Bennigan’s

Bennigan’s is a well-known casual dining restaurant chain that offers an Irish pub-inspired atmosphere and a menu filled with comfort food favorites, such as the Monte Cristo sandwich. The company was founded in 1976 by Norman Brinker as part of the Pillsbury Corporation and quickly became a key player in the American casual dining scene. Bennigan’s combined the lively environment of a bar with the welcoming feel of a family restaurant, which contributed to its rapid growth throughout the 1980s and 1990s. At its peak, the brand operated over 300 locations across the United States and internationally.

The early 2000s brought challenges, leading to the 2008 bankruptcy of its then-parent company, S&A Restaurant Corp. This resulted in the closure of all corporate-owned Bennigan’s and Steak and Ale locations. However, the brand endured thanks to dedicated franchisees who continued operations in select areas. In 2015, Paul Mangiamele and his wife Gwen took the helm, acquiring Bennigan’s and Steak and Ale under Legendary Restaurant Brands, LLC. This marked the beginning of a strategic revival for Bennigan’s, focusing on franchise-driven growth and international expansion.

As of November 2025, Bennigan’s operates approximately 10 locations in the United States, with a presence in Texas, Illinois, and Iowa, as well as several international sites, particularly in the Middle East. The company is actively pursuing new franchise partners and real estate opportunities, with an emphasis on both traditional settings and non-traditional venues like hotels and airports. This adaptability in store formats and a focus on growth in key markets such as the U.S., Middle East, and Asia highlight Bennigan’s potential as a valuable tenant for retail and mixed-use developments. The brand's enduring reputation and strategic expansion efforts make it a noteworthy consideration for landlords, brokers, and developers.