Darden Restaurants (NYSE:DRI) Stock

DARDEN RESTAURANTS INC

Darden Restaurants

Darden Restaurants is the largest restaurant operator in the US full-service space, with consolidated revenue of $11.4 billion in fiscal 2024 resulting in 3%-4% full-service market share (per NRA data and our calculations). The company maintains a portfolio of 11 restaurant brands: Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, Ruth's Chris, Yard House, The Capital Grille, Seasons 52, Eddie V's, Bahama Breeze, The Capital Burger, and most recently, Chuy's. Darden generates revenue almost exclusively from company-owned restaurants, though a small network of franchised restaurants and consumer-packaged goods sales through the traditional grocery channel contribute modestly. As of the end of its fiscal 2024, the company operated 2,031 restaurants in the US.

Darden Restaurants Inc

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Live On CNBC, Josh Brown Hosts Segment Titled "Best Stock Spotlight: Darden"

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Shares of companies within the broader consumer discretionary sector are trading higher, possibly amid overall market strength after President Trump delayed 50% EU tariffs to July.

PENN Entertainment Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PENN#NASDAQ">PENN</a>) and Shake Shack Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHAK#NYSE">SHAK</a>) have entered into a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/05/b45540238/shake-shack-and-penn-entertainment-team-up-to-bring-popular-burger-brand-to-ten-penn-properties" rel="noreferrer noopener">licensing agreement</a> to bring the popular fast-casual burger chain to ten PENN-owned casino properties across the United States.
The companies announced the deal Wednesday, revealing that, pending regulatory approval, the first two Shake Shack locations, in Hollywood Casino Toledo in Ohio and River City Casino Hotel in St. Louis, Missouri, will open in 2026.
The rollout aims to blend Shake Shack's premium food offerings with PENN's gaming and hospitality experience.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44909706" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tariff Pressures Could Reshape Restaurant Buildout Economics, Says Analyst</a>
Shake Shack plans to broaden its geographic footprint through this partnership while exploring nontraditional venues. The new outlets at PENN properties will feature the brand's hallmark menu and hospitality, marking its entry into the entertainment sector.
Michael Kark, Shake Shack's President of Global Licensing, noted the collaboration enables the company to "take a meaningful step into the entertainment space."
For PENN, the partnership represents a move to elevate food and beverage options at its properties nationwide. Todd George, Executive Vice President of Operations, said the initiative aligns with the company's ongoing strategy to modernize its offerings and appeal to evolving consumer preferences. "Shake Shack is a well-known brand that resonates with customers," he said.
While exact locations for the remaining eight Shacks have yet to be announced, the partnership signifies a broader trend of integrating popular culinary brands into casino environments to attract diverse demographics and enhance the overall guest experience.
Related ETFs: Invesco Dynamic Leisure and Entertainment ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PEJ#NYSE">PEJ</a>), AdvisorShares Restaurant ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EATZ#NYSE">EATZ</a>)
Price Action: At the last check on Wednesday, PENN shares were trading lower by 2.11% at $14.88, and SHAK was trading lower by 1.31% to $115.69.
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Photo by Ned Snowman via Shutterstock

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Burgers Meet Blackjack: Shake Shack Expands Into PENN Casino Properties Nationwide

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Shares of restaurant companies are trading higher after the US and China agreed to a temporary reduction in most tariffs on each other's goods. This could alleviate supply chain uncertainty in the sector.

<ul>
<li>CNN reports that casual dining chains are in crisis, as evidenced by a 0.9% drop in sales over 2024</li>
<li>One contributing factor to the decline is rising prices, which have gone up by 34% over the last five years</li>
<li>Meanwhile, fast-casual restaurants have seen a 0.6% increase in sales, and fast food restaurants have seen a 1% increase in sales</li>
</ul>
Casual dining chains, a staple of the American restaurant industry, are facing a crisis, according to <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2025/04/04/business/hooters-red-lobster-tgi-fridays/index.html">CNN</a>. Four well-known establishments—TGI Fridays, Red Lobster, Hooters and Buca di Beppo— have iled for bankruptcy in the last few months. And several others, like Applebee's, Denny's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DENN#NASDAQ">DENN</a>), Outback Steakhouse, Bonefish Grill, Red Robin Gourmet Burger.(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RRGB#NASDAQ">RRGB</a>), and Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CBRL#NASDAQ">CBRL</a>), have seen a sharp drop in sales.&nbsp;
This downturn, CNN reports, is due to a number of factors, including hiking prices, shrinking incomes, and general mismanagement.
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Chains like Red Robin and TGI Fridays have long been favorites among lower and middle-income families who want a sit-down dinner without a several-hundred-dollar price tag. But as disposable incomes shrink and the threat of a recession increases, CNN says, these diners find themselves less willing to spring for a full meal out. Instead, they're opting to cook at home or visit fast food and fast casual chains like McDonald&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MCD#NYSE">MCD</a>) and Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMG#NYSE">CMG</a>).&nbsp;
Data from the <a href="https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/CUUR0000SEFV">US Bureau of Labor Statistics</a> also shows that restaurant prices have increased 34% since 2019, outpacing the overall growth of inflation. This has undoubtedly played a role in the 0.9% drop in sales at casual dining chains in 2024, that CNN reports, as well as the 0.6% and 1% increases at fast casual and fast food chains, respectively, where prices are already more affordable.
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But shrinking incomes and rising prices aren't the only reasons these dining institutions are struggling. Strategy mistakes and a reluctance to invest in location and service updates have also marred the chains' once-bright futures. For example, Hooters' racy atmosphere and reputation have become less appealing to diners over the few years, contributing to decreased sales. One of its prospective buyers recently told <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2025-03-27/hooters-bankruptcy-founders-to-welcome-families-end-bikini-nights?embedded-checkout=true">Bloomberg</a> it intends to give the establishment a family-friendly makeover. Only time will tell if the revamp will be enough or too little, too late.&nbsp;
Clarence Otis Jr., a former CEO of Darden Restaurants (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRI#NYSE">DRI</a>), told CNN the struggling chains "got dated in terms of their menu offering, the look and feel of the restaurants, and how they reach consumers."&nbsp;
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While many chain restaurants are struggling, a few have managed to find the right recipe. Chili's, Olive Garden, and Texas Roadhouse (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TXRH#NASDAQ">TXRH</a>) are all seeing rising profits, thanks to their investments in labor and facilities and their dedication to keeping prices low, according to CNN.&nbsp;
Chili's, CNN says, has invested $400 million into their restaurants, simplifying the menu, adding more staff, and renovating existing locations. As a result, it's gone viral on social media apps like TikTok and has increased sales by 31% over the last quarter, its third consecutive quarter of double-digit sales growth.&nbsp;
"There's a widening gap between winners and losers in the casual dining category," and "brands that are investing in labor and the quality of guest experience are winning," Raymond James analyst Brian Voccaro told CNN.&nbsp;
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The End Of Casual Dining? Chain Restaurants Shutter By The Hundreds As Prices Increase By 34%

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Shares of broader consumer discretionary stocks are trading higher following President Trump's decision to implement a 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs for all countries except China.

20 analysts have expressed a variety of opinions on Darden Restaurants (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRI#NYSE">DRI</a>) over the past quarter, offering a diverse set of opinions from bullish to bearish.
The table below provides a snapshot of their recent ratings, showcasing how sentiments have evolved over the past 30 days and comparing them to the preceding months.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">6</td>
<td align="right">6</td>
<td align="right">8</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">6</td>
<td align="right">5</td>
<td align="right">7</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Analysts have set 12-month price targets for Darden Restaurants, revealing an average target of $209.8, a high estimate of $238.00, and a low estimate of $175.00. This current average has increased by 4.59% from the previous average price target of $200.60. 
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1744030850_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Investigating Analyst Ratings: An Elaborate Study</h2>
The standing of Darden Restaurants among financial experts is revealed through an in-depth exploration of recent analyst actions. The summary below outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
&#x7C; Analyst &#x7C; Analyst Firm &#x7C; Action Taken &#x7C; Rating &#x7C;Current Price Target&#x7C; Prior Price Target &#x7C; 
&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C;---------------&#x7C;---------------&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C;--------------------&#x7C; 
&#x7C;David Tarantino &#x7C;Baird &#x7C;Lowers &#x7C;Neutral &#x7C; $192.00&#x7C;$210.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Greg Francfort &#x7C;Guggenheim &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $220.00&#x7C;$205.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Zachary Fadem &#x7C;Wells Fargo &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Equal-Weight &#x7C; $200.00&#x7C;$180.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Jon Tower &#x7C;Citigroup &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $229.00&#x7C;$223.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Jeffrey Bernstein &#x7C;Barclays &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Overweight &#x7C; $235.00&#x7C;$230.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Brian Harbour &#x7C;Morgan Stanley &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Overweight &#x7C; $217.00&#x7C;$209.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Andrew Strelzik &#x7C;BMO Capital &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Market Perform &#x7C; $190.00&#x7C;$175.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Eric Gonzalez &#x7C;Keybanc &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Overweight &#x7C; $220.00&#x7C;$200.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Dennis Geiger &#x7C;UBS &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $225.00&#x7C;$210.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Brian Bittner &#x7C;Oppenheimer &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Outperform &#x7C; $230.00&#x7C;$218.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;David Tarantino &#x7C;Baird &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Neutral &#x7C; $210.00&#x7C;$192.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Jim Salera &#x7C;Stephens &amp; Co. &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Equal-Weight &#x7C; $178.00&#x7C;$175.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Chris O'Cull &#x7C;Stifel &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $215.00&#x7C;$205.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Sara Senatore &#x7C;B of A Securities &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $238.00&#x7C;$230.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Nick Setyan &#x7C;Wedbush &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Outperform &#x7C; $235.00&#x7C;$220.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Andrew Charles &#x7C;TD Securities &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Hold &#x7C; $190.00&#x7C;$180.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Jim Salera &#x7C;Stephens &amp; Co. &#x7C;Maintains &#x7C;Equal-Weight &#x7C; $175.00&#x7C;$175.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Jake Bartlett &#x7C;Truist Securities &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Buy &#x7C; $212.00&#x7C;$200.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Jim Salera &#x7C;Stephens &amp; Co. &#x7C;Maintains &#x7C;Equal-Weight &#x7C; $175.00&#x7C;$175.00 &#x7C; 
&#x7C;Brian Vaccaro &#x7C;Raymond James &#x7C;Raises &#x7C;Outperform &#x7C; $210.00&#x7C;$200.00 &#x7C;
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts respond to changes in market conditions and company performance, frequently updating their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Darden Restaurants. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Analysts unravel qualitative evaluations for stocks, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings offer insights into expectations for the relative performance of Darden Restaurants compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts navigate through adjustments in price targets, providing estimates for Darden Restaurants's future value. Comparing current and prior targets offers insights into analysts' evolving expectations.</li>
</ul>
For valuable insights into Darden Restaurants's market performance, consider these analyst evaluations alongside crucial financial indicators. Stay well-informed and make prudent decisions using our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/DRI/analyst-ratings?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=analyst-ratings&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Stay up to date on Darden Restaurants analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Unveiling the Story Behind Darden Restaurants</h2>
Darden Restaurants is the largest restaurant operator in the US full-service space, with consolidated revenue of $11.4 billion in fiscal 2024 resulting in 3%-4% full-service market share (per NRA data and our calculations). The company maintains a portfolio of 11 restaurant brands: Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, Ruth's Chris, Yard House, The Capital Grille, Seasons 52, Eddie V's, Bahama Breeze, The Capital Burger, and most recently, Chuy's. Darden generates revenue almost exclusively from company-owned restaurants, though a small network of franchised restaurants and consumer-packaged goods sales through the traditional grocery channel contribute modestly. As of the end of its fiscal 2024, the company operated 2,031 restaurants in the US.
<h3>Darden Restaurants: Delving into Financials</h3>
Market Capitalization: Exceeding industry standards, the company's market capitalization places it above industry average in size relative to peers. This emphasizes its significant scale and robust market position.
Revenue Growth: Darden Restaurants displayed positive results in 3M. As of 28 February, 2025, the company achieved a solid revenue growth rate of approximately 6.16%. This indicates a notable increase in the company's top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company encountered difficulties, with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Consumer Discretionary sector.
Net Margin: Darden Restaurants's net margin excels beyond industry benchmarks, reaching 10.24%. This signifies efficient cost management and strong financial health.
Return on Equity (ROE): The company's ROE is a standout performer, exceeding industry averages. With an impressive ROE of 15.13%, the company showcases effective utilization of equity capital.
Return on Assets (ROA): Darden Restaurants's financial strength is reflected in its exceptional ROA, which exceeds industry averages. With a remarkable ROA of 2.58%, the company showcases efficient use of assets and strong financial health.
Debt Management: Darden Restaurants's debt-to-equity ratio is below the industry average. With a ratio of 2.76, the company relies less on debt financing, maintaining a healthier balance between debt and equity, which can be viewed positively by investors.
<h2>Analyst Ratings: Simplified</h2>
Within the domain of banking and financial systems, analysts specialize in reporting for specific stocks or defined sectors. Their work involves attending company conference calls and meetings, researching company financial statements, and communicating with insiders to publish "analyst ratings" for stocks. Analysts typically assess and rate each stock once per quarter.
Some analysts will also offer forecasts for metrics like growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide further guidance on stocks. Investors who use analyst ratings should note that this specialized advice comes from humans and may be subject to error.
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This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

What Analysts Are Saying About Darden Restaurants Stock

Darden Restaurants shares are trading lower after Baird cut its price target on the stock from $210 to $192.

Baird analyst David Tarantino maintains Darden Restaurants (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRI#NYSE">DRI</a>) with a Neutral and lowers the price target from $210 to $192.

Price Target

Baird Maintains Neutral on Darden Restaurants, Lowers Price Target to $192

Financial giants have made a conspicuous bearish move on Darden Restaurants. Our analysis of options history for Darden Restaurants (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRI#NYSE">DRI</a>) revealed 12 unusual trades.
Delving into the details, we found 33% of traders were bullish, while 58% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 10 were puts, with a value of $764,565, and 2 were calls, valued at $77,550.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $180.0 and $240.0 for Darden Restaurants, spanning the last three months.
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Darden Restaurants's options for a given strike price. Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of Darden Restaurants's whale trades within a strike price range from $180.0 to $240.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Darden Restaurants Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1743443138_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th align="right">Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>DRI</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$5.3</td>
<td>$4.8</td>
<td>$5.15</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
<td>$103.0K</td>
<td align="right">374</td>
<td align="right">300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DRI</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$35.1</td>
<td>$33.2</td>
<td>$34.19</td>
<td>$240.00</td>
<td>$102.5K</td>
<td align="right">101</td>
<td align="right">88</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DRI</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$34.9</td>
<td>$33.1</td>
<td>$33.95</td>
<td>$240.00</td>
<td>$102.5K</td>
<td align="right">101</td>
<td align="right">58</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DRI</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$25.6</td>
<td>$24.6</td>
<td>$25.24</td>
<td>$230.00</td>
<td>$98.4K</td>
<td align="right">243</td>
<td align="right">74</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>DRI</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$5.1</td>
<td>$4.8</td>
<td>$4.9</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
<td>$98.0K</td>
<td align="right">374</td>
<td align="right">603</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Darden Restaurants</h3>
Darden Restaurants is the largest restaurant operator in the US full-service space, with consolidated revenue of $11.4 billion in fiscal 2024 resulting in 3%-4% full-service market share (per NRA data and our calculations). The company maintains a portfolio of 11 restaurant brands: Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen, Ruth's Chris, Yard House, The Capital Grille, Seasons 52, Eddie V's, Bahama Breeze, The Capital Burger, and most recently, Chuy's. Darden generates revenue almost exclusively from company-owned restaurants, though a small network of franchised restaurants and consumer-packaged goods sales through the traditional grocery channel contribute modestly. As of the end of its fiscal 2024, the company operated 2,031 restaurants in the US.
In light of the recent options history for Darden Restaurants, it's now appropriate to focus on the company itself. We aim to explore its current performance.
<h3>Current Position of Darden Restaurants</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 561,164, the price of DRI is up 1.05% at $207.29. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 81 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for Darden Restaurants</h3>
In the last month, 5 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $213.6.
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&#x2A; An analyst from B of A Securities persists with their Buy rating on Darden Restaurants, maintaining a target price of $238. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Stifel persists with their Buy rating on Darden Restaurants, maintaining a target price of $215. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Wedbush keeps a Outperform rating on Darden Restaurants with a target price of $235. 
&#x2A; An analyst from BMO Capital persists with their Market Perform rating on Darden Restaurants, maintaining a target price of $190. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from TD Securities continues to hold a Hold rating for Darden Restaurants, targeting a price of $190. 
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
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Options

Markets

Market Whales and Their Recent Bets on DRI Options

Darden Restaurants's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRI#NYSE">DRI</a>) short percent of float has fallen 7.47% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 4.61 million shares sold short, which is 5.33% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 3.37 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>Darden Restaurants Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1742922919_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for Darden Restaurants has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing Darden Restaurants's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>, Darden Restaurants's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 9.78%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze?adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=short-interest&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Short Sellers

Short Ideas

How Is The Market Feeling About Darden Restaurants?

Darden Restaurants shares are trading higher after Guggenheim maintained a Buy rating on the stock and raised the price target from $205 to $220.

Guggenheim analyst Greg Francfort maintains Darden Restaurants (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRI#NYSE">DRI</a>) with a Buy and raises the price target from $205 to $220.

Guggenheim Maintains Buy on Darden Restaurants, Raises Price Target to $220

Wells Fargo analyst Zachary Fadem maintains Darden Restaurants (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRI#NYSE">DRI</a>) with a Equal-Weight and raises the price target from $180 to $200.

Wells Fargo Maintains Equal-Weight on Darden Restaurants, Raises Price Target to $200

Citigroup analyst Jon Tower maintains Darden Restaurants (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRI#NYSE">DRI</a>) with a Buy and raises the price target from $223 to $229.

Citigroup Maintains Buy on Darden Restaurants, Raises Price Target to $229

Barclays analyst Jeffrey Bernstein maintains Darden Restaurants (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRI#NYSE">DRI</a>) with a Overweight and raises the price target from $230 to $235.

Barclays Maintains Overweight on Darden Restaurants, Raises Price Target to $235

Darden Restaurants Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRI#NYSE">DRI</a>) reported its third-quarter earnings yesterday. Sales of $3.158 billion <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44416210">missed the consensus estimate.</a>
The following are the comments from different analysts regarding the company&#8217;s performance.
Oppenheimer analyst Brian Bittner reiterated an Outperform rating on the shares and raised the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/DRI/analyst-ratings">price forecast from $218.00 to $230.00.</a>
The analyst is optimistic that DRI&#8217;s fiscal 2026 will provide catalysts for growth, surpassing conservative Street expectations. Following a mixed third quarter, same-store sales trends for the fourth quarter have picked up, now exceeding 3% (compared to the Street&#8217;s 2.5%), even before the implementation of enhanced marketing efforts tied to Olive Garden&#8217;s new delivery service.
After a thorough review of the model, the analyst has slightly raised the EPS projections through 2026E (25E/&#8217; 26E EPS to $9.50/$10.77 from $9.48/$10.74), with the potential for further upward revisions.
The analyst notes that a combination of new sales drivers and overly cautious margin projections will set the stage for positive revisions in the next 12 months.
Also Read:<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/03/44434720/defense-secretary-slashes-580-million-in-wasteful-spending-targets-overdue-overpriced-projects" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Defense Secretary Slashes $580 Million In Wasteful Spending—Targets Overdue, Overpriced Projects</a>
Wedbush analyst Nick Setyan reiterated an Outperform rating on the shares and raised the price target from $220.00 to $235.00.
Despite weather-related challenges affecting same-store sales growth, EPS showed upside, said the analyst.
The analyst notes the upper range of EPS guidance is achievable. The fourth-quarter EPS guidance is $2.88–2.95, compared to the consensus of $2.93.
With expected commodity inflation around 3%, labor inflation around 3.5%, menu pricing increases of approximately 2% at Olive Garden and 3% at LongHorn, and visibility for additional SSS growth, the analyst considers the higher end of the EPS range realistic.
TD Securities analyst Andrew Charles&nbsp;reiterated a Hold rating on the shares and raised the price forecast from $180.00 to $190.00.
Darden&#8217;s shares reacted positively to the fourth-quarter same-store sales guidance of 3%+, which is currently tracking at that level.
The company is benefiting from a spring rebound in full-service dining after weather-impacted months. However, given soft consumer sentiment, the analyst is less confident in the rebound&#8217;s longevity.
The analyst seeks more proof that Darden&#8217;s strategies to boost Olive Garden will lead to market share growth despite the premium valuation of its shares.
While the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44417951" rel="noreferrer noopener">Uber Direct partnership </a>is contributing a 1%-1.25% lift to Olive Garden&#8217;s SSS, the peak 13x FY2 EV/EBITDA suggests a $230/share price, indicating a better risk/reward opportunity in other sector stocks.
Stephens &amp; Co. analyst Jim Salera reiterated an Equal Weight on the shares and raised the price forecast from $175.00 to $178.00.
Darden reported same-store sales below expectations but beat on adjusted EPS. Weather and holiday timing would have resulted in a sales beat, said the analyst.
Investors were encouraged by Darden reaffirming its FY25 same-store sales guidance, supported by strong March trends.
While the analyst remains positive on the company&#8217;s operational execution and scale, the current valuation is fully priced.
Price Action: DRI shares traded higher by 0.32% at $199.65 at last check Friday.
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Photo by Sundry Photography via Shutterstock.

Analyst Color

Equities

Reiteration

General

Darden Restaurants Olive Garden Growth Drive Optimism Amid Valuation Concerns: Analyst

Keybanc analyst Eric Gonzalez maintains Darden Restaurants (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRI#NYSE">DRI</a>) with a Overweight and raises the price target from $200 to $220.

Keybanc Maintains Overweight on Darden Restaurants, Raises Price Target to $220

UBS analyst Dennis Geiger maintains Darden Restaurants (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRI#NYSE">DRI</a>) with a Buy and raises the price target from $210 to $225.

UBS Maintains Buy on Darden Restaurants, Raises Price Target to $225

Top Wall Street analysts changed their outlook on these top names. For a complete view of all analyst rating changes, including upgrades and downgrades, please see our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">analyst ratings page</a>.
<ul>
<li>Wells Fargo raised Arthur J. Gallagher &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AJG#NYSE">AJG</a>) price target from $341 to $370. Wells Fargo analyst Elyse Greenspan maintained an Overweight rating. Arthur J. Gallagher shares closed at $334.44 on Thursday.<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AJG/analyst-ratings"> See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>Truist Securities cut the price target for NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NKE#NYSE">NKE</a>) from $90 to $82. Truist Securities analyst Joseph Civello maintained a Buy rating. Nike shares closed at $71.86 on Thursday. See how other analysts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NKE/analyst-ratings">view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>BMO Capital slashed Commercial Metals Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMC#NYSE">CMC</a>) price target from $58 to $54. BMO Capital analyst Katja Jancic maintained a Market Perform rating. Commercial Metals shares closed at $47.36 on Thursday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CMC/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>B. Riley Securities cut the price target for Academy Sports and Outdoors, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ASO#NASDAQ">ASO</a>) from $70 to $65. B. Riley Securities analyst Anna Glaessgen maintained a Buy rating. Academy Sports shares closed at $47.42 on Thursday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ASO/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>Leerink Partners lowered the price target for Elevation Oncology, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ELEV#NASDAQ">ELEV</a>) from $9 to $1. Leerink Partners analyst Andrew Berens downgraded the stock from Outperform to Market Perform. Elevation Oncology shares closed at $0.2780 on Thursday. See how other analysts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ELEV/analyst-ratings">view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>JP Morgan raised Super Micro Computer, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMCI#NASDAQ">SMCI</a>) price target from $35 to $45. JP Morgan analyst Samik Chatterjee upgraded the stock from Underweight to Neutral. Super Micro Computer shares settled at $39.10 on Thursday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SMCI/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Oppenheimer increased Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DRI#NYSE">DRI</a>) price target from $218 to $230. Oppenheimer analyst Brian Bittner maintained an Outperform rating. Darden shares closed at $199.01 on Thursday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/DRI/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock.</a></li>
<li>Baird raised Micron Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MU#NASDAQ">MU</a>) price target from $130 to $163. Baird analyst Tristan Gerra maintained an Outperform rating. Micron shares closed at $103.00 on Thursday. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MSFT/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Telsey Advisory Group increased the price target for Torrid Holdings Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CURV#NYSE">CURV</a>) from $5 to $6. Telsey Advisory Group analyst Dana Telsey maintained a Market Perform rating. Torrid Holdings shares settled at $5.53 on Thursday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CURV/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
<li>Morgan Stanley cut Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) price target from $430 to $410. Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas maintained an Overweight rating. Tesla shares closed at $236.26 on Thursday. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TSLA/analyst-ratings">See how other analysts view this stock</a>.</li>
</ul>
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Photo: Shutterstock

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Press Releases

Darden Restaurants Completes Acquisition of Chuy's Holdings, Inc.

Darden Restaurants to Host Fiscal 2025 Second Quarter Conference Call on December 19

DARDEN RESTAURANTS, INC. ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD MEMBER

Earnings

Darden Restaurants Reports Fiscal 2025 Second Quarter Results; Declares Quarterly Dividend; And Updates Fiscal 2025 Financial Outlook

Darden Restaurants to Host Fiscal 2025 Third Quarter Conference Call on March 20

Authentic Restaurant Brands Adds Tavern in the Square As its Latest Fortress Regional Brand; Appoints Veteran Leadership Team to Supercharge Platform's Growth

Darden Restaurants Reports Fiscal 2025 Third Quarter Results; Declares Quarterly Dividend; And Updates Fiscal 2025 Financial Outlook

Darden and Uber Continue Partnership with On-Demand Delivery Pilot at Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen

Darden Restaurants to Host Fiscal 2025 Fourth Quarter Conference Call on June 20

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