UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
x
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended March 26, 2019
OR
¨
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from                      to                     
Commission File Number 001-35611  
DFRGLOGO.JPG
Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
 
20-8453116
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
 
2900 Ranch Trail,
Irving, TX
 
75063
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip code)
(469) 913-1845
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes   x     No   ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).    Yes   x     No   ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.  
Large accelerated filer
¨
 
  
Accelerated filer
 
x
Non-accelerated filer
¨
 
  
Smaller reporting company
 
¨

 
 
 
Emerging growth company
 
¨
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act.    Yes   ¨     No   x
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
 
Trading Symbol(s)
 
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share
 
DFRG
 
The Nasdaq Global Select Market

As of May 1, 2019 , the latest practicable date,  33,416,324  shares of the registrant’s common stock, $0.001 par value per share, were issued and outstanding.


Table of Contents

DEL FRISCO’S RESTAURANT GROUP, INC.
FORM 10-Q

INDEX
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (this "Quarterly Report") and the documents incorporated herein by reference contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward looking statements include all statements that are not historical facts. Forward looking statements reflect intent, belief, current expectations, estimates or projections about, among other things, our industry, management’s beliefs, and future events and financial trends affecting us. Words such as “anticipates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates,” “may,” “will,” "should," "could" and variations of these words or similar expressions are intended to identify forward looking statements. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. Although we believe the expectations reflected in any forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, our actual results could differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. Additional important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include regional, national or global political, economic, business, competitive, market and regulatory conditions and include, but are not limited to, the following:
economic conditions (including customer spending patterns);
our ability to compete;
our ability to implement our growth strategy, including opening new restaurants, operating them profitably and accelerating development of our brands;
customer experiences or negative publicity surrounding our restaurants;
pricing and deliveries of food and other supplies;
changes in consumer tastes and spending patterns;
laws and regulations affecting labor and employee benefit costs, including increases in state and federally mandated minimum wages;
labor shortages;
general financial and credit market conditions;
fixed rental payments and the terms of our indebtedness;
cyber security and our ability to protect customer information;
the Barteca Acquisition;
valuation allowance;
our review of strategic alternatives; and
other factors described in "Item 1A. Risk Factors" set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended  December 25, 2018  (the "2018 10-K").
All forward-looking statements in this Quarterly Report, or that are made on our behalf by our directors, officers or employees related to the information contained herein, apply only as of the date of this Quarterly Report or as of the date they were made. We undertake no obligation, except as required by applicable law, to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

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PART I
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.    Financial Statements (Unaudited)

2

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CONSOLIDATED DEL FRISCO’S RESTAURANT GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets—Unaudited
 
As of
(Amounts in thousands, except share data)
March 26, 2019
 
December 25, 2018
ASSETS
 
 
 
Current assets:
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
4,651

 
$
8,535

Inventory
22,613

 
22,461

Income taxes receivable
206

 
2,861

Lease incentives receivable
4,060

 
6,775

Prepaid expenses
3,790

 
8,284

Other current assets
9,652

 
9,043

Total current assets
44,972

 
57,959

Property and equipment:
 
 
 
Buildings and improvements
10,018

 
17,500

Leasehold improvements
278,532

 
251,417

Furniture, fixtures, and equipment
89,804

 
85,164

Construction in progress
7,038

 
24,906

Property and equipment, gross
385,392

 
378,987

Less accumulated depreciation
(94,285
)
 
(91,184
)
Property and equipment, net
291,107

 
287,803

Operating lease right-of-use assets, net
154,268

 

Goodwill
156,131

 
156,131

Intangible assets, net
205,734

 
206,573

Other assets
18,565

 
17,566

Total assets
$
870,777

 
$
726,032

 
 
 
 
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
 
 
 
Current liabilities:
 
 
 
Accounts payable
$
35,011

 
$
43,527

Deferred revenue
14,848

 
16,624

Sales tax payable
2,773

 
3,215

Accrued payroll
12,426

 
11,258

Current portion of deferred rent obligations

 
4,193

Other current liabilities
6,638

 
6,026

Current portion of operating leases
28,559

 

Current portion of finance leases
1,183

 
1,714

Current portion of long-term debt
3,353

 
3,100

Total current liabilities
104,791

 
89,657

Noncurrent liabilities:
 
 
 
Long-term debt, net
336,140

 
320,736

Noncurrent operating leases
184,686

 

Finance leases
7,074

 
11,828

Deferred rent obligations

 
56,442

Deferred income taxes, net
22,717

 
23,900

Other liabilities
11,053

 
9,887

Total liabilities
666,461

 
512,450

Commitments and contingencies (Note 13)

 

Stockholders' equity:
 
 
 
Preferred stock, $0.001 par value, 10,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding at March 26, 2019 or December 25, 2018

 

Common stock, $0.001 par value, 190,000,000 shares authorized, 37,523,147 shares issued and 33,378,025 shares outstanding at March 26, 2019 and 37,444,400 shares issued and 33,321,795 shares outstanding at December 25, 2018
37

 
37

Treasury stock at cost: 4,145,122 and 4,122,605 shares at March 26, 2019 and December 25, 2018, respectively
(67,823
)
 
(67,823
)
Additional paid in capital
249,650

 
248,618

Retained earnings
23,782

 
33,379

Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
(1,330
)
 
(629
)
Total stockholders' equity
204,316

 
213,582

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
$
870,777

 
$
726,032

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

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DEL FRISCO’S RESTAURANT GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of (Loss) Income — Unaudited
໿

13 Weeks Ended
(Amounts in thousands, except per share data)
March 26, 2019
 
March 27, 2018
Revenues
$
120,381

 
$
73,347

Costs and expenses:
 
 
 
Cost of sales
33,292

 
21,217

Restaurant operating expenses (excluding depreciation and amortization shown separately below)
62,137

 
36,221

Marketing and advertising costs
2,252

 
1,531

Pre-opening costs
2,750

 
1,146

General and administrative costs
16,373

 
7,792

Donations
32

 
42

Consulting project costs
4,504

 
232

Acquisition costs

 
608

Reorganization severance
297

 
113

Lease termination and closing costs
2,908

 
2

Depreciation and amortization
7,651

 
4,135

Total costs and expenses
132,196

 
73,039

Operating (loss) income
(11,815
)
 
308

Other income (expense), net:
 
 
 
Interest, net of capitalized interest
(7,720
)
 
(303
)
Other  
13

 
1

(Loss) income before income taxes
(19,522
)
 
6

Income tax (benefit) expense
(1,195
)
 
1

(Loss) income from continuing operations
(18,327
)
 
5

(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax

 
395

Net (loss) income
$
(18,327
)
 
$
400

Net (loss) income per average common share outstanding—basic
 
 
 
(Loss) income from continuing operations
$
(0.55
)
 
$

(Loss) income from discontinued operations

 
0.02

Net (loss) income
$
(0.55
)
 
$
0.02

Net (loss) income per average common share outstanding—diluted
 
 
 
(Loss) income from continuing operations
$
(0.55
)
 
$

(Loss) income from discontinued operations

 
0.02

Net (loss) income
$
(0.55
)
 
$
0.02

Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding:
 
 
 
Basic
33,358

 
20,317

Diluted
33,358

 
20,603

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements .

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DEL FRISCO’S RESTAURANT GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive (Loss) Income — Unaudited

13 Weeks Ended
(Amounts in thousands)
March 26, 2019
 
March 27, 2018
Net (loss) income
$
(18,327
)
 
$
400

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax:
 
 
 
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedge (1)
(701
)
 

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax
(701
)
 

Comprehensive (loss) income
$
(19,028
)
 
$
400

(1)
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges is presented net of tax, which was  zero  for the  13 weeks ended March 26, 2019 . There was no cash flow hedging activity for the  13 weeks ended March 27, 2018 .

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements .

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DEL FRISCO’S RESTAURANT GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity — Unaudited
For the 13 Weeks Ended March 26, 2019

Common Stock
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(In thousands, except share data)
Shares
 
Par Value
 
Additional Paid
In Capital
 
Treasury Stock
 
Retained Earnings
 
Accumulated other Comprehensive Loss
 
Total 
Balance at December 25, 2018
33,321,795

 
$
37

 
$
248,618

 
$
(67,823
)
 
$
33,379

 
$
(629
)
 
$
213,582

Cumulative effect adjustment (Notes 1)

 

 

 

 
8,730

 

 
8,730

Balance at December 26, 2018
33,321,795

 
37

 
248,618

 
(67,823
)
 
42,109

 
(629
)
 
222,312

Net loss

 

 

 

 
(18,327
)
 

 
(18,327
)
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax

 

 

 

 

 
(701
)
 
(701
)
Share-based compensation costs

 

 
1,211

 

 

 

 
1,211

Shares issued under stock compensation plan, net of shares withheld for tax effects
56,230

 

 
(179
)
 

 

 

 
(179
)
Balance at March 26, 2019
33,378,025

 
$
37

 
$
249,650

 
$
(67,823
)
 
$
23,782

 
$
(1,330
)
 
$
204,316

For the 13 Weeks Ended March 27, 2018

Common Stock
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(In thousands, except share data)
Shares
 
Par Value
 
Additional Paid
In Capital
 
Treasury Stock
 
Retained Earnings
 
Accumulated other Comprehensive Loss
 
Total 
Balance at December 26, 2017
20,309,341

 
$
24

 
$
147,503

 
$
(67,823
)
 
$
109,383

 
$

 
$
189,087

Cumulative effect adjustment (Note 1)

 

 

 

 
299

 

 
299

Balance at December 27, 2017
20,309,341

 
24

 
147,503

 
(67,823
)
 
109,682

 

 
189,386

Net income

 

 

 

 
400

 

 
400

Share-based compensation costs

 

 
1,027

 

 

 

 
1,027

Stock option exercises
4,000

 

 
52

 

 

 

 
52

Shares issued under stock compensation plan, net of shares withheld for tax effects
29,248

 

 
(101
)
 

 

 

 
(101
)
Balance at March 27, 2018
20,342,589

 
$
24

 
$
148,481

 
$
(67,823
)
 
$
110,082

 
$

 
$
190,764


See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

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DEL FRISCO’S RESTAURANT GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows—Unaudited
໿
 
13 Weeks Ended
(Amounts in thousands)
March 26, 2019
 
March 27, 2018
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
Net income (loss)
$
(18,327
)
 
$
400

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
9,153

 
5,182

Loss on disposal of restaurant property
(13
)
 
5

Amortization of debt issuance costs
511

 

Share based compensation
1,211

 
1,027

Impairment charges

 
84

Deferred income taxes
(1,183
)
 
226

Amortization of deferred lease incentives

 
(362
)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
 
 
 
Inventory
(152
)
 
(86
)
Lease incentives receivable
4,022

 
1,503

Prepaid expenses and other assets
3,184

 
3,000

Accounts payable
(4,500
)
 
(1,722
)
Income taxes
2,655

 
(225
)
Deferred rent obligations

 
1,014

Deferred revenue
(1,776
)
 
(2,937
)
Other liabilities
1,843

 
(3,109
)
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities
(3,372
)
 
4,000

Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
Purchases of property and equipment
(15,340
)
 
(10,788
)
Other investing activities
41

 
1

Net cash used in investing activities
(15,299
)
 
(10,787
)
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
Payments on borrowings
(31,775
)
 

Proceeds from borrowings
49,350

 
5,500

Payment of debt issuance costs
(2,032
)
 

Principal payments of finance leases
(291
)
 
(11
)
Payments on loan against deferred compensation investments
(286
)
 
(268
)
Cash tax payment for share-based awards
(179
)
 
(101
)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options

 
52

Net cash provided by financing activities
14,787

 
5,172

Less; Net change in cash and cash equivalents from discontinued operations

 

Net change in cash and cash equivalents
(3,884
)
 
(1,615
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
8,535

 
4,594

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
4,651

 
$
2,979

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
 
 
 
Cash paid (received) during the period for:
 
 
 
Interest
$
6,728

 
$
232

Income taxes
$
(2,683
)
 
$
307

Non cash investing and financing activities:
 
 
 
Capital expenditures included in accounts payable at end of period
$
1,984

 
$
4,755

Tenant improvement allowance receivables
$
1,307

 
$
5,438

Capital lease
$

 
$
887

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

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DEL FRISCO’S RESTAURANT GROUP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements—Unaudited
໿
1 . Business and Basis of Presentation
As of March 26, 2019 , Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group, Inc. ("we," "us," "our," “Del Frisco’s” or the “Company”) owned and operated 76 restaurants under the concept names of Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse (“Double Eagle”), Barcelona Wine Bar (“Barcelona”), bartaco, and Del Frisco’s Grille (“Grille”). Of the 76 restaurants we operated at the end of the period covered by this report, there were 16 Double Eagle restaurants, 16 Barcelona restaurants, 20 bartaco restaurants, and 24 Grille restaurants in operation in 16  states and the District of Columbia.
Recent Developments
On June 27, 2018 (“Acquisition Date”), we completed the acquisition of all outstanding interests in Barteca Holdings, LLC ("Barteca Acquisition"), a Delaware limited liability company, and its subsidiaries (“Barteca”) for total cash consideration of $331.2 million , which represents a purchase price of $325 million plus customary adjustments including payments for cash remaining in the business.
In connection with the completion of the Barteca Acquisition, we entered into a new credit agreement that provides for (i) senior secured term loans in an aggregate principal amount of $390.0 million (“Term Loan B”) and (ii) senior secured revolving credit commitments in an aggregate principal amount of $50.0 million (“Revolving Loan,” and, collectively with the term loans, the “2018 Credit Facility”). See Note 7 , Long-Term Debt in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements for information regarding our credit facility.
On August 1, 2018, we entered into an underwriting agreement with certain underwriters with respect to (i) the sale by the Company of 11,250,000 shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share, to the underwriters and (ii) the grant by the Company to the underwriters of an option (the “Option”) to purchase up to 1,687,500 additional shares of the Company’s common stock (together, the “Shares”). The sale of the Shares, including the exercise in full of the Option, closed on August 6, 2018. The total proceeds of $97.8 million from the public offering of common stock were used to repay a portion of Term Loan B. See Note 7 , Long-Term Debt in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements.
On August 27, 2018 we amended (the “First Amendment”) Term Loan B (“Amended Term Loan B”). The First Amendment amends the 2018 Credit Facility, to, among other things, provide the Company with additional term loans (“Additional Term Loans”) in an aggregate principal amount of $18.0 million . The First Amendment also amended the 2018 Credit Facility to increase the interest rate applicable to the Additional Term Loans and the existing term loans outstanding under the 2018 Credit Facility to, at our option, a rate per annum equal to either a LIBOR or a base rate, plus an applicable margin, which is equal to 6.00% for LIBOR rate loans and 5.00% for base rate loans. See Note 7 , Long-Term Debt in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements for information regarding our amended credit facility.
On September 21, 2018, we sold all of the outstanding equity interests in our Sullivan’s Steakhouse business (“Sullivan’s") to Sullivan’s Holding LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and affiliate of Romano’s Macaroni Grill, for the total gross proceeds of approximately $32 million , subject to customary adjustments for inventory and cash. See Note 3 , Dispositions in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements for information regarding discontinued operations.
On February 26, 2019, we entered into a joinder agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as the incremental term lender and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as the administrative agent (the “Joinder Agreement”). The Joinder Agreement modifies the 2018 Credit Facility and provides the Company with incremental term loan commitments in a principal amount equal to $25.0 million . The Company drew the full amount of the incremental term loans on the date of the Joinder Agreement and received net proceeds of approximately $23.1 million . The Company used the net proceeds of the incremental term loans to repay a portion of the outstanding amounts under the 2018 Credit Facility . Since the repayment does not reduce the commitments under the 2018 Credit Facility, the transaction expanded the Company’s sources of liquidity without increasing leverage at this time. See Note 7 , Long-Term Debt in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements.
Basis of Presentation
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) for interim financial information. Accordingly, they do not include all the information and disclosures required by GAAP for complete financial statements. Operating results for the 13 weeks ended March 26, 2019 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2019 . In the opinion of management, the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring

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adjustments, considered necessary for a fair presentation. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 25, 2018 filed with the SEC on March 11, 2019 (the “2018 10-K”).
The results of Sullivan's operations have been presented as discontinued operations for the 13 weeks ended March 27, 2018 . See Note 3 Dispositions in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements for information regarding discontinued operations.
We operate on a 52- or 53-week fiscal year ending the last Tuesday in December. Beginning in fiscal 2018, we changed to a fiscal quarter calendar where each quarter contains 13 weeks, other than in a 53-week year where the last quarter of the year will contain 14 weeks. Fiscal 2019 will be a 53-week fiscal year, fiscal 2018 was a 52-week fiscal year. We believe that a reporting basis comprised of four equal 13-week quarters is a more typical reporting format comparable to most companies in the restaurant industry and is easier to understand for our investors.
Accounting Estimates
The preparation of the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances at the time. Actual amounts may differ from those estimates.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) ("ASU 2016-02"). which requires a lessee to recognize assets and liabilities for leases with lease terms of more than 12 months. The recognition, measurement and presentation of expenses and cash flows arising from a lease by a lessee will primarily depend on its classification as a finance (formerly capital) or operating lease. However, unlike previous GAAP, which requires only capital leases to be recognized on the balance sheet, ASU 2016-02 requires all leases with an initial term greater than one year to be recognized on the balance sheet as a right-of-use ("ROU") asset and a lease liability.
We adopted ASU 2016-02 in the first quarter of 2019 by utilizing the modified retrospective transition method through a cumulative-effect adjustment in the beginning of the first quarter of 2019. We elected the package of practical expedients permitted under the transition guidance, which allowed us to carryforward our historical lease classification, our assessment on whether a contract is or contains a lease, and our initial direct costs for any leases that existed prior to the adoption of the new standard. We made an accounting policy election to keep leases with an initial term of 12 months or less off the balance sheet. We have elected the practical expedient the Company will not separate a qualifying contract into its lease and non-lease components. The Company recognizes those lease payments in the Consolidated Statements of (Loss) Income on a straight-line basis over the lease term. The most significant impact was the recognition of ROU assets and lease liabilities for operating leases with original terms over 12 months where the Company is the lessee. As a result of the adoption of the new lease standard we recognized ROU assets of $161.6 million , and lease liabilities of $218.0 million , and recorded a cumulative effect adjustment to increase retained earnings of $8.7 million , due to build-to-suit leases and prior deferred gains on sales leaseback transactions.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-15, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other-Internal Use Software (Subtopic 350-40 ) ("ASU 2018-15") - Customer's Accounting for Implementation Costs incurred in a Cloud Computing Arrangement that is a Service Contract . ASU 2018-15 reduces the complexity of accounting for costs of implementing a cloud computing service arrangement and aligns the following requirements to capitalize implementation costs: (i) those incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract, and (ii) those incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software, including hosting arrangements that include an internal software license. This amended guidance is first effective for our fiscal year beginning after December 15, 2019 with early adoption permitted. The guidance may be adopted either using the prospective or retrospective approach. We are currently evaluating the impact of this new guidance on our financial position and results of operations.
2 . Acquisitions
On the Acquisition Date, we completed the acquisition of all outstanding interests in Barteca for total cash consideration of $331.2 million , which represents a purchase price of $325 million plus customary adjustments including payments for cash remaining in the business. Barteca owns and operates two restaurant concepts: Barcelona and bartaco. Barcelona and bartaco restaurant concepts are innovative, with a unique vibe, food, drinks and design. Barcelona serves as a neighborhood Spanish tapas bar with an ever-changing selection of tapas, using both local and seasonal ingredients as well as specialties from Spain and the Mediterranean.

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Barcelona has a superior Spanish wine program and an award winning selection of wines, with 16 locations in 8 states and the District of Columbia. bartaco combines fresh, upscale street food with a coastal vibe in a relaxed environment and is inspired by a healthy, outdoor lifestyle. bartaco has 20 locations across twelve states, as of March 26, 2019 .
The following table summarizes the preliminary fair value of identified assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the Acquisition Date:
 
 
As of
(Amounts in thousands)
 
June 27, 2018
Purchase price
 
$
331,199

 
 
 
Allocation of purchase price
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
6,006

Accounts receivable
 
3,311

Inventory
 
2,068

Prepaid expenses and other assets
 
3,740

Leasehold improvements
 
34,919

Buildings and improvements
 
17,967

Furniture, fixtures, and equipment
 
13,207

Construction in progress
 
4,340

Other assets
 
1,421

Intangible assets
 
185,080

(Unfavorable) leases
 
(785
)
Accounts payable and other liabilities
 
(14,111
)
Financing lease obligations
 
(13,340
)
Deferred taxes
 
(24,825
)
Total fair value of net assets acquired:
 
218,998

Goodwill
 
$
112,201

Intangible assets acquired primarily include liquor licenses and bartaco and Barcelona trade names. The fair value of the acquired liquor licenses and trade names are $1.1 million and $183.0 million , respectively. Other intangible assets were valued at approximately $0.2 million . Liquor licenses acquired will be amortized over an estimated useful life of each individual license, which is currently estimated to be one year. Trade names represent intangible assets with indefinite life.
As a result of the acquisition, we have recognized approximately $112.2 million of goodwill, of which $104.7 million is deductible for income tax purposes. Goodwill, of which $42.0 million and $70.2 million is attributable to the Barcelona and bartaco reportable segments, respectively, represents the excess of the purchase price over the aggregate fair value of net assets acquired and is related to the benefits expected as a result of the acquisition, including sales, development and growth opportunities. We believe that Barteca's innovative concepts are highly complementary and will provide Del Frisco’s portfolio with significant growth and development opportunities, enabling us to capture market share in the experiential dining segment, while mitigating the effects of seasonality and the risk of economic downturns to our restaurant portfolio.
The purchase accounting is incomplete, and our estimates and assumptions are subject to change during the measurement period (up to one year from the acquisition date). The primary area of the purchase price allocation that is not yet finalized relates to deferred taxes, which will have a corresponding change to goodwill.
Amounts previously estimated have changed during the measurement period. The changes in estimates included an increase of $4.5 million of buildings and improvements, an increase of $2.0 million of financing lease obligations and a decrease of $0.9 million in accounts payable. We recorded the measurement-period adjustments in the fourth quarter of 2018. Depreciation and interest expenses increased by $0.2 million and $0.1 million , respectively as a result of these measurement-period adjustments.
Pro Forma Results of Operations (unaudited)
The following pro forma results of operations for the 13 weeks ended March 27, 2018 , have been prepared as though the business acquisition had occurred on January 1, 2017 consistent with the pro forma results of operations prepared for the third quarter and annual filings of fiscal 2018. This pro forma financial information is not indicative of the results of operations that the Company

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would have attained had the acquisition occurred at the beginning of the period presented, nor is the pro forma financial information indicative of the results of operations that may occur in the future:
 
 
13 Weeks Ended
(Amounts in thousands)
 
March 27, 2018
Revenues
 
$
104,626

Net loss
 
(2,609
)
Net loss per average common share
 
 
       Basic
 
$
(0.13
)
       Diluted
 
$
(0.13
)
The above pro forma information includes Barteca's actual revenues and net income of $31.3 million and $1.0 million , respectively, for the 13 weeks ended March 27, 2018 . The combined companies incurred $6.9 million of interest expense based on financing related to the transaction for the 13 weeks ended March 27, 2018 and was reflected in pro forma net income. Pro forma revenues exclude Sullivan’s results of operation as these amounts are reflected as discontinued operations in the Consolidated Statements of (Loss) Income. See Note 3 , Dispositions in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements for information regarding discontinued operations.
3 . Dispositions
On September 21, 2018, we sold all of the outstanding equity interests in our Sullivan’s Steakhouse business to Sullivan’s Holding LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and affiliate of Romano’s Macaroni Grill for total gross proceeds of approximately $32 million , subject to customary adjustments for inventory and cash.
The results of Sullivan’s operations have been reflected as discontinued operations for the 13 weeks ended March 27, 2018 . Sullivan’s Steakhouse had been previously disclosed as a separate reportable segment. Disposition costs related to the sale of Sullivan’s were approximately $2.0 million .
 
 
13 Weeks Ended
(Amounts in thousands)
 
March 27, 2018
Revenues
 
$
15,956

Costs and expenses:
 
 
Cost of sales
 
4,937

Restaurant operating expenses
 
7,994

Marketing and advertising costs
 
488

General and administrative costs
 
541

Disposition costs
 
49

Lease termination and closing costs
 
364

Impairment charges
 
84

Depreciation and amortization
 
1,046

Total costs and expenses
 
15,503

Income from discontinued operation before income taxes
 
453

Income tax expense
 
58

Income from discontinued operations
 
$
395

Cash flows from Sullivan’s discontinued operations are included in the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. The significant cash flow items from the Sullivan’s divestiture for the 13 weeks ended March 27, 2018 were as follows:
 
 
13 Weeks Ended
(Amounts in thousands)
 
March 27, 2018
Depreciation and amortization
 
$
1,046

Capital expenditures
 
201


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4 . Earnings (Loss) Per Share
Basic earnings (loss) per share (“EPS”) data is computed based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the periods. Diluted EPS data is computed based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding, including all potentially issuable shares of common stock. We incurred a net loss for the 13 weeks ended March 26, 2019 , and therefore, diluted shares outstanding equaled basic shares outstanding. The computation of diluted earnings per share excluded  407,000  antidilutive stock options, restricted stock units and performance stock units for the 13 weeks ended March 27, 2018 .
The following table details our basic and diluted earnings per common share calculation: ໿

13 Weeks Ended
(Amounts in thousands, except per share data)
March 26, 2019
 
March 27, 2018
Net income (loss)
$
(18,327
)
 
$
400

Shares:
 
 
 
Weighted-average common shares outstanding—basic
33,358

 
20,317

Effect of dilutive shares

 
286

Weighted-average common shares outstanding—diluted
33,358

 
20,603


 
 
 
Earnings (loss) per share—basic
$
(0.55
)
 
$
0.02

Earnings (loss) per share—diluted
$
(0.55
)
 
$
0.02


5 . Stock-Based Employee Compensation
2012 Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan
On July 16, 2012, we adopted the Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group, Inc. 2012 Long-Term Equity Incentive Plan (the “2012 Plan”), which allows us to grant stock options, restricted stock, restricted stock units, deferred stock units and other equity-based awards to directors, officers, key employees and other key individuals performing services for us. The 2012 Plan provides for granting of options to purchase shares of common stock at an exercise price not less than the fair value of the stock on the date of grant. Equity-based awards vest or become exercisable at various periods ranging from one to four years from the date of grant. The 2012 Plan has 2,232,800 shares of common stock authorized for issuance under the plan. There were 467,300 shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of outstanding options and 1,230,468 restricted shares, restricted stock units and performance stock units outstanding at  March 26, 2019  with  152,363 shares of common stock available for future grants.
The following table details our total share-based compensation cost, as well as where the costs were expensed:

13 Weeks Ended
(Amounts in thousands)
March 26, 2019
 
March 27, 2018
Restaurant operating expenses
$
8

 
$
35

General and administrative costs
1,203

 
992

Total stock compensation cost
$
1,211

 
$
1,027

Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units, and Performance Stock Units
The following table summarizes restricted stock, restricted stock unit, and performance stock unit activity:

13 Weeks Ended March 26, 2019
 
Shares (000's)
 
Weighted average grant date fair value
 
Aggregate intrinsic value ($000's)
Outstanding at beginning of period
1,313

 
$
10.22

 
 
Granted
10

 
7.28

 
 
Vested
(79
)
 
15.58

 
 
Forfeited
(13
)
 
11.03

 
 
Outstanding at end of period
1,231

 
$
9.85

 
$
7,912


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As of March 26, 2019 , there was $6.7 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested restricted stock, restricted stock units, and performance stock units. This cost is expected to be recognized over a period of approximately 2.0 years
Stock Options
The following table summarizes stock option activity:

13 Weeks Ended March 26, 2019
 
Shares (000's)
 
Weighted average exercise price
 
Weighted average remaining contractual term
 
Aggregate intrinsic value ($000's)
Outstanding at beginning of period
467

 
$
18.54

 
 
 
 
Exercised

 

 
 
 
 
Forfeited

 

 
 
 
 
Outstanding at end of period
467

 
$
18.54

 
4.1 years
 
$

Options exercisable at end of period
467

 
$
18.54

 
4.1 years
 
$

As of March 26, 2019 , all stock options were vested, accordingly all compensation costs related to vested stock options were recognized.
6 . Derivative Financial Instruments
As of March 26, 2019 , we have entered into one derivative instrument designated as a cash flow hedge for risk management purposes. The derivative instrument is used to mitigate our exposure to interest rate fluctuations.
Interest Rate Cap
During fiscal 2018 , we entered into an interest rate cap with a notional value of $200.0 million and 3.00% per annum strike rate to hedge the variability of the monthly 1-month LIBOR interest payments on a portion of our Term Loan B. The hedged monthly interest payments began on July 31, 2018 and end on the expiration of the interest rate cap on June 30, 2022. Any variability in the 1-month LIBOR interest payment on the Term Loan Facility beyond 3.00% per annum is offset by the net proceeds received upon exercising the interest rate cap. The interest rate cap was designated as a cash flow hedge at inception.
The hedge effectiveness for the designated interest rate cap is based on the changes in the interest rate cap’s intrinsic value. Accordingly, we will exclude all the change in the time value of the interest rate cap from the assessment. The excluded component will be amortized over the life of the derivative instrument and recognized in Interest, net of capitalized interest in the Consolidated Statements of (Loss) Income. The amount of gains (losses) that are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at the reporting date that are expected to be reclassified into earnings within the next 12 months is $0.5 million .
Credit Risk
We are exposed to credit risk of the counterparty with which we entered into the derivative. This is the risk of the counterparty’s non-performance pursuant to the derivative contract. The risk will continue to exist as long as the derivative is in an asset position, creating a liability for the counterparty. However, the risk is deemed to be minimal as the counterparty has investment grade credit ratings. We will monitor the counterparty’s credit ratings and our market position with the counterparty on an ongoing basis. The interest rate cap does not contain any credit-risk related contingent features.
Quantitative Disclosures on Derivative Instruments
The following tables present the required quantitative disclosures for our derivative instrument, including its estimated fair values (all estimated using Level 2 inputs) and their financial statement presentation for the fiscal quarters ended March 26, 2019 and March 27, 2018 , respectively.
Derivative instruments recorded at fair value in our unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets as of  March 26, 2019  and  December 25, 2018 , respectively, consisted of the following:

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Derivative Assets
(Amounts in thousands)
March 26, 2019
 
December 25, 2018
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
Interest rate cap
Other current assets
 
$
252

 
Other current assets
 
$
1,075

Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments
 
 
$
252

 
 
 
$
1,075

The effect of cash flow hedges on accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the 13 weeks ended March 26, 2019 and the 13 weeks ended March 27, 2018 , was as follows (Amounts in thousands):
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships
 
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on Derivative*
 
Location of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income into Income
 
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) into Income
 
Classification of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in income related to Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing
 
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing)
 
 
13 Weeks Ended
 
 
 
13 Weeks Ended
 
 
 
13 Weeks Ended
 
March 26, 2019
 
March 27, 2018
 
 
March 26, 2019
 
March 27, 2018
 
 
March 26, 2019
 
March 27, 2018
Interest rate cap
 
$
(823
)
 
$

 
Interest, net of capitalized interest
 
$

 
$

 
Interest, net of capitalized interest
 
$
122

 
$

*The portion of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income related to the component excluded from the assessment of effectiveness is $(0.8) million .
The effect of cash flow hedges on Consolidated Statements of (Loss) Income for the 13 weeks ended March 26, 2019 and the 13 weeks ended March 27, 2018 , was as follows:
 
 
Location and Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in Income on Cash Flow Hedging Relationships
 
 
13 Weeks Ended
 
13 Weeks Ended
(Amounts in thousands)
 
March 26, 2019
 
March 27, 2018
Gain or (loss) on cash flow hedging relationships
 
 
 
 
Interest Rate Cap:
 
 
 
 
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into income
 
$

 
$

Amount excluded from effectiveness testing using an amortization approach (1)
 
122

 

Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into income as a result that a forecasted transaction is no longer probable of occurring
 

 

(1)
The portion of the amount of loss reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to income includes $0.1 million related to the amortization of the excluded component.
7 . Long-Term Indebtedness
Credit Facilities
On June 27, 2018, in connection with the completion of the Barteca Acquisition, we entered into a new credit agreement that provides for (i) a seven year senior secured term loan Term Loan B in aggregate principal amount of $390.0 million bearing interest per annum equal to either a LIBOR or ABR rate, plus an applicable margin, which is equal to 4.75% per annum for LIBOR loans and 3.75% for ABR loans, with the option to maintain or convert base rate loans to LIBOR loans and (ii) five year senior secured revolving credit commitments ("Revolving Loan") in an aggregate principal amount of $50.0 million with the ability to increase the facility by up to an additional $25.0 million with unpaid amounts bearing interest at 3.50% per annum for LIBOR loans and 2.50% per annum for ABR loans. Similar to the term loan, base rate loans may be maintained or converted to LIBOR loans. Rates may be subject to adjustment by reference to the consolidated total leverage ratio, (collectively with the term loans, the "2018 Credit Facility"). Part of the proceeds from the term loans were used to retire the 2012 Credit Facility.

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On August 6, 2018, we received $97.8 million of proceeds from a public offering of common stock that were used to repay a portion of the $390.0 million of the Term Loan B pursuant to an existing prepayment option.
On August 27, 2018 we amended ("The First Amendment") Term Loan B ("Amended Term Loan B"). The First Amendment amends the 2018 Credit Facility, to, among other things, completely re-syndicate the Amended Term Loan B and provide the Company with additional term loans ("Additional Term Loans") in an aggregate principal amount of $18.0 million . The First Amendment also amended the 2018 Credit Facility to increase the interest rate applicable to the Additional Term Loans and the existing term loans outstanding under the 2018 Credit Facility to, at our option, a rate per annum equal to either a LIBOR or ABR rate, plus an applicable margin, which is equal to 6.00% for LIBOR loans and 5.00% for ABR loans.
On February 26, 2019, we entered into a joinder agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as the incremental term lender and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as the administrative agent (the “Joinder Agreement”). The Joinder Agreement modifies the 2018 Credit Facility and provides the Company with incremental term loan commitments in a principal amount equal to $25.0 million . The Company drew the full amount of the incremental term loans on the date of the Joinder Agreement and received net proceeds of approximately $23.1 million . The Company used the net proceeds of the incremental term loans to repay a portion of the outstanding amounts under the 2018 Credit Facility . Since the repayment does not reduce the commitments under the 2018 Credit Facility, the transaction expanded the Company’s sources of liquidity without increasing leverage at this time.
As of  March 26, 2019 $17.1 million  under the Revolving Loan was outstanding (excluding amounts reserved for letters of credit in the amount of  $1.7 million ). As of  December 25, 2018 $23.7 million  under the Revolving Loan, was outstanding (excluding amounts reserved for letters of credit in the amount of  $1.6 million ). The unpaid Revolving Loan amounts bear interest at 3.50% per annum for LIBOR loans and 2.50% per annum for ABR loans. As of  March 26, 2019 , the Revolving Loan unused commitment fee was  0.50% . The principal amount of the Revolving Loan is due and payable on June 27, 2023.
As of  March 26, 2019 $333.6 million  was outstanding under the Amended Term Loan B. Interest on the Amended Term Loan B accrues at a rate per annum equal to either a LIBOR or ABR rate, plus an applicable margin, which is equal to 6.00% for LIBOR loans and 5.00% for ABR loans. The Interest Rate Cap Agreement, which has a notional value of $200.0 million and 3.00% per annum strike rate to hedge the variability of the monthly 1-month LIBOR interest payments on a portion of our Term Loan B, mitigates the risk of an increase in the LIBOR rate in effect on the Amended Term Loan B. See Note  6 Derivative Financial Instruments for further discussion. As of  March 26, 2019 , the applicable interest rate on the Amended Term Loan B was  8.50% . The Amended Term Loan B is payable in equal  quarterly  installments of  $0.8 million . The outstanding principal of the Amended Term Loan B is due and payable on June 27, 2025.
Amounts outstanding under the 2018 Credit Facility are guaranteed by Del Frisco's and certain of the subsidiaries of Del Frisco’s (collectively, the "Loan Parties"). The 2018 Credit Facility is secured by a first priority security interest in substantially all of the assets of the Loan Parties. The 2018 Credit Facility agreement contains certain representations, warranties and affirmative covenants and financial covenants, including a maximum ratio of total indebtedness to EBITDAR, as defined in the credit agreement governing the credit facility. The total indebtedness to EBITDAR calculation is applicable only when we are over 25% drawn on the Revolver at the end of the reporting period. In addition, the 2018 Credit Facility agreement contains covenants restricting certain corporate actions, including asset dispositions, acquisitions, the payment of dividends, the incurrence of indebtedness and providing financing or other transactions with affiliates.
Loan Against the Investments in Deferred Compensation Plan
On July 12, 2017, we executed an agreement to borrow against the investments in our deferred compensation plan to pay out funds due to plan participants instead of using operating cash flows. The loan does not have an expiration date or defined payment terms, and accrues interest at a rate of 1% , net of the 4% that is earned by the investments being loaned against. As of March 26, 2019 and December 25, 2018 there was $3.5 million and $3.8 million of outstanding borrowings on this loan, respectively.

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Long-Term Indebtedness Summary
As of  March 26, 2019  and  December 25, 2018 , long-term debt consisted of the following:
 
 
As of
(Amounts in thousands)
 
March 26, 2019
 
December 25, 2018
Amended Term Loan B
 
$
333,641

 
$
309,417

Revolving Loan
 
17,050

 
23,700

Loan Against the Investments in Deferred Compensation Plan
 
3,534

 
3,820

Net discount
 
(13,486
)
 
(12,107
)
Deferred financing costs
 
(1,246
)
 
(994
)
Long-term debt
 
339,493

 
323,836

Less current portion
 
(3,353
)
 
(3,100
)
Total long-term debt, net
 
$
336,140

 
$
320,736

8 . Leases
We adopted ASU 2016-02 in the first quarter of 2019 by utilizing the modified retrospective transition method through a cumulative-effect adjustment in the beginning of the first quarter of 2019. We elected the package of practical expedients permitted under the transition guidance, which allowed us to carryforward our historical lease classification, our assessment on whether a contract is or contains a lease, and our initial direct costs for any leases that existed prior to the adoption of the new standard. We made an accounting policy election to keep leases with an initial term of 12 months or less off the balance sheet. We have elected the practical expedient the Company will not separate a qualifying contract into its lease and non-lease components. The Company recognizes those lease payments in the Consolidated Statements of (Loss) Income on a straight-line basis over the lease term. The most significant impact was the recognition of ROU assets and lease liabilities for operating leases with original terms over 12 months where the Company is the lessee.
Upon adoption of Topic 842 during the first quarter of 2019 we recognized ROU of $161.6 million , and lease liabilities of $218.0 million , and recorded a cumulative effect adjustment to increase retained earnings of $8.7 million , due to build-to-suit leases and prior deferred gains on sales leaseback transactions.
We currently lease all of our restaurants. We lease certain facilities under noncancelable operating leases and have several obligations under finance leases, with terms expiring between 2019 and 2039 . The operating and finance leases have renewal options ranging from 5 to 20 years, which are exercisable at our option. In addition, certain leases contain escalation clauses based on a fixed percentage increase and provisions for contingent rentals based on a percentage of gross revenues, as defined. The majority of our leases provide for minimum annual rents with some containing percentage-of-sales rent provisions, against which the minimum rent may be applied. The majority of our leases also provide for rent escalation clauses, contingent rental expense, and/or tenant improvement allowances. Minimum rental payments under operating leases are recognized on a straight-line basis over the expected term of the lease, which includes optional renewal periods that are reasonably certain to be exercised and where failure to exercise such renewal options would result in an economic penalty to us.
For the Company's operating and finance leases, the lease liability is initially and subsequently measured at the present value of the unpaid lease payments at the lease commencement date. Key estimates and judgments include how the Company determines (i) the discount rate it uses to discount the unpaid lease payments to present value, (ii) lease term and (iii) lease payments. Topic 842 requires a lessee to discount its unpaid lease payments using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if that rate cannot be readily determined, its incremental borrowing rate ("IBR"). Generally, the Company cannot determine the interest rate implicit in the lease and therefore uses the IBR as a discount rate for its leases. The IBR reflects the rate of interest the Company would pay on a collateralized basis to borrow an amount equal to the lease payments under similar terms.To estimate our specific incremental borrowing rates over various tenors (ranging from 3 -year through 30 -years), a comparable market yield curve consistent with our credit quality was calibrated to our outstanding debt instruments.The lease term for all of the Company's leases includes the noncancellable period of the lease plus any additional periods covered by an option to extend the lease that is reasonably certain to be executed by the Company. Lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability comprise fixed payments owed over the lease term, fixed non-lease component payments, variable lease payments that depend on an index or rate, and the renewal option if it is reasonably certain the Company will exercise the option. As part of the lease agreements the Company is also responsible for payments regarding non-lease components (common area maintenance, operating expenses, etc.) and most of these payments are variable costs; however, some leases have fixed operating or common area maintenance expenses so these leases with fixed non-lease component payments were included as part of the lease liabilities.

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The ROU asset is initially measured at cost, which comprises the initial amount of lease liability adjusted for lease payments made at or before the lease commencement date, plus any initial direct costs incurred less any lease incentives received. For the Company's operating leases, the ROU asset is subsequently measured throughout the lease term at the carrying amount of the lease liability, plus initial direct costs, and adjusted for any prepaid or accrued lease payments, less the unamortized balance of lease incentives received.
Operating leases are included in operating lease ROU assets, current portion of operating leases, and operating lease liabilities on our Consolidated Statements of (Loss) Income. Finance leases are included in buildings and improvements and furniture, fixtures, and equipment, current portion of finance leases, and finance lease on our Consolidated Statements of (Loss) Income.
Lease Position
The table below presents the lease-related assets and liabilities recorded on the balance sheet :
 
 
 
 
 
 
As of
(Amounts in thousands)
 
Classification
 
March 26, 2019
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
     Operating leases (1)
 
Operating lease right-of-use assets
 
$
154,268

     Finance leases (2)
 
Buildings and improvements; Furniture, fixtures, and equipment
 
8,259

Total leased assets
 
 
 
 
 
$
162,527

Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Current
 
 
 
 
 
 
     Operating
 
Current portion of operating leases
 
$
28,559

     Finance
 
Current portion of finance leases
 
1,183

  Noncurrent
 
 
 
 
 
 
     Operating
 
Noncurrent operating leases
 
184,686

     Finance
 
Finance leases
 
7,074

Total lease liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
$
221,502

(1)
Operating lease right-of-use assets, presented net of accumulated amortization of $1.5 million as of March 26, 2019 .
(2)
Finance lease assets accumulated amortization was $0.2 million as of March 26, 2019 .
Lease Costs
The table below presents certain information related to the lease costs for finance and operating leases:
(Amounts in thousands)
 
Classification
 
13 Weeks Ended March 26, 2019
Operating lease cost (1)  
 
Restaurant operating expenses
 
$
8,749

Finance lease cost
 
 
 
 
 
 
Amortization of leased assets
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
194

Interest on lease liabilities
 
Interest expense
 
205

Net lease cost
 
 
 
 
 
$
9,148

(1)
Includes short-term lease costs of $0.2 million and variable lease costs of $0.8 million .

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Lease Maturities
The following table presents aggregate lease maturities as of March 26, 2019 :
 
 
As of
 
 
March 26, 2019
(Amounts in thousands)
 
Operating Leases
 
Finance Leases
 
Total
2019
 
$
24,142

 
$
993

 
$
25,135

2020
 
32,908

 
1,360

 
34,268

2021
 
33,162

 
1,392

 
34,554

2022
 
33,501

 
1,409

 
34,910

2023
 
32,213

 
1,433

 
33,646

Thereafter
 
322,736

 
10,901

 
333,637

Total minimum lease payments
 
478,662

 
17,488

 
496,150

Less: amount of lease payments representing interest
 
(265,417
)
 
(9,231
)
 
(274,648
)
Present value of future minimum lease payments
 
213,245

 
8,257

 
221,502

Less: current obligations under leases
 
(28,559
)
 
(1,183
)
 
(29,742
)
Long-term lease obligations
 
$
184,686

 
$
7,074

 
$
191,760

Future minimum payments due under financing lease and capital lease obligations for existing restaurants and commitments for restaurants whose development had not yet commenced as of December 25, 2018 , under Accounting Standard Codification Topic 840, the predecessor to Topic 842, are as follows:
 
 
As of
(Amounts in thousands)
 
December 25, 2018
2019
 
$
1,714

2020
 
1,812

2021
 
1,858

2022
 
1,887

2023
 
1,814

Thereafter
 
6,428

Total minimum lease payments
 
$
15,513

Less imputed interest
 
(1,971
)
Present value of future lease commitments
 
13,542

Less current maturities
 
(1,714
)
Obligations under capital and financing leases, net of current maturities
 
$
11,828

Future minimum lease payments under noncancelable operating leases include renewal option periods for certain leases when such option periods are included for purposes of calculating straight-line rents. At December 25, 2018 , future minimum rentals for each of the next five years and thereafter, and in total, are as follows: ໿
 
 
As of
(Amounts in thousands)
 
December 25, 2018
2019
 
$
32,357

2020
 
35,070

2021
 
35,398

2022
 
36,029

2023
 
34,871

Thereafter
 
365,864

Total minimum lease payments
 
$
539,589

At March 26, 2019 , the Company has entered into noncancellable operating leases for 5 additional restaurant locations.   These leases will commence subsequent to March 26, 2019 and, therefore, are not recognized as of March 26, 2019 . The fixed payments

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due on an undiscounted basis over the lease term is $67.1 million . The Company will assess the lease classification at the lease commencement date.
Other Information
The following table presents the weighted average remaining lease term and discount rate:
 
 
As of
 
 
March 26, 2019
Weighted-average remaining lease term
 
 
Operating leases
 
14.3 years
Finance leases
 
12.4 years
Weighted-average discount rate
 
 
Operating leases
 
11.8%
Finance leases
 
11.3%
The following table presents other information related to our operating and finance leases:
(Amounts in thousands)
 
13 Weeks Ended March 26, 2019
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities
 
 
Operating cash flows from operating leases
 
$
1,077

Operating cash flows from finance leases
 

Financing cash flows from finance leases
 
291

Leased assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations (1)
 
 
Operating leases
 
3,970

Finance leases
 

(1)
Amounts disclosed for leased assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations include amounts added to the carrying amount of leased assets resulting from lease modifications and reassessments.
9 . Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Changes in the composition of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (“AOCI”) during the first quarter ended  March 26, 2019  were as follows:
(Amounts in thousands)
 
Net Unrealized Gains (Losses) Related to Derivatives
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Balance at December 25, 2018
 
$
(629
)
 
$
(629
)
Net change in fair value of derivatives, net of tax
 
(823
)
 
(823
)
Amounts reclassified to earnings of cash flow hedges, net of tax
 
122

 
122

Balance at March 26, 2019
 
$
(1,330
)
 
$
(1,330
)
10 . Income Taxes
The effective income tax rate for the 13 weeks ended March 26, 2019 was 6.1% , compared to 16.7% for the 13 weeks ended March 27, 2018 . For the 13 weeks ended March 26, 2019 , the factors that cause the effective tax rates to vary from the federal statutory rate of 21% were primarily the change to the valuation allowance, the effect of certain permanent differences and the impact of the FICA tip deduction addback. For the 13 weeks ended March 27, 2018 , the factors causing the effective tax rates to vary from the federal statutory rate of 21% include the impact of the FICA tip and other credits, partially offset by state income taxes and certain non-deductible expenses.
The Company assesses the available positive and negative evidence at each balance sheet date to determine whether sufficient future taxable income will be generated to permit the use of existing deferred tax assets. The purpose of this analysis is to assess whether it is more likely than not that some or all of our deferred tax assets will not be realized. Significant judgment is required in estimating valuation allowances for deferred tax assets and in making this determination, we consider all available positive and negative evidence and make certain assumptions. The realization of a deferred tax asset ultimately depends on the existence of sufficient taxable income in the applicable carryback or carryforward periods. To the extent we generate sufficient taxable income in the future to fully utilize the tax benefits of the net deferred tax assets on which a valuation allowance was recorded; our effective tax rate may decrease as the valuation allowance is reversed. During fiscal 2018, the Company entered a three year cumulative

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loss position and established a valuation allowance against deferred tax assets for which it is more likely than not that the deferred tax assets will not be realized.
11 . Fair Value Measurement
Under GAAP, we are required to measure certain assets and liabilities at fair value, or to disclose the fair value of certain assets and liabilities recorded at cost. Pursuant to these fair value measurement and disclosure requirements, fair value is defined as the price that would be received upon sale of an asset or paid upon transfer of a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date and in the principal or most advantageous market for that asset or liability. The fair value is calculated based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, not on assumptions specific to the entity. In addition, the fair value of liabilities includes consideration of non-performance risk, including our own credit risk. Each fair value measurement is reported in one of the following three levels:
Level 1—valuation inputs are based upon unadjusted quoted prices for identical instruments traded in active markets.
Level 2—valuation inputs are based upon quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active, and model-based valuation techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.
Level 3—valuation inputs are unobservable and typically reflect management’s estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. The fair values are therefore determined using model-based techniques that include option pricing models, discounted cash flow models, and similar techniques.
Fair Value of Debt and Other Financial Instruments
Debt is recorded at carrying value. The fair value of long-term debt is based on market prices that generally are observable for similar liabilities at commonly quoted intervals and is considered a Level 2 fair value measurement. The estimated fair value of debt (including current portion) is $332.8 million and $323.8 million and the carrying amount is $339.5 million and $303.7 million as of March 26, 2019 and December 25, 2018 , respectively.
At March 26, 2019 , the carrying values of other financial instruments such as cash and cash equivalents, receivables and accounts payable approximate fair value due to their short-term nature.
Recurring Fair Value Measurements
The following table presents our financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at March 26, 2019 and December 25, 2018 , respectively:

Fair Value Measurements
(Amounts in thousands)
Level
 
March 26, 2019
 
December 25, 2018
Financial assets (liabilities):
 
 
Carrying Amount
 
Fair Value
 
Carrying Amount
 
Fair Value
Deferred compensation plan investments (included in Other assets)
2
 
$
14,698

 
$
14,698

 
$
13,556

 
$
13,556

Deferred compensation plan liabilities (included in Other liabilities)
2
 
(9,228
)
 
(9,228
)
 
(8,059
)
 
(8,059
)
Interest rate cap agreement assets (included in Other current assets)
2
 
252

 
252

 
1,075

 
1,075

There were no transfers among levels within the fair-value hierarchy during the first quarter of fiscal 2019 and fiscal 2018 .
The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instruments:
The measurement of the fair value of derivative assets and liabilities is based on market prices that generally are observable for similar assets and liabilities at commonly quoted intervals and is considered a Level 2 fair value measurement. Derivative assets and liabilities that have maturity dates equal to or less than twelve months from the balance sheet date are included in prepaid and other current assets and other accrued liabilities, respectively. Derivative assets and liabilities that have maturity dates greater than twelve months from the balance sheet date are included in deposits and other assets and other long-term liabilities, respectively. See Note 2  Summary of Significant Accounting Policies of our 2018 10-K for additional information on our derivative instruments and related Company policies.

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12 . Segment Reporting
We operate the Double Eagle, Barcelona, bartaco, and Grille brands as operating segments. The restaurant concepts operate solely in the U.S. within the full-service dining industry, providing similar products to similar customers. Sales from external customers are derived principally from food and beverage sales, and we do not rely on any major customers as a source of sales. The restaurant concepts also possess similar economic characteristics, resulting in similar long-term expected financial performance characteristics. However, Double Eagle restaurants typically have higher revenues, driven by their larger physical presence and higher average check. The Double Eagle, Barcelona, bartaco, and Grille operating segments have varying operating income and restaurant-level EBITDA margins due to the leveraging of higher revenues on certain fixed operating costs such as management labor, rent, utilities, and building maintenance.
The following tables present information about reportable segments:

13 Weeks Ended March 26, 2019
(Amounts in thousands)
Double Eagle
 
Barcelona
 
bartaco
 
Grille
 
Corporate
 
Consolidated
Revenues
$
49,975

 
$
17,426

 
$
20,648

 
$
32,332

 
$

 
$
120,381

Restaurant-level EBITDA
10,412

 
3,574

 
4,339

 
4,375

 

 
22,700

Capital expenditures
3,093

 
1,826

 
4,839

 
1,002

 
437

 
11,197

Property and equipment, gross
156,326

 
38,876

 
54,704

 
131,378

 
4,108

 
385,392


13 Weeks Ended March 27, 2018
(Amounts in thousands)
Double Eagle
 
Barcelona
 
bartaco
 
Grille
 
Corporate
 
Consolidated
Revenues
$
43,955

 
$

 
$

 
$
29,392

 
$

 
$
73,347

Restaurant-level EBITDA
11,046

 

 

 
3,332

 

 
14,378

Capital expenditures
9,786

 

 

 
1,983

 
(355
)
 
11,414

Property and equipment, gross
117,121

 

 

 
118,853

 
5,218

 
241,192

In addition to using consolidated results in evaluating our performance and allocating our resources, our chief operating decision maker uses restaurant-level EBITDA, which is not a measure defined by GAAP at both the segment and consolidated level. At the consolidated level, this non-GAAP operating measure is useful to both management and investors because it represents one means of gauging the overall profitability of our recurring and controllable core restaurant operations. This measure is not, however, indicative of our overall results, nor does restaurant-level profit accrue directly to the benefit of stockholders, primarily due to the exclusion of corporate-level expenses. Restaurant-level EBITDA on a consolidated basis should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, operating income loss, which is calculated in accordance with GAAP, and the reconciliations to operating income set forth below should be carefully evaluated.
We define restaurant-level EBITDA as operating income before pre-opening costs, general and administrative costs, donations, consulting project costs, acquisition costs, reorganization severance costs, lease termination and closing costs, depreciation and amortization, impairment charges, and insurance settlements. Pre-opening costs are excluded because they vary in timing and magnitude and are not related to the health of ongoing operations. General and administrative costs are only included in our consolidated financial results as they are generally not specifically identifiable to individual operating segments as these costs relate to supporting all of our restaurant operations and the extension of our concepts into new markets. Donations, consulting project costs, acquisition costs and reorganization severance costs are excluded because they are not related to the health of ongoing operations. Lease termination and closing costs and depreciation and amortization are excluded because they are not ongoing controllable cash expenses, and they are not related to the health of ongoing operations. Property and equipment is the only balance sheet measure used by our chief operating decision maker in allocating resources.

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The following table reconciles operating income (loss) to restaurant-level EBITDA:

13 Weeks Ended
 
13 Weeks Ended
(Amounts in thousands)
March 26, 2019
 
March 27, 2018
Operating income (loss)
$
(11,815
)
 
$
308

Pre-opening costs
2,750

 
1,146

General and administrative costs
16,373

 
7,792

Donations
32

 
42

Consulting project costs
4,504

 
232

Acquisition costs

 
608

Reorganization severance
297

 
113

Lease termination and closing costs
2,908

 
2

Depreciation and amortization
7,651

 
4,135

Restaurant-level EBITDA
$
22,700

 
$
14,378

13 . Commitments and Contingencies
We are subject to various claims, possible legal actions, and other matters arising out of the normal course of business. While it is not possible to predict the outcome of these issues, management is of the opinion that adequate provision for potential losses has been made in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements and that the ultimate resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
At March 26, 2019 and December 25, 2018 , we had outstanding letters of credit of $1.7 million and $1.6 million , respectively, which were drawn on our 2018 Credit Facility, respectively (see Note 7 , Long-Term Indebtedness) . The letters of credit typically act as a guarantee of payment to certain third parties in accordance with specified terms and conditions.
Item 2.    Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
The following discussion and analysis presents information that we believe is relevant to an assessment and understanding of our consolidated financial position and results of operations. This information should be read in conjunction with our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements, and the notes thereto, and other financial data included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report. The following information should also be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements, and the notes thereto, and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in our 201810-K. Unless the context otherwise indicates, all references to “we,” “our,” “us,” “Del Frisco’s”or the “Company” refer to Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries.
Overview
Del Frisco’s develops, owns and operates four contemporary and complementary restaurants: Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse (“Double Eagle”), Barcelona Wine Bar (“Barcelona”), bartaco, and Del Frisco’s Grille (“Grille”). As of the end of the period covered by this report, we operated  76 restaurants in 16 states and the District of Columbia. Of the 76 restaurants we operated at the end of the period covered by this report, there were 16 Double Eagle restaurants, 16 Barcelona restaurants, 20 bartaco restaurants, and 24 Grille restaurants.

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Our Growth Strategies and Outlook. Our growth model is comprised of the following three primary drivers:
Disciplined Growth. Our long term target is to grow annual revenues through a combination of annual restaurant growth and comparable restaurant sales growth. We believe that there are significant opportunities to grow our concepts in both existing and new markets, where we believe we can generate attractive unit-level economics, which we view as the most significant driver of future growth. Our real estate process includes partnering with a third party master broker to source potential sites against a set of clear criteria for each brand, working with a third-party spatial analytics company, who have developed a model to determine the most attractive locations for each of our brands and a predictive sales model for specific sites, and a Real Estate Committee, consisting of members of the Board of Directors (the “Board”) and senior management, which visits, assesses and approves each site. While we do not believe it is possible to guarantee every site will meet its expected returns, we expect these processes to increase the probability of a site meeting its financial return on investment hurdles. We believe our concepts’ complementary market positioning and ability to coexist in the same markets, coupled with our flexible unit models and robust site assessment and approval processes, will allow us to expand each of our concepts into a greater number of locations. We will also continue to pursue opportunities to increase the sales at our existing restaurants through menu innovation, relevant and impactful marketing initiatives and loyalty programs, growing private dining and continued focus on enhancing the guest experience.
Operating and G&A Leverage. Our long term target is to grow Adjusted EBITDA . We will continue to protect our strong restaurant level margins through operational efficiencies and economies of scale, including purchasing synergies across our concepts. As we open new restaurants our organizational structure will enable us to keep our brand teams focused on individual brand priorities while leveraging our support functions across a larger business, resulting in G&A reducing as a percentage of revenue over time. The Barteca Acquisition greatly enhances our ability to leverage the benefits of scale.
Financing Strategies. Our long term target is to reduce our leverage through a combination of disciplined capital expenditures to support our restaurant count growth target and remodel needs, free cash flow generation from revenue growth and operating and G&A leverage, and other financing strategies to reduce our debt.
Our long term target is to grow the Double Eagle, Barcelona and bartaco brands by opening new restaurants. We expect to open no Grilles in 2019 or 2020 as we evaluate the performance of 2018 openings which incorporate lessons learned from our 2017 consulting project. In the first quarter of fiscal 2019, we closed the Chicago, Illinois Double Eagle. It generally takes 9 to 12 months after the signing of a lease or the closing of a purchase to complete construction and open a new restaurant. Additional time is sometimes required to obtain certain government approvals, permits and licenses, such as liquor licenses.
Performance Indicators. We use the following key metrics in evaluating the performance of our restaurants:
Comparable Restaurant Sales Growth . We consider a restaurant to be comparable during the first full fiscal quarter following the eighteenth month of operations. Changes in comparable restaurant sales reflect changes in sales for the comparable group of restaurants over a specified period of time. Changes in comparable sales reflect changes in customer count trends as well as changes in average check. Our comparable restaurant base consisted of 57 and 31 restaurants at March 26, 2019 and March 27, 2018 , respectively.
Average Check. Average check is calculated by dividing total restaurant sales by customer counts for a given time period. Average check is influenced by menu prices and menu mix. Management uses this indicator to analyze trends in customers’ preferences, the effectiveness of menu changes and price increases and per customer expenditures.
Average Unit Volume. Average unit volume, or AUV, consists of the average sales of our restaurants over a certain period of time. This measure is calculated by dividing total restaurant sales within a period by the number of restaurants operating during the relevant period. This indicator assists management in measuring changes in customer traffic, pricing and development of our concepts.
Customer Counts . Customer counts for Double Eagle and Grille are measured by the number of entrées ordered at our restaurants over a given time period. Barcelona and bartaco customer counts are measured by the number of customers counted in the dining room or on the patio over a given time period.

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Table of Contents

Restaurant-Level EBITDA and Restaurant-Level EBITDA Margin . Restaurant-level EBITDA represents Adjusted EBITDA before general and administrative costs. Adjusted EBITDA represents operating income (loss) before depreciation and amortization, plus the sum of certain non-operating expenses, including pre-opening costs, donations, lease termination costs, acquisition costs, consulting project costs, reorganization severance, impairment charges and insurance settlements. Restaurant-level EBITDA margin is the ratio of Restaurant-level EBITDA to revenues. These non-GAAP operating measures are useful to both management and investors because they represent one means of gauging the overall profitability of our recurring and controllable core restaurant operations for each segment, and all segments at a consolidated level. These measures are not, however, indicative of our overall results, nor does restaurant-level profit accrue directly to the benefit of stockholders, primarily due to the exclusion of corporate-level expenses. See Note 12 , Segment Reporting, in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for a reconciliation of restaurant-level EBITDA to operating income at a consolidated level.
Our business is subject to seasonal fluctuations. Historically, the percentage of our annual revenues earned during the first and fourth fiscal quarters has been higher due, in part, to increased gift card redemptions and increased private dining during the year-end holiday season, respectively. As many of our operating expenses have a fixed component, our operating income and operating income margin have historically varied significantly from quarter to quarter. Accordingly, results for any one quarter are not necessarily indicative of results to be expected for any other quarter or for any year.
Recent Events
On June 27, 2018 (“Acquisition Date”), we completed the acquisition of all outstanding interests in Barteca Holdings, LLC ("Barteca Acquisition"), a Delaware limited liability company, and its subsidiaries (“Barteca”) for total cash consideration of $331.2 million , which represents a purchase price of $325 million plus customary adjustments including payments for cash remaining in the business.
In connection with the completion of the Barteca Acquisition, we entered into a new credit agreement that provides for (i) senior secured term loans in an aggregate principal amount of $390.0 million (“Term Loan B”) and (ii) senior secured revolving credit commitments in an aggregate principal amount of $50.0 million (“Revolving Loan,” and, collectively with the term loans, the “2018 Credit Facility”). See Note 7 , Long-Term Debt in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements for information regarding our credit facility.
On August 1, 2018, we entered into an underwriting agreement with certain underwriters with respect to (i) the sale by the Company of 11,250,000 shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share, to the underwriters and (ii) the grant by the Company to the underwriters of an option (the “Option”) to purchase up to 1,687,500 additional shares of the Company’s common stock (together, the “Shares”). The sale of the Shares, including the exercise in full of the Option, closed on August 6, 2018. The total proceeds of $97.8 million from the public offering of common stock were used to repay a portion of Term Loan B. See Note 7 , Long-Term Debt in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements.
On August 27, 2018 we amended (“First Amendment”) Term Loan B (“Amended Term Loan B”). The First Amendment amends the 2018 Credit Facility, to, among other things, provide the Company with additional term loans (“Additional Term Loans”) in an aggregate principal amount of $18.0 million . The First Amendment also amended the 2018 Credit Facility to increase the interest rate applicable to the Additional Term Loans and the existing term loans outstanding under the 2018 Credit Facility to, at our option, a rate per annum equal to either a LIBOR or a base rate, plus an applicable margin, which is equal to 6.00% for LIBOR rate loans and 5.00% for base rate loans. See Note 7 , Long-Term Debt in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements for information regarding our amended credit facility.
On September 21, 2018, we sold all of the outstanding equity interests in our Sullivan’s Steakhouse business (“Sullivan’s) to Sullivan’s Holding LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and affiliate of Romano’s Macaroni Grill, for the total gross proceeds of approximately $32 million , subject to customary adjustments for inventory and cash.
On February 26, 2019, we entered into the Joinder Agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as the incremental term lender and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as the administrative agent. The Joinder Agreement provided the Company with incremental term loan commitments in a principal amount equal to $25.0 million . The Company drew the full amount of the incremental term loans on the date of the Joinder Agreement and received net proceeds of approximately $23.1 million . The Company used the net proceeds of the incremental term loans to repay a portion of the outstanding amounts under its revolving credit facility. Since the repayment does not reduce the commitments under the revolving credit facility, the transaction expanded the Company’s sources of liquidity without increasing leverage at this time. See Note 7 , Long-Term Debt in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements for information regarding our amended credit facility.

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Table of Contents

Change in Reporting Periods
We operate on a 52- or 53-week fiscal year ending on the last Tuesday of each December and, beginning in fiscal 2018, we changed to a fiscal quarter calendar where each quarter contains 13 weeks, other than in a 53-week year where the last quarter of the year will contain 14 weeks.
Key Financial Definitions
Detailed discussion regarding key financial definitions as they relate to our results of operations can be found in the 2018 10-K.

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Table of Contents

Results of Operations
The following table shows our operating results, as well as our operating results as a percentage of revenues for the periods indicated:

13 Weeks Ended
(Amounts in thousands)
March 26, 2019
 
March 27, 2018
Revenues
$
120,381

 
100.0
 %
 
$
73,347

 
100.0
 %
Costs and expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of sales
33,292

 
27.7

 
21,217

 
28.9

Restaurant operating expenses (excluding depreciation and amortization shown separately below)
62,137

 
51.6

 
36,221

 
49.4

Marketing and advertising costs
2,252

 
1.9

 
1,531

 
2.1

Pre-opening costs
2,750

 
2.3

 
1,146

 
1.6

General and administrative costs
16,373

 
13.6

 
7,792

 
10.6

Donations
32

 

 
42

 
0.1

Consulting project costs
4,504

 
3.7

 
232

 
0.3

Acquisition costs

 

 
608

 
0.8

Reorganization severance
297

 
0.2

 
113

 
0.2

Lease termination and closing costs
2,908

 
2.4

 
2

 

Depreciation and amortization
7,651

 
6.4

 
4,135

 
5.6

Total costs and expenses
132,196

 
109.8

 
73,039

 
99.6

Operating (loss) income
(11,815
)
 
(9.8
)
 
308

 
0.4

Other income (expense), net:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest, net of capitalized interest
(7,720
)
 
(6.4
)
 
(303
)
 
(0.4
)
Other  
13

 

 
1

 

(Loss) income before income taxes
(19,522
)
 
(16.2
)
 
6

 

Income tax expense (benefit) expense
(1,195
)
 
(1.0
)
 
1

 

(Loss) income from continuing operations
(18,327
)
 
(15.2
)
 
5

 

Income from discontinued operations, net of tax (1)

 

 
395

 
0.5

Net (loss) income
$
(18,327
)
 
(15.2
)%
 
$
400

 
0.5
 %
(1)
Discontinued operations represent the sale of Sullivan's. See Note 3 , Dispositions in the in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements for information regarding discontinued operations.

26


13 Weeks Ended March 26, 2019 Compared to the 13 Weeks Ended March 27, 2018
The following tables show our operating results (in thousands) by segment and on a consolidated basis, as well as our operating results as a percentage of revenues, for the first quarter of 2019 (13 weeks) and 2018 (13 weeks). The tables below include Restaurant-level EBITDA, a non-GAAP measure. See Note 12 , Segment Reporting in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements for additional information on this metric, including a reconciliation to operating income, the most directly comparable GAAP measure.

13 Weeks Ended March 26, 2019

Double Eagle
 
Barcelona
 
bartaco
 
Grille
 
Consolidated
Revenues
$
49,975

 
100.0
%
 
$
17,437

 
100.0
%
 
$
20,637

 
100.0
%
 
$
32,332

 
100.0
%
 
$
120,381

 
100.0
%
Costs and expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of sales
14,895

 
29.8

 
4,770

 
27.4

 
4,764

 
23.1

 
8,863

 
27.4

 
33,292

 
27.7

Restaurant operating expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Labor
13,377

 
26.8

 
5,485

 
31.5

 
6,985

 
33.8

 
10,350

 
32.0

 
36,197

 
30.1

Operating expenses
5,887

 
11.8

 
2,440

 
14.0

 
3,085

 
14.9

 
4,598

 
14.2

 
16,010

 
13.3

Occupancy
4,042

 
8.1

 
1,052

 
6.0

 
1,358

 
6.6

 
3,478

 
10.8

 
9,930

 
8.2

Restaurant operating expenses
23,306

 
46.6

 
8,977

 
51.5

 
11,428

 
55.4

 
18,426

 
57.0

 
62,137

 
51.6

Marketing and advertising costs
1,362

 
2.7

 
116

 
0.7

 
105

 
0.5

 
669

 
2.1

 
2,252

 
1.9

Restaurant-level EBITDA
$
10,412

 
20.8
%
 
$
3,574

 
20.5
%
 
$
4,340

 
21.0
%
 
$
4,374

 
13.5
%
 
$
22,700

 
18.9
%

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Restaurant operating weeks
209

 
 
 
217

 
 

 
244

 
 

 
312

 
 
 
982

 
 
Average weekly volume
$
239

 
 
 
$
80

 
 

 
$
85

 
 

 
$
104

 
 
 
$
123

 
 

13 Weeks Ended March 27, 2018

Double Eagle
 
Barcelona
 
bartaco
 
Grille
 
Consolidated
Revenues
$
43,955

 
100.0
%
 
$

 
%
 
$

 
%
 
$
29,392

 
100.0
%
 
$
73,347

 
100.0
%
Costs and expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of sales
13,168

 
30.0

 

 

 

 

 
8,049

 
27.4

 
21,217

 
28.9

Restaurant operating expenses:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Labor
10,367

 
23.6

 

 

 

 

 
9,813

 
33.4

 
20,180

 
27.5

Operating expenses
4,870

 
11.1

 

 

 

 

 
4,171

 
14.2

 
9,041

 
12.3

Occupancy
3,608

 
8.2

 

 

 

 

 
3,392

 
11.5

 
7,000

 
9.5

Restaurant operating expenses
18,845

 
42.9

 

 

 

 

 
17,376

 
59.1

 
36,221

 
49.4

Marketing and advertising costs
896

 
2.0

 

 

 

 

 
635

 
2.2

 
1,531

 
2.1

Restaurant-level EBITDA
$
11,046

 
25.1
%
 
$

 
%
 
$

 
%
 
$
3,332

 
11.3
%
 
$
14,378

 
19.6
%

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Restaurant operating weeks
169

 
 
 

 
 

 

 
 

 
314

 
 
 
483

 
 
Average weekly volume
$
260

 
 
 
$

 
 

 
$

 
 

 
$
94

 
 
 
$
152

 
 


27


Revenues. Consolidated revenues increased $47.1 million , or 64.1% , to $120.4 million in the first quarter of 2019 from $73.3 million in the first quarter of 2018 . This increase was primarily due to 499 net additional operating weeks in the first quarter of 2019 , primarily as a result of the Barteca Acquisition, coupled with twelve new restaurant openings over the past four quarters, four Double Eagle restaurants at Back Bay in Boston, Massachusetts, Atlanta, Georgia, San Diego, California and Century City, California, a Barcelona restaurant in Charlotte, North Carolina, four bartaco restaurants in North Hills, North Carolina, Fort Point, Massachusetts, Dallas, Texas and King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, and two Grille restaurants in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This increase was partially offset by the closure of the Chicago, Illinois Double Eagle. Comparable restaurant sales increased 1.3% in the first quarter of 2019 , comprised of a 1.9% increase in average check, partially offset by a 0.6%   decrease in customer counts. Excluding Barcelona and bartaco brands, comparable restaurant sales decreased 0.2% in the first quarter of 2019 , comprised of a 4.8% decrease in customer counts, partially offset by a 4.6% increase in average check.
Double Eagle revenues increased $6.0 million , or 13.7% , to $50.0 million in the first quarter of 2019 from $44.0 million in the first quarter of 2018 . This increase was primarily due to 40 additional operating weeks in the first quarter of 2019 , primarily due to opening four Double Eagle restaurants, as described above. This increase was partially offset by a decrease in comparable restaurants and the closure of the Chicago, Illinois Double Eagle. Comparable restaurant sales decreased by 0.4% , comprised of a 1.5% decrease in customer counts, partially offset by a  1.1%   increase in average check. Sales transfer from our Boston Seapaort, Massachusetts to our new restaurant opening in Back Bay in Boston, Massachusetts, accounted for the entire decrease in comparable restaurant sales.
Barcelona revenues were $17.4 million the first quarter of 2019 . We opened the Charlotte, North Carolina Barcelona restaurant during the first quarter of 2019. Comparable restaurant sales increased by 3.7% , comprised of a 3.6% increase in customer counts and a 0.1%   increase in average check.
bartaco revenues were $20.6 million the first quarter of 2019 . We opened the Madison, Wisconsin and King of Prussia, Pennsylvania bartaco restaurants during the first quarter of 2019. Comparable restaurant sales increased by 6.7% , comprised of a 5.5% increase in customer counts and a  1.2%   increase in average check.
Grille revenues increased $2.9 million , or 10.0% , to $32.3 million in the first quarter of 2019 from $29.4 million in the first quarter of 2018 . This increase was primarily due to openings of two Grille restaurants in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as described above, coupled with an increase in comparable restaurant sales. Comparable restaurant sales increased by  0.2% , comprised of a 7.1% increase in average check, partially offset by a 6.9% decrease in customer counts. 
Cost of Sales . Consolidated cost of sales increased $12.1 million , or 56.9% , to $33.3 million in the first quarter of 2019 from $21.2 million in the first quarter of 2018 . This increase was primarily due to 499 net additional operating weeks in the first quarter of 2019 and the Barteca Acquisition, as discussed above. As a percentage of consolidated revenues, consolidated cost of sales decreased to 27.7% during the first quarter of 2019 from 28.9% in the first quarter of 2018 .
As a percentage of revenues, Double Eagle cost of sales  decreased to   29.8% during the first quarter of 2019 from 30.0%  in the first quarter of 2018 . This decrease in cost of sales, as a percentage of revenues, was primarily due to lower beef, seafood, wine and liquor costs.
As a percentage of revenues, Barcelona cost of sales was 27.4% during the first quarter of 2019 .
As a percentage of revenues, bartaco cost of sales was 23.1% during the first quarter of 2019 .
As a percentage of revenues, Grille cost of sales remained at 27.4% for the first quarter of 2019 compared to the first quarter of 2018 .
Restaurant Operating Expenses. Consolidated restaurant operating expenses increased $25.9 million , or 71.5% , to $62.1 million in the first quarter of 2019 from $36.2 million in the first quarter of 2018 . This increase was primarily due to 499 net additional operating weeks in the first quarter of 2019 and the Barteca Acquisition, as discussed above. As a percentage of consolidated revenues, consolidated restaurant operating expenses increased to 51.6% in the first quarter of 2019 from 49.4% in the first quarter of 2018 .
As a percentage of revenues, Double Eagle restaurant operating expenses increased to 46.6% during the first quarter of 2019 from 42.9% during the first quarter of 2018 . This increase was primarily due to inefficiencies from new restaurant openings and investments in elevating consumer touchpoints that impact restaurant operating expenses.
As a percentage of revenues, Barcelona restaurant operating expenses were 51.5% during the first quarter of 2019 .
As a percentage of revenues, bartaco restaurant operating expenses were 55.4% during the first quarter of 2019 .

28


As a percentage of revenues, Grille restaurant operating expenses decreased to 57.0% during the first quarter of 2019 from 59.1% in the first quarter of 2018 . This decrease was primarily due to closing three poor performing locations in 2018, strong new restaurant openings, lower labor and benefits and occupancy costs, partially offset by higher other restaurant operating costs.
Marketing and Advertising Costs . Consolidated marketing and advertising costs increased by $0.7 million to $2.3 million in the first quarter of 2019  compared to $1.5 million in the first quarter of 2018 . As a percentage of consolidated revenues, consolidated marketing and advertising costs decreased to 1.9% in the first quarter of 2019 compared to 2.1% during the first quarter of 2018 .
As a percentage of revenues, Double Eagle marketing and advertising costs increased to 2.7% during the first quarter of 2019 from 2.0% in the first quarter of 2018 . Marketing and advertising costs, as a percentage of revenues increased primarily due to higher digital media and local advertising costs.
As a percentage of revenues, Barcelona marketing and advertising costs were 0.7% during the first quarter of 2019 .
As a percentage of revenues, bartaco marketing and advertising costs were 0.5% during the first quarter of 2019 .
As a percentage of revenues, Grille marketing and advertising costs decreased to 2.1% during the first quarter of 2019 compared to 2.2% in the first quarter of 2018 . Marketing and advertising costs, as a percentage of revenues decreased primarily due to lower digital media and local advertising costs. 
Pre-opening Costs . Pre-opening costs increased $1.6 million to $2.7 million in the first quarter of 2019 from $1.1 million in the first quarter of 2018 due primarily to the timing of new restaurants under construction versus the prior year comparable period. Pre-opening costs include non-cash straight line rent, which is incurred during construction and can precede a restaurant opening by four to six months.
General and Administrative Costs . General and administrative costs increased to $16.4 million in the first quarter of 2019  from $7.8 million in the first quarter of 2018 . As a percentage of revenues, general and administrative costs increased to   13.6% in the first quarter of 2019 compared to 10.6% during the first quarter of 2018 . This increase was primarily related to the additional operating weeks during the first quarter of 2019 due to the Barteca Acquisition, as described above, and additional compensation and other costs related to an increase in the number of restaurant support center and regional management-level personnel to support recent and anticipated growth. As we are able to leverage these investments made in our people and systems, and execute synergies resulting from the Barteca acquisition, we expect these expenses to decrease as a percentage of total revenues over time.
Consulting Project Costs . Consulting project costs were $4.5 million in the first quarter of 2019 . These costs are primarily related to the Enterprise resource planning system ("ERP"), and we expect these costs to continue during fiscal 2019 . Consulting project costs were $0.2 million in the first quarter of 2018 and were primarily related to the ERP.
Acquisition Costs.  We had no acquisition costs in the first quarter of 2019 . Acquisition costs were $0.6 million in the first quarter of 2018 and were primarily related to the Barteca Acquisition.
Reorganization Severance . Reorganization severance costs were $0.3 million in the first quarter of 2019 . These costs are primarily related to the costs associated with replacing certain employees as a part of strategic initiatives effected by our executive leadership team. Reorganization severance costs were $0.1 million in the first quarter of 2018 and were primarily related to the costs associated with replacing certain employees as a part of strategic initiatives effected by our executive leadership team.
Lease Termination and Closing Costs . During the first quarter of 2019 , we incurred approximately $ 2.9 million in charges, primarily related to closure of the Chicago, Illinois Double Eagle. We incurred a nominal amount of such charges in the first quarter of 2018 .
Depreciation and Amortization . Depreciation and amortization increased $3.5 million , or 85.0% , to $7.7 million in the first quarter of 2019 from $4.1 million in the first quarter of 2018 . The increase in depreciation and amortization expense was primarily the result of the Barteca Acquisition, coupled with the twelve new restaurant openings over the past four quarters, as described above, as well as for existing restaurants that were remodeled during fiscal 2019 and  2018 .
Income Tax Expense.  The effective income tax rate for the first quarter of 2019 had a rate of 6.1% compared to  16.7% for the first quarter of 2018 . The factors causing the effective tax rates to vary from the federal statutory rate of 21% were primarily due to the change to the valuation allowance, the effect of certain permanent differences and the impact of the FICA tip deduction addback. See Note 10 Income Taxes to our condensed consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report for further discussion on income taxes.
Discontinued Operations. During the  first quarter of 2019 we had no activities from discontinued operations. During the  first quarter of 2018 we had an income of $0.4 million , net of tax, from discontinued operations. See Note 3 , Dispositions in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements for information regarding discontinued operations.

29


Liquidity and Capital Resources
Our principal liquidity requirements are our lease obligations and capital expenditure needs. We expect to finance our operations for at least the next several years, including costs of opening currently planned new restaurants, through cash provided by operations, public offerings of securities and borrowings available under our new senior secured revolving credit commitments and loans under our existing credit agreement. However, we cannot be sure that these sources will be sufficient to finance our operations, and we may seek additional financing in the future. As of March 26, 2019 , we had cash and cash equivalents of approximately $ 4.7 million .
Our operations have not required significant working capital and, like many restaurant companies, we may at times have negative working capital. Revenues are received primarily by credit card, and restaurant operations do not require significant receivables or inventories, other than our wine inventory. In addition, we receive trade credit for the purchase of food, beverages and supplies, thereby reducing the need for incremental working capital to support growth.
The following table presents a summary of our cash flows: ໿

13 Weeks Ended
 
13 Weeks Ended
(Amounts in thousands)
March 26, 2019
 
March 27, 2018
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities
$
(3,372
)
 
$
4,000

Net cash used in investing activities
(15,299
)
 
(10,787
)
Net cash provided by financing activities
14,787

 
5,172

Net change in cash and cash equivalents
$
(3,884
)
 
$
(1,615
)
Operating Activities . Net cash flows used by operating activities decreased by $ 7.4 million during the first quarter of 2019 as compared to the first quarter of 2018 , primarily due to a $18.7 million decrease in net income, a $2.8 million decrease in accounts payable and a $1.4 million decrease in deferred taxes, partially offset by a $2.9 million increase in income taxes, a $2.5 million increase in lease incentives receivable and a $1.2 million increase in deferred revenue.
Investing Activities . Net cash used in investing activities for the first quarter of 2019 was $ 15.3 million , consisting of $15.3 million for the purchases of property and equipment primarily related to construction of one Double Eagle restaurant, one Barcelona restaurant and two bartaco restaurants, and remodel activity of existing restaurants. Net cash used in investing activities for the first quarter of 2018 was $ 10.8 million , consisting of purchases of property and equipment primarily related to construction of one Double Eagle restaurant and one Grille restaurant and remodel activity of existing restaurants.
Financing Activities . Net cash provided by financing activities for the first quarter of 2019 was $ 14.8 million , which was primarily due to $49.4 million in proceeds from borrowings, partially offset by 31.8 million in payments on borrowings and 2.0 million payment of debt issuance costs. Net cash used in financing activities for the first quarter of 2018  was $ 5.2 million , which was primarily due to $5.5 million in proceeds from borrowings.
Capital Expenditures . We typically target an average cash investment of approximately $8.0 million to $9.0 million for a new Double Eagle, $3.1 million to $3.5 million for a new Barcelona, $2.5 million to $3.0 million for a new bartaco, and $5.0 million to $6.0 million for a new Grille. These capital expenditures will primarily be funded by cash flows from operations and, if necessary, by the use of our 2018 Credit Facility, depending upon the timing of expenditures.
Credit Facility and Loan on Deferred Compensation Plan .  See Note 7 , Long-Term Debt in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements for information regarding our credit facility and the loan on our deferred compensation plan.
We believe that net cash provided by operating activities and available borrowings under our credit facility will be sufficient to fund currently anticipated working capital, planned capital expenditures and debt service requirements for the next 24 months. We regularly review acquisitions and other strategic opportunities, which may require additional debt or equity financing.
On June 27, 2018, we completed the acquisition of Barteca Holdings. In connection with the completion of the Barteca Acquisition, we entered into a new credit agreement that provides for (i) senior secured term loans in an aggregate principal amount of $390.0 million (“Term Loan B”) and (ii) senior secured revolving credit commitments in an aggregate principal amount of $50.0 million (“Revolving Loan,” and, collectively with the term loans, the “2018 Credit Facility”). See Note 7 , Long-Term Debt in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements for information regarding our credit facility.
On August 6, 2018, we received $97.8 million of proceeds from a public offering of common stock that were used to repay a portion of the $390.0 million of the Term Loan B pursuant to an existing prepayment option.

30


On August 27, 2018 we amended ("The First Amendment") Term Loan B ("Amended Term Loan B"). The First Amendment amends the 2018 Credit Facility, to, among other things, completely re-syndicated the Amended Term Loan B, and provided the Company with additional term loans ("Additional Term Loans") in an aggregate principal amount of $18.0 million . The First Amendment also amended the 2018 Credit Facility to increase the interest rate applicable to the Additional Term Loans and the existing term loans outstanding under the 2018 Credit Facility to, at our option, a rate per annum equal to either a LIBOR or ABR rate, plus an applicable margin, which is equal to 6.00% for LIBOR loans and 5.00% for ABR loans.
On February 26, 2019, we entered into the Joinder Agreement with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as the incremental term lender and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as the administrative agent. The Joinder Agreement provided the Company with incremental term loan commitments in a principal amount equal to $25.0 million . The Company drew the full amount of the incremental term loans on the date of the Joinder Agreement and received net proceeds of approximately $23.1 million . The Company used the net proceeds of the incremental term loans to repay a portion of the outstanding amounts under the 2018 Credit Facility . Since the repayment does not reduce the commitments under the 2018 Credit Facility, the transaction expanded the Company’s sources of liquidity without increasing leverage at this time.
Contractual Obligations
The following table summarizes our contractual obligations as of March 26, 2019 :
(Amounts in thousands)
 
Total
 
2019
 
2020-2021
 
2022-2023
 
2024 and beyond
Operating leases (1)
 
$
478,662

 
$
24,142

 
$
66,069

 
$
65,714

 
$
322,737

Finance leases (1)
 
17,488

 
$
993

 
$
2,752

 
$
2,842

 
$
10,901

Long term debt — including current portion (2)
 
354,225

 
2,514

 
6,704

 
6,704

 
338,303

Interest on long-term debt (3)
 
174,338

 
20,316

 
53,921

 
53,550

 
46,551

Total
 
$
1,024,713

 
$
47,965

 
$
129,446

 
$
128,810

 
$
718,492

(1)
Includes all arrangements for operating and finance leases. Includes imputed interest of $265.4 million over the life of operating leases and imputed interest of $9.2 million over the life of finance leases. See Note 8 Leases to our condensed consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report for further discussion on operating and finance leases.
(2)
Payments are shown at principal amount. See Note 7 , Long-Term Debt to our condensed consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report for further discussion on long-term debt.
(3)
See Note 7 , Long-Term Debt to our condensed consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report for further discussion on long-term debt. Amounts shown reflect variable interest rates in effect at March 26, 2019 .
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
At March 26, 2019 and December 25, 2018 , we did not have any material off-balance sheet arrangements, as defined in Item 303(a)(4)(ii) of Regulation S-K.
Critical Accounting Policies
Except for our accounting policies impacted by our adoption of ASU No. 2016-02 Leases , there have been no material changes to the critical accounting policies from what was previously reported in the 2018 10-K. The effects of new accounting pronouncements are discussed in Note 1 Business And Basis Of Presentation in the notes to our condensed consolidated financial statements.

31


Item 3.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Interest Rate Risk
We are exposed to market risk from fluctuations in interest rates. For fixed rate debt, including borrowings against our deferred compensation investments, interest rate changes affect the fair market value of the debt but do not impact earnings or cash flows. Conversely for variable rate debt, including borrowings available under our amended credit facility, interest rate changes generally do not affect the fair market value of the debt, but do impact future earnings and cash flows, assuming other factors are held constant. As of March 26, 2019 , there was  $339.5 million  of outstanding borrowings on the Company’s long-term debt. Holding other variables constant, a hypothetical immediate one percentage point change in interest rates would be expected to have an impact on pre-tax earnings and cash flows of approximately $10,000 per $1.0 million of outstanding debt under our credit facility, which would have been approximately $3.4 million , less the impact of the hedge over the course of a full fiscal year. See Note 6 Derivative Financial Instruments to our condensed consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report for disclosures on our derivative instrument and hedging activities.
We have entered into an interest rate cap to mitigate the impact of LIBOR variability on interest expense for a portion of our variable rate debt. The interest rate cap has been designated as a cash flow hedge. Consequently, the unrealized market value changes of the interest rate cap has been recorded in AOCI and is reclassified to earnings during the period in which the hedged transaction affects earnings. At March 26, 2019 , we had an interest rate cap with a notional value of $200.0 million and 3% per annum strike rate to hedge the variability in the monthly 1-month LIBOR interest payments on a portion of our Term Loan B beginning July 31, 2018, through the expiration of the interest rate cap on June 30, 2022. Any variability in the 1-month LIBOR interest payment on the Term Loan B beyond 3% per annum are offset by the net proceeds received upon exercising the interest rate cap.
Commodity Price Risk
We are exposed to market price fluctuations in beef, seafood, produce and other food product prices. Given the historical volatility of beef, seafood, produce and other food product prices, these fluctuations can materially impact our food and beverage costs. While we have taken steps to qualify multiple suppliers who meet our standards as suppliers for our restaurants and enter into agreements with suppliers for some of the commodities used in our restaurant operations, there can be no assurance that future supplies and costs for such commodities will not fluctuate due to weather and other market conditions outside of our control. We are currently unable to contract for some of our commodities, such as fresh seafood and certain produce, for periods longer than one week. Consequently, such commodities can be subject to unforeseen supply and cost fluctuations. Dairy costs can also fluctuate due to government regulation. Because we typically set our menu prices in advance of our food product prices, our menu prices cannot immediately take into account changing costs of food items. To the extent that we are unable or unwilling to pass the increased costs on to our customers through price increases, our results of operations would be adversely affected. We do not use financial instruments to hedge our risk to market price fluctuations in beef, seafood, produce and other food product prices at this time.
Inflation
Over the past five years, inflation has not significantly affected our operations. However, the impact of inflation on labor, food and occupancy costs could, in the future, significantly affect our operations. We pay many of our tipped employees hourly rates related to the applicable federal or state minimum wage. Food costs as a percentage of revenues have been somewhat stable due to procurement efficiencies and menu price adjustments, although no assurance can be made that our procurement will continue to be efficient or that we will be able to raise menu prices in the future. Costs for construction, taxes, repairs, maintenance and insurance all impact our occupancy costs. We believe that our current strategy, which is to seek to maintain operating margins through a combination of menu price increases, cost controls, careful evaluation of property and equipment needs, and efficient purchasing practices, has been an effective tool for dealing with inflation. There can be no assurance, however, that future inflationary or other cost pressures will be effectively offset by this strategy.
Item 4.    Controls and Procedures
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we conducted an evaluation, as of  March 26, 2019 , of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined under Rule 13a-15(e) or 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"). Based on this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of the end of such period, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

32

Table of Contents

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
During the first quarter of 2019, we implemented FASB ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). Although this new leasing standard has had an immaterial impact on our ongoing net income, in connection with its adoption, we implemented changes to our processes and control activities related to lease accounting. These changes included the development of new policies based on the right-of-use method, utilizing third party lease software, new training, ongoing contract review requirements, and gathering of information provided for disclosures. There were no other changes in our internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined under Rule 13a-15(f) or 15d-15(f) promulgated under the Exchange Act, that occurred during our fiscal quarter ended  March 26, 2019  that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.


33

Table of Contents

PART II – Other Information
Item 1.    Legal Proceedings
We are subject to various claims and legal actions, including class actions, arising in the ordinary course of business from time to time, including claims related to food quality, personal injury, contract matters, health, wage and employment and other issues. None of these types of litigation, most of which are covered by insurance, has had a material effect on us, and as of the date of this report, we are not a party to any material pending legal proceedings and are not aware of any claims that we believe could have a materially adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
Except as set forth below, there have been no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in the  2018 10-K. For a discussion on these risk factors, please see "Item 1A. Risk Factors" contained in the  2018 10-K.
We are subject to risks and uncertainties related to our review of strategic alternatives that may adversely affect our business.
In December 2018, we announced that our Board of Directors, working with the Company's management team and its legal and financial advisors, commenced a process to explore and evaluate potential strategic alternatives for the Company focused on maximizing shareholder value. Our Board has formed a committee of independent directors to lead this process. The process of exploring strategic alternatives will involve the dedication of significant resources and the incurrence of fees and expenses and will likely result in the incurrence of significant fees and expenses if we determine to move forward with any of the strategic alternatives. In addition, our exploration of strategic alternatives may expose our business to other risks and uncertainties, including the diversion of management and employee attention and time; difficulty in recruiting, hiring, and retaining necessary personnel; and disruption to our relationships with clients and suppliers as well as to other commercial and strategic relationships. Furthermore, speculation regarding any developments related to the review of strategic alternatives and or uncertainty regarding the outcome could cause our share price to fluctuate significantly. There is no timeline for the completion of the strategic review and there can be no assurance that our exploration of strategic alternatives will result in the Company determining to proceed with any transaction. It is not possible to predict the impact of the conclusion of the strategic review on our business or share price. If we are unable to effectively mitigate the risks related to the strategic review, it may disrupt our business and adversely impact our financial results, results of operations and cash flows.
Item 2.    Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
None.
Item 3.    Defaults Upon Senior Securities
None.
Item 4.    Mine Safety Disclosures
Not applicable.
Item 5.    Other Information
None.

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Table of Contents

Item 6.    Exhibits
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit No.
 
Description
  
Reference
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
#
*
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
*

 
 
 
 
 
 
*

 
 
 
 
 
 
*

 
 
 
 
101.INS
 
XBRL Instance Document
 
 †

 
 
 
 
101.SCH
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
 
 †

 
 
 
 
101.CAL
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
 
 †

 
 
 
 
101.DEF
 
XBRL Taxonomy Definition Linkbase Document
 
 †

 
 
 
 
101.LAB
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
 
 †

 
 
 
 
101.PRE
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
 
 †

35

Table of Contents

#  
Denotes management compensatory plan or arrangement.
*
Filed herewith.
 †
XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language) information is furnished and not filed or a part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, is deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and otherwise is not subject to liability under these sections.


36

Table of Contents

SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group, Inc.
 
 
 
 
Date: May 6, 2019
 
/s/ Norman J. Abdallah
 
 
Norman J. Abdallah
 
 
Chief Executive Officer and Director
(Principal Executive Officer)
 
 
 
 
Date: May 6, 2019
 
/s/ Neil H. Thomson
 
 
Neil H. Thomson
 
 
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)


37


Exhibit 10.1
    
    
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Amended Employment Agreement (“Agreement”) is made as of the 23rd day of April, 2018 (the “Effective Date”) between April Scopa, (“Executive”), an individual, and DFRG Management, LLC., a Delaware corporation (the “Company” or DFRG Management), and supersedes all other agreements between the Parties, including that certain Employment Agreement between Executive and Center Cut Hospitality, Inc.
In consideration of the mutual promises expressed herein, Executive and the Company have agreed to the terms of this Amended Employment Agreement as follows:
1. Employment .
(a) Effective Date and Term . This Agreement shall be effective as of the Effective Date and will continue indefinitely thereafter unless Executive’s employment is terminated earlier in accordance with Section 3.
(b) Duties . Executive agrees that her position as Executive Vice President Chief People Officer, shall be her full-time employment, and that she will devote all of her business time, attention and skills to the successful operation of the Company and its Affiliates (as defined below) and/or its subsidiaries, and that she will perform such duties, functions, responsibilities and authority normally associated with that of an Executive Vice President Chief People Officer in a company the size and nature of the Company, as well as such duties that are from time to time delegated to Executive by the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) to the best of her abilities, with the highest degree of fiduciary loyalty and care to the Company. Executive further agrees to conduct herself professionally, consistent with the highest standards of decorum and judgment, and develop and maintain good relations with other members of the Company’s management, staff, and Board of Directors. For the duration of her employment, Executive agrees that she shall not engage in any other business activity, and that all business opportunities which might be served by the Company or any of its Affiliates (as defined below) will be brought exclusively to the attention of the Company. The provisions of this Section 1(b) shall not prohibit Executive from (i) making investments in entities the equity of which is traded on a regulated stock exchange, but only to the extent Executive owns no more than three (3) percent of the outstanding stock thereof, or (ii) devoting reasonable time and energies to charitable and civic activities; provided such activities described in clauses (i)-(ii) above do not, individually or in the aggregate, interfere in any material respect with the performance of Executive’ duties hereunder.
(c) Location of Performance of Duties . Executive shall office at the Company’s corporate office in Irving, Texas, and shall be expected to perform her duties at all of the Company and its Affiliate’s (as defined below) locations that may currently exist or be established in the future. Executive shall be reimbursed for travel and other reasonable business expenses incurred as contemplated by Section 2(d)(ii) herein, subject to documentation and compliance with the Company’s business reimbursement policies in existence, and as may periodically be amended.
(d) Compliance. Executive agrees to abide by all policies, ethics standards, codes of conduct, and procedures of the Company and its Affiliates (as defined below) as such policies and procedures may exist, be amended or be adopted in the future.
(e) Definition of Affiliate . For purposes hereof, “Affiliate” means, when used with referenced to a specified person, any “person” as such term is used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), that, directly or indirectly, controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with the specified Person. For this purpose, “control” means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management or policies of a person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise.
2. Compensation and Benefits .
(a) Base Salary . Executive’s salary shall be $_240,000 per year, less applicable taxes and withholdings, to be paid on a bi-weekly basis of $9,230.76 in accordance with the Company’s regular payroll practices for similarly situated executives. Executive’s salary is subject to periodic review and evaluation by the CEO. The base salary in effect hereunder shall be referred to herein as the “Base Salary.”
(b) Bonus . Subject to the terms of the Company’s FY ’18 Compensation Plan, as modified herein, Executive will be eligible to participate in all bonus compensation plans that the Company may offer, in accordance with the terms of any such plans and on a level commensurate with her position; provided that such plan shall provide for threshold and maximum payments of 50% and 200% of Executive’s eligible Target Bonus, respectively, as determined by the CEO or the compensation committee of the Board in good faith. The target for Executive’s annual bonus shall be fifty percent (50%) of Executive’s annual Base Salary





(“Target Bonus”) and shall be earned based on the achievement of objective performance metrics to include the performance of the Company and its concepts as established by the CFO, CEO and/or the compensation committee of the Board after consultation with Executive; provided, however, that Executive shall not be eligible for a bonus if 10% or less of the performance metrics are achieved. Executive’s entitlement to such incentive bonus under this subparagraph 2(b), and the amount of such bonus shall be determined by the Company in its good faith discretion; provided, however, if the terms of a written annual incentive bonus plan do not include provisions regarding the time of payment for an annual incentive bonus, payment of any such bonus shall occur within fifteen (15) days of the completion of the audit for the fiscal year to which the bonus relates but in any event by March 15 of year following the performance year. Bonuses are not earned until paid, and Executive must be employed by the Company and not have provided notice of termination of her employment at the time of payout in order to have earned and be entitled to payment of a bonus.
(c) LTI . Executive shall be entitled to participate in the Del Frisco's Restaurant Group 2012 Long-Term Incentive Plan in a manner commensurate with her position as determined in good faith by the CEO and/or the compensation committee of the Board. Executive’s previous grants of Restricted Stock Units and Performance Stock Units remain in effect and are not impacted by the terms of this Agreement. Executive received in 2018 an equity award of $125,000 Restricted Stock Units and $125,000 Performance Stock Units in accordance with the terms of the 2012 Long-Term Incentive Plan generally, as well as any other written grant or award agreements that may be issued to Executive.
(d) Benefits.
(i) Employee Benefits . Executive shall be eligible for all employee benefits extended, from time to time, to all full-time employees of the Company in positions similar to Executive, including the Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group NQ Deferred Compensation Plan, subject to the terms and conditions of the Company's policies and employee benefit plans, as those policies and plans are amended or terminated from time to time. Executive acknowledges that he shall have no vested rights under or in respect to participation in any such plan or program except as expressly provided under the terms thereof.
(ii) Business Expenses . Executive shall be authorized to incur reasonable expenses for completion of her duties with the Company, including expenses for entertainment, travel, and similar items, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Company's expense reimbursement policy as in effect from time to time.
(iii) Vacations. Executive shall be entitled to participate in the Company's established vacation policy for executive officers, subject to the terms and conditions thereof.
(iv) Car Allowance. Executive shall continue to be entitled to receive a car allowance of $1,000 per month.
3. Employment At-Will .
(a) Termination of Employment . Executive is an at-will employee and either party to this Agreement may terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any reason, with fifteen (15) days written notice, unless otherwise provided herein. If Executive provides notice of her intention to terminate her employment, regardless of the reason, the Company in its discretion may accelerate Executive’s resignation and deem such resignation to be effective immediately (which shall then be deemed the Termination Date), subject only to the obligations, if any, under Section 3(a)(i), (ii) or 3(c), below, and such acceleration shall not constitute termination of Executive’s employment by the Company for any purpose. If the Company terminates Executive’s employment for Cause (as defined below), it may do so immediately (which shall then be deemed the Termination Date), subject only to the obligations, if any, under Section 3(b) below). Executive’s employment shall immediately terminate upon Executive’s death. In the event Executive’s employment is terminated because of Disability (as defined below), the Termination Date shall be as specified in Section 3(j) below. If Executive’s employment is terminated by the Company (i) without “Cause” (as defined below) or (ii) if Executive terminates her employment for “Good Reason” (as defined below), then:
(i) the Company shall pay to Executive an amount equal to twelve (12) months of Executive’s then effective Base Salary in accordance with the terms and conditions provided in Section 3(g) of this Agreement, and also provide COBRA continuation coverage for Executive and her family under the Company’s medical plan for twelve (12) months, in accordance with applicable law at the Company’s sole expense, provided that the Executive is not, and does not become eligible for another group health plan, and that such payments do not adversely impact the Company’s health plans under IRS or DOL regulations, and provided further that Executive shall first deliver an executed Severance Agreement and General Release to the Company in the form attached as Attachment A and shall not revoke the Severance Agreement and General Release in accordance with its terms (collectively the Company’s payment of Base Salary and COBRA, as applicable, under this Section, constitutes “Severance Pay”);
(ii) the Company shall be obligated to pay Executive her Base Salary, reimbursable expenses and benefits owing to Executive through the Termination Date. In addition, any vested retirement benefits of Executive shall be payable in accordance with such plans; and





(iii) the Company shall be released from any and all further obligations under this Agreement subject to the provisions of Section 13 herein concerning Arbitration of disputes.
(b) Cause . In the event Executive’s employment is terminated for Cause, the Company shall be released from any and all further obligations under this Agreement subject to the provisions of Section 13 herein concerning Arbitration of disputes, except the Company shall be obligated to pay Executive her Base Salary, reimbursable expenses and benefits owing to Executive through the Termination Date (any vested retirement benefits of Executive shall be payable in accordance with such plans). Termination by the Company for “Cause” shall mean (i) Executive’s conviction by a court (or plea of guilty, no contest, deferred adjudication or probation) of, to, or for a felony, or any crime involving theft, fraud, dishonesty, embezzlement, or any other crime which involves immoral conduct or actions likely to harm the reputation of the Company, whether or not committed in the course of performing services for the Company; (ii) Executive’s breach of any fiduciary duty to the Company; (iii) material act(s) or omission(s) taken by Executive in connection with her employment which are dishonest or fraudulent; (iv) the commission by Executive of any material actions in violation of the written rules, policies, ethical standards or codes of conduct of the Company or Affiliates, (v) conduct by Executive that is insubordinate or involves repeated absenteeism, (vi) Executive’s performance of her duties hereunder which is deemed to be unsatisfactory job performance either in the manner of fulfillment of such duties or the results achieved, but only after written warning to Executive advising him of the deficiencies in job performance and/or objectives and describing the improvement needed; (vii) conduct by Executive giving rise to a claim by another employee of unlawful harassment or discrimination, which claim, after a complete and diligent investigation, would lead a reasonable person to conclude that Executive has violated state or federal discrimination laws, in a manner which would reasonably and customarily require the discharge of an executive employee; (viii) conduct by Executive, or Executive’s failure to act giving rise to Legitimate Claims by any persons that the Company or any of its subsidiaries is in violation of any federal, state or local civil or criminal statute or act (the term “Legitimate Claims” shall mean conduct by the Executive, or Executive’s failure to act, undertaken in dereliction of her duties, gross negligence or without a good-faith belief in the lawfulness of such action resulting in any claims, allegations or assertions which, in the reasonable opinion of the Company (after a diligent investigation of the facts), have substantial merit and which would reasonably and customarily require the discharge of an executive employee; (ix) Executive’s disregard of the lawful and reasonable directives of the CEO or Board communicated to Executive; (x) Executive’s failure to maintain the privacy of Confidential Information of the Company or Affiliates except for such disclosure in connection with the good faith performance of Executive’s duties or as may be required by subpoena or in connection with any allegation of wrongdoing; (xi) a breach by Executive of any covenant or agreement between Executive and the Company set forth in Sections 4 and 5 hereof; or (xii) the Company is temporarily or permanently enjoined from employing Executive, or a court otherwise orders the Company to cease employing Executive, or the Company determines in its reasonable discretion that it is in the best interests of the Company and/or its employees, officers or directors that Executive’s employment with the Company be terminated due to restrictions or covenants to which Executive agreed with a prior entity which is likely to impact Executive’s ability to timely perform her duties herein on behalf of the Company. Provided, however, that the Company shall not terminate the employment of the Executive as a result of the alleged events described in clauses (iv) or (vii) above unless the Company provides the Executive written notice and the Executive thereafter fails to cure such event (if in the reasonable determination of the Company such matters are curable), within thirty (30) days after receipt of such notice.
(c) Good Reason . The following shall constitute “Good Reason” for termination hereof by Executive: (i) a significant adverse alteration by the Company in the nature or status of Executive’s responsibilities or the conditions of such employment as described in Section 2 of this Agreement; or (ii) a reduction by the Company in Executive’s Base Salary as in effect on the Effective Date or as the same may be increased from time to time, except to the extent such reductions in Base Salary is made as part of an across the board reduction in the base salary of other senior managers and officers of the Company; (iii) a relocation of the Company’s corporate offices where Executive is expected to maintain her principle office which is more than 75 miles from its current location in Irving, Texas; (iv) a breach by the Company of any material provision of this Agreement not embraced in the foregoing clauses. Provided, however, that Executive shall not terminate her employment for Good Reason as a result of the alleged events described in this Section 3(c) unless the Executive provides the Company written notice of such alleged event or conduct no later than 30 days after the occurrence of the event or conduct, and the Company thereafter fails to cure such event within thirty (30) days after receipt of such notice or the Parties fail to achieve a compromise, memorialized in writing to the satisfaction of the Executive (which shall then be deemed the Termination Date).
(d) Death or Disability . In the event of Executive’s death or Disability (as defined below), the Company shall be released from any and all further obligations under this Agreement, except that the Company shall be obligated to pay Executive or her estate her Base Salary, reimbursable expenses and benefits owing to Executive through the day on which Executive is terminated and the Company will maintain in full force and effect at its own cost medical insurance for Executive’s spouse and children, for a period of six (6) months from the date of Executive’s death or Disability to the extent it was in effect at the time of Executive’s death or Disability and provided such shall be consistent with then governing law.
(e) Change of Control . This Section 3(e) shall apply if there is a termination of Executive's employment (i) by the Company for a reason other than for Cause or due to Executive's death or Disability or (ii) by Executive for Good Reason, in either case, during the six (6) month period after a Change in Control (as defined below); or (iii) a termination of Executive's





employment prior to a Change in Control by the Company for a reason other than for Cause or due to Executive's death or Disability, if the termination was at the request of a third party or otherwise arose in anticipation of such Change in Control (a termination described in either clause (i), (ii) or (iii) in this Section 3(e), shall constitute a "CIC Termination"). If any such termination occurs, (A) Executive shall receive Severance Pay benefits equal to twelve (12) months of Executive’s then Base Salary and continuation of COBRA benefits, provided Executive shall first deliver an executed Severance Agreement and General Release to the Company in the form attached as Attachment A and shall not revoke the Severance Agreement and General Release in accordance with its terms. Change of Control for purposes of this Section 3(e) shall have the meaning set forth in Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group 2012 Long Term Incentive Plan or any successor plan.
(f) Other Terminations . In the event Executive’s employment is terminated for any other reason (i.e., termination by the Company for Cause, or by Executive without Good Reason), Executive shall only be entitled to receive Executive’s Base Salary, reimbursable expenses and benefit owing to Executive through the Termination Date, and, provided further, any vested retirement benefits of Executive shall be payable in accordance with such plans (and in the event of Executive’s death, such amounts shall be paid to Executive's estate).
(g) Schedule of Severance Pay Benefits . The Severance Pay benefits applicable for a termination of Executive by Company without Cause, Executive’s termination for Good Reason, or a CIC Termination, shall be based on the Termination Date, and: (i) paid over time in accordance with the Company’s payroll practices for its employees; and (ii) less applicable withholdings. The first installment of the Severance Pay, unless delayed pursuant to Section 3(h), will be paid to Executive in equal installments on the Company’s first regular payday that follows expiration of the Revocation Period contained in the Severance Agreement and General Release executed by Executive, and will cover the period from the last day for which Executive was paid Base Salary through the payment date (and such schedule shall also be applicable to the Company’s payment of COBRA continuation benefits as part of Executive’s Severance Pay benefits).
(h) 409A . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the parties intend that any amounts payable hereunder comply with or are exempt from Section 409A. For purposes of Section 409A, each of the payments that may be made under this Agreement shall be deemed to be a separate payment for purposes of Section 409A. This Agreement shall be administered, interpreted and construed in a manner that does not result in the imposition of additional taxes, penalties or interest under Section 409A. The Company and Executive agree to negotiate in good faith to make amendments to the Agreement, as the parties mutually agree are necessary or desirable to avoid the imposition of taxes, penalties or interest under Section 409A. Notwithstanding anything else herein, to the extent any of the Severance Pay benefits are treated as nonqualified deferred compensation subject to Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), then (i) no such payment shall be made to Executive unless Executive's termination of employment constitutes a "separation from service" with the Company (as such term is defined in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-l(h) and any successor provision thereto), and (ii) if Executive is determined by the Company to be a "specified employee" for purposes of Code § 409A(a)(2)(B)(i) and the Company determines that delayed commencement of any portion of the Severance Benefits is required in order to avoid a prohibited distribution under Code § 409A(a)(2)(B)(i), commencement of such portion of the Severance Pay benefits will be delayed for six (6) months following Executive's "separation from service" pursuant to Code § 409A, or, if sooner, until Executive's death. Delayed Severance Pay benefits (if any) shall be payable in a lump sum on the first business day following the expiration of such six (6) month period, and any remaining Severance Pay benefits due shall be paid as otherwise provided in Section 3(b)(i). Notwithstanding the foregoing, to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, payment of the Severance Pay benefits shall be made in reliance upon Treasury Regulation § 1.409A-l(b)(9) (with respect to separation pay plans) or Treasury Regulation § 1.409A-l(b)(4). The Severance Pay benefits shall be treated as a right to a series of separate payments. The provisions of this Agreement are intended to comply with the applicable requirements of Code § 409A and shall be limited, construed, and interpreted in accordance with such intent.
(i) Non-Mitigation . Executive shall not be required to mitigate damages or the amount of any payment provided under this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event Executive becomes employed by another person or company during the period in which Severance Pay benefits are due, or in the event Executive breaches any of the provisions in Sections 4 and 5 below, all further Severance Pay benefit amounts shall cease immediately and Executive shall forfeit the right to any such further payments.
(j) Definition of Disability. For purposes of this Agreement “Disability” means in the opinion of a duly licensed physician selected by Executive and reasonably acceptable to the Company, Executive, because of physical or mental illness or incapacity, shall become substantially unable to perform the essential functions of her position, duties and services required of him under this Agreement with or without reasonable accommodation for a period of six (6) consecutive months. In such event, the Termination Date shall be the later of (A) the fifteenth (15) day after the Company has provided written notice to Executive of its intention to terminate Executive’s employment, or (B) the date specified in such notice, provided that within the fifteenth (15) days after such notice by the Company, Executive has not returned to full time performance of her duties.
(k) No Further Compensation . Neither Executive nor Executive’s estate will be entitled to any other compensation upon termination of Executive’s employment pursuant to this Agreement.





4. Prohibition Against Disclosure of Information and Restrictive Covenants .
Executive acknowledges that, by virtue of her employment, he will be in a confidential and fiduciary relationship with the Company and its Affiliates, and will be provided, and have access to Confidential Information and trade secrets of the Company and its Affiliates (collectively the “Company Group”). Executive acknowledges that the Confidential Information of the Company Group has been developed or acquired by the Company through the expenditure of substantial time, effort, and money and provides the Company with an advantage over competitors who do not know or use such Confidential Information. Executive further acknowledges that the Company’s business is conducted in a highly competitive market and use of Confidential Information and trade secrets of the Company on behalf of a competitor would constitute unfair competition and adversely affect the business goodwill of the Company that Executive has been paid to develop for the benefit of the Company. Executive additionally agrees that the nature of the Confidential Information that the Company commits to provide to Executive during Executive's employment by the Company would make it unlikely that Executive would be able to perform in a similar capacity for any person or entity engaging in a Competitive Activity (as defined below) without disclosing or utilizing the Confidential Information. Confidential Information as used in this Agreement means an item of information or compilation of information in any form (tangible or intangible) related to the business of the Company Group, that the Company has not made public or authorized public disclosure of, and that is not readily available to persons outside the Company Group through proper means who are not obligated to keep the item or compilation confidential. Confidential Information includes, but is not limited to, information that qualifies as a trade secret under applicable law. Confidential Information and trade secrets include, but are not limited to, compilations of information, records, financial data, software programs, analytical data, specifications, and information regarding methods of doing business, sales materials, forecasts, marketing objectives and strategies, recipes, employee lists, employee compensation and any other information relating thereto, customer, supplier and client lists and preferences, price lists, distribution strategies and procedures, operational and equipment techniques, business plans and systems, quality control procedures and systems, special projects and research, including site studies, market data or expansion plans, and any other records, applications, processes, data and information concerning the business of the Company Group which are not in the public domain. Confidential Information also includes information entrusted to the Company Group, in confidence by another party or subject to contractual confidentiality obligations. Confidential information further includes proprietary processes and procedures which include, but are not limited to, all such information regarding processes and procedures known or intended to be known only to employees of the Company Group, or others in a confidential relationship with the Company Group, which relates to business matters. Executive agrees that in light of her responsibilities for the Company Group and her role as Executive Vice President Chief People Officer, she provides services to the Company which are unique in nature, and therefore as consideration for the Company’s providing of, and continuing to provide to Executive such Confidential Information and trade secrets, and in order to protect such Confidential Information and trade secrets and prevent unfair competition by Executive or others:
(a) Protection of Confidential Information . During Executive’s employment with Company and for as long thereafter as the Confidential Information continues to qualify as Confidential Information under this Agreement, Executive will not use, or disclose Confidential Information to any third party except as authorized and undertaken for the benefit of the Company as part of Executive’s employment duties under this Agreement, or as permitted under Section 4 below. Executive agrees to use reasonable efforts to give the Company notice of any and all attempts to compel disclosure of any Confidential Information, in such a manner so as to promptly provide the Company with written notice that such disclosure is being or shall be compelled, whichever is earlier, so as to enable the Company to take prompt remedial action to preclude the disclosure of such information. Such written notice shall include a description of the information to be disclosed, the court, government agency, or other forum through which the disclosure is sought, and the date by which the information is to be disclosed, and shall contain a copy of the subpoena, order, or other process used to compel disclosure.
(b) Restrictions Against Unfair Competition . Executive will not, during her employment and for a period of twelve (12) months after her employment has ended (regardless of the reason her employment was terminated), directly or indirectly, under any circumstance other than at the direction and for the benefit of the Company, for herself, or on behalf of any other person, or in conjunction with any other person, firm, partnership, corporation or other entity, engage in Competitive Activity. Competitive Activity means engaging in any business that involves, relates to, or concerns Confidential Information about the Company to which Executive had access, or engaging in or participating as an investor, owner, director, officer, employee, agent, independent contractor, partner, consultant, licensor or licensee, franchisor or franchisee, proprietor, syndicate member, shareholder, creditor, or otherwise, in any restaurant business or restaurant consulting, operating, or management company: that (i) features the sale of steak where the sale of steak exceeds thirty percent (30%) of the restaurant's revenues from food sales and (ii) which is, or owns or operates restaurants, located within thirty (30) miles of any Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steak House Restaurant, any Del Frisco's Grill restaurant, or any Sullivan's Steakhouse restaurant, or any other Affiliate of the Company (a prohibited Competing Business).
(c) No-Solicitation . Executive will not, during her employment, and for a period of twelve (12) months after her employment has ended (regardless of the reason), on her behalf or on behalf of any other business enterprise, directly or indirectly, under any circumstance other than at the direction and for the benefit of the Company: (i) interfere with the business relationship of any creditor, supplier, officer, employee, investor, or agent of the Company or its Affiliates; (ii) solicit or induce, or do so





indirectly through any other person or entity, an employee or other person providing services to the Company, that Executive has knowledge of through her employment with Company (a “Covered Person”) to terminate an existing employment relationship, to cease providing such services, terminate an existing or prospective business relationship with the Company, or reduce such person’s services to the Company; (iii) directly, or indirectly solicit, recruit, encourage, hire or assist in hiring any Covered Person that is, or was within the preceding six (6) months, employed with the Company for the benefit of a business or person engaged in a Competitive Activity unless the Covered Person has received Company approval to become employed with such business or person; or, (iv) contact, solicit or induce, any customer, subcontractor or any other person with a customer or subcontractor relationship with the Company to terminate, curtail or otherwise limit such customer relationship, or to give a business opportunity to a business or person engaged in Competitive Activity that could otherwise be provided to the Company. As used in this Agreement, solicitation (or to “solicit”) is understood to include all forms of pursuing, encouraging or knowingly inducing a desired responsive action regardless of which party first initiates contact. It is understood that the restrictions in Sections 4(b) and (c) have an inherently reasonable geographic and scope of prohibited activity limitations because they are limited to the specific prohibited activities and/or location of the persons or entities that are not to be engaged in, solicited or interfered with.
(d) Reasonableness of Restrictions and Reformation . Executive agrees that the restrictions contained in Section 4(b) and (c) allow Executive an adequate number and variety of employment alternatives based on Executive's varied skills and abilities. Accordingly, Executive covenants and warrants that he will not contend in any proceeding that the restraints contained in Section 4(b) and/or (c) are unreasonable and greater than necessary to protect the Company’s Confidential Information, proprietary information and/or the goodwill or other business interests of the Company. In the event applicable law as determined by a court requires a revised or more limited scope of prohibited activities or geographic limitations, the court shall have authority to reform the restrictions in Section 4(b) and/or (c) so as to make them enforceable, if it is judicially determined that they are unenforceable as drafted. Provided however, that in such event the Company shall have the right to deem this Agreement canceled and voidable for lack of consideration, and in such case: (i) Executive’s right to Severance Pay benefits pursuant to this Agreement shall automatically lapse and be forfeited; (ii) the Company shall have no obligation to make any further Severance Pay benefits to, or on behalf of Executive; and (iii) the Company shall be entitled to discontinue future Severance Pay benefits and receive the full value of any such Severance Pay benefits which were made to, or on behalf of Executive from the date of Executive’s termination, for any reason, through the date on which a court held or found any portion of Section 4(b) or (c) of this Agreement to be invalid or unenforceable. If the Agreement is not canceled by the Company pursuant to this Section 4(d), then the reformed restrictions shall be applicable and such different or revised limitations enforced as determined by the court.
(e) Survival of Obligations . Sections 4, 5, 6, and 10-15 hereof shall survive material change in the Executive’s position or terms and conditions of employment, and shall survive the expiration or termination of this Agreement and the termination of Executive’s employment with the Company, regardless of which party terminates the Agreement or employment relationship between them, or why such termination occurs. Executive acknowledges and agrees that her services are of a unique character and expressly grants to the Company and any Affiliate or subsidiary, in accordance with Section 12 below, to any successor or assignee of the Company, the right to enforce the provisions above through the use of all remedies available at law or in equity, including, but not limited to, injunctive relief.
5. Company Property .
(a) Inventions . Any patents, inventions, discoveries, applications or processes, designs, devised, planned, applied, created, discovered or invented by Executive in the course of Executive’s employment under this Agreement and which pertain to any aspect of the business of the Company, shall be the sole and absolute property of the Company, and Executive shall make prompt report thereof to the Company and promptly execute any and all documents reasonably requested to assure the Company the full and complete ownership thereof.
(b) Return of Company Property . All records, documents, emails, files, lists, including computer generated lists, reports, drawings, documents, equipment and similar items relating to the business of the Company, which Executive prepared or received from the Company, shall remain the sole and exclusive property of the Company. Upon termination of this Agreement, Executive shall promptly return to the Company all of the above described property of the Company, in her possession, regardless of the medium in which it is stored. Executive further represents that he will not copy or cause to be copied, printed or cause to be printed out any of the described Company property, software, documents or other materials originating with or belonging to the Company. Executive additionally represents that, upon termination of her employment with the Company, he will not retain in her possession any of the above described company property, or such software, documents or other materials pertaining to the Company, regardless of the medium in which it may be stored, and will execute an acknowledgment of compliance with this Section 5(b) on request by the Company. Any access of the Company’s computer systems in order to compete or prepare to compete with Company is unauthorized harmful access, prohibited by the Company.
6. Remedy . It is mutually understood and agreed that Executive’s services are special, unique, unusual, extraordinary and of an intellectual character giving them a peculiar value, the loss of which cannot be reasonably or adequately compensated in damages in an action at law. Executive acknowledges that Executive's violation of the provisions of Section 4(b), 4(c), 5(a) and/or 5(b) of this Agreement will cause irreparable harm to the Company, and Executive agrees that the Company shall





be entitled as a matter of right to an injunction restraining any violation or further violation of such provisions by Executive or others acting on Executive's behalf, without any showing of irreparable harm and without any showing that the Company does not have an adequate remedy at law. Executive further covenants and warrants that Executive will not dispute in any proceeding that any given violation or further violation of the covenants contained in Sections 4(b), 4(c), 5(a) and/or 5(b): (i) will result in irreparable harm to the Company; and (ii) could not be remedied adequately at law. The Company's right to injunctive relief shall be cumulative and in addition to any other remedies provided by law or equity. In addition, the Company shall be entitled to reimbursement from Executive for any and all reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses incurred by it in enforcing Sections 4 and/or 5 of this Agreement.
7. Representations and Warranties of Executive .
(a) In order to induce the Company to enter into this Agreement, Executive hereby represents and warrants to the Company as follows: (i) Executive has the legal capacity and unrestricted right to execute and deliver this Agreement and to perform all of her obligations hereunder; (ii) the execution and delivery of this Agreement by Executive and the performance of her obligations hereunder will not violate or be in conflict with any fiduciary or other duty, instrument, agreement, document, arrangement or other understanding to which Executive is a party or by which he is or may be bound or subject; (iii) Executive is not a party to any instrument, agreement, document, arrangement or other understanding with any person (other than the Company) requiring or restricting the use or disclosure of any confidential information or the provision of any employment, consulting or other services; and (iv) Executive shall not use or disclose non-public, confidential information from any party with whom he may have been employed, or had access to in any role or capacity, in the performance of her duties herein for the Company.
(b) Executive hereby agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Company from and against any and all losses, costs, damages and expenses (including, without limitation, its reasonable attorneys’ fees) incurred or suffered by the Company resulting from any breach by Executive of any of her representations or warranties set forth in Paragraph 11(a) hereof.
8. Notices . Any notices provided hereunder must be in writing and shall be deemed to have been received upon the earlier of personal delivery (including hand-delivery and personal delivery by facsimile transmission) or the third day after mailing by first class mail or overnight delivery, to the Company at its primary office location and to Executive at her address as listed on the Company’s payroll at the time notice is given.
9. Entire Agreement . This Agreement constitutes the entire understanding of the parties with respect to its subject matter and no change, addition, alteration or modification to the terms of Executive’s employment (except her Base Salary which may be periodically adjusted as set forth in Section 2(a) herein) or this Agreement may be made except in writing signed by the parties hereto. Any prior or other agreements, promises, negotiations or representations not expressly set forth in this Agreement are of no force or effect.
10. Severability . If any provision of this Agreement shall be unenforceable under any applicable law, then notwithstanding such unenforceability, and subject to the Company’s discretion under Section 4(d) to request reformation by the court or to deem this Agreement voidable for lack of consideration, the Parties otherwise agree the remainder of this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect and any provision of this Agreement held invalid or unenforceable only in part or degree shall remain in full force and effect to the extent not held invalid or unenforceable.
11. Waiver . No waiver of any provision shall be deemed to have occurred unless memorialized in writing signed by the waiving party. If either party should waive any breach of any provision of this Agreement, Executive or the Company will not thereby be deemed to have waived any preceding or succeeding breach of the same or any other provision of this Agreement.
12. Assignment . Neither this Agreement, nor any of Executive’s rights, powers, duties or obligations hereunder, may be assigned by Executive. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of Executive and her heirs and legal representatives and the Company and its successors and assigns. Successors of the Company shall include, without limitation, any corporation or corporations acquiring, directly or indirectly, all or substantially all of the assets of the Company, whether by merger, consolidation, purchase, or otherwise, and such successor shall thereafter be deemed “the Company” for the purpose hereof.
13. Choice of Law, Agreement to Arbitrate and Waiver of Jury Trial . The Agreement is governed by the Federal Arbitration Act, and evidences a transaction involving commerce. Aside from the Company Parties’ (as defined below) sole right to pursue injunctive relief pursuant to Executive’s breach of Sections 4 and 5 of this Agreement, if any dispute arises out of this Agreement between the Parties, or by or against any of the Company’s Affiliates or subsidiaries, officers, directors, members, owners, or employees (“Company Parties”), involving Executive’s hiring, retention, compensation, bonus, equity or Executive’s employment or separation from employment with the Company for any reason, or claims of fraud, misrepresentation, negligence, emotional distress, breach of fiduciary duty, or defamation (including post-employment defamation) or any other contractual, statutory or common law claims, and if the Parties to this Agreement cannot resolve the dispute, the dispute shall be submitted to final and binding arbitration, provided however, that regardless of any other terms of this Agreement, claims may be brought before and remedies awarded by an administrative agency if applicable law permits such notwithstanding the existence of an agreement to arbitrate. Executive and the Company Parties agree to bring any dispute in arbitration on an individual basis only,





and not as a class or collective action. There will be no right or authority for any dispute to be brought, heard or arbitrated as a class or collective action (“Class Action Waiver”). Claims may not be joined or consolidated in arbitration with disputes brought by any other person or entity. The Class Action Waiver shall not be severable from this Agreement in any case in which the dispute is filed or pursued as a class or collective action. Regardless of anything else in this Agreement and/or the applicable rules or procedures of any arbitration-sponsoring organization, the interpretation, applicability, enforceability or formation of the Class Action Waiver may only be determined by a Court and not an arbitrator. Before initiating arbitration, Executive must submit a written demand to the Company Parties, providing a detailed explanation of her allegations against the Company Parties. Executive agrees to provide the Company Parties 60 days to attempt to resolve her allegations before filing her demand for arbitration. Thereafter, Executive and the Company Parties agree to mediate their dispute before taking any action in the arbitration beyond filing the initial demand and answering statement in arbitration. The arbitration shall be conducted in accordance with the JAMS Employment Arbitration Rules and Procedures (“JAMS”) then in effect, provided however, that despite anything to the contrary in the JAMS’ rules, the proceedings shall be conducted pursuant to the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (in the event the JAMS rules prohibit application of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure or otherwise conflict with any requirements of this Agreement, the arbitration will be conducted before an arbitrator from AAA). If the parties cannot agree to an arbitrator, an arbitrator will be selected through the JAMS’s standard procedures and Rules (or the Rules of AAA if the arbitration will be conducted by arbitrator from AAA). The Company and Executive shall share the costs of arbitration including services of a court reporter, unless the arbitrator rules otherwise; provided however each side shall be responsible for its own attorney’s fees and expenses, and fees and expenses of any expert witness. The Company Parties and Executive agree that the arbitration shall be held in Dallas County, Texas, and Texas law shall apply and govern the parties’ dispute, claims and remedies, except for any matters arising under federal law, in which case federal law shall apply, and that judgment may be entered on the arbitrator’s award by any court having jurisdiction thereof. Arbitration of all disputes between the Executive and Company Parties is mandatory (except those which involve work place injuries covered under state workers compensation law or entitlement to benefits under an ERISA covered plan), and in lieu of any and all civil causes of action or lawsuits which Executive or the Company Parties may have against the other, with the exception that Company Parties alone may seek a temporary restraining order, temporary injunctive and permanent injunctive relief in a court to enforce the covenants as provided in Sections 4 and 5, and if such relief is granted, in addition to any other remedy provided herein, the Company Parties shall be entitled to recover its attorney’s fees from Executive. The Company Parties and Executive acknowledge that by agreeing to this provision, they knowingly and voluntarily waive any right they may have to a jury trial based on any claims they may against each other, including any right to a jury trial under any local, municipal, state or federal law including, without limitation, claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. Section 1981, the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, the Family Medical Leave Act, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, the Older Workers Benefit Protection Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act, or similar state laws, claims of harassment, whistleblower, retaliation, discrimination or wrongful termination, and any other statutory or common law claims. The prevailing party in any dispute under this Agreement shall be entitled to an award of its reasonable costs, including without limitation attorneys’ fees, and all damages or relief to the extent permitted under Texas or Federal law. Arbitration awards, findings, and determinations of disputes under this Agreement shall be kept confidential by the parties, except to the extent disclosure of the terms of such awards, findings or determinations are required to be disclosed by law or court order, in which case (a) the disclosing party shall provide the other party as much advance notice of such required disclosure as is practicable and shall cooperate in all reasonable respects with any efforts by such other party (at such other party’s expense) to limit or restrict such required, and (b) the disclosing party shall limit such required disclosures to the information that is legally required to be disclosed. However, nothing in this section relieves either Party from exhausting any administrative remedy prior to the commencement of arbitration proceeding, including the filing of administrative charges with any federal, state or local agency, including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or equivalent state agency. Similarly, this Agreement does not preclude the Parties from conciliating any administrative and informal complaint proceeding before an appropriate governmental agency. Moreover, nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to require an arbitration of a claim for unemployment compensation or a claim subject to the jurisdiction of the National Labor Relations Board.
14. Limitations of Restrictions . Nothing in this Agreement (a) prohibits Executive from reporting an event that Executive reasonably and in good faith believes is a violation of law to the relevant law-enforcement agency (such as the Securities and Exchange Commission), (b) requires notice to or approval from the Company before doing so, or (c) prohibits Executive from cooperating in an investigation conducted by such a government agency; Executive is also hereby provided notice that under the 2016 Defend Trade Secrets Act (DTSA): (d) no individual will be held criminally or civilly liable under Federal or State trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret (as defined in the Economic Espionage Act) that: (i) is made in confidence to a Federal, State, or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney; and made solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; or, (ii) is made in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal so that it is not made public; and, (iii) an individual who pursues a lawsuit for retaliation by an employer for reporting a suspected violation of the law may disclose the trade secret to the attorney of the individual and use the trade secret information in the court proceeding, if the individual files any document containing the trade secret under seal, and does not disclose the trade secret, except as permitted by court order. Notwithstanding the foregoing, under no circumstance





is Executive authorized to disclose any information covered by the Company's attorney-client privilege or attorney work without prior written consent of the Company's CEO.
15. Survival and Construction . Executive's obligations under this Agreement will be binding upon Executive's heirs, executors, assigns, and administrators and will inure to the benefit of the Company, its subsidiaries, successors, and assigns. The Company's obligations under this Agreement will be binding upon the Company's successors assigns and will inure to the benefit of Executive and Executive's heirs, executors, and administrators. The language of this Agreement shall in all cases be construed as a whole according to its fair meaning, and not strictly for or against any of the patties. The paragraph headings used in this Agreement are intended solely for convenience of reference and shall not in any manner amplify, limit, modify, or otherwise be used in the interpretation of any of the provisions hereof. Executive may not assign, pledge, grant a security interest in, hypothecate, or otherwise transfer any of its rights, duties, or obligations hereunder.
16. Acknowledgment . Executive has carefully read all of the provisions of this Agreement and agrees that (a) the same are necessary for the reasonable and proper protection of the Company’s business, trade secrets, and Confidential Information as defined in Section 4 above; (b) the Company has been induced to enter into and continue its relationship with Executive in reliance upon her compliance with the provisions of this Agreement; (c) every provision of this Agreement is reasonable with respect to its scope and duration; (d) Executive understands the terms and conditions of this Agreement, has had the opportunity to review the terms and conditions with counsel of her own choosing, and has executed this Agreement freely and voluntarily without duress or coercion from any source.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, THE PARTIES CONFIRM THEIR ACCEPTANCE OF THIS AGREEMENT, ON THE EFFECTIVE DATE STATED ABOVE, BY AFFIXING THEIR SIGNATURES IN THE PLACE INDICATED BELOW.

 
EXECUTIVE:
 
 
 
/s/ April Scopa
 
April Scopa
 
 
 
EMPLOYER:
 
DFRG Management, LLC.
 
 
 
/s/ Norman J. Abdallah
 
Norman J. Abdallah
 
Chief Executive Officer and Director
(Principal Executive Officer)










ATTACHMENT A--- To Be Inserted
[Form Severance Agreement and General Release-- this Release may change based on legal developments and evolving best practices]
[Form Release Agreement]





Exhibit 31.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF
THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Norman J. Abdallah, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group, Inc.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and 
d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date:  May 6, 2019

/s/ Norman J. Abdallah

Norman J. Abdallah

Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)





Exhibit 31.2
 
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF
THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Neil H. Thomson, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group, Inc.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have: 
a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
 
Date:  May 6, 2019

/s/ Neil H. Thomson

Neil H. Thomson

Chief Financial Officer
 
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)





Exhibit 32.1

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF
THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

In connection with the Quarterly Report of Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended  March 26, 2019  as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), the undersigned, Norman J. Abdallah, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, and Neil H. Thomson, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, each certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 that to his knowledge: 
(1)
The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2)
The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

Date:  May 6, 2019

/s/ Norman J. Abdallah

Norman J. Abdallah

Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)
Date:  May 6, 2019

/s/ Neil H. Thomson

Neil H. Thomson

Chief Financial Officer
 
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)