Darden Restaurants Insider Sold Shares Worth $1,710,876, According to a Recent SEC Filing

Inflation-weary consumers are starting to eat out at restaurants more often, but they're much more likely to go to Shake Shack than Dave & Buster's, Truist analysts say in a research note, citing data from the firm's payment cards. Recent trends have been choppy but encouraging, they say, with data pointing to mostly in-line or better-than-expected 4Q sales at participating covered companies. Data shows that Shake Shack's sales have accelerated since October, when the burger chain posted same-store sales up 4.5%. Texas Roadhouse, Cracker Barrel and Darden Restaurants also look to be on pace for same-store sales growth in 4Q, analysts say. On the other hand, data shows that Denny's and Dave & Buster's risk stagnant same-store sales and continued traffic declines, respectively. (connor.hart@wsj.com)

Domino's Pizza, Darden Restaurants and Chipotle Mexican Grill are poised for a good year, UBS analysts say in a research note. The three stocks are the analysts' top restaurant picks for 2025 as consumer sentiment perks up and inflationary pressures ease. Domino's is due for further category share gains and strong sales momentum as its delivery partnerships expand, the analysts say. Darden has levers to strengthen sales at Olive Garden through 2025 as well as solid profitability and a valuation that offers runway, they say. Chipotle still has the highest quality growth in the sector, leading traffic momentum, accelerating unit growth and compelling initiatives up year, including some menu innovation, the analysts say. (dean.seal@wsj.com)