When Steak and Ale went under in 2008, it was joined by many Bennigan’s locations owned by the same parent company. Together they formed what Reuters described as one of the biggest bankruptcies in restaurant history. More than 14 years have passed, and it’s about to open up shop again in Burnsville, a suburb of Minneapolis, as reported by Restaurant Business. Though there will be modern updates made to the chain, like serving craft beer and fusion food items, the comeback will be faithful to the original brand by retaining the logo, color scheme, and beloved salad bar. That also means visitors can expect the restaurant’s familiar dim lighting and Tudor-inspired decor. There are also plans for more Bennigan’s restaurants.
The next Steak and Ale spots have yet to be announced, but the managing property group Endeavor has exclusive rights to open locations in at least six states, including Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and Oklahoma. Texas was not named, however. Judging from a Steak and Ale Facebook group that’s nearly 50,000 strong, some are disappointed that Texas isn’t listed among possible locations while others are impatient to see the eatery’s doors actually open. “So excited for this!!!….the one restaurant I have truly missed,” wrote one user. Others wondered about classic dishes, including the marinated 8-ounce sirloin known as the Kensington Club and the Hawaiian chicken, which came with pineapple rings, rice pilaf, and broccoli (via Nation’s Restaurant News). Time and the menu will tell.