Ark Restaurants
Annual Report 2008

Plain-text annual report

Ark Restaurants Corp. 2008 ANNUAL REPORT The Company We are a New York corporation formed in 1983. As of the fiscal year ended September 27, 2008, we owned and/or operated 20 restaurants and bars, 30 fast food concepts, catering operations, and wholesale and retail bakeries through our subsidiaries. Initially our facilities were located only in New York City. As of the fiscal year ended September 27, 2008, seven of our restaurant and bar facilities are located in New York City, four are located in Washington, D.C., five are located in Las Vegas, Nevada, two are located in Atlantic City, New Jersey, one is located at the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Ledyard, Connecticut and one is located in the Faneuil Hall Marketplace in Boston, Massachusetts. We will provide without charge a copy of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year including financial statements and schedules thereto, to each of our ended September 27, 2008, shareholders of record on February 17, 2009 and each beneficial holder on that date, upon receipt of a written request therefore mailed our offices, 85 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10003 Attention: Treasurer. 2 February 17, 2009 Dear Shareholders: In the past I have written of the conservative views embedded in your management’s approach to the restaurant business and in the operations of your company. It is an approach that serves us well in this very difficult economy and in a coming year when comparative sales of our businesses will no doubt suffer. Our fiscal year ended September 30, 2008. We had a very good level of performance. However September 2008 was the last month of positive comp sales for the company. October 2008, the first month of our new fiscal year, reflected declining demand and that indicator of our business has weakened with each successive month through the first quarter of our 2009 fiscal year. We can not defy gravity. Therefore rather than trumpet the very good results of the year past, I thought I would devote this letter to the more important issue of how we are to traverse these unsettling economic times. Fortunately, we entered the new fiscal year with a strong balance sheet. As of September 27, 2008, we had cash and equivalents on hand of $11,444,000. Our long term debt on that date of $705,000 is a non recurring purchase money mortgage, part of the 2007 deal that brought to us the Durgin Park restaurant in Boston. We pay all purveyors on a short cycle and, therefore, our accounts payable to trade is generally the dollar equivalent of our account receivables. Presently we have a capital commitment for the construction of a new restaurant in New York City at the new Museum of Art and Design (MAD). The museum is in an outstanding location and the business deal we negotiated is very attractive. Beyond this there are no capital commitments other than the normal need to keep the roofs on. We became concerned with the performance of our business in the late summer of the past year. Comparative sales growth began to narrow. This and a combination of historical high food prices, (due primarily to higher minimum wage continued high energy costs and increased payroll requirements) placed significant pressure on margins and bottom line. Raising prices with the reality of declining demand would not have been prudent. As comparative sales turned negative we implemented a strategy to respond. In the fall we put a freeze on salaries, eliminated overtime and all bonuses. Our immediate goal was to reduce payroll expense by $2,000,000. We also targeted other areas of our business for cost reductions. We clearly understand that the economy will dictate if we have to cut deeper. Our instinct is to preserve jobs. This may not be possible. At the same time it has become obvious that multiples being paid for operating profits in the restaurant industry have realigned to reflect lower expectations and, with patience, bargains may be available. We recognize that we are well positioned to buy operating income at these advantageous prices. Although trailing operating profits for restaurants are not an indictor for the near term (they will suffer with the recession), we believe that good assets, including our own, will return to past form and buying operating income at discounted multiples will be a good investment in the long term. This is now our preferred strategy. Building assets from scratch is not what we should be doing in a real estate environment where rents and construction costs stubbornly refuse to recognize the current level of distress. The primary task in this strategy is to manage precious capital. Our appetite to acquire good assets will be measured against internal cash flow. We do not want to boast of savvy acquisitions only to find worsening conditions and insufficient cash. We must assume credit to be unavailable. The present difficulty for our operations is top line revenue. As always, our product must build our reputation, not just retain it. We must employ new concepts to attract customers. Full service restaurants generally do not have “SALE” signs on their windows (a benefit of our business is that inventory is small and can be easily controlled). But all conventions must now be questioned. Resourcefulness will rule if we are to compete. 3 Our greatest asset in navigating the current business environment is the people who work for your company. They have many years of experience. They understand the importance of the customer. I assure you we will all continue to do our best. Sincerely, Michael Weinstein, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer 4 ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. Corporate Office Michael Weinstein, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Robert Towers, President, Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer Robert Stewart, Chief Financial Officer Vincent Pascal, Senior Vice President—Operations Paul Gordon, Senior Vice President—Director of Las Vegas Operations Walter Rauscher, Vice President—Corporate Sales & Catering Nancy Alvarez, Controller Marilyn Guy, Director of Human Resources Jennifer Sutton, Director of Operations—Washington D.C.; Manager, Sequoia-Washington D.C. John Oldweiler, Director of Purchasing Luis Gomes, Director of Purchasing—Las Vegas Operations Joe Vazquez, Director of Facilities Management Evyette Ortiz, Director of Marketing Veronica Mijelshon, Director of Architecture and Design Michael Buck, General Counsel and Secretary Teresita Mendoza, Controller—Las Vegas Operations Dave Ricciardo, Director of Maintenance—Las Vegas Operations Lea Fisher, Director of Human Resources—Las Vegas Operations Corporate Executive Chef Bill Lalor Executive Chefs Seng Chai Young, Washington D.C. Damien McEvoy, Las Vegas Paul Savoy, Executive Sous Chef, Las Vegas Operations Restaurant General Managers—New York Bridgeen Hale, The Grill Room Stephanie Torres, Columbus Bakery Kelly Gallo, Canyon Road Jennifer Baquerizo, El Rio Grande Debra Lomurno, Sequoia Donna Simms, Bryant Park Grill Ridgley Trufant, Red Ana Harris, Gonzalez y Gonzalez Restaurant General Managers—Washington D.C. Bender Gamiao, Thunder Grill Matt Mitchell, America & Center Cafe´ Restaurant General Managers—Las Vegas Charles Gerbino, Las Vegas Employee Dining Facility Michael Credico, Gallagher’s Steakhouse John Hausdorf, Las Vegas Room Service Staci Green, Director of Sales, Las Vegas Operations Mary Massa, Gonzalez y Gonzalez Craig Tribus, America Ivonne Escobedo, Village Streets Maria Medina, Venetian Food Court Nitty Lee, V-Bar Christopher Waltrip, Yolos 5 Restaurant General Manager—Atlantic City Donna McCarthy, Gallagher’s Steakhouse and Burger Bar Restaurant General Managers—Florida Mamunur Rosid, Hollywood Food Court Darvin Prats, Tampa Food Court Restaurant General Manager—Foxwoods Patricia Reyes, The Grill at Two Trees, Lucky Seven and The Food Market Restaurant Chefs—New York Armando Cortes, The Grill Room Santiago Pascual, Sequoia Santiago Moran, Red Fermin Ramirez, El Rio Grande Ruperto Ramirez, Canyon Road Grill Mariano Veliz, Gonzalez y Gonzalez Gadi Weinreich, Bryant Park Grill Restaurant Chefs—Washington D.C. Foo Nun Chee, America & Center Cafe´ Seng Chai Young, Sequoia Kokwai Loke, Thunder Grill Restaurant Chefs—Las Vegas Hector Hernandez, America Dave Simmons, Gallagher’s Steakhouse Mark Abrigo, Banquets Richard Harris, Las Vegas Employee Dining Facility Sergio Salazar, Gonzalez y Gonzalez Josh McKinney, Yolos Restaurant Chef—Atlantic City Sergio Soto, Gallagher’s Steakhouse Restaurant Chefs—Florida Carlos Garcia Rios, Hollywood Food Court Artemio Espinoza, Tampa Food Court Restaurant Chef—Foxwoods Rosalio Fuentes, The Grill at Two Trees and Lucky Seven Roberto Reyes, The Food Market 6 Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations Accounting period Our fiscal year ends on the Saturday nearest September 30. We report fiscal years under a 52/53- week format. This reporting method is used by many companies in the hospitality industry and is meant to improve year-to-year comparisons of operating results. Under this method, certain years will contain 53 weeks. The fiscal years ended September 29, 2007 and September 27, 2008 each included 52 weeks. Overview We have reclassified our consolidated statements of operations data for the prior periods presented below, in accordance with SFAS 144, as a result of the: • sale of two of our restaurants and the closure of three of our restaurants during the fiscal year ended September 29, 2007; and • closure of two of our restaurants during the fiscal year ended September 27, 2008. The operations of these restaurants have been presented as discontinued operations for the fiscal years ended September 29, 2007 and September 27, 2008. See “Item 1—Recent Restaurant Dispositions and Charges”, “Item 7—Recent Restaurant Dispositions” and Note 3 of Consolidated Financial Statements. Revenues Total revenues increased by 6.4% from fiscal 2007 to fiscal 2008. Revenues for fiscal 2008 were reduced by $3,100,000 and revenues for fiscal 2007 were reduced by $2,686,000 as a result of the sale of two facilities and the closure of five of our facilities and their reclassification to discontinued operations. Same store sales increased 0.9%, or $1,052,000, on a Company-wide basis from fiscal 2007 to fiscal 2008. Same store sales in Las Vegas decreased by $90,000, or 0.2%, in fiscal 2008 compared to fiscal 2007. Same store sales in New York increased $1,371,000, or 4.3%, during fiscal 2008. Same store sales in Washington D.C. decreased by $169,000, or 0.9%, during fiscal 2008. Same store sales in Atlantic City decreased by $294,000 or 8.2% in fiscal 2008 compared to fiscal 2007. Same store sales in Boston increased $121,000, or 3.5%, during fiscal 2008. Same store sales in Connecticut increased $113,000, or 7.9%, during fiscal 2008. Other operating income, which consists of the sale of merchandise at various restaurants, management fee income and door sales were $2,456,000 in fiscal 2008 and $2,145,000 in fiscal 2007. Costs and Expenses Food and beverage cost of sales as a percentage of total revenue was 26.2% in fiscal 2008 and 25.7% in fiscal 2007. Total costs and expenses increased by $8,494,000, or 7.9%, from fiscal 2007 to fiscal 2008 primarily due to increased sales. Payroll expenses as a percentage of total revenues was 30.6% in fiscal 2008 compared to 30.2% in fiscal 2007. Payroll expense was $38,325,000 and $35,630,000 in fiscal 2008 and 2007, respectively. In fiscal 2008, increased sales resulted in an increase in payroll expenses. We continually evaluate our payroll expenses as they relate to sales. We typically incur significant pre-opening expenses in connection with our new restaurants that are expensed as incurred. Furthermore, it is not uncommon that such restaurants experience operating losses during the early months of operation. In fiscal 2008, we began operating a Mexican restaurant and lounge, Yolos, at the rethemed Planet Hollywood Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, and entered into an agreement to lease space for a yet to be named restaurant at the Museum of Arts & Design at Columbus Circle in Manhattan. The obligation to 7 pay rent for the restaurant at the Museum of Arts & Design is not effective until the earlier to occur of the date the restaurant opens for business or Mach 1, 2009. We anticipate that: • investors will invest in the limited liability company that leases the space and such investors will reimburse this limited liability company for all pre-opening expenses; • we will be the managing member of this limited liability company and, through this limited liability company, we will manage the operations of the restaurant in exchange for a monthly management fee equal to five-percent of the gross receipts of the restaurant; • neither we nor any of our subsidiaries will contribute any capital to this limited liability company; and • none of the obligations of this limited liability company will be guaranteed by us and investors in this limited liability company will have no recourse against us or any of our assets. However, due to the current economic climate, we cannot be certain that such investors will be available. In such a situation, we anticipate we will contribute capital for pre-opening expenses and operate this restaurant through this limited liability company as a subsidiary. In fiscal 2007, we: • converted our bar, Luna Lounge, at the Resorts Atlantic City Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey, into a restaurant, Gallagher’s Burger Bar; • expanded our operations at the Foxwoods Resort Casino by opening The Grill at Two Trees in the Two Trees Inn, a facility owned by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and a part of the Foxwoods Resort Casino, in Ledyard, Connecticut; • began construction of Yolos; and • began operating the Durgin Park Restaurant and the Black Horse Tavern in Boston, Massachusetts. We purchased the Durgin Park facility in 2007 from the previous owner for $2,000,000 in cash and a $1,000,000 five year promissory note bearing interest at a rate of 7% per year. We experienced $210,000 and $129,000 in pre-opening and early operating losses at our facilities in fiscal 2008 and fiscal 2007, respectively. General and administrative expenses, as a percentage of total revenue, were 7.3% in fiscal 2008 and 7.7% in fiscal 2007. We manage: • two consolidated facilities we do not own (El Rio Grande and The Food Market at the MGM Grand), • the Tampa and Hollywood Florida food court operations, and • Lucky Seven at Foxwoods. Sales of El Rio Grande were $4,312,000 and $3,873,000 during fiscal 2008 and 2007, respectively. Sales of the The Food Market at the MGM Grand were $1,457,000 during the portion of fiscal 2008 in which it was open. The Food Market at the MGM Grand was not open during fiscal 2007. Sales of the Tampa and Hollywood Florida food court operations were $12,454,000 during fiscal 2008 and $12,170,000 during fiscal 2007. Sales of Lucky Seven were $2,608,000 and $2,691,000 during fiscal 2008 and 2007, respectively. Interest expense was $57,000 in fiscal 2008 and $65,000 in fiscal 2007. Interest income was $490,000 in fiscal 2008 and $417,000 in fiscal 2007. During fiscal 2007 we began an investment program utilizing our large cash balances. Investments are made in government securities and investment quality corporate instruments. Other income, which generally consists of purchasing service fees, equity in losses of affiliates and other income at various restaurants, was $716,000 and $798,000 for fiscal 2008 and 2007, respectively. 8 Income Taxes The provision for income taxes reflects Federal income taxes calculated on a consolidated basis and state and local income taxes calculated by each New York subsidiary on a non-consolidated basis. Most of the restaurants we own or manage are owned or managed by a separate subsidiary. For state and local income tax purposes, the losses incurred by a subsidiary may only be used to offset that subsidiary’s income, with the exception of the restaurants operating in the District of Columbia. Accordingly, our overall effective tax rate has varied depending on the level of losses incurred at individual subsidiaries. Our overall effective tax rate in the future will be affected by factors such as the level of losses incurred at our New York facilities, which cannot be consolidated for state and local tax purposes, pre- tax income earned outside of New York City and the utilization of state and local net operating loss carry forwards. Nevada has no state income tax and other states in which we operate have income tax rates substantially lower in comparison to New York. In order to utilize more effectively tax loss carry forwards at restaurants that were unprofitable, we have merged certain profitable subsidiaries with certain loss subsidiaries. The Revenue Reconciliation Act of 1993 provides tax credits to us for FICA taxes paid on tip income of restaurant service personnel. The net benefit to us was $832,000 in fiscal 2008 and $799,000 in fiscal 2007. Our tax return for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 is currently under audit by the Internal Revenue Service. We expect no material adjustments will result from this examination. Liquidity and Capital Resources Our primary source of capital has been cash provided by operations. We have, from time to time, also utilized equipment financing in connection with the construction of a restaurant and seller financing in connection with the acquisition of a restaurant. We utilize capital primarily to fund the cost of developing and opening new restaurants, acquiring existing restaurants owned by others and remodeling existing restaurants we own. The net cash used in investing activities in fiscal 2008 was $6,928,000. Cash was used for the replacement of fixed assets at existing restaurants and the construction of Yolos, a Mexican restaurant, at the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino (formerly known as the Aladdin Resort and Casino) in Las Vegas, Nevada. Cash was also used to purchase investment securities. Cash provided by investing activities was generated from the sale of discontinued operations and the sale of investment securities. The net cash used in investing activities in fiscal 2007 was $117,000. Cash was used for the replacement of fixed assets at existing restaurants, converting our bar, Luna Lounge, at the Resorts Atlantic City Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey, into a restaurant, Gallagher’s Burger Bar, opening The Grill at Two Trees in the Two Trees Inn, a facility owned by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and a part of the Foxwoods Resort Casino, in Ledyard, Connecticut, purchasing the Durgin Park Restaurant and the Black Horse Tavern in Boston, Massachusetts from the previous owner for $2,000,000 in cash and a $1,000,000 five year promissory note bearing interest at a rate of 7% per year, and the construction of Yolos in Las Vegas, Nevada. Cash was also used to purchase investment securities. Cash provided by investing activities was generated from the sale of discontinued operations and the sale of investment securities. The net cash used in financing activities in fiscal 2008 of $5,461,000 and $15,309,000 in fiscal 2007 was principally used for the payment of dividends. We had a working capital surplus of $9,144,000 at September 27, 2008 as compared to a working capital surplus of $11,571,000 at September 29, 2007. A quarterly cash dividend in the amount of $0.35 per share was declared on October 12, 2004. Subsequent to October 12, 2004, quarterly cash dividends in the amount of $0.35 per share were declared October 10 and December 20, 2006 and on April 12, 2007. We declared an increase in our quarterly cash dividend to $0.44 per share on May 23, 2007 and subsequent quarterly cash dividends reflecting this increased amount were declared on October 12, 2007 and January 11, April 11, July 11 9 and October 10, 2008. In addition, we declared a special cash dividend in the amount of $3.00 per share on December 20, 2006. Prior to this, we had not paid any cash dividends since our inception. We intend to continue to pay such quarterly cash dividend for the foreseeable future, however, the payment of future dividends is at the discretion of our Board of Directors and is based on future earnings, cash flow, financial condition, capital requirements, changes in U.S. taxation and other relevant factors. Restaurant Expansion During the fiscal year ended September 27, 2008, we: • expanded our operations at the Foxwoods Resort Casino by opening The Food Market in the MGM Grand Casino, a facility part of the Foxwoods Resort Casino, in Ledyard, Connecticut; • began operating a Mexican restaurant and lounge, Yolos, at the rethemed Planet Hollywood Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada; and • entered into an agreement to lease space for a yet to be named restaurant at the Museum of Arts & Design at Columbus Circle in Manhattan. The obligation to pay rent for the restaurant at the Museum of Arts & Design is not effective until the earlier to occur of the date the restaurant opens for business or Mach 1, 2009. We anticipate that: • investors will invest in the limited liability company that leases the space and such I investors will reimburse this limited liability company for all pre-opening expenses; • we will be the managing member of this limited liability company and, through this limited liability company, we will manage the operations of the restaurant in exchange for a monthly management fee equal to five-percent of the gross receipts of the restaurant; • neither we nor any of our subsidiaries will contribute any capital to this limited liability company; and • none of the obligations of this limited liability company will be guaranteed by us and investors in this limited liability company will have no recourse against us or any of our assets. However, due to the current economic climate, we cannot be certain that such investors will be available. In such a situation, we anticipate we will contribute capital for pre-opening expenses and operate this restaurant through this limited liability company as a subsidiary. The opening of a new restaurant is invariably accompanied by substantial pre-opening expenses and early operating losses associated with the training of personnel, excess kitchen costs, costs of supervision and other expenses during the pre-opening period and during a post-opening “shake out” period until operations can be considered to be functioning normally. The amount of such pre-opening expenses and early operating losses can generally be expected to depend upon the size and complexity of the facility being opened. We incurred $210,000 in pre-opening expenses in fiscal 2008. Our restaurants generally do not achieve substantial increases in revenue from year to year, which we consider to be typical of the restaurant industry. To achieve significant increases in revenue or to replace revenue of restaurants that lose customer favor or which close because of lease expirations or other reasons, we would have to open additional restaurant facilities or expand existing restaurants. There can be no assurance that a restaurant will be successful after it is opened, particularly since in many instances we do not operate our new restaurants under a trade name currently used by us, thereby requiring new restaurants to establish their own identity. Apart from these agreements, we are not currently committed to any projects. We may take advantage of opportunities we consider to be favorable, when they occur, depending upon the availability of financing and other factors. Recent Restaurant Dispositions and Charges Our bar/nightclub facility Venus, located at the Venetian Casino Resort, experienced a steady decline in sales and we felt that a new concept was needed at this location. During the first quarter of 2005, this bar/nightclub facility was closed for re-concepting and re-opened as “Vivid” on February 4, 2005. Total conversion costs were approximately $400,000. Sales at the new bar/nightclub facility 10 subsequently failed to reach a level sufficient to achieve the results we required and we have identified a buyer for this facility. As of December 31, 2005, we classified the assets and liabilities of this bar/nightclub facility as “held for sale” in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets” (“SFAS No. 144”) based on the fact that the facility has met the criteria under SFAS No. 144. Based on the offers made for this facility, we recorded an impairment charge of $537,000 during the first fiscal quarter of 2007. An additional impairment charge of $38,000 was recorded during the fourth fiscal quarter of 2007 as a result of the sale of the facility. We recorded operating losses of $188,000 during the fiscal year ended September 29, 2007. The impairment charges and operating losses are included in discontinued operations. Also during fiscal 2006, we were approached by the Venetian Casino Resort who indicated that, due to the expansion of the Grand Canal Shoppes, our Lutece and Tsunami locations, as well as a portion of our Vivid location, in the Grand Canal Shoppes were desired by other tenants. The Venetian Casino Resort offered to purchase these locations from us for an aggregate of $14,000,000. After evaluating the offer, we determined that such offer made it advantageous for us to redeploy these assets. Effective December 1, 2006, our subsidiaries that leased each of our Lutece, Tsunami and Vivid locations at the Venetian Resort Hotel Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, entered into an agreement to sell Lutece, Tsunami and a portion of the Vivid location used by Lutece as a prep kitchen to Venetian Casino Resort, LLC for an aggregate of $14,000,000. Our Lutece location closed on December 3, 2006 and our Tsunami location closed on January 3, 2007. We realized a gain of $7,814,000 ($5,196,000 after taxes, or $1.45 per share) on the sale of these facilities. We recorded operating income of $34,000 for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2007. The gain on sale and income are included in discontinued operations. During the first fiscal quarter of 2008, we discontinued the operation of our Columbus Bakery retail and wholesale bakery located in New York City. Columbus Bakery was originally intended to serve as the bakery that would provide all of our New York restaurants with baked goods as well as being a retail bakery operation. As a result of the sale and closure of several of our restaurants in New York City during the last several years, this bakery operation was no longer profitable. During the second fiscal quarter of 2008 we opened, along with certain third party investors, a new concept at this location called “Pinch & S’Mac” which features pizza and macaroni and cheese. We contributed Columbus Bakery’s net fixed assets and cash into this venture and received an ownership interest of 37.5%. These operations are not consolidated in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Effective June 30, 2008, the lease for our Stage Deli facility at the Forum Shops in Las Vegas, Nevada expired. The landlord for this facility offered to renew the lease at this location prior to its expiration at a significantly increased rent. The Company determined that it would not be able to operate this facility profitably at this location at the rent offered in the landlord’s renewal proposal. As a result, the Company discontinued these operations during the third fiscal quarter of 2008 and took a charge for the impairment of goodwill of $294,000 and a loss on disposal of $19,000. The impairment charge and disposal loss are included in discontinued operations. As a result of the above mentioned sales or closures, we allocated $294,000 and $100,000 of goodwill to these restaurants and reduced goodwill by these amounts in fiscal 2008 and 2007, respectively. Critical Accounting Policies Financial Reporting Release No. 60, published by the SEC, recommends that all companies include a discussion of critical accounting policies used in the preparation of their financial statements. Our significant accounting policies are more fully described in Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements. While all these significant accounting policies impact our financial condition and results of operations, we view certain of these policies as critical. Policies determined to be critical are those policies that have the most significant impact on our consolidated financial statements and require management to use a greater degree of judgment and estimates. Actual results may differ from those estimates. 11 We believe that given current facts and circumstances, it is unlikely that applying any other reasonable judgments or estimate methodologies would cause a material effect on our consolidated results of operations, financial position or cash flows for the periods presented in this report. Below are listed certain policies that management believes are critical: Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements requires the application of certain accounting policies, which may require us to make estimates and assumptions of future events. In the process of preparing its consolidated financial statements, we estimate the appropriate carrying value of certain assets and liabilities, which are not readily apparent from other sources. The primary estimates underlying our consolidated financial statements include allowances for potential bad debts on accounts and notes receivable, the useful lives and recoverability of its assets, such as property and intangibles, fair values of financial instruments and share-based compensation, the realizable value of its tax assets and other matters. Management bases its estimates on certain assumptions, which they believe are reasonable in the circumstances and actual results could differ from those estimates. Long-Lived Assets We annually assess any impairment in value of long-lived assets to be held and used. We evaluate the possibility of impairment by comparing anticipated undiscounted cash flows to the carrying amount of the related long-lived assets. If such cash flows are less than carrying value we then reduce the asset to its fair value. Fair value is generally calculated using discounted cash flows. Various factors such as sales growth and operating margins and proceeds from a sale are part of this analysis. Future results could differ from our projections with a resulting adjustment to income in such period. Leases We are obligated under various lease agreements for certain restaurants. We recognize rent expense on a straight-line basis over the expected lease term, including option periods as described below. Within the provisions of certain leases there are escalations in payments over the base lease term, as well as renewal periods. The effects of the escalations have been reflected in rent expense on a straight-line basis over the expected lease term, which includes option periods when it is deemed to be reasonably assured that we would incur an economic penalty for not exercising the option. Percentage rent expense is generally based upon sales levels and is expensed as incurred. Certain leases include both base rent and percentage rent. We record rent expense on these leases based upon reasonably assured sales levels. The consolidated financial statements reflect the same lease terms for amortizing leasehold improvements as were used in calculating straight-line rent expense for each restaurant. Our judgments may produce materially different amounts of amortization and rent expense than would be reported if different lease terms were used. Deferred Income Tax Valuation Allowance We provide such allowance due to uncertainty that some of the deferred tax amounts may not be realized. Certain items, such as state and local tax loss carry forwards, are dependent on future earnings or the availability of tax strategies. Future results could require an increase or decrease in the valuation allowance and a resulting adjustment to income in such period. Accounting for Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets During 2001, the FASB issued SFAS 142, which requires that for us, effective September 28, 2002, goodwill, including the goodwill included in the carrying value of investments accounted for using the equity method of accounting, and certain other intangible assets deemed to have an indefinite useful life, cease amortizing. SFAS 142 requires that goodwill and certain intangible assets be assessed for impairment using fair value measurement techniques. Specifically, goodwill impairment is determined using a two-step process. The first step of the goodwill impairment test is used to identify potential 12 impairment by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit (the Company is being treated as one reporting unit) with its net book value (or carrying amount), including goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill of the reporting unit is considered not impaired and the second step of the impairment test is unnecessary. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination. That is, the fair value of the reporting unit is allocated to all of the assets and liabilities of that unit (including any unrecognized intangible assets) as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and the fair value of the reporting unit was the purchase price paid to acquire the reporting unit. The impairment test for other intangible assets consists of a comparison of the fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value. If the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. Determining the fair value of the reporting unit under the first step of the goodwill impairment test and determining the fair value of individual assets and liabilities of the reporting unit (including unrecognized intangible assets) under the second step of the goodwill impairment test is judgmental in nature and often involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. Similarly, estimates and assumptions are used in determining the fair value of other intangible assets. These estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on whether or not an impairment charge is recognized and also the magnitude of any such charge. To assist in the process of determining goodwill impairment, we obtain appraisals from independent valuation firms. In addition to the use of independent valuation firms, we perform internal valuation analyses and consider other market information that is publicly available. Estimates of fair value are primarily determined using discounted cash flows and market comparisons and recent transactions. These approaches use significant estimates and assumptions including projected future cash flows (including timing), discount rate reflecting the risk inherent in future cash flows, perpetual growth rate, determination of appropriate market comparables and the determination of whether a premium or discount should be applied to comparables. Based on the above policy no impairment charges were recorded during the fiscal years ended 2008 and 2007. Share-Based Compensation Effective October 2, 2005 the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123R, “Share-Based Payment” (“SFAS No. 123R”), and related interpretations and began expensing the grant-date fair value of employee stock options. Prior to October 2, 2005, the Company applied Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” and related interpretations in accounting for its stock option plans. Accordingly, prior to October 2, 2005, no compensation expense has been recognized in net income for employee stock options, as options granted had an exercise price equal to the market value of the underlying common stock on the date of grant. Upon adoption of SFAS 123R, the Company elected to value employee stock options using the Black-Scholes option valuation method that uses assumptions that relate to the expected volatility of the Company’s common stock, the expected dividend yield of our stock, the expected life of the options and the risk free interest rate. The assumptions used for the options granted on December 21, 2004, which were unvested at the time of the adoption of SFAS 123R, included a risk free interest rate of 3.37%, volatility of 37%, a dividend yield of 3% and an expected life of three years. The Company adopted SFAS No. 123R using the modified prospective transition method and therefore has not restated prior periods. Under this transition method, compensation cost associated with employee stock options recognized during fiscal 2006 includes amortization related to the remaining unvested portion of stock awards granted prior to October 2, 2005. 13 Recently Issued Accounting Standards The Financial Accounting Standards Board has recently issued the following accounting pronouncements: In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“SFAS 157”), which, among other requirements, defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about the use of fair value to measure assets and liabilities. SFAS 157 prescribes a single definition of fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. For financial instruments and certain nonfinancial assets and liabilities that are recognized or disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis at least annually, SFAS 157 is effective beginning the first fiscal year that begins after November 15, 2007, which corresponds to the Company’s fiscal year beginning September 28, 2008. For all other nonfinancial assets and liabilities the effective date of SFAS 157 has been delayed to the first fiscal year beginning after November 15, 2008, which corresponds to the Company’s fiscal year beginning October 4, 2009. The Company is still determining the effect SFAS 157 will have on its consolidated financial statements, but it currently does not expect the effect to be material. In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities” (“SFAS 159”), which permits measurement of recognized financial assets and liabilities at fair value with certain exceptions such as investments in subsidiaries, obligations for pension or other postretirement benefits, and financial assets and financial liabilities recognized under leases. Changes in the fair value of items for which the fair value option is elected should be recognized in income or loss. The election to measure eligible items at fair value is irrevocable and can only be made at defined election dates or events, generally on an instrument by instrument basis. Items for which the fair value option is elected should be separately presented or parenthetically be disclosed in the statement of financial position. SFAS 159 also requires significant new disclosures that apply for interim and annual financial statements. SFAS 159 shall be effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 with earlier adoption permitted, if certain conditions are met. The effect of the first remeasurement to fair value of eligible items existing would be reported as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings as of the date of adoption, which corresponds to the Company’s fiscal year beginning September 28, 2008. The Company is currently evaluating SFAS 159 and determining whether to elect the fair value option for certain financial assets and liabilities. In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (Revised), “Business Combinations” (SFAS 141R), which establishes principles and requirements for the reporting entity in a business combination, including recognition and measurement in the financial statements of the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree. This statement also establishes disclosure requirements to enable financial statement users to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. SFAS 141R applies prospectively to business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2008. SFAS 141R will become effective for our fiscal year beginning October 4, 2009. In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements—an amendment of ARB No. 51”, (“SFAS 160”), which amends Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51, “Consolidated Financial Statements” (“ARB No. 51”), to establish accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. This standard defines a noncontrolling interest, previously referred to as minority interest, as the portion of equity in a subsidiary not attributable, directly or indirectly, to a parent. SFAS 160 requires, among other items, that a noncontrolling interest be included in the consolidated balance sheet within equity separate from the parent’s equity; consolidated net income to be reported at amounts inclusive of both the parent’s and noncontrolling interest’s shares and, separately, the amounts of consolidated net income attributable to the parent and noncontrolling interest all on the consolidated statement of income; and if a subsidiary is deconsolidated, any retained noncontrolling equity investment in the former subsidiary be measured at fair value and a gain or loss be recognized in net income based on such fair value. SFAS 160 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, which corresponds to the Company’s fiscal year beginning October 4, 2009. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact of adopting SFAS 160 on its consolidated financial statements. 14 In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,—an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133” (“SFAS 161”), which requires enhanced disclosures about an entity’s derivative and hedging activities and thereby improves the transparency of financial reporting. The objective of the guidance is to provide users of financial statements with an enhanced understanding of how and why an entity uses derivative instruments; how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for; and how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. SFAS 161 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after November 15, 2008, which corresponds to the Company’s quarterly period beginning December 28, 2008. Management is currently evaluating the impact SFAS 161 will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements, but it currently does not expect the effect to be material. In April 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position 142-3, “Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets” (“FSP FAS 142-3”), which amends the list of factors an entity should consider in developing renewal or extension assumptions in determining the useful life of recognized intangible assets under FAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets”. The new guidance applies to (1) intangible assets that are acquired individually or with a group of other assets and (2) intangible assets acquired in both business combinations and asset acquisitions. Under FSP FAS 142-3, entities estimating the useful life of a recognized intangible asset must consider their historical experience in renewing or extending similar arrangements or, in the absence of historical experience, must consider assumptions that market participants would use about renewal or extension. FSP FAS 142-3 will require certain additional disclosures beginning October 1, 2009 and prospective application to useful life estimates prospectively for intangible assets acquired after September 20, 2009. The Company is in the process of evaluating the impact that the adoption of FSP FAS 142-3 may have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” SFAS No. 162 identifies the sources of accounting principles and provides entities with a framework for selecting the principles used in preparation of financial statements that are presented in conformity with GAAP. The current GAAP hierarchy has been criticized because it is directed to the auditor rather than the entity, it is complex, and it ranks FASB Statements of Financial Accounting Concepts, which are subject to the same level of due process as FASB Statements of Financial Accounting Standards, below industry practices that are widely recognized as generally accepted but that are not subject to due process. The Board believes the GAAP hierarchy should be directed to entities because it is the entity (not its auditors) that is responsible for selecting accounting principles for financial statements that are presented in conformity with GAAP. The adoption of SFAS No. 162 is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk Not applicable. 15 Market For The Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities Market for Our Common Stock Our Common Stock, $.01 par value, is traded in the over-the-counter market on the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol “ARKR.” The high and low sale prices for our Common Stock from October 2, 2005 through September 27, 2008 are as follows: High Low Calendar 2006 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fourth Quarter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $32.89 $26.55 Calendar 2007 First Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Second Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Third Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fourth Quarter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Calendar 2008 First Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Second Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Third Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35.37 36.99 37.63 37.00 37.32 29.00 26.25 30.60 33.01 35.71 34.42 29.10 25.13 18.03 Dividend Policy A quarterly cash dividend in the amount of $0.35 per share was declared on October 12, 2004. Subsequent to October 12, 2004, quarterly cash dividends in the amount of $0.35 per share were declared October 10 and December 20, 2006 and on April 12, 2007. We declared an increase in our quarterly cash dividend to $0.44 per share on May 23, 2007 and subsequent quarterly cash dividends reflecting this increased amount were declared on October 12, 2007 and January 11, April 11, July 11 and October 10, 2008. In addition, we declared a special cash dividend in the amount of $3.00 per share on December 20, 2006. Prior to this, we had not paid any cash dividends since our inception. On December 18, 2008, our Board of Directors determined to suspend the dividend which would have customarily been declared in January 2009. For the foreseeable future, our dividend policy will be determined by our Board of Directors on a quarter by quarter basis. Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities The following table sets forth information regarding purchases of our common stock by us and any affiliated purchasers during the three months ended September 27, 2008. Stock repurchases may be made in the open market or in private transactions at times and in amounts that we deem appropriate. However, there is no guarantee as to the exact number of additional shares that may be repurchased, and we may terminate or limit the stock repurchase program at any time prior to its expiration. We will cancel the repurchased shares. 16 (d) Maximum Number (or Approximate Dollar Value) of Shares (or Units) that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs(1) (c) Total Number of Shares (or Units) Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs 0 500,000 (a) Total Number of Shares (or Units) Purchased (b) Average Price Paid per Share (or Unit) Not Applicable 0 4,957 $18.74 4,957 495,043 60,000 64,957 $18.60 $18.61 60,000 64,957 435,043 435,043 Period Month #1 June 29, 2008 through July 29, 2008. . . . . . . . . Month #2 July 30, 2008 through August 30, 2008 . . . . . . Month #3 August 31, 2008 through September 27, 2008. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (1) On March 25, 2008, our Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program under which up to 500,000 shares of our common stock may be acquired in the open market or in private transactions over the two years following such authorization at our discretion. As of December 22, 2008, we have purchased an additional aggregate of 42,000 shares at an average purchase price of $11.90 per share in private transactions pursuant to our stock repurchase program. As of December 9, 2008, there were 32 holders of record of our Common Stock, $.01 par value. This does not include the number of persons whose stock is in nominee or “street name” accounts through brokers. 17 [THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK] Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm To the Board of Directors and Shareholders Ark Restaurants Corp. We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Ark Restaurants Corp. and Subsidiaries as of September 27, 2008 and September 29, 2007, and the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended September 27, 2008. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Ark Restaurants Corp. and Subsidiaries as of September 27, 2008 and September 29, 2007, and their consolidated results of operations and cash flows for each of in conformity with accounting principles the two years in the period ended September 27, 2008, generally accepted in the United States of America. /s/ J.H. COHN LLP Jericho, New York December 22, 2008 F-1 ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (In thousands, except per share amounts) September 27, 2008 September 29, 2007 ASSETS CURRENT ASSETS: Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Short-term investments in available-for-sale securities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Accounts receivable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Related party receivables, net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Employee receivables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Current portion of long-term receivables. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Prepaid expenses and other current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assets held-for-sale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Total current assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LONG-TERM RECEIVABLES, LESS CURRENT PORTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FIXED ASSETS—At cost: Leasehold improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Furniture, fixtures and equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Construction in progress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Less accumulated depreciation and amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . FIXED ASSETS—Net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . INTANGIBLE ASSETS—Net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . GOODWILL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TRADEMARKS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DEFERRED INCOME TAXES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OTHER ASSETS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TOTALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY CURRENT LIABILITIES: Accounts payable—trade. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Accrued expenses and other current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Accrued income taxes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Current portion of note payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Total current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPERATING LEASE DEFERRED CREDIT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NOTE PAYABLE, LESS CURRENT PORTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OTHER LIABILITIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TOTAL LIABILITIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES—See Note 11 SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY: Common stock, par value $.01 per share—authorized, 10,000 shares; issued and outstanding of 5,667 and 3,532 shares at September 27, 2008 and 5,667 and 3,597 shares at September 29, 2007, respectively . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Additional paid-in capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Retained earnings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Less stock option receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Less treasury stock, at cost, of 2,135 and 2,070 shares at September 27, 2008 and September 29, 2007, respectively . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Total shareholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TOTALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,978 9,267 2,862 881 281 121 1,556 362 — 18,308 231 31,533 28,372 44 59,949 35,087 24,862 62 4,813 721 4,312 701 $54,010 $ 2,834 5,312 823 195 9,164 3,695 510 157 13,526 2,681 57 22,068 (30) 25,427 47,522 (124) (9,595) 37,803 $54,010 See notes to consolidated financial statements. F-2 $ 4,009 9,201 2,657 1,318 316 114 1,410 649 1,120 20,794 352 27,094 25,692 1,142 53,928 33,880 20,048 80 5,107 721 4,763 316 $52,181 $ 2,404 5,503 1,135 181 9,223 3,771 704 229 13,927 164 57 21,756 49 24,780 46,642 (166) (8,386) 38,090 $52,181 ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (In thousands, except per share amounts) Years Ended September 27, 2008 September 29, 2007 REVENUES Food and beverage sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Other income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $122,934 2,456 Total revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125,390 COST AND EXPENSES: Food and beverage cost of sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Payroll expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Occupancy expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Other operating costs and expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . General and administrative expenses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Depreciation and amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Total cost and expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OPERATING INCOME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32,807 38,325 16,809 15,414 9,157 3,091 115,603 9,787 $115,676 2,145 117,821 30,271 35,630 15,443 14,062 9,046 2,657 107,109 10,712 OTHER (INCOME) EXPENSE: Interest expense. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Interest income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Other income, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 (490) (716) 65 (417) (798) Total other income, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (1,149) (1,150) Income from continuing operations before provision for income taxes and non-controlling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Provision for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Income attributable to non-controlling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10,936 3,676 (299) 6,961 11,862 3,669 (236) 7,957 DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS: Income from operations of discontinued restaurants (includes a net loss on disposal of $19 for the year ended September 27, 2008 and a net gain on disposal of $7,814 for the year ended September 29, 2007, respectively) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Provision for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 9 INCOME FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NET INCOME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 $ 6,978 PER SHARE INFORMATION—BASIC AND DILUTED: Income from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BASIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Income from continuing operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DILUTED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF SHARES—BASIC . . . . . . . . . . . WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF SHARES—DILUTED . . . . . . . $ $ $ $ 1.94 0.00 1.94 1.93 0.00 1.93 3,594 3,608 7,721 2,665 5,056 $ 13,013 $ $ $ $ 2.22 1.41 3.63 2.21 1.40 3.61 3,582 3,607 See notes to consolidated financial statements. F-3 ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS Year Ended September 27, 2008 September 29, 2007 (In thousands) $ 6,978 $ 13,013 CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net income. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Deferred income taxes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stock-based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Depreciation and amortization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (Gain) loss on disposal of discontinued operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Impairment loss on goodwill related to discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . Equity in loss of affiliate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Income attributable to non-controlling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Operating lease deferred credit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Related party receivables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Employee receivables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inventories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Prepaid expenses and other current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Accounts payable - trade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Accrued income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Accrued expenses and other current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Net cash provided by continuing operating activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Net cash provided by (used in) discontinued operating activities . . . . Net cash provided by operating activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Purchases of fixed assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Proceeds from sale of discontinued operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Purchases of investment securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Proceeds from sales of investment securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Payment for purchase of Durgin Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Payments received on long-term receivables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Net cash used in continuing investing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Net cash provided by discontinued investing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Net cash used in investing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Tax benefit on exercise of stock options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Principal payments on note payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dividends paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Exercise of stock options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Purchase of treasury stock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Payments received on stock option receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Capital contributions from non-controlling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Distributions to non-controlling interests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Net cash used in financing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NET DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, Beginning of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, End of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION: Cash paid during the period for: Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 451 312 3,091 19 294 127 299 (76) (205) 437 35 (146) 270 (512) 430 (312) (191) 11,301 56 11,357 (8,080) 1,030 (14,645) 14,500 — 114 (7,081) 153 (6,928) — (180) (6,331) — (1,209) 42 2,500 (282) (5,460) (1,031) 4,009 $ 2,978 $ 57 Income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 3,557 Non-cash investment activity activity: Investment in unconsolidated affiliates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Non-cash financing activity: Debt incurred in connection with acquisition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ $ 298 — See notes to consolidated financial statements. F-4 1,542 408 2,657 (7,814) 537 — 235 (339) (70) 128 78 30 51 148 211 (317) 1,285 11,783 (19) 11,764 (3,655) 14,000 (29,189) 20,037 (2,000) 690 (117) — (117) 81 (115) (16,078) 864 — — — (61) (15,309) (3,662) 7,671 $ 4,009 $ 64 $ 5,969 $ — $ 1,000 ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHODLERS’ EQUITY YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 27, 2008 AND SEPTEMBER 29, 2007 Common Stock Shares Amount Additional Paid-In Capital Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Retained Earnings Stock Option Receivable Treasury Stock Total Shareholders’ Equity BALANCE—September 30, 2006. . . . 5,632 35 Exercise of stock options. . . . . . . . Tax benefit on exercise of stock options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stock-based compensation. . . . . . . Payment of dividends—$4.49 per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Unrealized gain on available- for-sale securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . — — — — — BALANCE—September 29, 2007. . . . 5,667 — Stock-based compensation. . . . . . . Payment of dividends—$1.76 per share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Unrealized loss on available-for- sale securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Repayments on stock option receivable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Purchases of treasury stock . . . . . Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . — — — — — (In thousands) $57 — $20,403 864 $ — — $ 27,845 — $(166) — $(8,386) — $ 39,753 864 — — — — — 57 — — — — — — 81 408 — — — 21,756 312 — — — — — — — — 49 — 49 — — (79) — — — — — (16,078) — 13,013 24,780 — (6,331) — — — 6,978 — — — — — — — — — — (166) — (8,386) — — — 42 — — — — — (1,209) — 81 408 (16,078) 49 13,013 38,090 312 (6,331) (79) 42 (1,209) 6,978 BALANCE—September 27, 2008. . . . 5,667 $57 $22,068 $(30) $ 25,427 $(124) $(9,595) $ 37,803 See notes to consolidated financial statements. F-5 ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 1. Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Ark Restaurants owns and operates 20 restaurants and bars, 30 fast food concepts, catering operations and wholesale and retail bakeries. Seven restaurants are located in New York City, four are located in Washington, D.C., five are located in Las Vegas, Nevada, two are located in Atlantic City, New Jersey, one is located at the Foxwoods Resort Casino in Ledyard, Connecticut and one is located in Boston, Massachusetts. The Las Vegas operations include three restaurants within the New York- New York Hotel & Casino Resort and operation of the hotel’s room service, banquet facilities, employee dining room and nine food court concepts; one bar within the Venetian Casino Resort as well as three food court concepts. In Las Vegas, the Company also owns and operates one restaurant within the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino. The Florida operations under management include five fast food facilities in Tampa, Florida and seven fast food facilities in Hollywood, Florida, each at a Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. In Atlantic City, New Jersey, the Company operates a restaurant and a bar in the Resorts Atlantic City Hotel and Casino. The operations at the Foxwoods Resort Casino include one fast food concept and six fast food concepts at the MGM Grand Casino. In Boston, Massachusetts, the Company operates a restaurant in the Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Accounting Period—The Company’s fiscal year ends on the Saturday nearest September 30. The fiscal years ended September 27, 2008 and September 29, 2007 included 52 weeks. Use of Estimates—The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America 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 financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. The accounting estimates that require management’s most difficult and subjective judgments include allowances for potential bad debts on receivables, inventories, the useful lives and recoverability of its assets, such as property and intangibles, fair values of financial instruments and share-based compensation, the realizable value of its tax assets and other matters. Because of the uncertainty in such estimates, actual results may differ from these estimates. Principles of Consolidation—The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and all of its wholly owned subsidiaries, partnerships and other entities in which it has a controlling interest. Also included in the consolidated financial statements are certain variable interest entities, as discussed below. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities—Effective October 1, 2006, the Company determined that one of its managed restaurants, El Rio Grande (“Rio”), should be presented on a consolidated basis in accordance with the Emerging Issues Task Force No. 04-5, “Determining Whether a General Partner, or the General Partners as a Group, Controls a Limited Partnership or Similar Entity When the Limited Partners Have Certain Rights” (“EITF 04-5”), and as a result included Rio in its consolidated financial statements. The impact of such consolidation was not material to the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations for any period presented. Non-Controlling Interests—Non-controlling interests represent capital contributions, income and loss attributable to the shareholders of less than 100% owned and consolidated partnerships. Fair Value of Financial Instruments—The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, investments, receivables, accounts payable, and accrued expenses approximate fair value due to the immediate or short-term maturity of these financial instruments. The fair value of notes payable is determined using current applicable rates for similar instruments as of the balance sheet date and approximates the carrying value of such debt. Reclassifications—Certain reclassifications of prior year balances have been made to conform to the current year presentation. In connection with the planned or actual sale or closure of various restaurants, the operations of these businesses have been presented as discontinued operations in the the Company has reclassified its statements of consolidated financial statements. Accordingly, F-6 operations and cash flow data for the prior periods presented, in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets” (“SFAS 144”). These dispositions are discussed below in “Recent Restaurant Dispositions.” Cash and Cash Equivalents—Cash and cash equivalents, which primarily consist of money market funds, are stated at cost, which approximates fair value. For financial statement presentation purposes, the Company considers all highly liquid investments having original maturities of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Outstanding checks in excess of account balances, typically vendor payments, payroll and other contractual obligations disbursed after the last day of a reporting period are reported as a current liability in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. Available-For-Sale Securities—Available-for-sale securities consist of United States Treasury Bills, commercial paper, government bonds, corporate bonds and other fixed income securities, all of which have a high degree of liquidity and are reported at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income. The cost of investments in available-for-sale securities is determined on a specific identification basis. Realized gains or losses and declines in value judged to be other than temporary, if any, are reported in other income, net. The Company evaluates its investments periodically for possible impairment and reviews factors such as the length of time and extent to which fair value has been below cost basis and the Company’s ability and intent to hold the investment for a period of time which may be sufficient for anticipated recovery in market value. Concentrations of Credit Risk—Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents. The Company reduces credit risk by placing its cash and cash equivalents with major financial institutions with high credit ratings. At times, such amounts may exceed Federally insured limits. As of September 27, 2008, the Company had cash and cash equivalent balances, primarily consisting of cash deposit accounts, which exceeded the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation limitation for coverage by approximately $1,900,000. Accounts Receivable—Accounts receivable is primarily composed of normal business receivables such as credit card receivables that are paid off in a short period of time and amounts due from our managed outlets and hotel charges, and are recorded when the products or services have been delivered. We review the collectability of our receivables on an ongoing basis, and provide for an allowance when we consider the entity unable to meet its obligation. Inventories—Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or market, and consist of food and beverages, merchandise for sale and other supplies. Revenue Recognition—The Company-owned restaurant sales are composed almost entirely of food and beverage sales. The Company records revenue at the time of the purchase of products by customers. Management fees, which are included in Revenues–Other Income, are related to the Company’s unconsolidated managed restaurants that are not consolidated and are based on either gross restaurant sales or cash flow. The Company recognizes management fee income in the period sales are made or cash flow is generated. The Company offers customers the opportunity to purchase gift certificates. At the time of purchase by the customer, the Company records a gift certificate liability for the face value of the certificate purchased. The Company recognizes the revenue and reduces the gift certificate liability when the certificate is redeemed. The Company does not reduce its recorded liability for potential non- use of purchased gift cards. Additionally, the Company presents sales tax on a net basis in its consolidated financial statements. Fixed Assets—Leasehold improvements and furniture, fixtures and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation of furniture, fixtures and equipment is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the respective assets (three to seven years). Amortization of improvements to leased properties is computed using the straight-line method based upon the initial term of the applicable lease or the estimated useful life of the improvements, whichever is less, and ranges from 5 to 30 years. For leases with renewal periods at the Company’s option, if failure to exercise a renewal option imposes an economic penalty to the Company, management may determine at the inception of F-7 the lease that renewal is reasonably assured and include the renewal option period in the determination of appropriate estimated useful lives. The Company includes in construction in progress improvements in restaurants that are under construction. Once the projects have been completed, the Company will begin depreciating and amortizing the assets. Start-up costs incurred during the construction period of restaurants, including rental of premises, training and payroll, are expensed as incurred. The Company follows Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets”, which requires impairment losses to be recorded on long-lived assets used in operations when indicators of impairment are present and the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by those assets are less than the asset’s carrying amount. In the evaluation of the fair value and future benefits of long-lived assets, the Company performs an analysis of the anticipated undiscounted future net cash flows of the related long-lived assets. If the carrying value of the related asset exceeds the undiscounted cash flows, the carrying value is reduced to its fair value. Various factors including future sales growth and profit margins are included in this analysis. Management believes at this time that carrying values and useful lives continue to be appropriate. For the years ended September 27, 2008 and September 29, 2007, no impairment charges were deemed necessary. Intangible Assets, Goodwill and Trademarks—Intangible assets consist primarily of goodwill, trademarks, purchased leasehold rights and noncompete agreements. Trademarks acquired in connection with the Durgin Park acquisition (see Note 2) are considered to have an indefinite life and are not being amortized. As of September 29, 2002, the Company adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 142, “Accounting for Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets”. This statement requires that for goodwill, including the goodwill included in the carrying value of investments accounted for using the equity method of accounting, and certain other intangible assets deemed to have an indefinite useful life, the Company cease amortization. SFAS No. 142 requires that goodwill and certain intangible assets be assessed for impairment using fair value measurement techniques. Specifically, goodwill impairment is determined using a two-step process. The first step of the goodwill impairment test is to identify potential impairment by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit (the Company is being treated as one reporting unit) with its net book value (or carrying amount), including goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill of the reporting unit is considered not impaired and the second step of the impairment test is unnecessary. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test is performed to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of that goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined in the same manner as the amount of goodwill recognized in a business combination. That is, the fair value of the reporting unit is allocated to all of the assets and liabilities of that unit (including any unrecognized intangible assets) as if the reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and the fair value of the reporting unit was the purchase price paid to acquire the reporting unit. The impairment test for other intangible assets consists of a comparison of the fair value of the intangible asset with its carrying value. If the carrying value of the intangible asset exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. Determining the fair value of the reporting unit under the first step of the goodwill impairment test and determining the fair value of individual assets and liabilities of the reporting unit (including unrecognized intangible assets) under the second step of the goodwill impairment test is judgmental in nature and often involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. Similarly, estimates and assumptions are used in determining the fair value of other intangible assets. These estimates and assumptions could have a significant impact on whether or not an impairment charge is recognized and also the magnitude of any such charge. To assist in the process of determining goodwill impairment. In addition to the use of independent valuation firms, the Company performs internal valuation analyses and considers other market information that is publicly available. Estimates of fair value are primarily determined using discounted cash flows, market comparisons and recent transactions. These approaches use significant estimates and assumptions including projected future cash flows (including timing), a F-8 discount rate reflecting the risk inherent in future cash flows, perpetual growth rate, determination of appropriate market comparables and the determination of whether a premium or discount should be applied to comparables. Based on the above policy, approximately $294,000 and $100,000 of goodwill impairment expense was recorded during fiscal years 2008 and 2007, respectively, in connection with restaurant dispositions. Costs associated with acquiring leases and subleases, principally purchased leasehold rights, have been capitalized and are being amortized on the straight-line method based upon the initial terms of the applicable lease agreements, which range from 9 to 20 years. Covenants not to compete arising from restaurant acquisitions are amortized over the contractual period, typically five years. Amortization expense for intangible assets not including goodwill was $18,000 and $20,000 for fiscal years ended 2008 and 2007, respectively. Leases—The Company is obligated under various lease agreements for certain restaurants. The Company recognizes rent expense on a straight-line basis over the expected lease term, including option periods as described below. Within the provisions of certain leases there are escalations in payments over the base lease term, as well as renewal periods. The effects of the escalations have been reflected in rent expense on a straight-line basis over the expected lease term, which includes option periods when it is deemed to be reasonably assured that the Company would incur an economic penalty for not exercising the option. Percentage rent expense is generally based upon sales levels and is expensed as incurred. Certain leases include both base rent and percentage rent. The Company records rent expense on these leases based upon reasonably assured sales levels. The consolidated financial statements reflect the same lease terms for amortizing leasehold improvements as were used in calculating straight-line rent expense for each restaurant. The judgments of the Company may produce materially different amounts of amortization and rent expense than would be reported if different lease terms were used. Operating Lease Deferred Credit—Several of the Company’s operating leases contain predeter- mined increases in the rentals payable during the term of such leases. For these leases, the aggregate rental expense over the lease term is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. The excess of the expense charged to operations in any year and amounts payable under the leases during that year are recorded as deferred credits that reverse over the lease term. Occupancy Expenses—Occupancy expenses include rent, rent taxes, real estate taxes, insurance and utility costs. Defined Contribution Plans—The Company offers a defined contribution savings plan (the “Plan”) to all of its full-time employees. Eligible employees may contribute pre-tax amounts to the Plan subject to the Internal Revenue Code limitations. Company contributions to the Plan are at the discretion of the Board of Directors. During the years ended September 27, 2008, and September 29, 2007, the Company did not make any contributions to the Plan. Income Taxes—Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for future tax consequences attributable to the temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the period that includes the enactment date. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. In June 2006, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109” (“FIN 48”). FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in financial statements in accordance with FASB Statement No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes.” FIN 48 prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. FIN 48 also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition. The Company adopted F-9 the provisions of FIN 48 during the first fiscal quarter of 2008. The adoption of FIN 48 had no impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operation or cash flows, nor did the Company have any related interest or penalties. As a result of the implementation, the Company recognized no material adjustment to the liability for unrecognized income tax benefits that existed as of September 29, 2007. It is the Company’s policy to recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions as a component of income tax expense. Non-controlling interests relating to the income or loss of consolidated partnerships includes no provision for income taxes as any tax liability related thereto is the responsibility of the individual minority investors. Income Per Share of Common Stock—Basic net income per share is computed in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (“SFAS”) No. 128, Earnings Per Share, and is calculated on the basis of the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each period. Diluted net income per share reflects the additional dilutive effect of potentially dilutive shares (principally those arising from the assumed exercise of stock options). Share-based Compensation—Effective October 2, 2005, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123R, “Share-Based Payment” (“SFAS 123R”), and related interpretations and began expensing the grant-date fair value of employee stock options. Prior to October 2, 2005, the Company applied Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” and related interpretations in accounting for its stock option plans. Accordingly, prior to October 2, 2005, no compensation expense has been recognized for employee stock options, as options granted had an exercise price equal to the market value of the underlying common stock on the date of grant. Upon adoption of SFAS 123R, the Company elected to value employee stock options using the Black-Scholes option valuation method that uses assumptions that relate to the expected volatility of the Company’s common stock, the expected dividend yield of our stock, the expected life of the options and the risk free interest rate. On October 2, 2005, the Company adopted SFAS 123R using the modified prospective transition method and therefore has not restated prior periods. Under this transition method, compensation cost associated with employee stock options recognized during fiscal 2006 includes amortization related to the remaining unvested portion of stock awards granted prior to October 2, 2005. During fiscal year 2007, the Company granted options to purchase 105,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $32.15. No options were granted during fiscal year 2008. Prior to the adoption of SFAS 123R, the Company presented tax benefits resulting from share- based compensation as operating cash flows in the consolidated statements of cash flows. SFAS 123R requires that cash flows resulting from tax deductions in excess of compensation cost recognized in the financial statements be classified as an operating cash outflow and a financing cash inflow. Compensation cost charged to operations for the fiscal years ended 2008 and 2007 for share-based compensation programs was approximately $312,000 and $408,000, before tax benefits of approximately $108,000 and $139,000, respectively. The compensation cost recognized is classified as a general and administrative expense in the consolidated statements of operations. In November 2005, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. FAS 123R-3 “Transition Election Related to Accounting for the Tax Effects of Share-Based Payment Awards” (“FAS 123R-3”). The Company has elected to adopt the alternative transition method provided in this FASB Staff Position for calculating the tax effects of share-based compensation pursuant to FAS 123R-3. The alternative transition method includes a simplified method to establish the beginning balance of the additional paid-in capital pool (APIC pool) related to the effects of employee share-based compensation, which is available to absorb tax deficiencies recognized subsequent to the adoption of SFAS 123R. F-10 A summary of stock option activity is presented below: Options Outstanding as September 29, 2007 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Exercised. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Outstanding at September 27, 2008. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shares 271,500 — — 271,500 Exercisable at September 27, 2008 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219,000 $30.21 Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted Average Fair Value Weighted Average Contractual Term (Yrs.) Aggregate Intrinsic Value $30.59 — — $30.59 $9.22 — — $9.22 $8.80 8.01 — — 7.01 6.71 $— $— The Company, generally, issues new shares upon the exercise of employee stock options. Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements—In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“SFAS 157”), which, among other requirements, defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about the use of fair value to measure assets and liabilities. SFAS 157 prescribes a single definition of fair value as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. For financial instruments and certain nonfinancial assets and liabilities that are recognized or disclosed at fair value on a recurring basis at least annually, SFAS 157 is effective beginning the first fiscal year that begins after November 15, 2007, which corresponds to the Company’s fiscal year beginning September 28, 2008. For all other nonfinancial assets and liabilities the effective date of SFAS 157 has been delayed to the first fiscal year beginning after November 15, 2008, which corresponds to the Company’s fiscal year beginning October 4, 2009. The Company is evaluating the effect SFAS 157 will have on its consolidated financial statements, but it currently does not expect the effect to be material. In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities” (“SFAS 159”), which permits measurement of recognized financial assets and liabilities at fair value with certain exceptions such as investments in subsidiaries, obligations for pension or other postretirement benefits, and financial assets and financial liabilities recognized under leases. Changes in the fair value of items for which the fair value option is elected should be recognized in income or loss. The election to measure eligible items at fair value is irrevocable and can only be made at defined election dates or events, generally on an instrument by instrument basis. Items for which the fair value option is elected should be separately presented or parenthetically be disclosed in the statement of financial position. SFAS 159 also requires significant new disclosures that apply for interim and annual financial statements. SFAS 159 shall be effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007 with earlier adoption permitted, if certain conditions are met. The effect of the first remeasurement to fair value of eligible items existing would be reported as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings as of the date of adoption, which corresponds to the Company’s fiscal year beginning September 28, 2008. The Company is currently evaluating SFAS 159 and determining whether to elect the fair value option for certain financial assets and liabilities. In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (Revised), “Business Combinations” (SFAS 141R), which establishes principles and requirements for the reporting entity in a business combination, including recognition and measurement in the financial statements of the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree. This statement also establishes disclosure requirements to enable financial statement users to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. SFAS 141R applies prospectively to business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2008. SFAS 141R will become effective for our fiscal year beginning October 4, 2009. In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements—an amendment of ARB” No. 51, (“SFAS 160”), which amends Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51, “Consolidated Financial Statements” (“ARB No. 51”), to establish accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. This standard defines a noncontrolling interest, previously referred to as minority interest, as the portion of equity in a subsidiary not attributable, directly or indirectly, to a parent. SFAS 160 F-11 requires, among other items, that a noncontrolling interest be included in the consolidated balance sheet within equity separate from the parent’s equity; consolidated net income to be reported at amounts inclusive of both the parent’s and noncontrolling interest’s shares and, separately, the amounts of consolidated net income attributable to the parent and noncontrolling interest all on the consolidated statement of income; and if a subsidiary is deconsolidated, any retained noncontrolling equity investment in the former subsidiary be measured at fair value and a gain or loss be recognized in net income based on such fair value. SFAS 160 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, which corresponds to the Company’s fiscal year beginning October 4, 2009. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact of adopting SFAS 160 on its consolidated financial statements. In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,—an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133” (“SFAS 161”), which requires enhanced disclosures about an entity’s derivative and hedging activities and thereby improves the transparency of financial reporting. The objective of the guidance is to provide users of financial statements with an enhanced understanding of how and why an entity uses derivative instruments; how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for; and how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. SFAS 161 is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after November 15, 2008, which corresponds to the Company’s quarterly period beginning December 28, 2008. Management is currently evaluating the impact SFAS 161 will have on the Company’s consolidated financial statements, but it currently does not expect the effect to be material. In April 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position 142-3, “Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets” (“FSP FAS 142-3”), which amends the list of factors an entity should consider in developing renewal or extension assumptions in determining the useful life of recognized intangible assets under FAS No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. The new guidance applies to (1) intangible assets that are acquired individually or with a group of other assets and (2) intangible assets acquired in both business combinations and asset acquisitions. Under FSP FAS 142-3, entities estimating the useful life of a recognized intangible asset must consider their historical experience in renewing or extending similar arrangements or, in the absence of historical experience, must consider assumptions that market participants would use about renewal or extension. FSP FAS 142-3 will require certain additional disclosures beginning October 1, 2009 and prospective application to useful life estimates prospectively for intangible assets acquired after September 20, 2009. The Company is in the process of evaluating the impact that the adoption of FSP FAS 142-3 may have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.” SFAS No. 162 identifies the sources of accounting principles and provides entities with a framework for selecting the principles used in preparation of financial statements that are presented in conformity with GAAP. The current GAAP hierarchy has been criticized because it is directed to the auditor rather than the entity, it is complex, and it ranks FASB Statements of Financial Accounting Concepts, which are subject to the same level of due process as FASB Statements of Financial Accounting Standards, below industry practices that are widely recognized as generally accepted but that are not subject to due process. The Board believes the GAAP hierarchy should be directed to entities because it is the entity (not its auditors) that is responsible for selecting accounting principles for financial statements that are presented in conformity with GAAP. SFAS No. 162 is effective November 15, 2008. The adoption of SFAS No. 162 does not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements. 2. Acquisition On January 8, 2007, the Company acquired the operating assets and leasehold for the Durgin Park Restaurant and the Black Horse Tavern in Boston, Massachusetts for $2,000,000 in cash and a $1,000,000 five year promissory note bearing interest at a rate of 7% per year. F-12 The following summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired at the acquisition date (in thousands): Fixed Assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Trademarks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Goodwill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 513 721 1,766 Total Purchase Price . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $3,000 The difference between the aggregate purchase price and fair value of the assets acquired has been recorded as goodwill and trademarks based on a valuation of the assets acquired. Unaudited pro forma financial information has not been presented as it has been deemed immaterial to the financial position, results of operations and cash flows. 3. Recent Restaurant Expansion In 2006, the Company entered into an agreement to lease space for a Mexican restaurant, Yolos, at the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino (formerly known as the Aladdin Resort and Casino) in Las Vegas, Nevada. The obligation to pay rent for Yolos commenced when the restaurant opened for business in January 2008. In June 2007, the Company entered into an agreement to design and lease a food court at the MGM Grand Casino at the Foxwoods Resort Casino which commenced operations during the third fiscal quarter of 2008. A limited liability company has been established to develop, construct, operate is the managing and manage the food court. The Company, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, member of this limited liability company and has an aggregate ownership interest in the food court operations of 67%. Such operations have been consolidated as of and for the fiscal year ended September 27, 2008. In June 2008, the Company signed two successive one-year agreements to use certain deck space adjacent to the Sequoia location in New York City as a Cafe´ . In June 2008, the Company entered into an agreement to design and lease a restaurant at The Museum of Arts & Design at Columbus Circle in New York City. The initial term of the lease for this facility will expire on December 31 sixteen years after the date the Museum first opens for business to the public following its current refurbishment and will have two five-year renewals. The Company anticipates the restaurant will open during the third quarter of the 2009 fiscal year. 4. Recent Restaurant Dispositions During the first fiscal quarter of 2008, the Company discontinued the operation of our Columbus Bakery retail and wholesale bakery located in New York City. Columbus Bakery was originally intended to serve as the bakery that would provide all of our New York restaurants with baked goods as well as being a retail bakery operation. As a result of the sale and closure of several of our restaurants in New York City during the last several years, this bakery operation was no longer profitable. During the second fiscal quarter of 2008, the Company opened, along with certain third party investors, a new concept at this location called “Pinch & S’Mac” which features pizza and macaroni and cheese. We contributed Columbus Bakery’s net fixed assets and cash into this venture and received an ownership interest of 37.5%. These operations are not consolidated in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Effective June 30, 2008, the lease for the Company’s Stage Deli facility at the Forum Shops in Las Vegas, Nevada expired. The landlord for this facility offered to renew the lease at this location prior to its expiration at a significantly increased rent. The Company determined that it would not be able to operate this facility profitably at this location at the rent offered in the landlord’s renewal proposal. As a result, the Company discontinued these operations during the third fiscal quarter of 2008 and took a charge for the impairment of goodwill of $294,000 and recorded a loss on disposal of $19,000. The impairment charge and disposal loss are included in discontinued operations. Operations for the fiscal F-13 years ending September 27, 2008 and September 29, 2007 have been reclassified as discontinued operations. As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company accounts for its closed restaurants in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 144. Therefore, when the Company makes a decision to close a restaurant, the restaurant’s operations are eliminated from the ongoing operations. Accordingly, the operations of such restaurants, net of applicable income taxes, are presented as discontinued operations and prior period operations of such restaurants, net of applicable income taxes, are reclassified. Discontinued operations consist of the following: Revenues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Income before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Income from discontinued restaurants, net of taxes . . . . . $3,100 26 $ 17 $ $7,729 $7,721 $5,056 Years Ended September 27, 2008 September 29, 2007 (In thousands) 5. Investment Securities The amortized cost, gross unrealized holding gains, gross unrealized holding losses, and fair value of available-for-sale securities by major type and class at September 27, 2008 and September 29, 2007 are as follows (in thousands): Amortized Cost Gross Unrealized Holding Gains Gross Unrealized Holding Losses Fair Value At September 27, 2008 Available-for-sale short-term: Government debt securities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Corporate debt securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . At September 29, 2007 Available-for-sale short-term: Government debt securities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Corporate debt securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $8,897 400 $9,297 $3,130 6,022 $9,152 $— — $— $14 35 $49 $(30) — $(30) $ — — $ — $8,867 400 $9,267 $3,144 6,057 $9,201 6. Long-Term Receivables In March 2005, the Company sold a restaurant for $1,300,000. Cash of $600,000 was included on the sale. Of the $600,000 cash, $200,000 was paid to the Company as a fee to manage the restaurant for four months prior to closure and the balance was paid directly to the landlord. The remaining $700,000 will be received in the form of a note receivable, at an interest rate of 6%, in installments through June 2011. As of September 27, 2008, the Company was due $352,000, of this $231,000 was long-term and $121,000 was current. As of September 29, 2007, the Company was due $466,000, of this $352,000 was long-term and $114,000 was current. The carrying value of the Company’s long-term receivables approximates their current aggregate fair value. F-14 7. Intangible Assets Intangible assets consist of the following: Purchased leasehold rights (a) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Noncompete agreements and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Less accumulated amortization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Total intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 27, 2008 September 29, 2007 (In thousands) $2,343 322 2,665 2,603 62 $ $2,377 412 2,789 2,709 80 $ (a) Purchased leasehold rights arise from acquiring leases and subleases of various restaurants. 8. Goodwill and Trademarks is not presently amortized but Goodwill is the excess of cost over fair market value of tangible and intangible net assets acquired. Goodwill tested for impairment annually or when the facts or circumstances indicate a possible impairment of goodwill as a result of a continual decline in performance or as a result of fundamental changes in a market in accordance with SFAS No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. Trademarks, which have indefinite lives, are not currently amortized and are tested for impairment annually or when facts or circumstances indicate a possible impairment as a result of a continual decline in performance or as a result of fundamental changes in a market. The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill and trademarks for the years ended September 27, 2008 and September 29, 2007 are as follows (in thousands): Goodwill Trademarks Total Balance as of September 30, 2006. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Acquired during the year. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Impairment losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Balance as of September 29, 2007. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Acquired during the year. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Impairment losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $3,441 1,766 (100) 5,107 — (294) $ — 721 — 721 — — $3,441 2,487 (100) 5,828 — (294) Balance as of September 27, 2008. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4,318 $721 $5,534 9. Other Assets Other assets consist of the following: Deposits and other. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Investments in unconsolidated affiliates (a) . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 27, 2008 September 29, 2007 (In thousands) $403 298 $701 $316 — $316 (a) During the second fiscal quarter of 2008, we opened, along with certain third party investors, a new concept at our former Columbus Bakery location called “Pinch & S’Mac” which features pizza and macaroni and cheese. We contributed Columbus Bakery’s net fixed assets and cash into this venture and received an ownership interest of 37.5%. These operations are not consolidated in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Included in Other income, net for fiscal 2008 is our losses of approximately $127,000 related to this affiliate. F-15 10. Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consist of the following: Sales tax payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Accrued wages and payroll related costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Customer advance deposits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Accrued and other liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 27, 2008 September 29, 2007 (In thousands) $ 766 1,623 1,586 1,337 $5,312 $ 694 1,355 1,666 1,788 $5,503 11. Commitments and Contingencies Leases—The Company leases its restaurants, bar facilities, and administrative headquarters through its subsidiaries under terms expiring at various dates through 2032. Most of the leases provide for the payment of base rents plus real estate taxes, insurance and other expenses and, in certain instances, for the payment of a percentage of the restaurants’ sales in excess of stipulated amounts at such facility. As of September 27, 2008, future minimum lease payments under noncancelable leases are as follows: Fiscal Year 2009. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2010. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2011. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2012. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2013. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Thereafter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Amount (In thousands) $ 7,188 7,035 6,927 6,178 5,833 25,879 Total minimum payments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $59,040 In connection with certain of the leases included in the table above, the Company obtained and delivered irrevocable letters of credit in the aggregate amount of $1,042,000 as security deposits under such leases. Rent expense was $13,235,000 and $11,876,000 during the fiscal years ended September 27, 2008 and September 29, 2007, respectively. Contingent rentals, included in rent expense, were $4,931,000 and $4,331,000 for the fiscal years ended September 27, 2008 and September 29, 2007, respectively. In June 2008, the Company signed two successive one-year agreements to use certain deck space adjacent to the Sequoia location in New York City as a Cafe´ . In June 2008, the Company entered into an agreement to design and lease a restaurant at The Museum of Arts & Design at Columbus Circle in New York City. The initial term of the lease for this facility will expire on December 31 sixteen years after the date the Museum first opens for business to the public following its current refurbishment and will have two five-year renewals. The Company anticipates the restaurant will open during the second quarter of the 2009 fiscal year. The future minimum lease payments from the above noted leases are included in the above schedule. Legal Proceedings—In the ordinary course of its business, the Company is a party to various lawsuits arising from accidents at its restaurants and worker’s compensation claims, which are generally handled by the Company’s insurance carriers. The employment by the Company of management personnel, waiters, waitresses and kitchen staff at a number of different restaurants has resulted in the institution, from time to time, of litigation alleging violation by the Company of employment discrimination laws. The Company does not believe that any of such suits will have a materially adverse effect upon the Company’s consolidated financial statements. F-16 12. Common Stock Repurchase Plan On March 25, 2008, the Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program under which up to 500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock may be acquired in the open market over the two years following such authorization at the Company’s discretion. As of September 27, 2008, the Company has purchased an aggregate of 64,954 shares at an average purchase price of $18.61 in the open market pursuant to the stock repurchase program. 13. Stock Options The Company has options outstanding under two stock option plans, the 1996 Stock Option Plan (the “1996 Plan) and the 2004 Stock Option Plan (the “2004 Plan”). In 2004 the Company terminated the 1996 Plan. This action terminated the 257,000 authorized but unissued options under the 1996 Plan but it did not affect any of the options previously issued under the 1996 Plan. Options granted under the 1996 Plan are exercisable at prices at least equal to the fair market value of such stock on the dates the options were granted. The options expire five years after the date of grant and are generally exercisable as to 25% of the shares commencing on the first anniversary of the date of grant and as to an additional 25% commencing on each of the second, third and fourth anniversaries of the grant date. Options granted under the 2004 Plan are exercisable at prices at least equal to the fair market value of such stock on the dates the options were granted. The options expire ten years after the date of grant. During fiscal 2005, options to purchase 194,000 shares of common stock were granted and are exercisable as to 50% of the shares commencing on the first anniversary of the date of grant and as to an additional 50% commencing on the second anniversary of the date of grant. During fiscal 2007, options to purchase 105,000 shares of common stock were granted and are exercisable as to 25% of the shares commencing on the first anniversary of the date of grant and as to an additional 25% commencing on each of the second, third and fourth anniversaries of the grant date. Additional information as of the end of each respective fiscal year is as follows: Outstanding, beginning of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Options: Granted. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canceled or expired . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Outstanding, end of year (a) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2008 2007 Weighted Average Exercise Price Shares Shares Weighted Average Exercise Price 271,500 $30.59 202,000 $28.68 — — — 271,500 — — — $30.59 105,000 (35,500) — 271,500 32.15 24.35 — $30.59 Exercise price, outstanding options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Weighted average years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shares available for future grant (b) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Options exercisable (a) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $29.60–32.15 7.01 Years 151,000 219,000 $30.21 $29.60–32.15 8.01 Years 151,000 166,500 $29.60 (a) Options become exercisable at various times expiring through 2016. (b) The 2004 Stock Option Plan, which was approved by shareholders, is the Company’s only equity compensation plan currently in effect. Under the 2004 Stock Option Plan, 450,000 options were authorized for future grant and 194,000 of these options were issued during fiscal 2005. During fiscal 2007, the Company issued an additional 105,000 of these options with a grant date weighted average of $10.94. The Company, with the approval of the shareholders, terminated the 1996 Stock option Plan. This action terminated the 257,000 authorized but unissued options under the 1996 Stock Option Plan but it did not affect any of the options previously issued under the 1996 Stock Option Plan. F-17 As of September 27, 2008, there was approximately $535,000 of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock options, which is expected to be recognized over a period of approximately two years. 14. Management Fee Income As of September 27, 2008, the Company provides management services to two fast food courts and one fast food unit it does not wholly own. In accordance with the contractual arrangements, the Company earns management fees based on gross sales or cash flow as defined by the agreements. Management fee income relating to these services was approximately $2,368,000 and $1,929,000 for the years ended September 27, 2008 and September 29, 2007, respectively. Such amount for the year ended September 27, 2008 included approximately $968,000 for management fees and $1,400,000 for profit distributions. Such amount for the year ended September 29, 2007 included approximately $629,000 for management fees and $1,300,000 for profit distributions. Receivables from managed restaurants, classified as Related Party receivable in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets, were $881,000 and $1,318,000 at September 27, 2008 and September 29, 2007, respectively. Such amount at September 27, 2008 included $881,000 for expense advances. Such amount at September 29, 2007 included $206,000 for management fees and $1,112,000 for expense advances. Managed restaurants had sales of $15,062,000 and $14,861,000 during the management periods within the years ended September 27, 2008 and September 29, 2007, which are not included in consolidated net sales of the Company. 15. Income Taxes The provision for income taxes attributable to continuing and discontinued operations consists of the following: Current provision: Federal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . State and local . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Deferred provision: Federal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . State and local . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The effective tax rate differs from the U.S. income tax rate as follows: Provision at Federal statutory rate (35% in 2008 and 2007). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . State and local income taxes net of tax benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tax credits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . State and local net operating loss carryforward allowance adjustment. . . . . Income attributable to Variable Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-18 Years Ended September 27, 2008 September 29, 2007 (In thousands) $2,648 586 3,234 301 150 451 $3,685 $4,579 213 4,792 1,166 376 1,542 $6,334 Years Ended September 27, 2008 September 29, 2007 (In thousands) $3,837 575 (541) 1 (105) (82) $3,685 $6,794 341 (819) 27 — (9) $6,334 Deferred income taxes reflect the net effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting and tax purposes. Significant components of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows: September 27, 2008 September 29, 2007 (In thousands) Long-term deferred tax assets (liabilities): Operating loss carryforwards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Operating lease deferred credits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carryforward tax credits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Depreciation and amortization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Deferred compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pension withdrawal liability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Total long-term deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Deferred gains. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Partnership investments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Valuation allowance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Total long-term deferred tax liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,088 1,420 — 301 753 61 91 4,714 (60) (89) (253) (402) $2,330 1,497 777 (44) 632 89 — 5,281 (266) — (252) (518) Total net deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4,312 $4,763 In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, Management considers whether it is more likely than not that that the deferred tax assets will be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income. The deferred tax valuation allowance of $253,000 and $252,000 as of September 27, 2008 and September 29, 2007, respectively, was attributable to state and local net operating loss carryforwards. As of September 27, 2008, the Company has approximately of $20,525,000 of state and local net operating loss carryforwards which expire in various years beginning in the years 2015 through 2028. The Company adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes (“FIN 48”), on September 30, 2007. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties, is as follows: Balance at September 29, 2007 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $315,000 Increases in tax positions for prior years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Decreases in tax positions for prior years. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Increases in tax positions for current year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Decreases in tax positions for current year: — — — Settlements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lapse in statute of limitations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (23,000) — Balance at September 27, 2008 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $292,000 The entire amount of unrecognized tax benefits if recognized would reduce our annual effective tax rate. As of September 30, 2007, the Company had approximately $37,000 of accrued interest and penalties and $60,000 as of September 27, 2008. The Company does not expect its unrecognized tax benefits to change significantly over the next 12 months. Inherent uncertainties exist in estimates of tax contingencies due to changes in tax law, both legislated and concluded through the various jurisdictions’ tax court systems. The Company’s tax return for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2006 is currently under audit by the Internal Revenue Service. Management does not expect a material adjustment to the Company’s financial position or results of operations upon completion of this examination. The Company files in the U.S. and various state and local income tax returns in jurisdictions with varying statutes of limitations. The 2004 through 2007 tax years generally remain subject to examination by Federal and most state and local tax authorities. F-19 16. Other Income Other income consists of the following: Purchase service fees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Equity in loss of an unconsolidated affiliate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17. Income Per Share of Common Stock Years Ended September 27, 2008 September 29, 2007 (In thousands) $ 74 (127) 769 $ 716 $ 76 — 722 $798 A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of computations for the fiscal years ended September 27, 2008 and September 29, 2007 follows: the basic and diluted per share Net Income (Numerator) Per-Share Amount (In thousands, except per share amounts) Shares (Denominator) Years ended Sptember 27, 2008 Basic EPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stock options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Diluted EPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Years ended Sptember 29, 2007 Basic EPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stock options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Diluted EPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 6,978 — $ 6,978 $13,013 — $13,013 3,594 14 3,608 3,582 25 3,607 $ 1.94 (0.01) $ 1.93 $ 3.63 (0.02) $ 3.61 For the fiscal years ended September 27, 2008 and September 29, 2007, all outstanding stock options were included in the computation of diluted EPS. 18. Stock Option Receivables Stock option receivables include amounts due from officers and directors totaling $124,000 at September 27, 2008 and $166,000 at September 29, 2007. Such amounts which are due from the exercise of stock options in accordance with the Company’s Stock Option Plan are payable on demand with interest (5.0% at September 27, 2008 and 8.25% at September 29, 2007). 19. Related Party Transactions Receivables due from officers and directors, excluding stock option receivables, totaled $37,000 at September 27, 2008 and September 29, 2007. Other employee loans totaled $244,000 at September 27, 2008 and $279,000 at September 29, 2007. Such loans bear interest at the minimum statutory rate (2.36% at September 27, 2008 and 4.88% at September 29, 2007). 20. Subsequent Events The Company has purchased an aggregate of 42,000 shares at an average purchase price of $11.90 pursuant to the stock repurchase program. * * * * * * F-20 CORPORATE INFORMATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Michael Weinstein Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Robert Towers President, Chief Operating Officer and Treasurer Vincent Pascal Senior Vice President—Operations and Secretary Paul Gordon Senior Vice President—Director of Las Vegas Operations Marcia Allen President, Allen & Associates Bruce R. Lewin Chairman and President, Continental Hosts, Ltd. Steve Shulman President, Managing Director, Hampton Group Inc. Arthur Stainman Senior Managing Director, First Manhattan Co. Stephen Novick Senior Advisor, Andrea and Charles Bronfman Philanthropies EXECUTIVE OFFICE 85 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10003 (212) 206-8800 TRANSFER AGENT Continental Stock Transfer 17 Battery Place New York, NY 10004 AUDITORS J.H. Cohn LLP 1212 Avenue of the Americas New York, NY 10036 

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