T.G.I. Friday’s

TGI Fridays is a well-established American casual dining chain that first opened its doors in 1965 on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. The founder, Alan Stillman, started the restaurant with the idea of creating a lively, welcoming place where people could gather and socialize comfortably. This original vision quickly gained popularity, and the brand became known for its energetic bar scene and approachable dining experience.

Over the decades, TGI Fridays expanded rapidly, first across the United States and then internationally. Franchising began in the early 1970s, fueling the brand’s reach well beyond its New York roots. A notable milestone in its history includes the introduction of the “fern bar” concept, which helped shape the casual dining landscape nationwide.

As of November 2025, TGI Fridays operates approximately 400 restaurants worldwide, including 85 in the United States. The company’s footprint now extends across urban centers, high-traffic suburban corridors, and key international markets in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Ownership rests with TriArtisan Capital Advisors, which acquired a controlling interest in 2014 and continues to guide the brand’s direction.

In recent years, TGI Fridays has focused on franchise-led growth and adapting its formats to meet changing consumer preferences. The brand has introduced flexible store layouts and immersive guest experiences, such as themed seasonal pop-ups and digital engagement campaigns. These efforts are designed to attract new franchise partners and keep the concept relevant in a competitive dining landscape. The company’s active presence on platforms like TikTok and Instagram reflects its commitment to engaging a new generation of diners and maintaining cultural relevance.

Despite filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in November 2024, TGI Fridays continues to operate globally and pursue expansion. Its strategy emphasizes adaptability, with formats ranging from traditional full-service restaurants to more streamlined concepts suited for a variety of real estate settings. For landlords, brokers, and developers, TGI Fridays represents a resilient and recognizable brand with a proven ability to evolve and drive traffic in diverse locations.