The Riese Organization, which operates more than a dozen fast-food franchises and fast-casual concepts in the New York area — including Tim Horton’s, KFC, Tequilaville, and T.G.I. Friday’s — is looking to diversify its portfolio with a number of “better-quality casual eateries and more full-service restaurants,” Crain’s (subscription required) reports. Chairman and chief executive Dennis Riese, who is the son of the group’s co-founder, says his plans for the the newly acquired property at 211 West 34th Street do not involve fast food, and actually will contain two restaurants. Riese is also opening a bunch of Fatburger stores in New York, the first of which will open in Murray Hill in the spring. But don’t get the wrong idea: “We will be much less known for fast food,” says Riese. “I haven’t liked that identity.” [Crain’s, Earlier]
