Bliss Bites To Open 5 TGI Fridays Locations

Bliss Bites agreed to open five new TGI Fridays restaurants across New York State. The agreement marks the company's first domestic development agreement in more than a decade.

Vinod Chand, owner and managing director for Bliss Bites, 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 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," Chand said. "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."

TGI 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.

"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, CEO 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."