Houlihan's Restaurants, Inc. Promotes Mike Hocter to Director of Franchise Development

Midwest `Cultural Icon’ Restaurant Chain Continues Renewed Growth

In a move to continue its Franchise growth momentum, Houlihan’s Restaurants, Inc., one of America’s most popular classic eateries for more than 30 years, announced today it has promoted Michael Hocter to Director of franchise Development. The company has inked nearly 60 new franchise deals in the past 12 months and will open at least 20 new restaurants before 2005 comes to a close.

Since 2003, Hocter served as a Regional Director of Franchise Operations for Houlihan’s before being promoted to Director of Franchise Development, a corporate office position. He has an extensive background in the restaurant industry, having served in management and executive positions for concepts such as Stouffer Restaurant Company, CA Muer Seafood Restaurants, Planet Hollywood, Mars 2112 and Chart House Enterprises.

“Mike proved himself to be a valuable asset to Houlihan’s in his previous role on the regional level, so we are confident that he will continue our growth momentum nationally in his new position at the home office,” said Bob Hartnett, President and CEO of Houlihan’s Restaurants, Inc. “Our new design for Houlihan’s has created significant interest in our franchise opportunity, and we look to Mike to continue the upswing in growth among existing and new franchisees,” said Hartnett, noting that several existing Houlihan’s franchisees are upping for more territory since the introduction of the new look.

Hartnett was referring to Houlihan’s rollout earlier this year of a contemporary new décor, stylish uniforms, indie music mix and unique menu format for current and future restaurants. The new prototype design for new Houlihan’s restaurants draws from current dining and entertainment trends. A Pittsburgh location, which opened in June 2005, was the first to feature the design inspired by the new prototype’s direction. A location set to open in Algonquin, IL later this fall will feature the new design from the ground up.

About Houlihan’s

Established in 1972, Houlihan's is one of America's most popular eateries, serving up the finest pastas, ribs, desserts and more in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Currently, 76 Houlihan’s restaurants operate throughout the country, 49 of which are franchised. At least 20 new locations are expected to open in the next two years. Houlihan's is owned by Houlihan's Restaurants, Inc. of Leawood, Kansas, a pioneer in the full-service, casual dining industry that developed and owns several restaurant concepts comprising of approximately 90 locations from coast to coast, including Bristol Seafood Grill and Bar/ J. Gilbert's Wood-Fired Steaks and Darryl's Restaurant & Bar.