Diversified Restaurant Holdings Inc., the owner/operator and franchisor of the unique, full-service, ultra-casual restaurant and bar Bagger Dave’s Legendary Burger Tavern (“Bagger Dave’s”) and a leading franchisee for Buffalo Wild Wings (“BWW”), today announced the successful grand opening of its newest BWW location in Lakeland, FL. The restaurant, which opened on Sunday, February 13, 2011, is located in front of the Lakeland Square Mall near the intersection of U.S. 98 and I-4. It is the 21st Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant operated by DRH.
T. Michael Ansley, President and CEO of DRH, commented, “Lakeland is a city which retains its historic charm while, at the same time, is positioning itself for future growth. Sports fans will recognize Lakeland as the long-time spring training headquarters of the Detroit Tigers, who began training there in 1934. The new restaurant will be located near the main entrance to the Lakeland Square Mall, the area’s largest shopping destination.”
The largest city in Polk County, Lakeland is situated off of Interstate 4 between Orlando and Tampa. The city is home to the Joker Merchant Stadium, the Detroit Tigers spring training ballpark, and has the longest tenured spring training pairing between a city and major league baseball team.
DRH owns and operates its own unique, full-service, ultra-casual restaurant and bar concept, Bagger Dave’s Legendary Burger Tavern, which was launched in January 2008. The concept focuses on local flair with the interior showcasing historic photos of the city in which it resides. It also features an electric train that runs above the dining room and bar areas. Bagger Dave’s offers a full-service, family-friendly restaurant and bar with a casual, comfortable atmosphere. The menu features freshly-made burgers (never frozen), accompanied by more than 30 toppings from which to choose, fresh-cut fries, hand-dipped milkshakes, and a selection of craft beer and wine. Signature items include Sloppy Dave’s BBQ, Train Wreck Burger, and Bagger Dave’s Amazingly Delicious Turkey Black Bean Chili. Currently, there are three locations in the state of Michigan, with the fourth scheduled to open in Brighton, MI on February 27, 2011. DRH is approved to franchise Bagger Dave’s in the states of Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, and Illinois. For more information, please visit www.baggerdaves.com.
The Company is also a leading BWW franchisee and currently operates 21 BWW restaurants (seven in Florida and 14 in Michigan). The recipient of many franchise awards, including an award for the Highest Annual Restaurant Sales, DRH remains on track to fulfill its Area Development Agreement with Buffalo Wild Wings, Inc., which requires a total of 38 BWW restaurants in Michigan and Florida by 2017.