you real estate and construction, and you can test the waters with Pollo Loco. You’re the head guy, you open it up.’"

Tim took the challenge, which made him interested in working his way further up the ladder and succeeding his dad someday.

His advice to sons and daughters who are debating whether to join the family business is: "Don’t be involved if you’re not passionate about the business." The partnership won’t work if you have a lukewarm response to the industry and you’re not comfortable in your family relationships. "In my mind, the family’s more important than business," he says. "If you harm family, it’s not worth it." One of the most difficult aspects of being in business together is not letting work be the only topic of conversation.

"We tend to discuss the specifics in the office," Tim says. "Strategic things can come up around the dinner table."

Portell says she used to talk to her mom more about her work, but now that she’s in the family business, she confides in her husband. Which is not a bad trade-off since he’s an architect, and his expertise was called into action when she was helping orchestrate building The Shannon Rose.

Shannon’s story

Portell’s return to the business was different from her brother’s. She lives in Manhattan, has a 7-week-old baby—the first grandchild— and handles all the advertising and marketing for the company, in addition to heading up The Shannon Rose, the Irish pub Page she helped develop from the pad up.

She had been working for Maxim magazine when the parent company began consolidating its publications, causing Portell to take on more and more. "It was a great time in the late ‘90s to be in online (publishing)," she says. "When we started we only needed to break even," she says, adding that changed and $9 million in ad sales was the new expectation.

Doherty’s four-year mandate had passed since she was in college, so he wasn’t breaking any rules when he asked his daughter to come back to the company and help develop a new Page he was thinking about.

His company had acquired three of the four anchors in a popular shopping center for three of his Pages, Carino’s, Applebee’s and Panera Bread, and sales at all three were strong. He didn’t want a competitor to take the fourth space, so he decided to develop his own brand, with an early collaborator, Applebee’s franchisee Harry Rose.

Doherty approached Portell with a proposal. "At first I wasn’t sure I wanted to do it," she admits. "‘How do you start a new Page?’ That was the question I asked my dad when he proposed it." Her father had always told her that the reason franchising was so valuable was because you didn’t have to invent, just follow a system. When Portell told him she didn’t know anything about Irish pubs, he says he told her, "You drink in enough of them. You’re the target I’m going for. I need someone 100-percent focused."

Portell, who indeed had visited pubs on vacations to Ireland, started doing research on authentic pubs in the Boston and Philadelphia areas. She wanted it to be authentic, from the friendly face behind the bar down to the food.

Doherty assured her he’d be there every step of the way. "I told her look for 15 designers, when you narrow it down to two, come to me," he says. For the food side of it, they brought in their managers who had culinary degrees, and had them create 10 appetizers each. "We told them don’t talk to each other and we’ll have 30 to test," Doherty says. Then they moved on to entrées and then desserts.

"But before Portell got involved, her father and Rose had done their research. Rose says he and Doherty have been friends for more than 25 years when they were both at Marriott. They had both been running Roy Rogers territories for Marriott, when they both came to the same conclusion: "We should be doing this for ourselves."

Before trying their hand at developing an independent restaurant, the two did a joint venture on four Carino’s, where the Rose Group ran the operations. When it became obvious they weren’t going to earn the ROI they wanted, the pair negotiated with the parent company to take them back. It was a strategy Rose had become good at. Carino’s was at a high point, and "they had much more confidence in them than we did," Rose says.

Portell surprised herself about how much operational information she already knew. "It’s amazing the information you pick up going out to dinner with someone like my mom and dad," she says. The family has to refrain itself from critiquing every dining experience—from the timeline between the appetizer and the entrée to how quickly the server returns to ask if you’d like another glass of wine. Just like refraining from only talking business at family functions, not being a restaurateur when dining out becomes a discipline hard to master.

But if you want to wow the customer—and the father you call boss—eating, breathing and sleeping restaurants isn’t a bad thing.

URL: http://www.franchisetimes.com/content/story.php?article=01539

Long Island Applebee's® Make One New Year's Resolution a Whole Lot Easier to Handle

Long Island Applebee’s® Make One New Year's Resolution a Whole Lot Easier to Handle

New to the Neighborhood an "Unbelievably Great Tasting & Under 550 Calories^TM" Menu

Long Island, NY (01/05/10) – Why choose between great taste and lower calories? Whether counting calories in the New Year or just looking for better-for-you meals, guests at all twenty one Long Island Applebee's Neighborhood Grill and Bar restaurants are finding that they can have their steak, chicken or shrimp and eat it too. With a choice of five unbelievably tasty entrees and generous serving sizes, Applebee’s Under 550 Calories^TM menu has introduced guilt-free dining.

The "Unbelievably Great Tasting & Under 550 Calories" menu offers unexpected lower-calorie options like steak and potatoes or grilled shrimp and pasta with powerful flavors and satisfying portions.

"We know our guests want choices, including lower-calorie entrees, but they still want meals full of flavor," said Kurt Pahlitzsch, Director of Operations for the Long Island restaurants. "Applebee’s has created a menu that doesn't compromise. It has all of the taste with none of the trade-offs."

The new Under 550 menu is the brainchild of Applebee's executive chefs Shannon Johnson and Jason C. Amell, who spent more than a year developing the menu line up. Working with professional nutritionists, they carefully crafted the lower-calorie recipes to be as satisfying to the palate as the rest of Applebee's menu.

Applebee’s new Unbelievably Great Tasting & Under 550 Calories items include:

Grilled Shrimp and Island Rice — seasoned, grilled shrimp skewers on citrus island rice served with seasonal vegetables
Asian Crunch Salad — grilled chicken breast served over crunchy salad greens, roasted red peppers, sugar snap peas and refreshing cucumbers, finished with Applebee's tangy Asian vinaigrette and sliced almonds
Grilled Dijon Chicken and Portobellos — marinated chicken breast grilled and topped with roasted red peppers, Portobello mushrooms, Dijon sauce and aged cheddar cheese. Served with steamed herb potatoes and seasonal vegetables
Asiago Peppercorn Steak — Applebee's classic 7-ounce sirloin grilled and topped with cracked peppercorn and melted Asiago cheese. Served with steamed herb potatoes and seasonal vegetables
Spicy Shrimp Diavolo — a spicy tomato-basil Diavolo sauce with chili-seasoned shrimp tossed with diced vegetables. Served over a warm bed of whole wheat penne pasta and topped with shredded Parmesan

"We've set a new standard with this menu," said Applebee’s Chef Johnson. "We use great ingredients, rich spices and innovative cooking techniques to create meals that, frankly, are surprising our guests. This is a menu that people will order on taste alone. The lower calories? That's a bonus."

2009

Local Applebee's Franchisee Surpasses Two Million Dollar Mark To U.S. Marine Corps "Toys For Tots"

Local Applebee’s Franchisee Surpasses Two Million Dollar Mark To U.S. Marine Corps “Toys For Tots”

By Mel Fabrikant Tuesday, December 22 2009, 04:04 PM EST

Doherty Enterprises Inc., a franchisee operating sixty-one Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar restaurants in northern and central New Jersey and on Long Island, recently raised $290,000 during its eleventh annual holiday campaign benefiting the U.S. Marine Corps “Toys for Tots” Foundation and surpassed the company’s cumulative total of two million dollars in charitable giving.

The charity effort included an area-wide “Breakfast with Santa” fundraiser supported by guest donations of $10 per person plus employee-volunteered time at each restaurant and supplier contributions of food items. Doherty Enterprises financed all support for the event, including the cost of in-store posters, table tents and paper "gift packages," which were displayed in all restaurants and purchased by Applebee's guests for $1 each.

Locally, the Applebee’s restaurants in Warren County have raised nearly $7,500 to date from the Santa breakfast and the paper “gift-package” sales and the giving isn’t over yet. All participating Applebee’s locations will continue to raise money for “Toys for Tots” through the sale of “gift-packs” until December 31.

“Topping the cumulative two million dollar mark to “Toys for Tots” is a great milestone for our company. This outpouring of generosity is a testament to the commitment of our staff and our loyal guests that when our neighbors are in need of assistance, we are there to offer a helping hand,” said Edward Doherty, president of Doherty Enterprises Inc. “Applebee’s good-neighbor mission continues to foster hope among local groups and charities, even in harsh economic times. I’m delighted we could support such a great cause that will brighten the holidays for deserving children throughout our local neighborhoods.”

For more information about Doherty Enterprises, Inc. visit www.dohertyinc.com. To find an Applebee’s in your neighborhood, log onto www.applebees.com.

PHOTO CAPTION: A MESSAGE OF HOPE… On behalf of Applebee’s in Northern & Central New Jersey and on Long Island, David DiBartolo, Vice President of Operations, Doherty Enterprises, Inc., presents a check for $290,000 to 1st Sgt. Kevin L. Maccheyne, USMC. During the past eleven years, Doherty Enterprises, Inc. has raised a cumulative total of over $2 million dollars for the U.S. Marine Corps “Toys for Tots” Foundation and has helped deliver a message of hope to underprivileged children throughout the local community.

http://www.paramuspost.com/article.php/20091222160401422

Applebee's in Monmouth County raised over $37,000 for U.S. Marine Corps "Toys for Tots"

Applebee’s in Monmouth County raised over $37,000 for U.S. Marine Corps “Toys for Tots”

Bayshore Courier News
December 18, 2009

New Jersey - Doherty Enterprises Inc., a franchisee operating sixty-one Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar restaurants in northern and central New Jersey and on Long Island, recently raised $290,000 during its eleventh annual holiday campaign benefiting the U.S. Marine Corps "Toys for Tots" Foundation and surpassed the company's cumulative total of two million dollars in charitable giving.

The charity effort included an area-wide "Breakfast with Santa" fundraiser supported by guest donations of $10 per person plus employee-volunteered time at each restaurant and supplier contributions of food items. Doherty Enterprises financed all support for the event, including the cost of in-store posters, table tents and paper "gift packages," which were displayed in all restaurants and purchased by Applebee's guests for $1 each.

Locally, the Applebee's restaurants in Monmouth County have raised over $37,000 to date from the Santa breakfast and the paper "gift-package" sales and the giving isn't over yet. All participating Applebee's locations will continue to raise money for "Toys for Tots" through the sale of "gift-packs" until December 31.

"Topping the cumulative two million dollar mark to "Toys for Tots" is a great milestone for our company. This outpouring of generosity is a testament to the commitment of our staff and our loyal guests that when our neighbors are in need of assistance, we are there to offer a helping hand," said Edward Doherty, president of Doherty Enterprises Inc. "Applebee's good-neighbor mission continues to foster hope among local groups and charities, even in harsh economic times. I'm delighted we could support such a great cause that will brighten the holidays for deserving children throughout our local neighborhoods."

Log on to Applebee's to find a location in your neighborhood.

How Panera Bread Defies the Recession

By SEAN GREGORY Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2009

Ron Shaich, Panera Bread Co.'s CEO, shows off the variety of breads and pastries available in his stores on a daily basis.

Tom Gannam / AP

What's the best business reaction to a recession? How about none at all. Unlike many outfits in the struggling restaurant industry, Panera, the soup and sandwich chain with more than 1,300 stores in 38 states, has stayed strong by standing still. "The key to Panera's success lies in what the company hasn't done," says Nicole Miller Regan, an analyst at Piper Jaffray. "Panera hasn't fallen victim to discounting. It hasn't levered up the balance sheet. It hasn't tried to change."

Such calm amidst the storm has paid off for shareholders. Panera stock is up 26% this year: in fact, it's one of the best performing stocks of the decade, having generated a whopping 1,560.65% return. Profits rose 38% in the third quarter, and sales in company owned stores rose almost 7% during the first 27 days of the third quarter (sales in franchise stores rose 6.3%). "For us, the recession has been the best of times," says Panera founder, chairman and CEO Ron Shaich. In an environment where even McDonald's, once a recession superstar, is reporting negative same-store sales (down 0.6% in November), Panera's continued growth stands out. "I've never seem restaurants this competitive," says Bob Derrington, an analyst at Morgan Keegan and a 30-year veteran of the industry. "It's a flea market out there. For Panera to keep their prices and still succeed like this — it's an astounding achivement."

Shaich's recession-fighting philosophy is simple. "We understood that the fundamentals of the marketplace really haven't changed," says Shaich. "Unemployment went from 5% to 10%. There's 90% of society that is still employed. I couldn't capture all those people that are unemployed. They weren't eating out at all. All I could do was stay focused on who my target customer was, and not be reactive."

It helped that Panera's paninis were already hot products. "To consumers, Panera isn't just a refueling stop," says Derrington. "It's a treat, and you don't have to pay a ton of money for that experience." For about $6, you can get half a sandwich, soup or salad, and a drink.

To Panera's credit, the company didn't sit completely still in 2009. While the restaurant world cut staffs and shuttered stores, Panera continued to invest. "We've been basically opening up a new store every five days," says Shaich. "This is the time to grow. Real estate costs are down, development costs are down, volumes are up — these are the highest-return investment stores we'll ever generate." Panera has hired 20,000 new workers, rolled out new menu items, and improved the lettuce quality in its salads. Salad sales are up 30%.

Now all the company has to do is repeat the sterling performance in 2010. Panera might not be able to stay out of the price wars forever. "I've never seen so many deals being offered," says Derrington. "They have to stay sharp." And they'll have to do it without Shaich, a highly respected CEO who will relinquish his day-to-day role this spring, though he will stay on as chairman. A transition is in place — company co-COO Bill Moreton will step into the CEO role. "I worry about keeping the Page special," says Shaich. "Is it worth walking across the street to? It doesn't matter how cheap it is. If it isn't special, there's no reason the business needs to exist."

Local Families Have a Jolly Time at Applebees, Meet Santa, and Support U.S. Marine

Local Families Have a Jolly Time at Applebees, Meet Santa, and Support U.S. Marine Corps “Toys for Tots” Drive

December 7, 2009

(Long Island, N.Y.)–It’s magical and it only happens once a year. This past weekend, the doors to Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar® restaurants swung open wide–well before the lunch hour–to welcome the arrival of a very special guest: Santa Claus. While servers elfishly ran around placing breakfast at every table, kids of all ages got a sneak peek of the jolly man in the red suit. Record crowds of admiring fans came to have “Breakfast with Santa.” The event has been held each December for the past ten years at all Long Island and Northern and Central New Jersey Applebee’s as a fundraiser to benefit the USMC Toys for Tots Foundation.

“Every penny goes directly to the U.S. Marine Corps to purchase gifts for all age groups and bring a ray of hope to underprivileged children in our neighborhoods around the holidays,” says Kurt Pahlitzsch, Director of Operations for Applebee’s Long Island. “Even the staff donates their time so that kids in need can have a brighter holiday.”

To help generate additional donations for “Toys for Tots,” Applebee’s is also offering paper “gift packs” for $1 each. They will be sold through December 31st and displayed prominently within the restaurant. To purchase one or more “Toys for Tots” gift packs, stop by any Long Island Applebee’s. To find one in your neighborhood, visit http://www.applebees.com/.

Applebee’s restaurants are located in: Baldwin, Bellmore, Hicksville, New Hyde Park, Valley Stream, Westbury and Woodmere in Nassau County; Bohemia, Brentwood, Commack, East Farmingdale, East Islip, Farmingville, Huntington, Lake Grove, Lindenhurst, Miller Place, N. Babylon, Patchogue, Riverhead and Shirley in Suffolk County.

For more information or to locate the Applebee’s restaurant nearest you, visit http://www.applebees.com/.

Applebee’s Welcomes Special Guest – Kids young and old gathered for breakfast at neighborhood Applebee’s throughout Long Island to honor the big jolly man dressed in red and to help raise monies for the USMC’s Toys for Tots drive. While Santa heard the wishes of every boy and girl, the dreams of hundreds of underprivileged children throughout the community were also made real.

Congressman Bishop, Island Harvest Support Bill To Give Tax Breaks To Farmers Donating Food To LI's Hungry

Congressman Bishop, Island Harvest Support Bill
To Give Tax Breaks To Farmers Donating Food
To LI’s Hungry

November 3, 2009

(Riverhead, N.Y.)— Standing alongside members of Long Island’s farming community and anti-hunger advocates, Congressman Tim Bishop and Randi Shubin Dresner, president and CEO of Island Harvest, today announced support for a Congressional bill which would provide permanent tax incentives for farmers who donate excess crops to hunger relief organizations.Bill cited as “Good Samaritan Hunger Relief Tax Incentive Extension Act of 2009”

Each year, Long Island farmers donate over 500,000 pounds of locally grown fruits and vegetables to Island Harvest, Long Island’s largest hunger relief organization. However, present tax rules do not provide incentives for growers who donate excess produce. The proposed bill (H.R. 3227 and Senate version S. 1313) would allow farmers to receive tax deductions on the full market value for produce that cannot or will not be sold.

“During these difficult economic times, this tax incentive would be a win-win for our farmers and for those who are struggling to find food to eat,” said Congressman Bishop. “Rather than letting excess produce go to waste, farmers can support local charities such as Island Harvest serve those in need on Long Island.”

“Congressman Bishop and Long Island’s farmers have been exceptionally supportive in helping Island Harvest in our fight against hunger,” stated Ms. Shubin Dresner. We are grateful for their efforts; this important legislation will help provide more healthy fruits and vegetables to those Long Islanders’ who face hunger each day.”

The bill, cited as the Good Samaritan Hunger Relief Tax Incentive Extension Act of 2009, while providing financial assistance to local farmers will help increase the amount of locally grown produce Island Harvest receives to provide food for the estimated 300,000 men, women and children on Long Island who access shelters, food pantries and emergency food programs. Island Harvest supplies food to over 570 member agencies across Long Island.

“The Long Island Farm Bureau is solidly behind Congressman Bishop’s efforts in backing a bill that will offer tax benefits to the farmers for the products they donate to help those in need,” said Joseph M. Gergela, Executive Director of the Long Island Farm Bureau. “Long Island’s farming community and Island Harvest has become a vital partnership in addressing this critical issue of hunger on Long Island and we are happy to be part of that effort.”

About Island Harvest
Fighting hunger and touching lives, Island Harvest serves as the bridge between those who have surplus food and those who need it, supplying hundreds of community-based nonprofit organizations on Long Island with critical food support to help stem the advancing tide of hunger in our communities. Island Harvest has delivered more than 60 million pounds of food, supplementing nearly 47 million meals, since its inception in 1992. In support of its mission to end hunger and reduce food waste on Long Island, the organization is actively involved in educational and hunger awareness programs to inform the public about the insidious but often unrecognized problem of hunger here, in one of the wealthiest regions of the country, and how individuals, businesses, schools and commercial food establishments can make a difference. Island Harvest is a member of Feeding America (formerly America’s Second Harvest). For more information about Island Harvest, visit www.islandharvest.org or call 516-294-8528 .

Photo caption left to right: Suffolk County Legislator Edward Romaine; Randi Shubin Dresner, president and CEO, Island Harvest; Rochelle Oppedisano-Ganss, market manager, Nassau County 7-11 stores; Mark Zaweksi, president, Long Island Farm Bureau; Heather Jarski, president, Young Farmers & Ranchers Program of the Long Island Farm Bureau; Greg George, vice president, Panera Bread bakery-cafes; Lyle Wells, Wells Homestead Farms; Congressman Tim Bishop and New York State Assemblyman Fred Thiele.

Three Food Drives To Be Held To Benefit Island Harvest

Hamptons.com
November 3, 2009

Three Food Drives To Be Held To Benefit Island Harvest

Hampton Bays - Litweetup has teamed up with Panera Bread to host three food drive events to benefit Island Harvest - Long Island's leading hunger relief organization - during the weekend of November 13.

On Friday, November 13 at Panera Bread, Rockville Centre from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. On Saturday, November 14 at Panera Bread, Hampton Bays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. On Sunday, November 15 at Panera Bread, Hauppauge from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

"LITweetups to this point have been social gatherings. Twitter users attend the events all over the Island. With the added pressure that the economy has put on our neighbors, we decided it was time to use the brand to help out our fellow Long Islanders," said Jeff Namnum, one of the Founders of LITweetup and an organizer of the food drive. A Tweetup is a face-to-face gathering of people who enjoy social networking and are connected on Twitter.

During the events, LITweetup organizers will be collecting non-perishable food items and cash to be donated to Island Harvest. As an added incentive to donate, each Panera Bread location will offer a coupon towards the donator's food order that day. Friday night's event will take place at Panera Bread, 309 Merrick Rd., Rockville Centre, Saturday's event will take place at Panera Bread, 190 West Montauk Highway,
Hampton Bays and Sunday's event will take place at Panera Bread, 399 Smithtown Bypass, Hauppauge. Long Islanders are encouraged to donate non-perishable foods, supermarket gift cards or cash funds to help Island Harvest in its mission to end hunger on Long Island.

For additional information on LITweetup Helps, go to
www.litweetup.com.

Help Feed Long Island's Hungry Donate Frozen Turkey & Turkey Coupons at Panera Bread

Help Feed Long Island’s Hungry Donate Frozen Turkey & Turkey Coupons at Panera Bread

Long Island, New York (November 16, 2009) – Panera Bread will once again proudly serve as a designated drop-off site for Island Harvest’s annual Turkey and Trimmings Collection Campaign, a lifeline for thousands of Long Islanders who struggle to put food on the table during the holidays. To lend a helping hand, Panera Bread is asking its neighbors to donate frozen turkeys or supermarket turkey coupons at any of its 19 Long Island bakery-cafes on or before December 24th.

“The food pantries, soup kitchens, emergency shelters and other agencies we serve are desperately in need of more than 25,000 turkeys to feed Long Island’s hungry this holiday season,” says Randi Shubin Dresner, president and CEO of Island Harvest, Long Island’s largest hunger relief organization.

“Donations of frozen turkeys and turkey coupons will be welcomed at our local bakery-cafes now through December 24th, and can be dropped off as early as 7 a.m. until 9 p.m.,” says Greg George, Vice President of Operations for the Long Island Panera Bread. “These donations will help Island Harvest provide warm, nutritious meals to local families in need throughout the holidays.”

Panera Bread bakery-cafes are located in: Bay Shore, Bohemia, Bridgehampton, Carle Place, East Meadow, East Northport, Farmingdale, Hauppauge, Hampton Bays, Hicksville, Huntington, Massapequa, Mineola, New Hyde Park, North Babylon, Port Jefferson, Riverhead, Rockville Centre and West Babylon.

An essential sponsor, Panera Bread provides over 1,000 pounds of bread daily from its area bakery-cafes and this year contributed $35,000, comprised of guest donations and food to help support the efforts of Island Harvest, its Operation Dough-nation® partner.

Now, through December 24th, local Panera Bread bakery-cafes will be accepting donations of frozen turkeys and supermarket turkey coupons on behalf of Island Harvest, Long Island’s largest hunger relief organization, to help in the efforts to feed the area’s hungry this holiday season.

About Panera Bread
Panera Bread Company owns and franchises 1,362 bakery-cafes as of September 29, 2009, under the Panera Bread®, Saint Louis Bread Co.® and Paradise Bakery & Café ®names in 40 states and in Canada. Among these locations, 575 are Company owned and 787 are Franchise operated. With its identity rooted in handcrafted, fresh-baked, artisan bread, Panera Bread is committed to providing great tasting, quality food that people can trust. Highlighted by antibiotic free chicken, whole grain bread, select organic and all-natural ingredients and a menu with 0 grams artificial trans fat per serving, Panera's bakery-cafe selection offers flavorful, wholesome offerings. The menu includes a wide variety of year-round favorites, complemented by new items introduced seasonally with the goal of creating new standards in everyday food choices. In neighborhoods across the United States and in Canada, guests are enjoying Panera's warm and welcoming environment featuring comfortable gathering areas, relaxing decor, and free internet access provided through a managed WiFi network. At the close of each day, Panera Bread bakery-cafes donate bread and baked goods to community organizations in need, like Island Harvest here on Long Island. Additional information is available on the Company’s website, http://www.panerabread.com. On Long Island, Panera Bread has locations in: Bay Shore, Bohemia, Bridgehampton, Carle Place, East Meadow, East Northport, Farmingdale, Hauppauge, Hampton Bays, Hicksville, Huntington, Massapequa, Mineola, New Hyde Park, North Babylon, Port Jefferson, Riverhead, Rockville Centre and West Babylon.

Panera Bread: Bountiful Fall Harvest for Long Island's Hungry

LONG ISLAND PRESS RELEASES

For Immediate Release: November 3, 2009

Panera Bread: Bountiful Fall Harvest

for Long Island’s Hungry

Long Island Press Releases —

Panera Bread’s Operation Dough-nation® Reaps Bountiful Fall Harvest for Long Island’s Hungry

(Long Island, N.Y.) – Once again, local Panera Bread bakery-cafes proudly share the warmth and the spirit of giving. Long Island Panera locations donated $35,000 to their Operation Dough-Nation® partner Island Harvest, Long Island’s largest hunger relief organization, at a recent ‘Taste of the Harvest’ fundraiser. The monies will facilitate general food rescue work and help provide fuel and fleet maintenance funding. A portion of the funds will also offset some of the costs involved in: organizing and deploying volunteers as well as running workshops to guide food recipients toward smarter food choices.

Panera Bread’s Operation Dough-Nationâ program ensures that every purchase made at one if its bakery-cafes feeds back into the community. Cash donations are made in special containers near the registers by guests and Panera supplies goods and services year round as well as provides an end-of-day contribution of all unsold bread to Island Harvest for local hunger relief.

“We are proud to share ‘Panera warmth’ with members of our local community throughout the year,” said Greg George, Vice President of Operations for Long Island Panera Bread. “Bread is an important part of our culture – it brings people together – and Panera is dedicated to giving back to the people who have welcomed us into their neighborhoods.”

Panera Bread has 19 area bakery-cafes: Bay Shore, Bohemia, Bridgehampton, Carle Place, East Meadow, East Northport, Farmingdale, Hauppauge, Hampton Bays, Hicksville, Huntington, Massapequa, Mineola, New Hyde Park, North Babylon, Port Jefferson, Riverhead, Rockville Centre and West Babylon.

Photo: Dale Paden, Marketing Manager for the Long Island Panera Bread bakery-cafes, presents a “fall harvest” check for $35,000 to Randi Shubin-Dresner, president and CEO of Island Harvest, at the organization’s recent ‘Taste of the Harvest’ fundraiser. The donation reflects the generosity of Panera Bread guests who have contributed to Operation Dough-nation® and is complemented by Panera’s own contributions in the form of food and services donated throughout the year to Island Harvest.

About Panera Bread
Panera Bread Company owns and franchises 1,362 bakery-cafes as of September 29, 2009, under the Panera Bread®, Saint Louis Bread Co.® and Paradise Bakery & Café ®names in 40 states and in Canada. Among these locations, 575 are Company owned and 787 are Franchise operated. With its identity rooted in handcrafted, fresh-baked, artisan bread, Panera Bread is committed to providing great tasting, quality food that people can trust. Highlighted by antibiotic free chicken, whole grain bread, select organic and all-natural ingredients and a menu with 0 grams artificial trans fat per serving, Panera’s bakery-cafe selection offers flavorful, wholesome offerings. The menu includes a wide variety of year-round favorites, complemented by new items introduced seasonally with the goal of creating new standards in everyday food choices. In neighborhoods across the United States and in Canada, guests are enjoying Panera’s warm and welcoming environment featuring comfortable gathering areas, relaxing decor, and free internet access provided through a managed WiFi network. At the close of each day, Panera Bread bakery-cafes donate bread and baked goods to community organizations in need, like Island Harvest here on Long Island. Additional information is available on the Company’s website, http://www.panerabread.com. On Long Island, Panera Bread has locations in: Bay Shore, Bohemia, Bridgehampton, Carle Place, East Meadow, East Northport, Farmingdale, Hauppauge, Hampton Bays, Hicksville, Huntington, Massapequa, Mineola, New Hyde Park, North Babylon, Port Jefferson, Riverhead, Rockville Centre and West Babylon.

About Island Harvest
Fighting hunger and touching lives, Island Harvest serves as the bridge between those who have surplus food and those who need it, supplying hundreds of community-based nonprofit organizations on Long Island with critical food support to help stem the advancing tide of hunger in our communities. Island Harvest has delivered more than 60 million pounds of food, supplementing nearly 47 million meals, since its inception in 1992. In support of its mission to end hunger and reduce food waste on Long Island, the organization is actively involved in educational and hunger awareness programs to inform the public about the insidious but often unrecognized problem of hunger here, in one of the wealthiest regions of the country, and how individuals, businesses, schools and commercial food establishments can make a difference. Island Harvest is a member of Feeding America (formerly America’s Second Harvest). For more information about Island Harvest, visit www.islandharvest.org or call 516-294-8528.

St. Mary's "Home for the Holidays" Campaign in Need of Warm Winter Items

St. Mary’s “Home for the Holidays” Campaign in Need of Warm Winter Items

Share the Warmth at Panera Bread Bakery-Cafes

Queens, NY (November 13, 2009) -- Panera Bread bakery-cafes in Queens and Staten Island want to help share the warmth this holiday season. All year long, guests enjoy the warm surroundings, bread bowls filled to the brim with steaming soup, hot-pressed panini dripping with melted cheese, and freshly-baked breads and pastries. Now, as the weather turns crisp outside and the season of giving approaches, you can share the good feelings and warmth with those less fortunate by donating a new pair of gloves, cozy mittens, hat, or scarf to St. Mary’s Kids at your local Panera Bread bakery-cafe.

According to Angela Sculti, Director of Corporate and Community Relations at St. Mary's Foundation for Children, 1 in 5 children has a special need; some are due to serious injury, while others suffer from chronic illness, or complications of premature birth. St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children cares for 4000 of these remarkable kids each day. With its “Home for the Holidays” campaign St. Mary’s hopes that Panera guests will contribute enough new hats, scarves, and gloves to keep the kids (infants, youngsters, and teens), many of whom, come from families in need, toasty warm this winter.

Contributions can be made at special drop off boxes in any Staten Island or Queens Panera Bread including: Bayside, Glendale, Little Neck, or Long Island City, starting November 20 through December 11th. To learn more about St. Mary’s Healthcare System, visit www.stmaryskids.org or to locate your nearest Panera Bread, visit www.PaneraBread.com.

About St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children

A national leader in pediatric post-acute care, St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children is committed to improving the health and quality of life for children and families with special needs. Today one in five children has a special healthcare need. St. Mary’s continuum of care provides intensive rehabilitation, education, and specialized care to 4,000 children each day in the New York metropolitan area through a network of inpatient, home care, and community programs and services. A pediatric healthcare innovator, St. Mary’s created the nation’s first pediatric palliative care program, NY State’s first and largest long-term home healthcare program, and NYC’s first certified traumatic brain injury program, as well as one of only nine interdisciplinary pediatric feeding disorder programs in the U.S. Visit www.StMarysKids.org.

America's Top 10 Healthiest Fast Food Restaurants

Health magazine

America’s Top 10 Healthiest Fast Food Restaurants

By Tracy Minkin and Brittani Renaud

Who hasn’t unwrapped a sandwich while driving down the highway or pulled a hard U-turn into a fast-food joint on the way home from a late meeting or soccer game? We practically live in our cars, so we need quick food, and please, we’d like it to be healthy. Well, guess what: We surveyed the nation’s 100 largest fast-food chains, as defined by the number of locations, and found many are creating menus that look more and more like what we’d cook ourselves (if we had the time)—from nutritious soups and healthy salads to fresh whole grains and sensible desserts. Even better: They’re offering good-news Mexican, Asian, and Mediterranean fare.

Using criteria that was created with the help of our expert panel, we scored the chains on such factors as the use of healthy fats and preparations, healthy sodium counts in entrées, availability of nutritional information, and the use of organic produce to determine the 10 highest-ranking restaurants.
One big surprise: A traditional fast-food chain, McDonald’s, cracked our top 10. Sure, it’s the home of the Big Mac, but did you know it also serves a mean yogurt-and-granola parfait? Here, the standouts that are making grabbed food healthy food.

#1 Panera Bread
Over 1,230 locations nationwide (and in Canada)

This bakery-café-based eatery wowed our judges with a comprehensive menu of healthy choices for every meal. “Variety makes it easy for everyone to choose healthy,” praises registered dietitian and panelist Marisa Moore. What does that mean for you? For starters, you can pick from two whole-grain breads for your sandwich and have an apple with it instead of chips (though the chips are fine, too—they can be baked!). Half-size soups, salads, and sandwiches make it a cinch to control portion size. Also, most of the chicken is antibiotic- and hormone-free, a rarity for large chains.
Panera also won top honors for kid fare, dishing out RD-approved crowd-pleasers like squeezable organic yogurt, PB&J (with all-natural peanut butter), and grilled organic cheese on white whole-grain bread.
We love: Delicious, nutrient-packed combos like a half–Turkey Artichoke on focaccia bread with a bowl of black bean or garden vegetable soup.
Danger zone:Sticky buns and cheese danishes are on display at the counter.

Applebee's® Announces Search for America's Real Heroes

Long Island.Com
2009

Applebee’s® Announces Search for America’s Real Heroes
Applebee's - Long Island FREE Press at LongIsland.com, 06-17-2009

LENEXA, Kan., June 17, 2009 — Real heroes are the people making a real difference in our lives and neighborhoods every day. They don’t ask for thanks, but Applebee’s believes they’ve earned it. To celebrate and recognize those who play instrumental roles in the lives of others, the company today announced the Applebee’s Realburgers™ for Real Heroes contest and sweepstakes.

“Maybe it’s the neighbor who mows your lawn, or the last-minute babysitter who always comes through in a pinch, or perhaps it’s the friend who drives you to the doctor’s appointment,” said Rebeca M. Johnson, senior vice president marketing and culinary for Applebee’s. “No matter who you value as a real hero in your life, these are the people who make a real difference in our neighborhoods. And now, we’re giving consumers an easy way to recognize these deserving individuals.”

Now through July 5, 2009, people can nominate their real heroes by visiting www.applebees.com/realheroes and sharing a story about someone who’s made a lasting difference in their life. Everyone who nominates a hero will be entered into a weekly sweepstakes drawing for Applebee’s gift cards. Applebee’s will post the stories of 10 hero finalists on its website between July 15 and July 23, 2009. Through an online vote during the same period, voters will determine Applebee’s National Real Hero. In addition to some much-deserved recognition, the Grand Prize Winner also will receive $5,000 and a year’s worth of free Applebee’s Realburgers™.[1]

In late April, Applebee’s introduced its fresh new Realburgers – burgers that are big, fresh, and always slammed with flavor. The lineup includes three guest favorites and three all-new burgers: the Surf & Turf Burger, the Fire Pit Bacon Burger, and the Steakhouse Burger with A-1®[2] Steak Sauce. All six of the Applebee’s Realburgers are now available on the Applebee’s “2 for $20” menu.

“We call them Realburgers because there is nothing fussy or fake about them. From the split top bakery bun, to the 100 percent fresh ground chuck, to the unique cooking method, our Realburgers are the real deal – much like the people we want to celebrate through this contest. We’re looking for real heroes who make a real difference in the lives of others. The Applebee’s Realburgers for Real Heroes contest and sweepstakes is a great way of recognizing their contributions to Applebee’s neighborhoods around the country,” Johnson said.

No purchase necessary to enter or win. Participants must be 13 years of age at time of entry. Sweepstakes starts June 7, 2009, and ends July 5, 2009. Grand Prize Contest starts July 15, 2009, and ends July 23, 2009. For official sweepstakes, contest rules and more Information about Applebee’s Realburgers for Real Heroes contest and sweepstakes, visit www.applebees.com/realheroes.

Having Words with Ed Doherty, President, Doherty Enterprises Inc.

Nations Restaurant News
February 9th 2009

Best Updates

Having Words with Ed Doherty, President, Doherty Enterprises Inc.

By Ron Ruggles

(Feb. 09, 2009) Ed Doherty is the founder and president of Doherty Enterprises Inc. of Allendale, N.J. The company operates 57 Applebee’s franchised units in Long Island and northern and central New Jersey, as well as 20 Panera Bread bakery-cafes on Long Island, three Chevys Fresh Mex units, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub, and soon El Pollo Loco in North Bergen, N.J.

How does this downturn compare with others you’ve experienced?

It is the most difficult one I’ve experienced since 1993. The Northeast and Mid-Atlantic had not been hit as hard as the rest of the country throughout most of 2008, but it got considerably tougher in the fourth quarter of 2008. I think 2009 will be worse with unemployment in New Jersey and New York at a 16-year high, Wall Street layoffs affecting the Tri-State area and home values declining.

What do you see as the biggest challenge for restaurant franchisees?

Financing is No. 1. Obviously, no financing is available at reasonable costs. Therefore, franchisees need to make sure they meet their financial covenants because financial institutions are looking to put loans in default and there is no alternative financing available.

Where do you look to finance new projects?

We anticipated the economic downturn and the tightening of the credit markets and refinanced our company in December 2007. We were concerned then and were trying to intentionally stay six months ahead of the real crisis. This refinancing gave us the capital to continue building in 2008, 2009 and 2010.

What are you doing to increase the top line?

There are only two ways to increase the top line: attract more guests and wow them when they come in so they want to come back more often. We are attracting more guests by providing more value.… I disagree with the chains that coupon, basically it is a one-time offer. Guests need to know there is consistent value, so they don’t have to worry whether or not they can find another coupon.

What steps are you taking to hold costs in check?

Without reducing labor or reducing the amount of food on the plates, it is hard to reduce costs. We have a phased plan, at the ready, for holding costs and will take action as we review quarterly results. One of the first actions we took is that my seven direct reports, our senior vice presidents, all volunteered not to take a salary increase this year in order to give raises to our managers. We are also going back to our vendors and asking them to sharpen their pencils and wherever possible cut some costs for us so we can both continue to be profitable.… Lastly, in 2008, we created a new position, director of purchasing.… He did an amazing job in 2008, so we are ahead of the curve as we move forward into 2009.

What advice do you have for franchisees?

Be in your restaurants, and by this I mean not just the operators, but the franchisee himself or herself needs to get out there and speak with guests, see how things are going and be involved. If you need to discuss the comments and make changes with your teams to better serve your guests, do it! This will allow you to stay current and continue to provide great food, great service in a great atmosphere and your guests will come back more often.

FAST FACTS

BIRTHPLACE: Brooklyn, N.Y.
EDUCATION: bachelor’s degree and MBA in marketing from St. John’s University
AGE: 62
PERSONAL: married; three children
HOBBIES: travel, golf, wine collecting

Hampton Bays Welcomes Panera Bread To Marketplace

Hamptons.com
February 6th, 2009

Hampton Bays Welcomes Panera Bread To Marketplace

Hampton Bays – Panera Bread, the fast, casual dining national restaurant chain which specializes in sandwiches, salads and soup, is currently under construction and scheduled to open at 180 W. Montauk Highway in Hampton Bays on March 2.

With an identity rooted in handcrafted, fresh-baked, artisan bread, Panera’s bakery-café selections include wholesome offerings highlighted by antibiotic-free chicken, whole –grain bread, select organic and all-natural ingredients and an entire menu free of man-made trans fat.

Panera Bread offers a wide variety of year-round favorites complemented by new items introduced seasonally.

"Guests enjoy Panera’s welcoming atmosphere that proves places to gather or to tap into our free high-speed WiFi Internet, and they like our healthier food selections," says Greg George, Vice President.

Panera Bread will be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner offering breakfast sandwiches hand-tossed salads, signature sandwiches, soups served in bread bowls, a variety of Artisan breads, pastries, baked goods, and hot and cold espresso beverages.

A recent Zagat poll ranked Panera Bread a leader in food, facilities and popularity in the fast-casual category and, this year, Long Islanders voted it "Best Healthy Eatery," "Best Soup" and "Best Lunch Deal."

A Sweet Irish Treat for Your Sweetie

New York Times
January 25, 2000

A Sweet Irish Treat for Your Sweetie

The Shannon Rose Irish Pub

Four Star Dishes
The Dublin Burger
16oz. Sirloin Steak
Fisherman’s Platter
Shepherd’s Pie

Shannon Doherty patterned the entire place like a classic Irish Pub with 4 different bars that are perfect for romantic dining in an atmosphere that invites you to linger.

Valentines Day – 3 Course Pre-Fixed Menu - $40 per person – Includes Glass of Champagne and a Rose. Reservations now being accepted.

Four Stars Irish Fun and Food
Clifton Commons – Rt 3E, 98 Kingsland Rd., Clifton, NJ 07014
973-284-0200 www.theshannonrose.com
Open 7 days; All Major Credit Cards; Special Needs Menu; 4 Varied Bars; 7 TV’s; Projection Screen; 4 Fireplaces; Outdoor Dining; Private Parties; Handicapped Accessible; Entertainment Nightly; Children’s Menu

2008

Applebee's fundraiser to help Autism Speaks

Applebee’s fundraiser to help Autism Speaks
Newton

On April 9 from 11a.m. till closing, Applebee’s on North Park Drive will host a "Dining to Donate" event to raise funds for Autism Speaks, an organization founded to improve public awareness about autism and to promote autism research.

Diners who visit the Newton Applebee’s on April 9 with an Autism Speaks promotional flyer will have a portion of their bill donated to the organization. Flyers are available at the restaurant.

Adventures to Applebee's

Adventures to Applebee’s
2008

On June 27, Roosevelt School’s entire third grade traveled to the local Applebee’s for a tour of the restaurant and lunch. This experience was generously donated by General Manager Carlos Iturralde.

The students learned the inner workings of the restaurant, trivia about this cross country chain, and most importantly the role it plays in the community. The students had a hands-on experience on how to set the tables, order drinks and serve the food. After the tour they enjoyed a scrumptious lunch and dessert also.

Meet Ed Doherty, restaurant king

The Bergen Record
September 24, 2008

Meet Ed Doherty, restaurant king

By Joan Verdon

Ask Ed Doherty of Saddle River how he became the restaurant king of New Jersey and he'll say "by accident." Then look over his long resume in restaurant and real-estate jobs. It's clear that the growth of Doherty Enterprises of Allendale into a company that operates over 80 restaurants in the tri-state area, with more than 6,000 employees, was no accident.

Doherty, 61, grew up in Valley Stream, N.Y., working in a deli owned by his mother. After graduating from St. John's University, he gained real-estate experience making gasoline-station deals for Mobil Oil. That led to real-estate manager jobs with Burger King and the Marriott Corp. In 1985, in an effort to find a career that would allow him to live in Ridgewood, where he raised his family, he bought 19 Roy Rogers restaurants in Connecticut from Marriott. He was on the road to restaurant empire building.

Doherty Enterprises now operates 56 Applebee's restaurants in New Jersey and Long Island, 19 Panera Bread restaurants in New York, three Chevy's Fresh Mex in New Jersey and Carino's Italian Grill and Shannon Rose Irish Pub, both in Clifton. His company has just signed a deal to open 30 El Pollo Loco fast-food restaurants in New Jersey and Long Island.

Two of his three children have joined the family business. His son Tim will over-see the El Pollo Loco rollout and his daughter Shannon is in charge of the Shannon Rose Page. Daughter Kerry is still too young to have fulfilled her father's four-year rule: four years minimum working for someone else after college.

Q: We wanted to talk to you because you're the restaurant king of New Jersey.
Well, I don't know about that. I'm in the restaurant business and I'm in New Jersey.

Q. Is there anybody who owns more restaurants than you?
Probably not.

Q. So if I go into any Applebee's in North Jserey, it's an Ed Doherty Applebees
Yes. We have 38 in northern and central New Jersey and 18 on Long Island.

Q. Which of them is your top performer?
Clifton. It's the top Applebee's of mine and it's the No. 3 in the world.

Q. Wow! No. 3 in the world? I wonder why?
The top two Applebee's in the world are in Manhattan – in Times Square and 50th Street. Clifton is a strong market. There are a lot of people who live within three to five miles of the Clifton area. Route 3 is a heavily traveled road. There's a lot of industry, there's a lot of shopping and entertainment. For a restaurant to be successful you need lots of people, you need daytime population, which means either shopping or offices, you need night-time, which is entertainment – the movie theaters.

Q. If you wanted to take 10 or 20 of your Applebee's and convert them to something else, could you?
Not really. Once you have a Page like Applebee's or Panera Bread, you have the right to a territory as long as you develop so many restaurants per year in that territory. Once I open one, I sign a franchise agreement. Those agreements obligate me to operate for 20 years with options. So if I wanted to close some Applebee's or Paneras, I would have to have permission from the franchiser. After the 20 years are over, I can do what I want. But if you're successful, you're going to continue.

Q. Do you feel as if your destiny is tied to these national companies?
Yes. But we chose that as our direction for owning and growing a company, rather than just opening Ed's Restaurant over and over. We made the decision that there is a strategic advantage to be involved with the right brands. We got involved with Applebee's because it was the right brand. We got involved with Panera Bread because I'm proud to serve their products. We're getting involved with El Pollo Loco because I'm enamored with the quality of their products. I want people to enjoy the restaurants that we own and operate and come back.

Q. Why did you open the Shannon Rose Irish Pub? That's a departure from franchising.
When we went to Clifton Commons, they had two restaurant pads, so we leased those and put in an Applebee's and a Chevy's franchise. When they expanded the shopping center, they added two more pads, and I didn't want anyone else there so I lease those pads. We opened a Page called Carino's there, so we had Applebee's, we had Mexican, we had Italian and we wanted something to complement them and I said, "Let's do an Irish Pub." It opened March 6 of last year, and we're going to open a second one in Woodbridge.

Q. Do you think people will want to franchise your Shannon Rose Page?
That's a possibility, but tere are too many people in this business that open up one or two restaurants and say, "In five years, we're going to have a hundred or a thousand." I've been around too long. We'll just go slow and see.

Q. I was reading the El Pollo Loco franchise requirements and they include, "Must demonstrate ability to open restaurants, negotiate leases." Guess they don't have to worry about that with Doherty Enterprises.
Our company is very well respected within the industry. We are the 17th largest franchise-operated restaurant company in the United States. We just try to deliver a good product to our guests al the time. I created a mission statement which was "Wow" – wow every guest, every time, wow our people, wow our communities, and wow our suppliers. And if we do that, we'll wow our sales and profits.

Q. How do you wow your employees?
If I treat them with dignity and respect and provide a great opportunity for them to have a good job and to grow within their job, then they will wow every guest every time. I want the people that work for me never to want to leave me.

Q. Your recipe for success?
Don't' lie, don't steal. And treat everybody the way you want to be treated. If you do that, you've lived a good life. And when you go to the maker, he'll say, "You did a good job." It's so simple.

In the Kitchen with Panera Bread…

Wellness
June 2008

Eat Well

In the Kitchen with Panera Bread…

By Amanda Rock

When Patricia Friia of Panera Break invited me to try one of their new egg sandwiches at 9a.m. one morning, my first thought was, "That's a little early for lunch." Truth is, I don't eat breakfast and I know I'm not alone. Studies show that the number of people who don't partake in a morning meal range from 25 to 63 percent. But for those trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle, skipping breakfast is detrimental. A study done by Rutland Regional Medical Center in Vermont reported that those who eat within an hour of waking tend to have a lower body mass compared to people who don't. The study also found that breakfast eaters have a reduced risk of obesity and insulin resistance.

Greg George, vice president of operations for Panera Bread on Long Island advocates eating breakfast. "If you skip it, your metabolism slows down. A well-balanced breakfast keeps you fuller longer and you'll be less likely to snack though he morning."

It just so happens that consumers can now get their first meal of the day at Panera Bread. The chain has begun serving grilled breakfast sandwiches featuring fresh, all-natural steam-cooked eggs that are pasteurized in the shell-a process that kills potential salmonella bacteria. The sandwiches, which are assembled to order, then grilled on two pieces of Ciabatta bread, include a slice of Vermont natural white cheddar cheese and a choice of Applewood-smoked bacon or all-natural sausage. In fact, all of Panera Bread's offerings are trans-fat free.

"Eggs often have a bad reputation," says George, "but they are a balanced food offering both protein and fat the body needs." When making eggs in your own kitchen, George says to steam them, which eliminates fat calories and gives the eggs a lighter taste. To steam, spray a thin coating of non-stick cooking spray on a frying pan over medium heat. Add one teaspoon of water per egg and cover, cooking until the edges turn white.

Chefs Tip: How Fresh are Your Eggs?

To test freshness place the egg in a bowl of water. A fresh egg will sink to the bottom lying sideways; an egg that's not as fresh will stand on its end. If the egg floats, toss it out! Why? Every egg has an air pocket inside the shell. The older egg develops a larger air pocket that keeps it afloat. – Greg George, Panera Bread

Fire Riders Benefit for Children

Fire Riders Benefit for Children
June 22, 2008

By Ken Doerrbecker

The Nassau County Fire Riders had their third annual Toy Run to St. Christophers Childrens hospital on June 22, 2008. There were 197 bikes attending. The run started out at Applebee’s of Bethpage, and rode to St. Christophers in Glenn Cove. The run was led by Santa and members from fire departments in Nassau County, who helped with traffic, along with Nassau County’s finest, and help from the Brookville police. Presiden Ken Doerrbecker would like to thanks everyone who attended the run from the LIMA group to independent motorcycle people. They were able to bring a smile to the children to St. Christophers. The Fire Riders would also like to thank Applebee’s of Bethpage and Panera Bread of Hicksville for the breakfast they supplied.

Pleasantly Appetizing, Comfortingly Familiar

New York Times
Long Island and the Region
May 4th, 2008

Pleasantly Appetizing, Comfortingly Familiar

By Emily DeNitto

I’ve never had it so easy. Getting my 9-year-old daughter to accompany on a restaurant reviewing trip is like suggesting she take the dog for a walk. She knows she’ll have to do it, but she isn’t exactly enthusiastic.

But when I mentioned inviting a couple of her friends to Applebee’s she positively beamed. And the excitement didn’t wane for the entire experience.

My daughter’s pals, a brother and sister, seemed well acquainted with the layoff at the Applebee’s in the Cortlandt Town Center mall in Mohegan Lake, N.Y. – even though the girl is unable to eat protein or wheat. “Yea – a high top!” they said with glee when the hostess pointed to a high round table in the bar area.

Holding on to their children’s menus, each of which comes within a pamphlet of games along with some crayons, the three of them nearly flew to their perch. I was relieved to see we wouldn’t have to languish on the line that had already begun to form, although it was just after 5p.m. on a Saturday. (I had been warned that it can take over an hour to get a table on a weekend night.)

Having had a few unfortunate chain-restaurant experiences, I expected the serves and food to be terrible. They were not. Our waitress wasn’t very knowledgeable about the dishes, but she found out what we needed to know and took our orders quickly.

We started with the appetizer sampler ($12.99), the mozzarella sticks and chips and salsa were decently season and not greasy. My daughter was thrilled with the boneless Buffalo wings, and I have to say it does a mother’s heart good to see her skinny little munchkin chow down like that. I could have used more heat, but was pleased that the chicken wasn’t fatty or stuffed with fillers.

The entrees were even better. Cajun lime tilapia ($10.99) came off the Weight Watchers menu available at every Applebee’s (points and calories noted for each item) and was the best flavor of the evening. The fish tasted fresh, it was nicely grilled, and the black bean and corn salsa was a solid accompaniment. Chicken Parmesan ($12.99) suffered from a too-sweet tomato sauce, but again it wasn’t greasy and even had some seasoning in the breading.

Desserts were cloying, and drinks were unmemorable (although there is a full bar). But I can see why people who like knowing exactly what to expect – especially children, who are comforted by the familiar – enjoy going to Applebee’s. My daughter might even take me there again sometime.

Father's Club raises money for Moeller triplets

Suburban Trends
April 30th 2008

Father's Club raises money for Moeller triplets

By April Plantamura

What could be better than ice cream, presents and a check for $1,500 to make the Moeller triplets' fourth birthday one to remember?

On Thursday, April 24, Scott Mefford, president of the Father's Club of St. Anthony of Padua School, presented the Moeller famil y with a check for $1,500 that he and his fellow club members, with the help of the local Applebee's reastuarnt, raised to help offset the family's medical expenses.

Matthew, Zakary and Tyler Moeller were born two and a half months premature to their parents Dawn and Michael on April 24, 2004. Shortly after their birth Zakary and Tyler were diagnosed with Periventricular Leukomalacia (PVL). PVL causes cysts around the ventricles of the brain, which typically leads to children developing Cerebral Palsy.

The boys receive physical therapy and visit countless doctor, some as far away as Manhattan. Matthew is able to walk independently, while Zakary and Tyler have just started with the help of a walker. Dawn said that her husband's health insurance covered most of the triplets' medical expenses until the age of 3, when the Moellers began their struggle to cover their medical expenses.

Hippotherapy

One of the therapies that the boys use is known as hippotherapy and involves having the triplets ride horses. It costs the Mollers $7000 per child. Dawn is also looking to bringing the boys to a therapist in Chile, which would cost in excess of $30,000. to ass to the Mollers' growing medical bills, Dawn was diagnosed with muscular sclerosis (MS) shortly after the triplets were born. Dawn said she is lucky enough to have her medical expenses covered by the family's insurance, for now.

"I am sure it (the insurance) will max out at some point," Dawn said. "My medications are very expensive."

When Mefford heard of the Moellers' situation, he couldn't fight the urge to get involved.

"I think it is very important for us (the Fathers' Club) to get out into the community and get involved," Mefford said.

The St. Anthony's Fathers' Club, which was created less than a year ago and welcomes members who are fathers, uncles, older brother or grandfathers to students at the school, is heavily involved in organizing fundraisers for the school and maintaining its buildings and grounds. The club has helped to organize several fundraisers, including a chili sale, several fundraiser casino nights, and a Toys for Tots drive during Christmas last year.

For both the toy drive and the casino nights, Mefford elicited the help of local Applebee's restaurant. General Manager Debbie Schultz was involved in preparing and serving food at the casino nights and hosting the toy drive at her establishment. When the Fathers' Club decided to raise money for the Moeller family to help offset some of their medical expenses, Mefford approached Schultz once again.

"We work together on a lot of projects," Schultz said. "Scott knows if he needs help he can call me."

Mefford and Schultz agreed that the perfect time to present the check to the Moeller family would be on the boys' fourth birthday. To raise the money for the family, the Fathers' Club sold coupons for Applebee's including a $10 coupon for a free appetizer and a $5 coupon for a free desert. A local artist, Cherie Grampp, also donated an oil painting depicting a touchdown from the New York Super Bowl win. Individuals were able to purchase raffle tickets for $5 in hopes of winning the painting.

The coupons and raffle tickets were sold in various locations including outside of St. Anthony's School and Parish, the Knights of Columbus building, Applebee's and the All American Hero sandwich shop.

"The owner of the sandwich shop placed a sign outside the store," Mefford said. "I think he sold more tickets than anyone else,"

Fourth Birthday

Mefford was joined on Thursday afternoon at the Applebee's restaurant located on Route 23 North by Schultz, several other members of the Fathers' Club, as well as Dawn Moeller and the triplets. To celebrate their fourth birthday the Moeller boys enjoyed ice cream and cupcakes with their friends, while members of the Applebee's staff sang them "Happy Birthday". The Fathers' Club gift to the triplets was a check for $1,500 that Mefford proudly presented their mother.

"The Moellers are so grateful to anyone in the community that can step up and help with the growing expenses that they have," Mefford said. "Every little bit helps right now."

It was also then that Mefford pulled the winning raffle ticket for the New York Giants oil painting. Melissa Carner, an employee at Applebee's and avid Giants fan, was the winner. Carner will receive the painting on Monday when she returns to work.

Mefford said that he is extremely please with the success of the fundraiser for the Moeller family and that he is grateful to Applebee's and its employees for all their help. Mefford would also like to thank all the volunteers and local businesses that donated tiem and space to help a local family in need.

"The triplets really enjoyed themselves (at Applebee's)," Mefford said. "It was a nice, happy ending to several weeks of hard work."

St. Anthony's School forms its first Father's Club

Suburban Trends
April 2, 2008

St. Anthony's School forms its first Father's Club

Among outreach tasks to raise money for the Moeller triplets

By, April Plantamura

St. Anthony of Padua School, which has been in existence for over 125 years, recently welcomed the creation of the first ever Father's Club.

Members are taking the opportunity to not only raise money for the school, but to also reach out to area residents in need.

St. Anthony's Father's Club, which was created less than a year ago, welcomes members who are fathers, uncles, older brothers or grandfathers of students at the school. Members are involved in organizing fundraisers for the school and helping to maintain the grounds. The club originating with less than 15 members and is now comprised of nearly 40. scott Mefford, president of the Father's Club, said that he hopes to have as many as 50 members by the time the year is out.

"Our true involvement is for the school and the church," Mefford said. "But I think it is very important to get out into the community and get involved in some shape or form."

The club's most recent endeavors include a chili sale to raise money for the purchase of a sign for the school, several fundraiser casino nights, and a Toys for Tots drive at Christmas time. The club worked in partnership with the local Applebee's restaurant for both the toy drive and the casino nights.

"We provided al the food and wait staff for the casino nights," said Debby Schultz, General Manager of the Butler Applebee's. "We worked together again on the Toys for Tots drive and have been helping each other ever since."

The Father's Club has recently joined with Schultz and Applebee's once more to help raise money for a local family in need. Michael and Dawn Moeller parents of triplet sons Matthew, Zakary and Tyler, recently put and addition to their home to better accommodate the needs of their family. Unfortunately, the Moellers hardly have the time to enjoy it, as they are often traveling to various doctors and physical therapists.

The triplets were born two and a half months premature on april 24, 2004. shortly after their birth, Zakary and Tyler were diagnosed with Periventricular Leukomalacia (PVL). PVL causes cysts around the ventricles of the brain, which typically leads to children developing cerebral palsy. The triplets currently receive physical therapy and visit countless doctors in various locations including Manhattan, Hawthorne and Ringwood. Matthew is able to walk independently, while Zakary and Tyler have just started walking with the help of a walker.

Matthew is able to walk independently, while Zakary and Tyler have just started walking with the help of a walker.

"The more aggressive the therapy is the better the boys do," Dawn Moeller said.

Dawn said that her husband's health insurance covered most of the triplet's medical expenses up until the age of 3. The boys will be celebrating their fourth birthday on April 24. This means for nearly a ear the Moellers have been struggling to cover their medical expenses. The boys attend therapy almost every day, including a program known as hippotherapy, where they get a chance to ride horses.

"They really enjoy it," Dawn said. "But it is every day for three weeks and we do it about two or three times a year. it costs $7000 for each child."

Dawn said that she and her husband hope to bring the boys to a therapist in Chile but that the $30,000 expense is not covered by the family's insurance.

Another added medical expense for the family came when Dawn was diagnosed with muscular sclerosis (MS) shortly after the triplet's birth. Dawn said that the family's insurance covers her medical expenses, but that she's sure it will max out at some point, as many of her medications are very expensive.

Mefford and members of St. Anthony's Father's Club decided as a birthday gift to the Moeller triplets they would try to raise $2000 by April 24 to help with the family's mounting medical bills. To raise the money the Father's Club is selling coupons for Applebee's including a free appetizer coupon for $10 and a free desert coupon for $5. The club is also raffling off a New York Giants championship oil painting, painted by local artist Cherie Grampp.

The Applebee's coupons will be for sale outside of St. Anthony's Church, located on Bartholdi Avenue, during Saturday and Sunday masses, as well as at the Knights of Columbus located at 65 Hamburg Turnpike in Butler. Raffle tickets for the Giants oil painting will be available for purchase on Sunday, April 6 outside of St. Anthony's Church, where a blood drive will be held as well. Raffle tickets will also be available for purchase at the Applebee's restaurant, located on Route 23 North.

"We plan on selling coupons and raffle tickets right up until the triplets' birthday on April 24," Mefford said. "On that day we will announce who won the oil painting and present the Moellers with the money we have raised."

Although the Father's Club has set its goal at raising $2,000, Mefford said he would be happy to raise as much as possible. The Father's Club helped the family once before by hosting a Family Fun Day, which raised approximately $5,000 for the triplets.

When asked how the Moellers feel about the community's willingness to help, Dawn said, "We couldn't survive without them."

Kearny Applebee's gets recognized

Kearny Journal
February 14 – February 20, 2008

Kearny Applebee's gets recognized

Louis Pandolfi, left, President of the Kearny Chapter of UNICO National and Anthony Capitti, right, Commander of American Legion Post 99, present a plaque to Carlos Iturralde, general manager of Applebee's Restaurant of Kearny. The plaque was presented in recognition and appreciation for their community spirit and generosity in donating food for the Christmas party for the mentally challenged that was recently sponsored by both organizations.

2008 Best of Long Island

Long Island Press
January 2008

2008 Best of Long Island

9. PANERA BREAD
Multipule Locations. www.panera.com

BEST LUNCH DEAL

"A loaf of bread in every arm." That's the slogan of Long Island's favorite place to eat lunch. and based on the overwhelming amount of votes, Panera truly offers LI's Best Lunch Deal. Founded in Missouri in 1987, Panera has grown from a small town bakery/café to a booming corporate franchise. And even though its main fare is deliciously creative, warm, soft bread, the lunch-deal combos – which include soup and sandwich, soup and salad, or salad and sandwich, all served on those amazing breads – are Panera's, um, bread and butter.

With five fresh soups every day, always at lease one vegetarian option, free Wi-Fi service, comfortable bistro-like décor, cool jazz on the PA and healthy lunch combos all for less than $10, it's easy to see why Long Islanders chose Panera as our favorite lunch place. It won't break the bank or your diet.

Best Updates

Long Island Press
January 2008

Best Updates

Due to a production error in Last week’s 2008 Best of Long Island, the following categories were omitted from the publication. For more additions to the 2008 Best of Long Island poll, please visit www.longislandpress.com.

BEST BAR
POST OFFICE CAFÉ
130 W. Main St., Babylon 631-567-8200
www.lessings.com
In 1928, this place was home to one of the first post offices in the village. Six decades later, the cozy pub-style bistro draws a big late-night crowd, and with live music, a variety of beers and 30 specialty martinis to choose from, it’s no wonder why.

NUTTY IRISHMAN
Multiple Locations. www.thenuttyirishman.com.

MULCAHY’S PUB
Multiple Locations. www.muls.com..

CANTERBURY ALES
314 New York Ave., Huntington 631-549-4404
www.canterburyales.com

FAST FOOD
ALL AMERICAN BURGER
4286 Merrick Rd., Massapequa. 516-798-9574
www.allamericanburger.us
Since 1963 the Vutaggio family has been turning out their famous Double Double burgers, fresh cut fries and great shakes to generations of Long Islanders, and little has changed this prototypical drive-in that has withstood the onslaught of the giant burger chains.

PANERA BREAD
Multiple Locations. www.panera.com

WENDY’S
Multiple Locations. www.wendys.com

SUBWAY
Multiple Locations. www.subway.com

SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
LEGAL SEAFOOD
Roosevelt Field Mall, Garden City. 516-248-4600
Whitman Mall, Huntington Station. 631-271-9777
www.legalseafoods.com
They’ve come a long way from their humble beginnings in a Cambridge, Mass. fish store, but corporate as they may now be, they still understand the importance of purveying fresh fish to satisfy your ever-expanding craving for almost any kind of seafood, fried grilled or raw.

RIVERBAY SEAFOOD BAR & GRILL
700 Willis Ave., Williston Park. 516-742-9191
www.riverbayrestaurant.com

COOLFISH
6800 Jericho Tpke., Syosset. 516-921-3250
www.tomschaudel.com

H2O SEAFOOD GRILL
215 W. Main St., Smithtown. 631-361-6464
www.h2oseafoodgrill.com

MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT

MEDITERRANEAN SNACK BAR
360 New York Ave., Huntington. 631-423-8982
in a sea of local restaurants. Townies and interlopers alike gladly line up at this casual institution masquerading as a gyro parlor and offering right-off the boar fresh fish at low prices, or that souvlaki you’ve been jonesing for.

WILD FIG
829 Franklin St., Garden City. 516-739-1002
167 Glen St., Glen Cove. 516-656-5645
www.wildfigonline.com

ALADDIN RESTAURANT
631 Jericho Tpke., Syosset. 516-921-7777
www.aladdinny.com

VENUS RESTAURANT
828 Ft. Salonga Rd., Northport. 631-754-2888

In the Category of Best Restaurant, the following address should have printed:
PICCOLO RISTORANTE
2770 Sunrise Highway, Bellmore. 516-679-8787 or 516-679-8788
www.piccoloristorante.com

2008 Best of Long Island LUNCH DEAL

Long Island Press
January 2008

2008 Best of Long Island

LUNCH DEAL

+ PANERA BREAD
Multpile Locations. www.panera.com
Great sandwiches on freshly baked breads, paired with interesting salads and soups in a welcoming environment with free wi-fi, make this fast-casual Page hard to outdo. The aroma of warm, irresistible loaves will have you instantly back on carbs.

GREEK GARDEN
6 Grove Pl., Babylon. 631-422-4722

PETER PAN DINER
Sunrise Hwy., Bay Shore. 631-665-1788

MY HERO
25 Sills Rd. E., Patchogue. 631-289-4376

Panera Bread Bakery Café

This Week
January 19, 2008

Dining Out

Panera Bread Bakery Café

At Panera Bread, there are plenty of tempting selection to captivate, tantalize and energize your bread-lover's soul, with its tempting artisan breads, signature sandwiches, salads and hot soups. The breads are made using Panera's own recipes and only unbleached flour. Artisan breads are varied and range from the Three Cheese, with Parmesan, Romano and Asiago cheeses; and Focaccia, an Italian flatbread baked with olive oil and topped with sea salt; to the Ciabatta, most, chewy crumb with a thin crust and light olive oil flavor. Specialty breads featured at Panera include: Asiago Cheese, with plenty of zesty Asiago cheese and Panera's original sourdough starter; and the Tomato Basil, sourdough bread with tomatoes, basil and sweet walnut streusel topping.

Every Panera sandwich is built on its fresh-baked bread, using only fresh, high-quality meats, cheeses and vegetables. Panera is always searching for new and interesting taste and periodically introduce a new sandwich to keep our menu as fresh as the items on it. Hot Panini offerings come served with your choice of a portion of French or Whole Grain baguette, kettle-cooked chips or apple. Among the carried choices, there's the Portobello & Mozzarella, with Portobello mushrooms marinated in balsamic vinaigrette with fresh mozzarella, caramelized onions and fresh chopped basil, grilled hot on our Focaccia. The Turkey Artichoke, is prepared with Smoked Turkey, spinach artichoke spread, Asiago-Parmesan cheese, tomatoes and caramelized onions, grilled hot on our Focaccia.

Signature Sandwiches are served with a pickle spear and your choice of a portion of French or Whole Grain baguette, kettle-cooked chips or apple. Panera offers the Chipotle Chicken, all natural pepper-mustard chicken, smoked bacon, smoked cheddar, tomatoes and ancho-chipotle spread. There's also the Italian Combo, with roast beef, smoked turkey, ham, salami, Swiss cheese, peperocini, lettuce, tomatoes, red onions & our special sauce, on Ciabatta.

Salads are hand-tossed and include the Fuji Apple Chicken salad, found only at Panera Bread; and the Grilled Salmon a salmon filet served chilled, field greens, romaine lettuce, French green beans, roasted red peppers, wheat berries, red onions and Panera's low-fat roasted garlic Meyer lemon vinaigrette. Also featured each day are hot soups that are served with freshly baked bread (of course) or in a bread bowl upon request. For regional availability; check with our local bakery-café for daily soup offerings, such as Low-Fat Vegetarian Southwest Tomato and Roasted Corn that is composed of chunky tomatoes, roasted corn & poblano peppers simmered in a vegetarian stock embellished with ancho & chipotle chiles, ground cumin, oregano & coriander.

Panera Bread
Web site: panerabread.com

Nassau
Carle Place
East Meadow
Hicksville
Mineola
Rockville Centre

Suffolk
Bay Shore
Bohemia
Bridgehampton
East Northport
Farmingdale
Hauppauge
Huntington
North Babylon
River Head
West Babylon

Panera Bread offers free, Internet Wi-Fi. Customers can cyber shop while grabbing a bite to eat, or relax with a hot cup of their favorite brew. "Today, shoppers have options," says Greg George, director of operations for Panera Bread. "We provide a comfortable place for them to take a break from the hustle and bustle…" Photo Insert: Panera Bread customer enjoys free Wi-Fi, while cyber shopping his way through his shopping list for this past holiday.

Free Mammogram Screening January 26

Hicksville Illustrated News
January 11, 2008

Free Mammogram Screening January 26

By Joan Verdon

Allendale-based restaurant group Doherty Enterprises, Inc has signed a deal with El Pollo Loco to bring 30 of the grilled chicken and Mexican fast-casual restaurants to northern and central New Jersey and Long Island, N.Y.

The multi-restaurant agreement takes both Doherty Enterprises and El Pollo Loco in new directions. It brings El Pollo Loco, a 360-restaurant chain basted in Irvine, Calif., to the East Coast. And it gives Doherty Enterprises –which operates 55 Applebee's restaurants, 17 Panera Bread Bakery cafes and three Chevys Fresh Mex restaurants – a fast=food addition to its restaurant family.

El Pollo Loco's specialty is citrus-marinated, flame-grilled chicken, served with warm tortillas and side dishes.

Several Latin-flavored fast-food chicken chains are making their first forays into North Jersey.

Pollo Campero, a South American chain, opened in North Bergen in the spring, and Pollo Tropical, a Florida-based chain with more of a Cuban flavor, has locations in North Bergen and Clifton and is about to open a site in Little Ferry.

Another fast-Mexican chain that specializes in burritos, Chipotle Mexican Grill, also is eager to establish a foothold in North Jersey. It has one restaurant in Secaucus and another under construction in Paramus.

Doherty Enterprises expects to open its first Le Pollo Loco in North Bergen by the end of the year, and two more in New Jersey early next year.

Ed Doherty, president of Doherty Enterprises, said Wednesday that his company chose El Pollo Loco as the pick of the chicken chains because "it's a longtime, established brand that started in Mexico, and it's been in California about 25 years. What we liked about if for New Jersey," he said, "is that the food is very fresh and healthy. The chicken, because it's flame-grilled, it's very healthy for you."

Doherty said he and his son traveled to California to meet with El Pollo Loco executives and sample the food. "What we saw is great-tasting food that all different types of people liked, whether they were wealthy people, middle class, inner city. Everybody seemed to enjoy this product."

"In addition," Doherty said, "it made a nice fit into our portfolio of restaurants."

Many El Pollo Loco restaurants have drive-through windows for takeout, and North Bergen restaurant will have such a window. The North Bergen eatery will be in a new shopping center off Tonnelle Avenue. Doherty said his company also is putting a new Applebee's into that shopping venue.

Doherty Enterprises and El Pollo Loco did not reveal the financial details of their agreement, but Doherty said franchisees typically are required to pay a $10,000 fee per location to secure a territory. El Pollo Loco's Website said franchisees are required to have a minimum of $1.5 million in net worth and $750,000 in liquid assets and be able to commit themselves to developing at least three restaurants.

2013

Applebee's Tops $3 Million in "Toys for Tots" Contributions

Gilda's Club NYC Beneficiary of Local Panera Bread Fundraiser

Applebee's Apple "Goes Green" for St. Pat's Day

Make Valentine's Day, Valentine's Weekend

Applebee's Kicks Off the Big Game with a Big Party Platter Deal

Celebrate Mardi Gras New Orleans Style at Applebee's

2012

Mix 'N' Match Lunch Combos Offered At Clifton, NJ Chevys Fresh Mex

Linden's Chevys Fresh Mex Offers Mix 'N' Match Lunch Combos, Is Now 'Home Of The $3 Margarita'

Clifton Chevys Fresh Mex Hosts New Jersey's Largest Cinco De Mayo Party

Linden Chevys Fresh Mex Celebrates Cinco De Mayo

Chevys Fresh Mex Restaurant in Clifton, NJ Is The Place To Watch Giants & Jets Football Games

Chevys Fresh Mex Restaurant Introduces New '7 Days Of Happy Hour' And 'Weekly Fiesta'

Dreams DO Come True for Sports Fans at The Shannon Rose in Woodbridge

Wfan 'Monday Night Live!' Show With Giants Legend Carl Banks Broadcasts On Mondays From The Shannon Rose Irish Pub, Clifton

Fun & Fundraising for New Jersey PBA at The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Clifton, NJ

Fun & Fundraising for New Jersey PBA at The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Ramsey, NJ

Fun & Fundraising for New Jersey PBA at The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Woodbridge, NJ

Shannon Rose Irish Pub In Clifton, NJ Is The Place To Watch Football

Shannon Rose Irish Pub In Ramsey, NJ Is The Place To Watch Football

Shannon Rose Irish Pubs Raise Thousands For PBA Charity

Shannon Rose Irish Pub In Clifton, NJ Celebrates Halfway To St. Patrick's Day And Arthur Guinness Day

Shannon Rose Irish Pub In Ramsey, NJ Celebrates Halfway To St. Patrick's Day And Arthur Guinness Day

Shannon Rose Irish Pub In Woodbridge, NJ Celebrates Halfway To St. Patrick's Day And Arthur Guinness Day

Winemaker Pasqua And Chef Bernstein Suggest Ideal Wine And Food Pairings To Spuntino Guests At Special Event

Panera Bread Raises a Sweet $30,000 for Local Breast Cancer Groups

2011

Applebee's Celebrates Elmont Opening and Gives Back to the Neighborhood

Applebee’s® Rekindles Friendships with “Girls’ Night Out” Every Wednesday

Nassau and Suffolk Applebee’s Celebrate America’s Independence With Free Meals for Kids This July 4th

Applebee’s Honors Dads this Father’s Day with Pair of Sam Adams Pint Glasses Designed to Enhance Taste Experience

Rego Park Center Welcomes Panera Bread®

Panera Bread® to Kickoff Summer with Free Lemonade Day

Show Your Appreciation with a Thank You Gift on Admin Day

CLIFTON CHEVYS FRESH MEX HOSTS NEW JERSEY'S LARGEST CINCO DE MAYO PARTY

APPLEBEE’S SPRINGS FOR FREE KIDS MEALS ON EASTER

APPLEBEE’S CELEBRATES CINCO DE MAYO SOUTH-OF-THE-BORDER-STYLE

March Hoops' Excitement in Your Neighborhood

Applebee's Red Turning Green on St. Patrick's Day

Panera Bread's Popularity and Growth Build Area Job Opportunities

Applebee’s New All-You-Can-Eat Soup, Salad & Bread Lunch Offers Value and Choices

A New Love Arrived in Lawrence on Valentine’s Day

Panera Bread “Pink Ribbon Bagels” Raise $22,000 for Long Island Breast Cancer Organizations

Applebee’s Offers Super Bowl Party Deal on Pre-Orders

Panera Bread® Enhances Menu with Addition of Calorie-Conscious Menu Offerings

Panera Bread® Enhances Menu with Addition of Calorie-Conscious Menu Offerings

Applebee’s® has Dining-Out Solutions for America’s New Year’s Resolutions

Applebee’s® has Dining-Out Solutions for America’s New Year’s Resolutions New to the Neighborhood Three Additional “Under 550 Calories™” Entrees

2010

Ed Doherty Recognized for Outstanding Service and Achievement by the NJRA

Bellmore Applebee's Gives Back To Veterans And Active Military

Applebee’s To Serve Up a Million Thanks To U.S. Veterans And Active Duty Military

A Delicious Way to Make a Difference

The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Clifton Debuts Expanded Patio with Fire Pit

Panera Bread Takes A Bite Out Of Hunger On Long Island

Customers Vote Panera Bread® Most Popular in 2010 Zagat Survey

America’s Leading Bakery-Cafe Page Also Recognized for Best Salad and Top Facilities

Applebee’s Pays Tribute to Working Parents With Free Meals for Kids This Labor Day

Panera Bread Welcomes Summer’s Return with Free Lemonade Day on Wednesday, May 26th

About Panera Bread

About Doherty Enterprises, Inc.

Applebee’s Celebrates America’s Independence With Free Meals for Kids This July 4

Philly Burger

Southwest Jalapeno Burger

Cowboy Burger

About Doherty Enterprises, Inc.

About Applebee’s Services, Inc.

Applebee’s Launches New Neighborhood-Inspired Burgers

Philly Burger

Southwest Jalapeno Burger

Cowboy Burger

Clifton battle of the bands is also a job tryout

Diverse repertoire

East End TEENY AWARDS© Gains Applebee Support And Momentum Across Long Island

Dine Out Thursday for a Good Cause

New York Jets WR David Clowney Exchanges his Helmet for an Applebee’s Apron

Panera Bread® Turns Up the Heat with Bold & Spicy Flavors for Spring

Long Island Restaurants Gain Local Support for Haiti Relief

Applebee's donates $10,000 to Red Cross' Haiti Relief Fund

Nassau and Suffolk Applebee’s Celebrate America’s Independence With Free Meals for Kids This July 4^th

Applebee’s® has Dining-Out Solutions for America’s New Year’s Resolutions
New to the Neighborhood Three Additional “Under 550 Calories™” Entrees

Congressman Bishop, Island Harvest Support Bill
To Give Tax Breaks To Farmers Donating Food
To LI’s Hungry