Old Chicago Restaurant Franchise Slices its Way Into Montana, Washington and Idaho

Old Chicago, the 26-year-old "friendly neighborhood establishment" that specializes in imported beer and deep-dish pizza, recently announced it has signed a five-unit agreement in three US states.

New franchisee Don Cape will open the first of his five Old Chicago locations in Bozeman, MT in early 2004 and another in Missoula is currently being considered. The remaining three locations will be in Washington and Idaho.

"We are thrilled to have Cape join our growing list of franchisees," said Buck Warfield, vice president of Franchising for Old Chicago. "Cape's dedication, coupled with his drive for success, makes him the ultimate franchisee.?"

Because Old Chicago is known for "taking on the life of the neighborhoods around them," Cape looks forward to adapting each of the locations to the lifestyles of their respective communities.

"It's exciting to move forward with plans to open multiple Old Chicago locations, each with their own personality to suit their communities," Cape said. "Old Chicago is famous for the best service, quality and taste. I signed the deal to open five locations based on my strong belief in Old Chicago's established brand and business model, its positive track record in the Restaurant industry and the flexibility of the concept."

With an uncommon ambiance that meshes the friendliness of a local bar with the family style atmosphere of a casual dining establishment, Old Chicago takes on the role of "neighborhood hangout" for families, couples and singles alike. The menu features deep-dish pizza, pasta and calzones, as well as burgers and sandwiches. Its signature 110-brew "World Beer Tour" lets customers taste beers from around the world, and the beverage menu also includes a "Root Beer Tour" for younger clientele.

Currently, there are 51 corporately-owned and six franchise-operated Old Chicago restaurants nationwide. The company is set to open new Franchise locations throughout 2003 in Casper, WY, Tampa Bay, FL, Sioux Falls, S.D. and the greater Minneapolis area.

Founded in 1976, Old Chicago is a part of Rock Bottom Restaurants, Inc., which currently owns and operates 86 restaurants across the United States, including 51 Old Chicago restaurants and 35 brewery concepts operating under the names Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery, Chop House and Brewery and Walnut Brewery, and Sing Sing.