Restaurant chain operator Brinker International posted higher sales and earnings in the first quarter of fiscal 2026, driven by continued momentum at Chili’s.

Comparable restaurant sales across the group rose 18.8 per cent year on year, with Chili’s up 21.4 per cent. Total revenues increased to $1.35 billion from $1.14 billion a year earlier, while net income more than doubled to $99.5 million.

Kevin Hochman, president and CEO of Brinker International, says consistent investments combined with strong plans give the company confidence to build on this growth.

“Chili’s continues to deliver industry-leading results with first-quarter sales up 21 per cent and traffic up 13 per cent against a tough macro environment,” said 

“We believe we can successfully lap the high sales comparisons in Q2 and Q3.”

The company said Chili’s’ results were driven by menu innovation, targeted marketing, and operational improvements that enhanced its value proposition and customer retention.

Higher sales also supported improved margins and $92 million in share repurchases during the quarter.

However, Maggiano’s Little Italy reported a 6.4 per cent decline in comparable sales, reflecting lower traffic.

Brinker said it is continuing its ‘Back to Maggiano’s’ strategy to strengthen the brand’s menu and service offering.

Operating income rose to $117.9 million, compared to $56.4 million in the same period last year, while adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation) reached $172.4 million, up from $111.6 million.

For fiscal 2026, Brinker reiterated its guidance for total revenues between $5.6 billion and $5.7 billion.