TGI Fridays Signs Landmark U.S. Development Agreement, Expanding Domestic Footprint

Bliss Bites LLC Will Operate Six Restaurants in New York State, Including Fridays' Central Islip Location

Marks Fridays' first U.S. development agreement in 10 years, executing against its "1-2-3 Strategic Vision"

DALLAS, Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- TGI Fridays®, where the world goes to celebrate, today announced a development agreement with Bliss Bites LLC to open five new Fridays restaurants across New York State. The agreement marks the company's first domestic development agreement in more than a decade, reenergizing its growth plans in the U.S.

The agreement advances the momentum of Fridays' "1-2-3 Strategic Vision," its comprehensive growth plan charting a path to more than 1,000 units and $2 billion in annual revenue by 2030. Anchored by its four strategic pillars - activating the brand, flexible growth across markets, a strengthened franchise system, and performance through people - the vision is designed to pair the brand's heritage with disciplined, franchisee-led expansion. The Bliss Bites agreement is an early, tangible example of that strategy playing out domestically, reflecting confidence in Fridays' position in an outperforming U.S. casual dining market. Fridays opened its first restaurant on Manhattan's Upper East Side in 1965, and the state remains a meaningful part of its history as the company grows its footprint in the U.S. today. 

"Growth only matters when it's built with the right partners, and this five-restaurant development agreement is exactly what we envisioned for our "1-2-3 Strategic Vision," said Ashley Kirkley, Chief Operating Officer of TGI Fridays®. "We're bringing passionate franchisees into the Fridays family, building in markets where this iconic brand belongs, and creating restaurants that deliver the energy, hospitality, and celebration our guests expect from Fridays. Guests are increasingly looking for casual dining that delivers real value without sacrificing experience, and Fridays is well positioned to meet that demand as we grow. New York is an important part of our domestic growth story, and we're excited to welcome our newest franchisee."

Bliss Bites LLC is led by Vinod Chand, Owner and Managing Director, who brings more than 35 years of hospitality experience to Fridays. In addition to the development of five new restaurants over three years, Bliss Bites has also acquired Fridays' existing location in Central Islip, New York, bringing the franchisee's total New York portfolio to six restaurants. Chand was drawn to the brand's culture of celebration and hospitality, bold flavors and experiences, and franchisee support.

"TGI Fridays® is an iconic, one-of-a-kind brand backed by an incredible team that celebrates its guests and takes real pride in Americana hospitality," said Vinod Chand, Owner and Managing Director, Bliss Bites LLC. "Between our restaurant in Central Islip and the new locations we're planning across New York, we're building on a brand I already believe in, backed by the kind of corporate support that makes long-term growth possible. This is just the beginning."

To learn more about TGI Fridays® franchise opportunities, please visit www.tgifridays.com/franchise/.

About TGI Fridays®
Founded in 1965 as the world's first casual bar and grill, TGI Fridays® is where the world goes to celebrate. Operating nearly 400 restaurants in almost 40 countries, Fridays® brings people together through its craveable American classics, legendary cocktails and that unmistakable Fridays® feeling - all brought to life by its rockstar teams. Whether it's full-service dining or bold-format convenience, TGI Fridays® franchise-first approach, operational excellence, and brand power are built to scale. Franchisees are supported by global hubs in Dallas, Dubai and London, complemented by regional resources in select markets. Visit www.tgifridays.com for more information, join Fridays Rewards®, and follow TGI Fridays® on social media: Instagram @tgifridays, Tik Tok @tgifridays, Facebook TGI Fridays, and LinkedIn TGI Fridays. 

About Bliss Bites Holdings
Bliss Bites Holdings is a hospitality company founded and led by Vinod Chand, an industry veteran with more than 35 years of experience. Created with a vision to deliver exceptional food, genuine hospitality, and memorable guest experiences, Bliss Bites Holdings develops distinctive concepts designed for today's guests. Guided by innovation, operational experience, and a people-first philosophy, the company is committed to creating hospitality experiences that bring people together and keep them coming back. Learn more about Bliss Bites Holdings.com

Media Contact: [email protected] 

SOURCE TGI Fridays