UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended AprilJuly 1, 2023
or
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from __________ to __________
Commission file number 1-09453
ARK RESTAURANTS CORP.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
New York 13-3156768
(State or Other Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or Organization)
 (IRS Employer Identification No.)
85 Fifth Avenue,New York,NY10003
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)(Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:   (212) 206-8800  
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each classTrading symbol(s)Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, par value $.01 per shareARKRThe NASDAQ Stock Market LLC
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes    No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes    No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer Accelerated filer
   
Non-accelerated filer Smaller Reporting Company
   
Emerging Growth Company  
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.
Yes    No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 12b-2). Yes    No ý
As of MayAugust 11, 2023, there were 3,604,157 shares of the registrant's common stock outstanding.



SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
On one or more occasions, we may make statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q regarding our assumptions, projections, expectations, targets, intentions or beliefs about future events. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included or incorporated by reference herein relating to management’s current expectations of future financial performance, continued growth and changes in economic conditions or capital markets are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
Words or phrases such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “predicts,” “projects,” “targets,” “will likely result,” “hopes,” “will continue” or similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed. We caution that while we make such statements in good faith and we believe such statements are based on reasonable assumptions, including without limitation, management’s examination of historical operating trends, data contained in records and other data available from third parties, we cannot assure you that our projections will be achieved. Factors that may cause such differences include: economic conditions generally and in each of the markets in which we are located, the amount of sales contributed by new and existing restaurants, labor costs for our personnel, fluctuations in the cost of food products, adverse weather conditions, changes in consumer preferences and the level of competition from existing or new competitors.
While we believe that our assumptions are reasonable, we caution that it is very difficult to predict the impact of unknown factors, and it is impossible for us to anticipate all factors that could affect our actual results. All forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. You should evaluate all forward-looking statements made in this report in the context of the factors that could cause outcomes to differ materially from our expectations. These factors include, but are not limited to:
the risk associated with the continued impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on our company, our employees, our customers, our partners, our industry and the economy as a whole, including the potential for a complete shutdown of our restaurants, supply chain disruptions, demonstrations, political unrest and potential damage to our restaurants;
the adverse impact of current and future economic conditions, including inflation, on our (i) operating results and financial condition, (ii) ability to comply with the terms and covenants of our debt agreements, and (iii) ability to pay or refinance our existing debt or to obtain additional financing;
the adverse impact of the current political climate on our (i) operating results and financial condition, (ii) ability to comply with the terms and covenants of our debt agreements, and (iii) ability to pay or refinance our existing debt or to obtain additional financing;
increases in food, beverage and supply costs, especially for seafood, shellfish, chicken and beef;
increases in wages and benefit costs, including the cost of group medical insurance;
our ability to open new restaurants in new and existing markets, including difficulty in finding sites and in negotiating acceptable leases;
vulnerability to changes in consumer preferences and economic conditions;
vulnerability to conditions in the cities in which we operate;
vulnerability to adverse weather conditions and natural disasters given the geographic concentration and real estate intensive nature of our business;
our ability to extend existing leases on favorable terms;terms, if at all;
negative publicity, whether or not valid, and our ability to respond to and effectively manage the accelerated impact of social media;
concerns about food safety and quality and about food-borne illnesses;
the reliance of the Company on the continued service of its executive officers;
the impact of any security breaches of confidential customer information in connection with our electronic process of credit and debit card transactions; and
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the impact of any failure of our information technology system or any breach of our network security.
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We caution you that the important factors referenced above may not contain all of the factors that are important to you. In addition, we cannot assure you that we will realize the results or developments we expect or anticipate or, even if substantially realized, that they will result in the consequences we anticipate or affect us or our operations in the ways that we expect. The forward-looking statements included in this report are made only as of the date hereof. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. If we do update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be made that we will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements. We qualify all of our forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements.
From time to time, oral or written forward-looking statements are also included in our reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q, and 8-K, our Schedule 14A, our press releases and other materials released to the public. Although we believe that at the time made, the expectations reflected in all of these forward-looking statements are and will be reasonable, any or all of the forward-looking statements may prove to be incorrect. This may occur as a result of inaccurate assumptions or as a consequence of known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Many factors discussed in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, certain of which are beyond our control, will be important in determining our future performance. Consequently, actual results may differ materially from those that might be anticipated from forward-looking statements. In light of these and other uncertainties, you should not regard the inclusion of a forward-looking statement in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q or other public communications that we might make as a representation by us that our plans and objectives will be achieved, and you should not place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements.
We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. However, your attention is directed to any further disclosures made on related subjects in our subsequent periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on Forms 10-Q, 10-K, 8-K and Schedule 14A.
Unless the context requires otherwise, references to “we,” “us,” “our,” “ARKR” and the “Company” refer specifically to Ark Restaurants Corp., and its subsidiaries, partnerships, variable interest entities and predecessor entities.

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Part I. Financial Information
Item 1. Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements
ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)
April 1,
2023
October 1,
2022
July 1,
2023
October 1,
2022
(unaudited)(Note 1)  (unaudited)(Note 1) 
ASSETSASSETS  ASSETS  
CURRENT ASSETS:CURRENT ASSETS:  CURRENT ASSETS:  
Cash and cash equivalents (includes $560 at April 1, 2023 and $834 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)$17,890 $23,439 
Cash and cash equivalents (includes $678 at July 1, 2023 and $834 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)Cash and cash equivalents (includes $678 at July 1, 2023 and $834 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)$13,986 $23,439 
Certificate of deposit, plus accrued interestCertificate of deposit, plus accrued interest— 5,021 Certificate of deposit, plus accrued interest— 5,021 
Accounts receivable (includes $154 at April 1, 2023 and $140 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)3,676 3,185 
Accounts receivable (includes $163 at July 1, 2023 and $140 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)Accounts receivable (includes $163 at July 1, 2023 and $140 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)3,748 3,185 
Employee receivablesEmployee receivables378 440 Employee receivables336 440 
Inventories (includes $44 at April 1, 2023 and $38 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)3,305 3,707 
Prepaid and refundable income taxes (includes $279 at April 1, 2023 and $278 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)319 1,778 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets (includes $24 at April 1, 2023 and $17 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)1,787 1,523 
Inventories (includes $42 at July 1, 2023 and $38 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)Inventories (includes $42 at July 1, 2023 and $38 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)3,249 3,707 
Prepaid and refundable income taxes (includes $204 at July 1, 2023 and $278 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)Prepaid and refundable income taxes (includes $204 at July 1, 2023 and $278 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)250 1,778 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets (includes $28 at July 1, 2023 and $17 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)Prepaid expenses and other current assets (includes $28 at July 1, 2023 and $17 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)1,512 1,523 
Total current assetsTotal current assets27,355 39,093 Total current assets23,081 39,093 
FIXED ASSETS - Net (includes $231 at April 1, 2023 and $212 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)34,638 34,682 
OPERATING LEASE RIGHT-OF-USE ASSETS - Net (includes $1,938 at April 1, 2023 and $2,076 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)97,694 101,720 
FIXED ASSETS - Net (includes $238 at July 1, 2023 and $212 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)FIXED ASSETS - Net (includes $238 at July 1, 2023 and $212 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)34,633 34,682 
OPERATING LEASE RIGHT-OF-USE ASSETS - Net (includes $1,867 at July 1, 2023 and $2,076 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)OPERATING LEASE RIGHT-OF-USE ASSETS - Net (includes $1,867 at July 1, 2023 and $2,076 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)95,637 101,720 
INTANGIBLE ASSETS - NetINTANGIBLE ASSETS - Net230 272 INTANGIBLE ASSETS - Net208 272 
GOODWILLGOODWILL17,440 17,440 GOODWILL17,440 17,440 
TRADEMARKSTRADEMARKS4,220 4,220 TRADEMARKS4,220 4,220 
DEFERRED INCOME TAXESDEFERRED INCOME TAXES3,095 3,118 DEFERRED INCOME TAXES3,141 3,118 
INVESTMENT IN AND RECEIVABLE FROM NEW MEADOWLANDS RACETRACKINVESTMENT IN AND RECEIVABLE FROM NEW MEADOWLANDS RACETRACK6,486 6,465 INVESTMENT IN AND RECEIVABLE FROM NEW MEADOWLANDS RACETRACK6,496 6,465 
OTHER ASSETS (includes $11 at April 1, 2023 and October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)2,154 2,524 
OTHER ASSETS (includes $11 at July 1, 2023 and October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)OTHER ASSETS (includes $11 at July 1, 2023 and October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)2,154 2,524 
TOTAL ASSETSTOTAL ASSETS$193,312 $209,534 TOTAL ASSETS$187,010 $209,534 
LIABILITIES AND EQUITYLIABILITIES AND EQUITYLIABILITIES AND EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:CURRENT LIABILITIES:CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Accounts payable - trade (includes $211 at April 1, 2023 and $135 at October 1, 2022
related to VIEs)
$4,137 $4,466 
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities (includes $353 at April 1, 2023 and $417 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)12,987 16,312 
Current portion of operating lease liabilities (includes $285 at April 1, 2023 and $272 at
October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)
8,022 7,530 
Accounts payable - trade (includes $106 at July 1, 2023 and $135 at October 1, 2022
related to VIEs)
Accounts payable - trade (includes $106 at July 1, 2023 and $135 at October 1, 2022
related to VIEs)
$4,383 $4,466 
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities (includes $401 at July 1, 2023 and $417 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)Accrued expenses and other current liabilities (includes $401 at July 1, 2023 and $417 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)12,612 16,312 
Current portion of operating lease liabilities (includes $291 at July 1, 2023 and $272 at
October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)
Current portion of operating lease liabilities (includes $291 at July 1, 2023 and $272 at
October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)
8,184 7,530 
Current portion of notes payableCurrent portion of notes payable8,051 6,575 Current portion of notes payable1,983 6,575 
Total current liabilitiesTotal current liabilities33,197 34,883 Total current liabilities27,162 34,883 
OPERATING LEASE LIABILITIES, LESS CURRENT PORTION (includes $1,776 at April 1, 2023 and $1,921 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)93,356 97,444 
OPERATING LEASE LIABILITIES, LESS CURRENT PORTION (includes $1,700 at July 1, 2023 and $1,921 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)OPERATING LEASE LIABILITIES, LESS CURRENT PORTION (includes $1,700 at July 1, 2023 and $1,921 at October 1, 2022 related to VIEs)91,251 97,444 
NOTES PAYABLE, LESS CURRENT PORTIONNOTES PAYABLE, LESS CURRENT PORTION6,191 17,089 NOTES PAYABLE, LESS CURRENT PORTION5,630 17,089 
TOTAL LIABILITIESTOTAL LIABILITIES132,744 149,416 TOTAL LIABILITIES124,043 149,416 
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIESCOMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIESCOMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
EQUITY:EQUITY:EQUITY:
Common stock, par value $0.01 per share - authorized, 10,000 shares; issued and outstanding,
3,600 shares at April 1, 2023 and October 1, 2022
36 36 
Common stock, par value $0.01 per share - authorized, 10,000 shares; issued and outstanding,
3,604 shares at July 1, 2023 and 3,600 shares at October 1, 2022
Common stock, par value $0.01 per share - authorized, 10,000 shares; issued and outstanding,
3,604 shares at July 1, 2023 and 3,600 shares at October 1, 2022
36 36 
Additional paid-in capitalAdditional paid-in capital13,967 15,493 Additional paid-in capital14,084 15,493 
Retained earningsRetained earnings44,612 44,271 Retained earnings47,131 44,271 
Total Ark Restaurants Corp. shareholders’ equityTotal Ark Restaurants Corp. shareholders’ equity58,615 59,800 Total Ark Restaurants Corp. shareholders’ equity61,251 59,800 
NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTSNON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS1,953 318 NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS1,716 318 
TOTAL EQUITYTOTAL EQUITY60,568 60,118 TOTAL EQUITY62,967 60,118 
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITYTOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY$193,312 $209,534 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY$187,010 $209,534 

See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.
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ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONSINCOME (Unaudited)
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)
13 Weeks Ended26 Weeks Ended13 Weeks Ended39 Weeks Ended
April 1,
2023
April 2,
2022
April 1,
2023
April 2,
2022
July 1,
2023
July 2,
2022
July 1,
2023
July 2,
2022
REVENUES:REVENUES:REVENUES:
Food and beverage salesFood and beverage sales$40,913 $38,822 $87,452 $82,058 Food and beverage sales$49,807 $52,069 $137,259 $134,127 
Other revenueOther revenue984 764 1,890 1,513 Other revenue1,244 1,149 3,134 2,662 
Total revenuesTotal revenues41,897 39,586 89,342 83,571 Total revenues51,051 53,218 140,393 136,789 
COSTS AND EXPENSES:COSTS AND EXPENSES:COSTS AND EXPENSES:
Food and beverage cost of salesFood and beverage cost of sales11,795 12,255 24,231 24,796 Food and beverage cost of sales13,241 14,740 37,472 39,536 
Payroll expensesPayroll expenses15,311 13,482 31,833 27,722 Payroll expenses17,194 16,205 49,027 43,926 
Occupancy expensesOccupancy expenses5,255 4,616 11,438 9,848 Occupancy expenses6,151 5,966 17,589 15,814 
Other operating costs and expensesOther operating costs and expenses5,352 4,840 11,283 9,978 Other operating costs and expenses6,274 5,996 17,557 15,974 
General and administrative expensesGeneral and administrative expenses3,023 3,018 6,159 5,982 General and administrative expenses3,495 3,872 9,655 9,854 
Depreciation and amortizationDepreciation and amortization1,138 1,148 2,171 2,227 Depreciation and amortization1,059 1,018 3,230 3,245 
Total costs and expensesTotal costs and expenses41,874 39,359 87,115 80,553 Total costs and expenses47,414 47,797 134,530 128,349 
OPERATING INCOMEOPERATING INCOME23 227 2,227 3,018 OPERATING INCOME3,637 5,421 5,863 8,440 
OTHER (INCOME) EXPENSE:OTHER (INCOME) EXPENSE:OTHER (INCOME) EXPENSE:
Interest expenseInterest expense465 262 894 547 Interest expense174 291 1,068 838 
Interest incomeInterest income(217)(12)(306)(22)Interest income(16)(38)(323)(60)
Other incomeOther income— (125)— (347)Other income(26)(37)(26)(384)
Gain on forgiveness of PPP LoansGain on forgiveness of PPP Loans— (1,122)(272)(1,122)Gain on forgiveness of PPP Loans— (1,298)(272)(2,420)
Total other (income) expense, netTotal other (income) expense, net248 (997)316 (944)Total other (income) expense, net132 (1,082)447 (2,026)
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES(225)1,224 1,911 3,962 
INCOME BEFORE PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXESINCOME BEFORE PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES3,505 6,503 5,416 10,466 
Provision for income taxesProvision for income taxes19 76 133 385 Provision for income taxes173 905 306 1,290 
CONSOLIDATED NET INCOME (LOSS)(244)1,148 1,778 3,577 
CONSOLIDATED NET INCOMECONSOLIDATED NET INCOME3,332 5,598 5,110 9,176 
Net income attributable to non-controlling interestsNet income attributable to non-controlling interests(240)(93)(537)(313)Net income attributable to non-controlling interests(137)(343)(674)(657)
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO ARK RESTAURANTS CORP.$(484)$1,055 $1,241 $3,264 
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO ARK RESTAURANTS CORP.NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO ARK RESTAURANTS CORP.$3,195 $5,255 $4,436 $8,519 
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. PER COMMON SHARE:
NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. PER COMMON SHARE:NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. PER COMMON SHARE:
BasicBasic$(0.13)$0.30 $0.34 $0.92 Basic$0.89 $1.48 $1.23 $2.40 
DilutedDiluted$(0.13)$0.29 $0.34 $0.91 Diluted$0.88 $1.46 $1.22 $2.37 
WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING:WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING:WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING:
BasicBasic3,600 3,552 3,600 3,552 Basic3,601 3,555 3,600 3,553 
DilutedDiluted3,645 3,604 3,646 3,600 Diluted3,641 3,597 3,644 3,599 
See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

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ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (unaudited)
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)
For the 13 weeks ended April 1, 2023
For the 13 weeks ended July 1, 2023For the 13 weeks ended July 1, 2023
Common StockAdditional
Paid-In Capital
Retained EarningsTotal Ark
Restaurants
Corp.
Shareholders’ Equity
Non-
controlling Interests
Total EquityCommon StockAdditional
Paid-In Capital
Retained EarningsTotal Ark
Restaurants
Corp.
Shareholders’ Equity
Non-
controlling Interests
Total Equity
SharesAmount SharesAmount
Balance - December 31, 20223,600 $36 $15,572 $45,546 $61,154 $495 $61,649 
Net income (loss)— — — (484)(484)240 (244)
Elimination of non-controlling interest upon dissolution of subsidiary— — (1,685)— (1,685)1,685 — 
Balance - April 1, 2023Balance - April 1, 20233,600 $36 $13,967 $44,612 $58,615 $1,953 $60,568 
Net incomeNet income— — — 3,195 3,195 137 3,332 
Exercise of stock optionsExercise of stock options— 39 — 39 — 39 
Stock-based compensationStock-based compensation— — 80 — 80 — 80 Stock-based compensation— — 78 — 78 — 78 
Distributions to non-controlling interestsDistributions to non-controlling interests— — — — — (467)(467)Distributions to non-controlling interests— — — — — (374)(374)
Dividends paid - $0.125 per share— — — (450)(450)— (450)
Balance - April 1, 20233,600 $36 $13,967 $44,612 $58,615 $1,953 $60,568 
Dividends paid - $0.1875 per shareDividends paid - $0.1875 per share— — — (676)(676)— (676)
Balance - July 1, 2023Balance - July 1, 20233,604 $36 $14,084 $47,131 $61,251 $1,716 $62,967 
For the 26 weeks ended April 1, 2023
For the 39 weeks ended July 1, 2023For the 39 weeks ended July 1, 2023
Common StockAdditional
Paid-In Capital
Retained EarningsTotal Ark
Restaurants
Corp.
Shareholders’ Equity
Non-
controlling Interests
Total EquityCommon StockAdditional
Paid-In Capital
Retained EarningsTotal Ark
Restaurants
Corp.
Shareholders’ Equity
Non-
controlling Interests
Total Equity
SharesAmountSharesAmount
BALANCE - October 1, 2022BALANCE - October 1, 20223,600 $36 $15,493 $44,271 $59,800 $318 $60,118 BALANCE - October 1, 20223,600 $36 $15,493 $44,271 $59,800 $318 $60,118 
Net incomeNet income— — — 1,241 1,241 537 1,778 Net income— — 4,436 4,436 674 5,110 
Elimination of non-controlling interest upon dissolution of subsidiaryElimination of non-controlling interest upon dissolution of subsidiary— — (1,685)— (1,685)1,685 — Elimination of non-controlling interest upon dissolution of subsidiary— — (1,685)— (1,685)1,685 — 
Exercise of stock optionsExercise of stock options— 39 — 39 — 39 
Stock-based compensationStock-based compensation— — 159 — 159 — 159 Stock-based compensation— — 237 — 237 — 237 
Distributions to non-controlling interestsDistributions to non-controlling interests— — — — — (587)(587)Distributions to non-controlling interests— — — — — (961)(961)
Dividends paid - $0.25 per share— — — (900)(900)— (900)
BALANCE - April 1, 20233,600 $36 $13,967 $44,612 $58,615 $1,953 $60,568 
Dividends paid - $0.4375 per shareDividends paid - $0.4375 per share— — (1,576)(1,576)— (1,576)
BALANCE - July 1, 2023BALANCE - July 1, 20233,604 $36 $14,084 $47,131 $61,251 $1,716 $62,967 
See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.












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ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (unaudited)
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)
For the 13 weeks ended April 2, 2022
For the 13 weeks ended July 2, 2022For the 13 weeks ended July 2, 2022
Common StockAdditional
Paid-In Capital
Retained EarningsTotal Ark
Restaurants
Corp.
Shareholders’ Equity
Non-
controlling Interests
Total EquityCommon StockAdditional
Paid-In Capital
Retained EarningsTotal Ark
Restaurants
Corp.
Shareholders’ Equity
Non-
controlling Interests
Total Equity
SharesAmount SharesAmount
Balance - January 1, 20223,551 $36 $14,566 $38,093 $52,695 $731 $53,426 
Balance - April 2, 2022Balance - April 2, 20223,552 $36 $14,651 $39,148 $53,835 $284 $54,119 
Net incomeNet income— — — 1,055 1,055 93 1,148 Net income— — — 5,255 5,255 343 5,598 
Exercise of stock optionsExercise of stock options— 11 — 11 — 11 Exercise of stock options43 — 620 — 620 — 620 
Stock-based compensationStock-based compensation— — 74 — 74 — 74 Stock-based compensation— — 74 — 74 — 74 
Distributions to non-controlling interestsDistributions to non-controlling interests— — — — — (540)(540)Distributions to non-controlling interests— — — — — (473)(473)
Balance - April 2, 20223,552 $36 $14,651 $39,148 $53,835 $284 $54,119 
Dividends paid - $0.125 per shareDividends paid - $0.125 per share— — — (444)(444)— (444)
Balance - July 2, 2022Balance - July 2, 20223,595 $36 $15,345 $43,959 $59,340 $154 $59,494 
For the 26 weeks ended April 2, 2022
For the 39 weeks ended July 2, 2022For the 39 weeks ended July 2, 2022
Common StockAdditional
Paid-In Capital
Retained EarningsTotal Ark
Restaurants
Corp.
Shareholders’ Equity
Non-
controlling Interests
Total EquityCommon StockAdditional
Paid-In Capital
Retained EarningsTotal Ark
Restaurants
Corp.
Shareholders’ Equity
Non-
controlling Interests
Total Equity
SharesAmountSharesAmount
BALANCE - October 2, 2021BALANCE - October 2, 20213,551 $36 $14,492 $35,884 $50,412 $1,040 $51,452 BALANCE - October 2, 20213,551 $36 $14,492 $35,884 $50,412 $1,040 $51,452 
Net incomeNet income— — — 3,264 3,264 313 3,577 Net income— — — 8,519 8,519 657 9,176 
Exercise of stock optionsExercise of stock options— 11 — 11 — 11 Exercise of stock options44 — 631 — 631 — 631 
Stock-based compensationStock-based compensation— — 148 — 148 — 148 Stock-based compensation— — 222 — 222 — 222 
Distributions to non-controlling interestsDistributions to non-controlling interests— — — — — (1,069)(1,069)Distributions to non-controlling interests— — — — — (1,543)(1,543)
BALANCE - April 2, 20223,552 $36 $14,651 $39,148 $53,835 $284 $54,119 
Dividends paid - $0.125 per shareDividends paid - $0.125 per share— — — (444)(444)— (444)
BALANCE - July 2, 2022BALANCE - July 2, 20223,595 $36 $15,345 $43,959 $59,340 $154 $59,494 
See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.









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ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited)
(In Thousands)
26 Weeks Ended 39 Weeks Ended
April 1,
2023
April 2,
2022
July 1,
2023
July 2,
2022
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:  CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:  
Consolidated net incomeConsolidated net income$1,778 $3,577 Consolidated net income$5,110 $9,176 
Adjustments to reconcile consolidated net income to net cash provided by operating activities:Adjustments to reconcile consolidated net income to net cash provided by operating activities:Adjustments to reconcile consolidated net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Stock-based compensationStock-based compensation159 148 Stock-based compensation237 222 
Gain on forgiveness of PPP LoansGain on forgiveness of PPP Loans(272)(1,122)Gain on forgiveness of PPP Loans(272)(2,420)
Deferred income taxesDeferred income taxes23 230 Deferred income taxes(23)660 
Accrued interest on note receivable from NMRAccrued interest on note receivable from NMR(21)(20)Accrued interest on note receivable from NMR(31)(30)
Depreciation and amortizationDepreciation and amortization2,171 2,227 Depreciation and amortization3,230 3,245 
Amortization of operating lease assetsAmortization of operating lease assets430 312 Amortization of operating lease assets544 559 
Amortization of deferred financing costsAmortization of deferred financing costs15 24 Amortization of deferred financing costs50 36 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:Changes in operating assets and liabilities:Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivableAccounts receivable(491)146 Accounts receivable(563)(539)
InventoriesInventories402 (730)Inventories458 (510)
Prepaid, refundable and accrued income taxesPrepaid, refundable and accrued income taxes1,459 57 Prepaid, refundable and accrued income taxes1,528 2,498 
Prepaid expenses and other current assetsPrepaid expenses and other current assets(264)(190)Prepaid expenses and other current assets11 1,235 
Other assetsOther assets370 28 Other assets370 (284)
Accounts payable - tradeAccounts payable - trade(329)23 Accounts payable - trade(83)507 
Accrued expenses and other current liabilitiesAccrued expenses and other current liabilities(3,319)253 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities(3,694)1,481 
Net cash provided by operating activitiesNet cash provided by operating activities2,111 4,963 Net cash provided by operating activities6,872 15,836 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of fixed assetsPurchases of fixed assets(2,085)(1,146)Purchases of fixed assets(3,117)(1,785)
Loans and advances made to employeesLoans and advances made to employees(42)(27)Loans and advances made to employees(51)(115)
Payments received on employee receivablesPayments received on employee receivables104 83 Payments received on employee receivables155 126 
Proceeds from maturity of certificate of depositProceeds from maturity of certificate of deposit5,021 — Proceeds from maturity of certificate of deposit5,021 — 
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activitiesNet cash provided by (used in) investing activities2,998 (1,090)Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities2,008 (1,774)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Principal payments on notes payablePrincipal payments on notes payable(8,640)(2,468)Principal payments on notes payable(15,210)(3,704)
Principal payments on PPP LoansPrincipal payments on PPP Loans(531)(976)Principal payments on PPP Loans(531)(1,571)
Payment of deferred financing costsPayment of deferred financing costs(94)— 
Dividends paidDividends paid(900)— Dividends paid(1,576)(444)
Proceeds from issuance of stock upon exercise of stock optionsProceeds from issuance of stock upon exercise of stock options— 11 Proceeds from issuance of stock upon exercise of stock options39 631 
Distributions to non-controlling interestsDistributions to non-controlling interests(587)(1,069)Distributions to non-controlling interests(961)(1,543)
Net cash used in financing activitiesNet cash used in financing activities(10,658)(4,502)Net cash used in financing activities(18,333)(6,631)
NET DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS(5,549)(629)
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTSNET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS(9,453)7,431 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, Beginning of periodCASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, Beginning of period23,439 19,171 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, Beginning of period23,439 19,171 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, End of periodCASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, End of period$17,890 $18,542 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, End of period$13,986 $26,602 
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid during the period for:Cash paid during the period for:Cash paid during the period for:
InterestInterest$879 $506 Interest$1,067 $777 
Income taxesIncome taxes$$11 Income taxes$159 $211 
Non-cash financing activities:Non-cash financing activities:Non-cash financing activities:
Elimination of non-controlling interest upon dissolution of subsidiaryElimination of non-controlling interest upon dissolution of subsidiary$1,685 $— Elimination of non-controlling interest upon dissolution of subsidiary$1,685 $— 


See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.
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ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
April 1, 2023
(Unaudited)
1.    BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The consolidated condensed balance sheet as of October 1, 2022, which has been derived from the audited consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 1, 2022 (“Form 10-K”), and the unaudited interim consolidated condensed financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Accordingly, certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP have been condensed or omitted. All adjustments that, in the opinion of management are necessary for a fair presentation for the periods presented, have been reflected as required by Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Such adjustments are of a normal, recurring nature. These consolidated condensed financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Form 10-K.
COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND INFLATION — Recent global events, including the COVID-19 pandemic ("COVID-19"), have adversely affected global economies, disrupted global supply chains and labor force participation and created significant volatility and disruption of financial markets. As a result, we experienced significant and variable disruptions to our business as federal, state and local restrictions were mandated, among other remedial measures, to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 virus. While restrictions on the type of permitted operating model and occupancy capacity may continue to change, during fiscal 2022 all of our restaurants operated with no restrictions, other than in New York City where customers were required to show proof of vaccination through November 1, 2022.
In addition to the associated impacts of COVID-19, our operating results have been impacted by geopolitical and other macroeconomic factors, leading to increased commodity and wage inflation and other increased costs. The ongoing effects of COVID-19 and its variants, along with other geopolitical and macroeconomic events, could lead to further government mandates, including but not limited to capacity restrictions, shifts in consumer behavior, wage inflation, staffing challenges, product and services cost inflation and disruptions in our supply chain. If these factors significantly impact our cash flow in the future, we may again implement mitigation actions such as suspending dividends, increasing borrowings or modifying our operating strategies. Some of these measures may have an adverse impact on our business, including possible impairments of assets.
PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION — The consolidated condensed financial statements include the accounts of Ark Restaurants Corp. and all of its wholly-owned subsidiaries, partnerships and other entities in which it has a controlling interest, collectively herein referred to as the “Company”. Also included in the consolidated condensed financial statements are certain variable interest entities (“VIEs”). All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
USE OF ESTIMATES — The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. The accounting estimates that require management’s most difficult and subjective judgments include: projected cash flows, allowances for potential bad debts on receivables, assumptions regarding discount rates related to lease accounting, the useful lives and recoverability of its long-lived assets, such as property, right-of-use assets and intangibles, fair values of financial instruments and share-based compensation, estimates made in connection with acquisitions and impairment analyses, the realizable value of its tax assets and determining when investment impairments are other-than-temporary. Because of the uncertainty in such estimates, actual results may differ from these estimates. The results of operations for the 13 and 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for any other interim period or for the year ending September 30, 2023.
NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS Non-controlling interests represent capital contributions, income and loss attributable to the shareholders of less than wholly-owned and consolidated entities.
SEASONALITY — The Company has substantial fixed costs that do not decline proportionally with sales. Although our business is highly seasonal, our broader geographical reach as a result of recent acquisitions mitigates some of the risk. For instance, the second quarter of our fiscal year, consisting of the non-holiday portion of the cold weather season in New York and Washington, D.C. (January, February and March), is the poorest performing quarter; however, in recent years this has been partially offset by our locations in Florida as they experience increased results in the winter months. We generally achieve our best results during the warm weather, attributable to our extensive outdoor dining availability, particularly at Bryant Park in New York and Sequoia in Washington, D.C. (our largest restaurants) and our outdoor cafes. However, even during summer months
- 9 -


these facilities can be adversely affected by unusually cool or rainy weather conditions. Our facilities in Las Vegas are indoor and generally operate on a more consistent basis throughout the year.
FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS — Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Fair value is estimated by applying a fair value hierarchy, which requires maximizing the use of observable inputs when measuring fair value. The three levels of inputs are:
Level 1: Quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets that the entity has the ability to access as of the measurement date.
Level 2: Significant other observable inputs other than Level 1 prices such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data.
Level 3: Significant unobservable inputs that reflect a reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability.
The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, receivables, accounts payable and accrued expenses approximate fair value due to the immediate or short-term maturity of these financial instruments. The fair values of notes receivable and payable and Paycheck Protection Program loans are determined using current applicable rates for similar instruments as of the balance sheet date and approximate the carrying value of such debt instruments. Certificates of deposit, which are considered Level 2 assets, are valued at original cost plus accrued interest, which approximates fair value.
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS — Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, deposits with banks and highly-liquid investments generally with original maturities of three months or less. Outstanding checks in excess of account balances, typically vendor payments, payroll and other contractual obligations disbursed after the last day of a reporting period are reported as a current liability in the accompanying consolidated condensed balance sheets.
CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK — Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. The Company reduces credit risk by placing its cash and cash equivalents with major financial institutions with high credit ratings. At times, such amounts may exceed federally insured limits. Accounts receivable are primarily comprised of normal business receivables, such as credit card receivables, that are collected in a short period of time and amounts due from the hotel operators where the Company has a location, and are recorded upon satisfaction of the performance obligation. The Company reviews the collectability of its receivables on an ongoing basis and has not provided for an allowance as it considers all of the counterparties will be able to meet their obligation. The concentration of credit risk with respect to accounts receivable is generally limited due to the short payment terms extended by the Company and the number of customers comprising the Company’s customer base.
As of AprilJuly 1, 2023, the Company had accounts receivable balances due from twoone hotel operatorsoperator totaling 52%50% of total accounts receivable. As of October 1, 2022, the Company had accounts receivable balances due from two hotel operators totaling 54% of total accounts receivable.
For the 13-week period ended AprilJuly 1, 2023, the Company made purchases from two vendors that accounted for 21% of total purchases. For the 13-week period ended July 2, 2022, the Company made purchases from two vendors that accounted for 24% of total purchases. For the 13-week period ended April 2, 2022, the Company did not make purchases from any one vendor that accounted for more than 10% of total purchases.
For the 26-week39-week period ended AprilJuly 1, 2023, the Company made purchases from two vendors that accounted for 22%21% of total purchases. For the 26-week39-week period ended AprilJuly 2, 2022, the Company did not makemade purchases from any one vendor that accounted for more than 10% of total purchases.
As of AprilJuly 1, 2023 and October 1, 2022, all debt outstanding, other than Paycheck Protection Program loans and the note payable to the sellers of the Blue Moon Fish Company, is with one lender (see Note 8 – Notes Payable).
GOODWILL AND TRADEMARKS — Goodwill and trademarks are not amortized, but are subject to impairment analysis. We assess the potential impairment of goodwill and trademarks annually (at the end of our fourth quarter) and on an interim basis whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. If we determine through the impairment review process that goodwill or trademarks are impaired, we record an impairment charge in our consolidated condensed statements of income. The Company did not record any impairment to its goodwill or trademarks during the 13 and 2639
- 10 -


weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022, respectively. It is possible that impairments could be identified in future periods, and such amounts could be material.
LONG-LIVED AND RIGHT-OF-USE ASSETS — Long-lived assets, such as property, plant and equipment, purchased intangibles subject to amortization, and right-of-use assets ("ROU assets") are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. In the evaluation of the fair value and future benefits of long-lived assets, the Company performs an analysis of the anticipated undiscounted future net cash flows of the related long-lived assets. If the carrying value of the related asset exceeds the undiscounted cash flows, the carrying value is reduced to its fair value. Various factors including estimated future sales growth and estimated profit margins are included in this analysis.
The Company considers a triggering event related to long-lived assets or ROU assets in a net asset position to have occurred related to a specific restaurant if the restaurant’s cash flows for the last 12 months are less than a minimum threshold or if consistent levels of undiscounted cash flows for the remaining lease period are less than the carrying value of the restaurant’s assets. Additionally, the Company considers a triggering event related to ROU assets to have occurred related to a specific lease if the location has been subleased and future estimated sublease income is less than current lease payments. If the Company concludes that the carrying value of certain long-lived and ROU assets will not be recovered based on expected undiscounted future cash flows, an impairment loss is recorded to reduce the long-lived or ROU assets to their estimated fair value. The fair value is measured on a nonrecurring basis using unobservable (Level 3) inputs. There is uncertainty in the projected undiscounted future cash flows used in the Company's impairment review analysis, which requires the use of estimates and assumptions. If actual performance does not achieve the projections, or if the assumptions used change in the future, the Company may be required to recognize impairment charges in future periods, and such charges could be material.
Based on the results of this analysis, no impairment charges were recognized related to long-lived assets and ROU assets during the 13 and 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022. Given the inherent uncertainty in projecting results of restaurants under the current circumstances, particularly taking into account the projected impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company is monitoring the recoverability of the carrying value of the assets of several restaurants on an ongoing basis. For these restaurants, if expected performance is not realized, an impairment charge may be recognized in future periods, and such charge could be material.
REVENUE RECOGNITION — We recognize revenue upon the satisfaction of our performance obligation by transferring control over a product or service to a restaurant guest or other customer. Revenues from restaurant operations are presented net of discounts, coupons, employee meals and complimentary meals and recognized when food, beverage and retail products are sold. Sales tax collected from customers is excluded from sales and the obligation is included in sales tax payable until the taxes are remitted to the appropriate taxing authorities. Catering service revenue is generated through contracts with customers whereby the customer agrees to pay a contract rate for the service. Revenues from catered events are recognized in income upon satisfaction of the performance obligation (the date the event is held) and all customer payments, including nonrefundable upfront deposits, are deferred as a contract liability until such time. We recognized $1,541,000$5,256,000 and $765,000$4,793,000 in catering services revenue for the 13-week periods ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022, respectively, and $7,124,000$12,379,000 and $3,978,000$8,771,000 for the 26-week39-week periods ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022, respectively. Unearned revenue, which is included in accrued expenses and other current liabilities on the consolidated condensed balance sheets, as of AprilJuly 1, 2023 and October 1, 2022 was $5,916,000$4,579,000 and $5,534,000, respectively, and as of as of July 2, 2022 and October 2, 2021 was $4,685,000 and $4,988,000, respectively.
Revenues from gift cards are deferred and recognized upon redemption. Deferrals are not reduced for potential non-use as we generally have a legal obligation to remit the value of unredeemed gift cards to the relevant jurisdictions in which they are sold. As of AprilJuly 1, 2023 and October 1, 2022, the total liability for gift cards in the amounts of approximately $365,000$349,000 and $309,000, respectively, are included in accrued expenses and other current liabilities in the consolidated condensed balance sheets.
Other revenues include purchase service fees which represent commissions earned by a subsidiary of the Company for providing services to other restaurant groups, as well as license fees, property management fees and other rentals.
LEASES — We determine if an arrangement contains a lease at inception. An arrangement contains a lease if it implicitly or explicitly identifies an asset to be used and conveys the right to control the use of the identified asset in exchange for consideration. As a lessee, we include operating leases in Operating lease right-of-use assets and Operating lease liabilities in our consolidated condensed balance sheets. Right-of-use assets represent our right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent our obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. Operating lease right-of-use assets and liabilities are recognized upon commencement of the lease based on the present value of the lease payments over the lease term. As most of our leases do not provide an implicit interest rate, we use our incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at commencement date to determine the present value of lease payments. Our lease terms may include
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options to extend or terminate the lease.  Options are included when it is reasonably certain that we will exercise that option. Lease expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Amendments or modifications to lease terms are accounted for as variable lease payments. Leases with a lease term of 12 months or less are accounted for using the practical expedient which allows for straight-line rent expense over the remaining term of the lease. 
SEGMENT REPORTING — As of AprilJuly 1, 2023, the Company owned and operated 17 restaurants and bars, 16 fast food concepts and catering operations, exclusively in the United States, that have similar economic characteristics, nature of products and services, class of customers and distribution methods. The Company believes it meets the criteria for aggregating its operating components into a single operating segment in accordance with applicable accounting guidance.
2.    VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES
The Company consolidates any variable interest entities in which it holds a variable interest and is the primary beneficiary. Generally, a variable interest entity, or VIE, is an entity with one or more of the following characteristics: (a) the total equity investment at risk is not sufficient to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support; (b) as a group the holders of the equity investment at risk lack (i) the ability to make decisions about an entity’s activities through voting or similar rights, (ii) the obligation to absorb the expected losses of the entity, or (iii) the right to receive the expected residual returns of the entity; or (c) the equity investors have voting rights that are not proportional to their economic interests and substantially all of the entity’s activities either involve, or are conducted on behalf of, an investor that has disproportionately few voting rights. The primary beneficiary of a VIE is generally the entity that has (a) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance, and (b) the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could potentially be significant to the VIE.
The Company has determined that it is the primary beneficiary of three VIEs and, accordingly, consolidates the financial results of these entities. Following are the assets and liabilities of the Company’s consolidated VIEs:
April 1,
2023
October 1,
2022
July 1,
2023
October 1,
2022
(in thousands) (in thousands)
Cash and cash equivalentsCash and cash equivalents$560 $834 Cash and cash equivalents$678 $834 
Accounts receivableAccounts receivable154 140 Accounts receivable163 140 
InventoriesInventories44 38 Inventories42 38 
Prepaid and refundable income taxesPrepaid and refundable income taxes279 278 Prepaid and refundable income taxes204 278 
Prepaid expenses and other current assetsPrepaid expenses and other current assets24 17 Prepaid expenses and other current assets28 17 
Due from Ark Restaurants Corp. and affiliates (1)Due from Ark Restaurants Corp. and affiliates (1)471 400 Due from Ark Restaurants Corp. and affiliates (1)36 400 
Fixed assets - netFixed assets - net231 212 Fixed assets - net238 212 
Operating lease right-of-use assets - netOperating lease right-of-use assets - net1,938 2,076 Operating lease right-of-use assets - net1,867 2,076 
Other assetsOther assets11 11 Other assets11 11 
Total assetsTotal assets$3,712 $4,006 Total assets$3,267 $4,006 
Accounts payable - tradeAccounts payable - trade$211 $135 Accounts payable - trade$106 $135 
Accrued expenses and other current liabilitiesAccrued expenses and other current liabilities353 417 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities401 417 
Current portion of operating lease liabilitiesCurrent portion of operating lease liabilities285 272 Current portion of operating lease liabilities291 272 
Operating lease liabilities, less current portionOperating lease liabilities, less current portion1,776 1,921 Operating lease liabilities, less current portion1,700 1,921 
Total liabilitiesTotal liabilities2,625 2,745 Total liabilities2,498 2,745 
Equity of variable interest entitiesEquity of variable interest entities1,087 1,261 Equity of variable interest entities769 1,261 
Total liabilities and equityTotal liabilities and equity$3,712 $4,006 Total liabilities and equity$3,267 $4,006 
(1)Amounts Due from and to Ark Restaurants Corp. and affiliates are eliminated upon consolidation.
The liabilities of $2,625,000$2,498,000 and $2,745,000 at AprilJuly 1, 2023 and October 1, 2022, respectively, recognized as a result of consolidating these VIEs do not represent additional claims on the Company’s general assets and creditors of the VIEs do not have recourse to the general credit of the Company; rather, they represent claims against the specific assets of the consolidated VIEs. Conversely, the assets of $3,712,000$3,267,000 and $4,006,000 at AprilJuly 1, 2023 and October 1, 2022, respectively, recognized as a result of consolidating these VIEs do not represent additional assets that could be used to satisfy claims against the Company’s general assets, these assets can be used only to settle obligations of the three VIEs.
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3.    RECENT RESTAURANT EXPANSION AND OTHER DEVELOPMENTS
On April 8, 2022, the Company extended its lease for Gallagher's Steakhouse at the New York-New York Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV through December 31, 2032. In connection with the extension, the Company has agreed to spend a minimum of $1,500,000 to materially refresh the premises by April 30, 2023 (as extended from September 30, 2022 due to supply chain issues). Accordingly, the property was substantially closed for renovation on February 5, 2023 and reopened on April 28, 2023. The total cost of the refresh was approximately $1,900,000.

On June 24, 2022, the Company extended its lease for America at the New York-New York Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV through December 31, 2033. In connection with the extension, the Company has agreed to spend a minimum of $4,000,000 to materially refresh the premises by December 31, 2024, subject to various extensions as set out in the agreement. No amounts have been expended to date related to this refresh.

On July 21, 2022, the Company extended its lease for the Village Eateries at the New York-New York Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV through December 31, 2034. As part of this extension, the Broadway Burger Bar and Grill and Gonzalez y Gonzalez, were carved out of the Village Eateries footprint and the extended date for those two locations is December 31, 2033. In connection with the extension, the Company has agreed to spend a minimum of $3,500,000 to materially refresh all three of these premises by December 31, 2023 (as extended from June 30, 2023 (of which2023). To date approximately $50,000 has been spent to date), subject to various extensions as set out in the agreement, which the Company expects will be agreed to.on this refresh.

Each of the above refresh obligations are to be consistent with designs approved by the Landlordlandlord which shall not be unreasonably withheld. We will continue to pay all rent as required by the leases without abatement during construction. Note that our substantial completion of work set forth in plans approved by the Landlordlandlord shall constitute our compliance with the requirements of the completion deadlines, regardless of whether or not the amount actually expended in connection therewith is less than the minimum.
4.    RECENT RESTAURANT DISPOSITIONS AND OTHER DEVELOPMENTS

On July 5, 2022, the Company terminated its lease for Lucky 7 at the Foxwoods Resort Casino. The closure did not result in a material change to the Company's operations.

During the 26 weeks ended April 1, 2023, the Company dissolved the entity which owned Clyde Frazier's Wine and Dine, which was closed in September of 2021. In connection with the dissolution, the Company reclassified the remaining non-controlling interest balance to additional paid-in capital.

5.    INVESTMENT IN AND RECEIVABLE FROM NEW MEADOWLANDS RACETRACK
On March 12, 2013, the Company made a $4,200,000 investment in the New Meadowlands Racetrack LLC (“NMR”) through its purchase of a membership interest in Meadowlands Newmark, LLC, an existing member of NMR with a then 63.7% ownership interest. On November 19, 2013, the Company invested an additional $464,000 in NMR through the purchase of an additional membership interest in Meadowlands Newmark, LLC resulting in a total ownership of 11.6% of Meadowlands Newmark, LLC, and an effective ownership interest in NMR as of April 1, 2023 and October 1, 2022 of 7.4%, subject to dilution. In 2015, the Company invested an additional $222,000 in NMR and in February 2017, the Company invested an additional $222,000 in NMR, both as a result of capital calls with no change in ownership, bringing its total investment to $5,108,000. The Company accounts for this investment at cost, less impairment, adjusted for subsequent observable price changes in accordance with Accounting Standards Updated ("ASU") No. 2016-01. There are no observable prices for this investment. During the 13 and 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023, the Company did not receive anyreceived distributions of $26,000 from NMR. During the 13 and 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 2, 2022, the Company received distributions of $125,000$37,000 and $347,000,$384,000, respectively, from NMR, whichNMR. All of these amounts have been recorded as other income in the consolidated condensed statements of operations.income.
The Company evaluated its investment in NMR for impairment and concluded that its fair value exceeds the carrying value. Accordingly, the Company did not record any impairment during the 13 and 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022. Any future changes in the carrying value of our investment in NMR will be reflected in earnings.
In addition to the Company’s ownership interest in NMR through Meadowlands Newmark, LLC, if casino gaming is approved at the Meadowlands and NMR is granted the right to conduct said gaming, neither of which can be assured, the Company shall be granted the exclusive right to operate the food and beverage concessions in the gaming facility with the exception of one restaurant.
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In conjunction with this investment, the Company, through a 97% owned subsidiary, Ark Meadowlands LLC (“AM VIE”), also entered into a long-term agreement with NMR for the exclusive right to operate food and beverage concessions serving the new raceway facilities (the “Racing F&B Concessions”) located in the new raceway grandstand constructed at the Meadowlands Racetrack in northern New Jersey. Under the agreement, NMR is responsible to pay for the costs and expenses incurred in the operation of the Racing F&B Concessions, and all revenues and profits thereof inure to the benefit of NMR. AM VIE receives an annual fee equal to 5% of the net profits received by NMR from the Racing F&B Concessions during each calendar year. AM VIE is a variable interest entity; however, based on qualitative consideration of the contracts with AM VIE, the operating structure of AM VIE, the Company’s role with AM VIE, and that the Company is not obligated to absorb expected losses of AM VIE, the Company has concluded that it is not the primary beneficiary and not required to consolidate the operations of AM VIE.
The Company’s maximum exposure to loss as a result of its involvement with AM VIE is limited to any receivable from AM VIE’s primary beneficiary (NMR). As of AprilJuly 1, 2023 and October 1, 2022, $1,000$18,000 and $22,000 were due to AM VIE by NMR, respectively.
On April 25, 2014, the Company loaned $1,500,000 to Meadowlands Newmark, LLC. The note bears interest at 3%, compounded monthly and added to the principal, and is due in its entirety on January 31, 2024. The note may be prepaid, in whole or in part, at any time without penalty or premium. The principal and accrued interest related to this note in the amounts of $1,378,000$1,388,000 and $1,357,000 are included in Investment in and Receivable from New Meadowlands Racetrack in the consolidated condensed balance sheets at AprilJuly 1, 2023 and October 1, 2022, respectively. On April 20, 2023, the due date of the note was extended to June 30, 2029.

6.    ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consist of the following:
April 1,
2023
October 1,
2022
July 1,
2023
October 1,
2022
(In thousands)(In thousands)
Sales tax payableSales tax payable$954 $916 Sales tax payable$1,059 $916 
Accrued wages and payroll related costsAccrued wages and payroll related costs3,393 5,517 Accrued wages and payroll related costs4,107 5,517 
Customer advance depositsCustomer advance deposits5,916 5,534 Customer advance deposits4,579 5,534 
Accrued occupancy and other operating expensesAccrued occupancy and other operating expenses2,724 4,345 Accrued occupancy and other operating expenses2,867 4,345 
$12,987 $16,312  $12,612 $16,312 

7.    LEASES
Other than locations where we own the underlying property, we lease our restaurant locations as well as our corporate office under various non-cancelable real estate lease agreements that expire on various dates through 2046. We evaluate whether we control the use of the asset, which is determined by assessing whether we obtain substantially all economic benefits from the use of the asset, and whether we have the right to direct the use of the asset. If these criteria are met and we have identified a lease, we account for the contract under the requirements of Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 842.
Upon taking possession of a leased asset, we determine its classification as an operating or finance lease. All of our real estate leases are classified as operating leases. We do not have any finance leases as of AprilJuly 1, 2023. Generally, our real estate leases have initial terms ranging from 10 to 25 years and typically include renewal options. Renewal options are recognized as part of the ROU assets and lease liabilities if it is reasonably certain at the date of adoption that we would exercise the options to extend the lease. Our real estate leases typically provide for fixed minimum rent payments and/or contingent rent payments based upon sales in excess of specified thresholds. When the achievement of such sales thresholds are deemed to be probable, variable lease expense is accrued in proportion to the sales recognized during the period. For operating leases that include rent holidays and rent escalation clauses, we recognize lease expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term from the date we take possession of the leased property. We record the straight-line lease expense and any contingent rent, if applicable, in occupancy expenses in the consolidated condensed statements of operations.income.
Many of our real estate leases also require us to pay real estate taxes, common area maintenance costs and other occupancy costs (“non-lease components”) which are included in occupancy related expenses in the consolidated condensed statements of operations.income. Our lease agreements do not contain any material residual value guarantees or material restrictive covenants.
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As there were no explicit rates provided in our leases, we used our incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments.
The components of lease expense in the consolidated condensed statements of operationsincome are as follows:
13 Weeks Ended26 Weeks Ended13 Weeks Ended39 Weeks Ended
April 1,
2023
April 2,
2022
April 1,
2023
April 2,
2022
July 1,
2023
July 2,
2022
July 1,
2023
July 2,
2022
(In thousands)(In thousands) (In thousands)(In thousands)
Operating lease expense - occupancy expenses (1)
Operating lease expense - occupancy expenses (1)
$3,401 $2,624 $6,929 $4,897 
Operating lease expense - occupancy expenses (1)
$3,347 $2,398 $10,276 $7,295 
Occupancy lease expense - general and administrative expensesOccupancy lease expense - general and administrative expenses116 116 230 209 Occupancy lease expense - general and administrative expenses134 138 364 347 
Variable lease expenseVariable lease expense412 795 1,769 2,692 Variable lease expense1,300 1,935 3,069 4,627 
Total lease expenseTotal lease expense$3,929 $3,535 $8,928 $7,798 Total lease expense$4,781 $4,471 $13,709 $12,269 

(1)    Includes short-term leases, which are immaterial.

Supplemental cash flow information related to leases:
26 Weeks Ended39 Weeks Ended
April 1,
2023
April 2,
2022
July 1,
2023
July 2,
2022
(In thousands) (In thousands)
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows related to operating leases Operating cash flows related to operating leases$9,754 $— $7,362  Operating cash flows related to operating leases$14,343 $— $10,508 
Non-cash investing activities:Non-cash investing activities:
ROU assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities ROU assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities$— $— $24,620 
The weighted average remaining lease terms and discount rates as of AprilJuly 1, 2023 are as follows:
Weighted Average
Remaining Lease Term
Weighted Average
Discount Rate
Operating leases12.111.9 years6.1 %
The annual maturities of our lease liabilities as of AprilJuly 1, 2023 are as follows:
Operating
Leases
Fiscal Year Ending(In thousands)
September 30, 2023$6,9583,488 
September 28, 202414,023 
September 27, 202512,995 
October 3, 202611,867 
October 2, 202711,547 
Thereafter85,91585,914 
Total future lease commitments143,305139,834 
Less imputed interest(41,927)(40,399)
Present value of lease liabilities$101,37899,435 






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8.    NOTES PAYABLE
Notes payable consist of the following:
April 1,
2023
October 1,
2022
July 1,
2023
October 1,
2022
(In thousands) (In thousands)
Promissory Note - Rustic Inn purchasePromissory Note - Rustic Inn purchase$3,045 $3,187 Promissory Note - Rustic Inn purchase$2,973 $3,187 
Promissory Note - Shuckers purchase (see Note 14)Promissory Note - Shuckers purchase (see Note 14)3,485 3,655 Promissory Note - Shuckers purchase (see Note 14)— 3,655 
Promissory Note - Oyster House purchase (see Note 14)Promissory Note - Oyster House purchase (see Note 14)2,564 2,873 Promissory Note - Oyster House purchase (see Note 14)— 2,873 
Promissory Note - JB's on the Beach purchasePromissory Note - JB's on the Beach purchase3,250 3,750 Promissory Note - JB's on the Beach purchase3,000 3,750 
Promissory Note - Sequoia renovationPromissory Note - Sequoia renovation1,486 1,714 Promissory Note - Sequoia renovation1,371 1,714 
Promissory Note - Revolving FacilityPromissory Note - Revolving Facility— 7,166 Promissory Note - Revolving Facility— 7,166 
Promissory Note - Blue Moon Fish CompanyPromissory Note - Blue Moon Fish Company462 587 Promissory Note - Blue Moon Fish Company377 587 
Paycheck Protection Program LoansPaycheck Protection Program Loans— 797 Paycheck Protection Program Loans— 797 
14,292 23,729  7,721 23,729 
Less: Current maturitiesLess: Current maturities(8,051)(6,575)Less: Current maturities(1,983)(6,575)
Less: Unamortized deferred financing costsLess: Unamortized deferred financing costs(50)(65)Less: Unamortized deferred financing costs(108)(65)
Long-term portionLong-term portion$6,191 $17,089 Long-term portion$5,630 $17,089 
Credit Facility
On March 30, 2023, the Company entered into a Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), with its lender, Bank Hapoalim B.M. (“BHBM”). This facility, which matures on June 1, 2025, replaced our revolving credit facility which was entered into in June 1, 2018 (the "Prior Credit Agreement"). Under the terms of the Credit Agreement: (i) a promissory note under the Prior Credit Agreement in the amount of $6,666,000 was repaid, (ii) BHBM established a new revolving credit facility in the amount of $10,000,000 with a commitment termination date of May 31, 2025, (iii) the Company may use the revolving commitments of BHBM to obtain letters of credit up to a sublimit thereunder of $1,000,000, and (iv) the LIBOR rate option for all borrowings was replaced with the secured overnight financing rate for U.S. Government Securities (“SOFR”). Advances under the Credit Agreement bear interest, at the Company's election at the time of the advance, at either BHBM's prime rate of interest plus a 0.45% spread or SOFR plus a 3.65% spread. In addition, there is a 0.30% per annum fee for any unused portion of the $10,000,000 revolving facility. As of AprilJuly 1, 2023, no advances were outstanding under the Credit Agreement. As of AprilJuly 1, 2023, the weighted average interest on the outstanding BHBM indebtedness was approximately 8.2%8.8%. The replacement of LIBOR with SOFR as a reference rate in our debt agreements did not have a material adverse effect on our financial position or materially affect our interest expense.
The Credit Agreement also requires, among other things, that the Company meet minimum quarterly tangible net worth amounts, maintain a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio and meet minimum annual net income amounts. The Credit Agreement contains customary representations, warranties and affirmative covenants as well as customary negative covenants, subject to negotiated exceptions on liens, relating to other indebtedness, capital expenditures, liens, affiliate transactions, disposal of assets and certain changes in ownership.
Borrowings and all other obligations under the Credit Agreement (including amounts outstanding under the Existing Term Notes (discussed below) are secured by all tangible and intangible personal property (including accounts receivable, inventory, equipment, general intangibles, documents, chattel paper, instruments, letter-of-credit rights, investment property, intellectual property and deposit accounts) and fixtures of the Company.

On March 30, 2023, in connection with entering into the Credit Agreement, the Company amended each of the following promissory notes to replace the interest rate benchmark based on LIBOR and related LIBOR-based mechanics with an interest rate benchmark based on SOFR, with such amendments becoming effective upon the expiration of the then applicable interest period (the “Notes Amendment Effective Date”) and with the following terms: :
Promissory Note – Rustic Inn purchase – The principal amount of $4,400,000, which is secured by a mortgage on the Rustic Inn real estate, is payable in 27 equal quarterly installments of $71,333, commencing on September 1, 2018, with a balloon payment of $2,474,000 on June 1, 2025, and commencing on the Notes Amendment Effective Date, bears interest at SOFR plus 3.65% per annum.
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Promissory Note – Shuckers purchase – The principal amount of $5,100,000, which is secured by a mortgage on the Shuckers real estate, is payable in 27 equal quarterly installments of $85,000, commencing on September 1, 2018, with a
- 16 -


balloon payment of $2,805,000 on June 1, 2025, and commencing on the Notes Amendment Effective Date, bears interest at SOFR plus 3.65% per annum. This note was paid in full on April 4, 2023 (see Note 14 - Subsequent Events).2023.
Promissory Note – Oyster House purchase – In connection with the Refinancing, this note was amended and restated and separated into two notes. The first note, in the principal amount of $3,300,000, is secured by a mortgage on the Oyster House Gulf Shores real estate, is payable in 19 equal quarterly installments of $117,857, commencing on September 1, 2018, with a balloon payment of $1,060,716 on June 1, 2023, and commencing on the Notes Amendment Effective Date, bears interest at SOFR plus 3.65% per annum. The second note, in the principal amount of $2,200,000, is secured by a mortgage on the Oyster House Spanish Fort real estate, is payable in 27 equal quarterly installments of $36,667, commencing on September 1, 2018, with a balloon payment of $1,210,000 on June 1, 2025, and commencing on the Notes Amendment Effective Date, bears interest at SOFR plus 3.65% per annum. These notes were paid in full on April 4, 2023 (see Note 14 - Subsequent Events).2023.
Promissory Note – JB's on the Beach purchase On May 15, 2019, the Company issued a promissory note under the Revolving Facility to BHBM for $7,000,000, which is payable in 23 equal quarterly installments of $250,000, commencing on September 1, 2019, with a balloon payment of $1,250,000 on June 1, 2025, and commencing on the Notes Amendment Effective Date, bears interest at SOFR plus 3.65% per annum.
Promissory Note – Sequoia renovation – Also on May 15, 2019, the Company converted $3,200,000 of Revolving Facility borrowings incurred in connection with the Sequoia renovation to a promissory note which is payable in 23 equal quarterly installments of $114,286, commencing on September 1, 2019, with a balloon payment of $571,429 on June 1, 2025, and commencing on the Notes Amendment Effective Date, bears interest at SOFR plus 3.65% per annum.
Promissory Note – Revolving Facility – On July 26, 2021, all outstanding borrowings under the previous revolving facility, in the amount of $9,666,000, were converted to a promissory note with quarterly principal payments of $500,000 commencing on September 1, 2021, with a balloon payment of $2,166,000 on June 1, 2025. Such note, which was repaid on March 30, 2023, bore interest at SOFR plus 3.65% per annum.
We do not expect the replacement of LIBOR with SOFR as a reference rate in our debt agreements to have a material adverse effect on our financial position or materially affect our interest expense.
Paycheck Protection Program Loans
During the year ended October 3, 2020, subsidiaries and consolidated VIEs (the “Borrowers”) of the Company received loan proceeds from several banks (the “Lenders”) in the aggregate amount of $14,995,000 (the “PPP Loans”) under the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) of the CARES Act, which was enacted March 27, 2020. In addition, during the 13 weeks ended April 3, 2021, one of our consolidated VIEs received a second draw PPP Loan in the amount of $111,000. The PPP Loans were evidenced by individual promissory notes of each of the Borrowers (together, the “Notes”) in favor of the Lender, which Notes bore interest at the rate of 1.00% per annum. Funds from the PPP Loans were to be used only for payroll and related costs, costs used to continue group health care benefits, mortgage payments, rent, utilities, and interest on other debt obligations that were incurred by a Borrower prior to February 15, 2020 (the “Qualifying Expenses”). Under the terms of the PPP Loans, some or all of the amounts thereunder, including accrued interest, were to be forgiven if they were used for Qualifying Expenses as described in and in compliance with the CARES Act. During the 2613 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022, $272,000$0 and $1,122,000$1,298,000 of PPP Loans, respectively (including $6,000$0 and $20,000$46,000 of accrued interest, respectively) were forgiven. During the 1339 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022, $0$272,000 and $1,122,000$2,420,000 of PPP Loans, respectively, (including $0$6,000 and $20,000$66,000 of accrued interest, respectively) were forgiven. During the 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022, the Company made payments related to the unforgiven portion of PPP Loans in the aggregate amount of $531,000 and $976,000,$1,571,000, respectively. As of AprilJuly 1, 2023, no PPP Loans were outstanding; however, the Company is appealing a forgiveness denial in the amount of $280,000. Such loan was repaid as we await the appeal decision.
Deferred Financing Costs
Deferred financing costs incurred in the amount of $271,000$304,000 are being amortized over the life of the agreements using the effective interest rate method and included in interest expense. Amortization expense of approximately $3,000$35,000 and $12,000 is included in interest expense for the 13 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022, respectively. Amortization expense was $15,000$50,000 and $24,000$36,000 for the 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022, respectively.


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9.    COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Leases — The Company leases several restaurants, bar facilities, and administrative headquarters through its subsidiaries under terms expiring at various dates through 2046. Most of the leases provide for the payment of base rents plus real estate taxes, insurance and other expenses and, in certain instances, for the payment of a percentage of the restaurant’s sales in excess of stipulated amounts at such facility and in one instance based on profits. In connection with two of our leases, the Company obtained and delivered irrevocable letters of credit totaling approximately $542,000 as security deposits under such leases.
Legal Proceedings — In the ordinary course of its business, the Company is a party to various lawsuits arising from accidents at its restaurants and workers’ compensation claims, which are generally handled by the Company’s insurance carriers. The employment by the Company of management personnel, waiters, waitresses and kitchen staff at a number of different restaurants has resulted in the institution, from time to time, of litigation alleging violation by the Company of employment discrimination laws. Management believes, based in part on the advice of counsel, that the ultimate resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
On May 1, 2018, two former tipped service workers (the “Plaintiffs”), individually and on behalf of all other similarly situated personnel, filed a putative class action lawsuit (the “Complaint”) against the Company and certain subsidiaries as well as certain officers of the Company (the “Defendants”).  Plaintiffs alleged, on behalf of themselves and the putative class, that the Company violated certain of the New York State Labor Laws and related regulations.  In December 2020, the parties reached a settlement agreement resolving all issues alleged in the Complaint, which received final approval by the New York State Supreme Court in October 2022, for approximately $600,000, which was previously accrued on the October 1, 2022 consolidated balance sheet. Under the terms of the court approved settlement agreement, settlement proceeds were distributed to the Plaintiffs in the first quarter of fiscal year 2023.

10.    STOCK OPTIONS
The Company has options outstanding under two stock option plans, the 2010 Stock Option Plan and the 2016 Stock Option Plan (the “2016 Plan”). Options granted under both plans are exercisable at prices at least equal to the fair market value of such stock on the dates the options were granted and expire 10 years after the date of grant.
On March 15, 2022, the shareholders of the Company approved the 2022 Stock Option Plan. Effective with this approval, the Company terminated the 2016 Plan along with the 63,750 authorized but unissued options under the 2016 Plan, but it did not affect any of the options previously issued under the 2016 Plan. Under the 2022 Stock Option Plan, 500,000 options were authorized for future grant and are exercisable at prices at least equal to the fair market value of such stock on the dates the options were granted. The options expire 10 years after the date of grant.
During the 26-week39-week periods ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022, no options to purchase shares of common stock were issued by the Company.
The Company also maintains a Section 162(m) Cash Bonus Plan. Under the Company's Section 162(m) Cash Bonus Plan, compensation paid in excess of $1,000,000 to any employee who is the chief executive officer or one of the three highest paid executive officers on the last day of that tax year (other than the chief executive officer or the chief financial officer) is not tax deductible.








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A summary of stock option activity is presented below:
2023 2023
SharesWeighted
Average
Exercise
Price
Weighted
Average
Contractual
Term
Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
SharesWeighted
Average
Exercise
Price
Weighted
Average
Contractual
Term
Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
Outstanding, beginning of periodOutstanding, beginning of period544,125 $19.636.1 years Outstanding, beginning of period544,125 $19.636.1 years 
Options:Options: Options: 
GrantedGranted—  Granted—  
ExercisedExercised—  Exercised(3,750)$10.65 
Canceled or expiredCanceled or expired—  Canceled or expired(69,125)$20.50 
Outstanding and expected to vest,
end of period
Outstanding and expected to vest,
end of period
544,125 $19.635.6 years$727,000 Outstanding and expected to vest,
end of period
471,250 $19.575.5 years$722,250 
Exercisable, end of periodExercisable, end of period353,875 $20.324.6 years$363,000 Exercisable, end of period304,500 $20.264.5 years$353,250 
Shares available for future grantShares available for future grant477,500    Shares available for future grant477,500    

Compensation cost charged to operations for the 13 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022 for share-based compensation programs was approximately $80,000$78,000 and $74,000, respectively, and for the 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022 was approximately $159,000$237,000 and $148,000,$222,000, respectively. The compensation cost recognized is classified as a general and administrative expense in the consolidated condensed statements of operations.income.
As of AprilJuly 1, 2023, there was approximately $384,000$306,000 of unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock options, which is expected to be recognized over a period of 3.53.2 years.

11.    INCOME TAXES

We calculate our interim income tax provision in accordance with ASC Topic 270, Interim Reporting and ASC Topic 740, Accounting for Income Taxes. At the end of each interim period, we estimate the annual effective tax rate and apply that rate to our ordinary year to date earnings. In addition, the tax effects of unusual or infrequently occurring items including changes in judgment about valuation allowances and effects of changes in enacted tax laws are recognized discretely in the interim period in which the change occurs. The computation of the annual estimated effective tax rate at each interim period requires certain estimates and significant judgment including the expected operating (loss) income for the year, permanent and temporary differences as a result of differences between amounts measured and recognized in accordance with tax laws and financial accounting standards, and the likelihood of recovering deferred tax assets generated in the current fiscal year. The accounting estimates used to compute income tax expense may change as new events occur, additional information is obtained, or the tax environment changes.

On December 27, 2020, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 (“CAA”) was enacted and provided clarification on the tax deductibility of expenses funded with PPP loans as fully deductible for tax purposes and therefore, the forgiveness of any PPP loans is not taxable. During the 13-week period ended December 31, 2022, the Company recorded income of $272,000 for financial reporting purposes related to the forgiveness of some of its PPP loans. The income recorded for financial reporting purposes was considered an unusual or infrequent event and the tax effect was recorded discretely in the quarter.

The provision for income taxes for the 26-week13-week period ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 was $133,000$173,000 and the effective tax rate was 7.0%4.9%. The effective tax rate differed from the federal statutory rate of 21% primarily as a result of the tax benefits related to the generation of FICA tax credits and operating income attributable to non-controlling interests that is not taxable to the Company.

The provision for income taxes for the 39-week period ended July 1, 2023 was $306,000 and the effective tax rate was 5.6%. The effective tax rate differed from the federal statutory rate of 21% primarily as a result of the tax benefits related to the generation of FICA tax credits, operating income attributable to non-controlling interests that is not taxable to the Company and the discrete tax benefit attributable to income related to the PPP loan forgiveness which is not taxable for income tax reporting purposes.

The provision for income taxes for the 26-week13-week period ended AprilJuly 2, 2022 was $385,000.$905,000 and the effective tax rate was 13.9%. The effective tax rate differed from the federal statutory rate of 21% primarily as a result of the tax benefits related to the generation of FICA tax credits, operating income attributable to non-controlling interests that is not taxable to the Company and the discrete tax benefit attributable to income related to the PPP loan forgiveness which is not taxable for income tax reporting purposes.

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The provision for income taxes for the 26-week39-week period ended AprilJuly 2, 2022 of 9.7%was $1,290,000 and the effective tax rate was 12.3%. The effective tax rate differed from the federal statutory rate of 21% primarily as a result of the tax benefits related to the generation of FICA tax credits, operating income attributable to non-controlling interests that is not taxable to the Company and the discrete tax benefit attributable to the income related to the PPP loan forgiveness which is not taxable for tax purposes.
The Company’s overall effective tax rate in the future will be affected by factors such as changes in tax law, the utilization of state and local net operating loss carryforwards, the generation of FICA tax credits, additional forgiveness of PPP Loans and the mix of earnings by state taxing jurisdictions as Nevada does not impose a state income tax, as compared to the other major state
- 19 -


and local jurisdictions in which the Company has operations. The final annual tax rate cannot be determined until the end of the fiscal year; therefore, the actual tax rate could differ from current estimates.

12.    INCOME PER SHARE OF COMMON STOCK
Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income attributable to Ark Restaurants Corp. by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Our diluted earnings per share is computed similarly to basic earnings per share, except that it reflects the effect of common shares issuable upon exercise of stock options, using the treasury stock method in periods in which they have a dilutive effect.
A reconciliation of shares used in calculating earnings per basic and diluted share follows (amounts in thousands):
13 Weeks Ended26 Weeks Ended 13 Weeks Ended39 Weeks Ended
April 1,
2023
April 2,
2022
April 1,
2023
April 2,
2022
July 1,
2023
July 2,
2022
July 1,
2023
July 2,
2022
BasicBasic3,600 3,552 3,600 3,552 Basic3,601 3,555 3,600 3,553 
Effect of dilutive securities:Effect of dilutive securities:Effect of dilutive securities:
Stock options Stock options45 52 46 48  Stock options40 42 44 46 
DilutedDiluted3,645 3,604 3,646 3,600 Diluted3,641 3,597 3,644 3,599 

For the 13- and 26-week39-week period ended AprilJuly 1, 2023, the dilutive effect of 418,000359,000 options was not included in diluted earnings per share as their impact would be anti-dilutive.

For the 13- and 26-week39-week period ended AprilJuly 2, 2022, the dilutive effect of 433,000422,000 options was not included in diluted earnings per share as their impact would have been anti-dilutive.

13.    DIVIDENDS
On November 9, 2022, February 8,9, 2023 and May 9, 2023, the Board of Directors of the Company (the "Board") declared a quarterly cash dividenddividends of $0.125, $0.125 and $0.1875, respectively, per share which waswere paid on December 13, 2022, March 14, 2023 and June 13, 2023 to the stockholders of record of each share of the Company's common stock at the close of business on September 30, 2022, February 28, 2023 and May 31, 2023. Future decisions to pay or to increase or decrease dividends are at the discretion of the Board and will depend upon operating performance and other factors.

14.    SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
On April 4, 2023, the Company repaid the Shuckers and Oyster House promissory notes in the amounts of $3,485,000 and $2,564,000, respectively. Accordingly. such amounts are included in the current portion of notes payable in the accompanying Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheet as of April 1, 2023.
On April 20, 2023, the Company extended the due date of the $1,500,000 promissory note due from Meadowlands Newmark, LLC from January 31, 2024 to June 30, 2029.
On May 9,August 8, 2023, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.1875 per share to be paid on June 13,September 12, 2023 to shareholders of record of each share of the Company's common stock at the close of business on MayAugust 31, 2023.







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Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

This section and other parts of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q ("Form 10-Q") contain forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 ("PSLRA"), which are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause actual results to be materially different from the statements made herein. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements discuss our current expectations and projections relating to our financial position, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business. You can identify forward-looking statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to any historical or current facts. These statements may include words such as "aim," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "forecast," "future," "intend," "outlook," "potential," "project," "projection," "plan," "seek," "may," "could," "would," "will," "should," "can," "can have," "likely," the negatives thereof and other similar expressions. All forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements.
The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 1, 2022 and the consolidated condensed financial statements and notes thereto included in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q. All information presented herein is based on our fiscal calendar. Unless otherwise stated, references to particular years, quarters, months or periods refer to our fiscal years and the associated quarters, months and periods of those fiscal years.
COVID-19 Pandemic and Inflation
Recent global events, including the COVID-19 pandemic ("COVID-19"), have adversely affected global economies, disrupted global supply chains and labor force participation and created significant volatility and disruption of financial markets. As a result, we experienced significant and variable disruptions to our business as federal, state and local restrictions were mandated, among other remedial measures, to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 virus. While restrictions on the type of permitted operating model and occupancy capacity may continue to change, during fiscal 2022 all of our restaurants operated with no restrictions, other than in New York City where customers were required to show proof of vaccination through November 1, 2022.
In addition to the associated impacts of COVID-19, our operating results have been impacted by geopolitical and other macroeconomic factors, leading to increased commodity and wage inflation and other increased costs. The ongoing effects of COVID-19 and its variants, along with other geopolitical and macroeconomic events, could lead to further government mandates, including but not limited to capacity restrictions, shifts in consumer behavior, wage inflation, staffing challenges, product and services cost inflation and disruptions in our supply chain. If these factors significantly impact our cash flow in the future, we may again implement mitigation actions such as suspending dividends, increasing borrowings or modifying our operating strategies. Some of these measures may have an adverse impact on our business, including possible impairments of assets.
Overview
As of AprilJuly 1, 2023, the Company owned and operated 17 restaurants and bars, 16 fast food concepts and catering operations, exclusively in the United States, that have similar economic characteristics, nature of products and service, class of customer and distribution methods. The Company believes it meets the criteria for aggregating its operating components into a single operating segment in accordance with applicable accounting guidance.
Accounting Period
Our fiscal year ends on the Saturday nearest September 30. We report fiscal years under a 52/53-week format. This reporting method is used by many companies in the hospitality industry and is meant to improve year-to-year comparisons of operating results. Under this method certain years will contain 53 weeks. The periods ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022 each included 13 and 2639 weeks.
Seasonality
The Company has substantial fixed costs that do not decline proportionally with sales. Although our business is highly seasonal, our broader geographical reach as a result of recent acquisitions mitigates some of the risk. For instance, the second quarter of our fiscal year, consisting of the non-holiday portion of the cold weather season in New York and Washington, D.C. (January, February and March), is the poorest performing quarter; however, in recent years this has been partially offset by our locations in Florida as they experience increased results in the winter months. We generally achieve our best results during the warm weather, attributable to our extensive outdoor dining availability, particularly at Bryant Park in New York and Sequoia in Washington, D.C. (our largest restaurants) and our outdoor cafes. However, even during summer months these facilities can be adversely
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affected by unusually cool or rainy weather conditions. Our facilities in Las Vegas are indoor and generally operate on a more consistent basis throughout the year.
Results of Operations
The Company’s operating income for the 13 and 26 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 decreased 89.9% and 26.2%, respectively,-32.9% as compared to the comparablesame period of the prior periodsyear primarily as a result of the decreases in same-store sales as discussed below and continued increases in labor costs in connection with record low unemployment, partially offset by some easing in commodity prices. The Company’s operating income for the 39 weeks ended July 1, 2023 decreased -30.5% as compared to the same period of the prior year primarily as a result of increased labor costs in connection with record low unemployment and the temporary closure of Gallagher's Steakhouse in Las Vegas, NV for renovation, percentage rents paid on higher sales in the current period and the inflationary impact on commodity prices and other high-volume cost of sales items partially offset by increases in revenues formfrom our event business in New York City and Washington, D.C.DC combined with some easing in commodity prices.
The following table summarizes the significant components of the Company’s operating results for the 13- and 26-week39-week periods ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022:
13 Weeks EndedVariance26 Weeks EndedVariance13 Weeks EndedVariance39 Weeks EndedVariance
April 1,
2023
April 2,
2022
$%April 1,
2023
April 2,
2022
$%July 1,
2023
July 2,
2022
$%July 1,
2023
July 2,
2022
$%
(in thousands)(in thousands)(in thousands)(in thousands)
REVENUES:REVENUES:REVENUES:
Food and beverage salesFood and beverage sales$40,913 $38,822 $2,091 5.4 %$87,452 $82,058 $5,394 6.6 %Food and beverage sales$49,807 $52,069 $(2,262)-4.3 %$137,259 $134,127 $3,132 2.3 %
Other revenueOther revenue984 764 220 28.8 %1,890 1,513 377 24.9 %Other revenue1,244 1,149 95 8.3 %3,134 2,662 472 17.7 %
Total revenuesTotal revenues41,897 39,586 2,311 5.8 %89,342 83,571 5,771 6.9 %Total revenues51,051 53,218 (2,167)-4.1 %140,393 136,789 3,604 2.6 %
COSTS AND EXPENSES:COSTS AND EXPENSES:COSTS AND EXPENSES:
Food and beverage cost of salesFood and beverage cost of sales11,795 12,255 (460)-3.8 %24,231 24,796 (565)-2.3 %Food and beverage cost of sales13,241 14,740 (1,499)-10.2 %37,472 39,536 (2,064)-5.2 %
Payroll expensesPayroll expenses15,311 13,482 1,829 13.6 %31,833 27,722 4,111 14.8 %Payroll expenses17,194 16,205 989 6.1 %49,027 43,926 5,101 11.6 %
Occupancy expensesOccupancy expenses5,255 4,616 639 13.8 %11,438 9,848 1,590 16.1 %Occupancy expenses6,151 5,966 185 3.1 %17,589 15,814 1,775 11.2 %
Other operating costs and expensesOther operating costs and expenses5,352 4,840 512 10.6 %11,283 9,978 1,305 13.1 %Other operating costs and expenses6,274 5,996 278 4.6 %17,557 15,974 1,583 9.9 %
General and administrative expensesGeneral and administrative expenses3,023 3,018 0.2 %6,159 5,982 177 3.0 %General and administrative expenses3,495 3,872 (377)-9.7 %9,655 9,854 (199)-2.0 %
Depreciation and amortizationDepreciation and amortization1,138 1,148 (10)-0.9 %2,171 2,227 (56)-2.5 %Depreciation and amortization1,059 1,018 41 4.0 %3,230 3,245 (15)-0.5 %
Total costs and expensesTotal costs and expenses41,874 39,359 2,515 6.4 %87,115 80,553 6,562 8.1 %Total costs and expenses47,414 47,797 (383)-0.8 %134,530 128,349 6,181 4.8 %
OPERATING INCOMEOPERATING INCOME$23 $227 $(204)-89.9 %$2,227 $3,018 $(791)-26.2 %OPERATING INCOME$3,637 $5,421 $(1,784)-32.9 %$5,863 $8,440 $(2,577)-30.5 %
Revenues
During the 13 weeks ended July 1, 2023, revenues decreased -4.1% as compared to revenues for the 13 weeks ended July 2, 2022, primarily as a result of the changes in same-store sales discussed below.
During the 13- and 26-week periods39 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023, revenues increased 5.8% and 6.9%, respectively,2.6% as compared to revenues infor the 13- and 26-week periods39 weeks ended AprilJuly 2, 2022. These increasesThis increase resulted primarily from an increasethe changes in same-store sales discussed below. As required by our lease,below as well as the impact of the substantial closure of Gallagher's Steakhouse at the New York-New York Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV was substantially closed for renovation for the period from February 5, 2023 through April 27, 2023. 2023 as required by our lease.
Revenues related to Gallagher's Steakhouse for the period fromof closure through April 1, 2023 were $714,000$1,068,000 as compared to $2,326,000$3,056,000 for the comparable prior period.




period, of which $354,000 as compared to $730,000 related to the 13-week periods ended July 1, 2023 and July 2, 2022, respectively.



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Food and Beverage Same-Store Sales
On a Company-wide basis, same-store sales increased 5.0%decreased -4.8% during the 13 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 as compared to the same period of last year as follows:
13 Weeks EndedVariance 13 Weeks EndedVariance
April 1,
2023
April 2,
2022
$% July 1,
2023
July 2,
2022
$%
(in thousands)(in thousands)
Las VegasLas Vegas$12,908 $12,719 $189 1.5 %Las Vegas$13,202 $14,117 $(915)-6.5 %
New YorkNew York4,749 3,387 1,362 40.2 %New York12,117 11,669 448 3.8 %
Washington, DCWashington, DC1,510 1,206 304 25.2 %Washington, DC3,773 4,021 (248)-6.2 %
Atlantic City, NJAtlantic City, NJ752 907 (155)-17.1 %Atlantic City, NJ798 957 (159)-16.6 %
AlabamaAlabama3,545 3,336 209 6.3 %Alabama5,184 5,231 (47)-0.9 %
FloridaFlorida17,397 17,366 31 0.2 %Florida13,743 15,259 (1,516)-9.9 %
Same-store salesSame-store sales40,861 38,921 $1,940 5.0 %Same-store sales48,817 51,254 $(2,437)-4.8 %
OtherOther52 (99)  Other990 815   
Food and beverage salesFood and beverage sales$40,913 $38,822   Food and beverage sales$49,807 $52,069   
Same-store sales in Las Vegas decreased -6.5% primarily as a result of the negative impact of the temporary closure of Gallagher's Steakhouse for renovation on February 5, 2023 (which reopened on April 28, 2023). Same-store sales in New York increased 3.8% driven primarily by strong revenues from our event business. Same-store sales in Washington, DC decreased -6.2% as a result of lower headcounts partially offset by targeted menu price increases. Same-store sales in Atlantic City decreased -16.6% as a result of lower customer traffic at the property where we are located. Same-store sales in Alabama decreased -0.9% primarily as a result of slightly lower customer headcounts. Same-store sales in Florida decreased -9.9% primarily as a result of lower headcounts as compared to the comparable prior period which benefited from outsized volumes as a result of the population increase in Southeast Florida.
On a Company-wide basis, same-store sales increased 1.7% during the 39 weeks ended July 1, 2023 as compared to the same period of last year as follows:
 39 Weeks EndedVariance
 July 1,
2023
July 2,
2022
$%
(in thousands)
Las Vegas$41,407 $40,838 $569 1.4 %
New York27,610 23,581 4,029 17.1 %
Washington, DC8,101 7,555 546 7.2 %
Atlantic City, NJ2,142 2,525 (383)-15.2 %
Alabama11,857 11,646 211 1.8 %
Florida43,788 46,549 (2,761)-5.9 %
Same-store sales134,905 132,694 $2,211 1.7 %
Other2,354 1,433   
Food and beverage sales$137,259 $134,127   
Same-store sales in Las Vegas increased 1.5%1.4% primarily as a result of increased customer traffic and targeted menu price increases partially offset by the negative impact of the temporary closure of Gallagher's Steakhouse for renovation on February 5, 2023 (which reopened on April 28, 2023). Same storeSame-store sales increases in New York and Washington, D.C. of 40.2% and 25.2%, respectively, as compared to the prior period wereincreased 17.1% driven primarily by strong revenues from our event business and increased customer traffictraffic. Same-store sales in Washington, DC increased 7.2% driven primarily by strong revenues from our event business and targeted menu price increases.increases in the first two quarters, partially offset by lower headcounts in the third quarter. Same-store sales in Atlantic City decreased 17.1%-15.2% as a result of lower customer traffic at the property where we are located. Same-store sales in Alabama increased 6.3% primarily as a result of increased customer traffic and targeted menu price increases. Same-store sales in Florida increased 0.2%1.8% primarily as a result of increased customer traffic and targeted menu price increases in the first two quarters, partially offset by lower headcounts at the Rustic Innin the current period.
On a Company-wide basis, same-store sales increased 5.7% during the 26 weeks ended April 1, 2023 as compared to the same period of last year as follows:
 26 Weeks EndedVariance
 April 1,
2023
April 2,
2022
$%
(in thousands)
Las Vegas$28,205 $26,721 $1,484 5.6 %
New York15,493 11,912 3,581 30.1 %
Washington, DC4,328 3,534 794 22.5 %
Atlantic City, NJ1,344 1,568 (224)-14.3 %
Alabama6,673 6,415 258 4.0 %
Florida30,045 31,290 (1,245)-4.0 %
Same-store sales86,088 81,440 $4,648 5.7 %
Other1,364 618   
Food and beverage sales$87,452 $82,058   
Same-store sales in Las Vegas increased 5.6% primarily as a result of increased customer traffic and targeted menu price increases partially offset by the negative impact of the temporary closure of Gallagher's Steakhouse for renovation on February 5, 2023 (which reopened on April 28, 2023). Same store sales increases in New York and Washington, D.C. of 30.1% and 22.5%, respectively, as compared to the prior period were driven primarily by strong revenues from our event business, increased customer traffic and targeted menu price increases. Same-store sales in Atlantic City decreased 14.3% as a result of lower customer traffic at the property where we are located. Same-store sales in Alabama increased 4.0% primarily as a result of increased customer traffic and targeted menu price increases.third quarter. Same-store sales in Florida decreased 4.0%-5.9% primarily as a result of lower traffic in the first quarterheadcounts as compared to the comparable prior period which
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benefited from outsized volumes as a result of the population increase in Southeast Florida as a result of the migration of people during the pandemic combined with lower
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headcounts at the Rustic Inn in the second quarter partially offset by increased customer traffic and targeted menu price increases targeted menu price increases at our other Florida properties in the second quarter.increases.
Other food and beverage sales consist of sales related to new restaurants opened or acquired during the applicable period, sales related to properties that were closed and other adjustments and fees.
Costs and Expenses
Costs and expenses for the 13 and 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022 were as follows (in thousands):
13 Weeks Ended
April 1,
2023
%
to Total
Revenues
13 Weeks Ended
April 2,
2022
%
to Total
Revenues
Increase
(Decrease)
26 Weeks Ended
April 1,
2023
%
to Total
Revenues
26 Weeks Ended
April 2,
2022
%
to Total
Revenues
Increase
(Decrease)
13 Weeks Ended
July 1,
2023
%
to Total
Revenues
13 Weeks Ended
July 2,
2022
%
to Total
Revenues
Increase
(Decrease)
39 Weeks Ended
July 1,
2023
%
to Total
Revenues
39 Weeks Ended
July 2,
2022
%
to Total
Revenues
Increase
(Decrease)
$%$%$%$%
Food and beverage cost of salesFood and beverage cost of sales$11,795 28.2 %$12,255 31.0 %(460)-3.8 %$24,231 27.1 %$24,796 29.7 %(565)-2.3 %Food and beverage cost of sales$13,241 25.9 %$14,740 27.7 %(1,499)-10.2 %$37,472 26.7 %$39,536 28.9 %(2,064)-5.2 %
Payroll expensesPayroll expenses15,311 36.5 %13,482 34.1 %1,829 13.6 %31,833 35.6 %27,722 33.2 %4,111 14.8 %Payroll expenses17,194 33.7 %16,205 30.5 %989 6.1 %49,027 34.9 %43,926 32.1 %5,101 11.6 %
Occupancy expensesOccupancy expenses5,255 12.5 %4,616 11.7 %639 13.8 %11,438 12.8 %9,848 11.8 %1,590 16.1 %Occupancy expenses6,151 12.0 %5,966 11.2 %185 3.1 %17,589 12.5 %15,814 11.6 %1,775 11.2 %
Other operating costs and expensesOther operating costs and expenses5,352 12.8 %4,840 12.2 %512 10.6 %11,283 12.6 %9,978 11.9 %1,305 13.1 %Other operating costs and expenses6,274 12.3 %5,996 11.3 %278 4.6 %17,557 12.5 %15,974 11.7 %1,583 9.9 %
General and administrative expensesGeneral and administrative expenses3,023 7.2 %3,018 7.6 %0.2 %6,159 6.9 %5,982 7.2 %177 3.0 %General and administrative expenses3,495 6.8 %3,872 7.3 %(377)-9.7 %9,655 6.9 %9,854 7.2 %(199)-2.0 %
Depreciation and amortizationDepreciation and amortization1,138 2.7 %1,148 2.9 %(10)-0.9 %2,171 2.4 %2,227 2.7 %(56)-2.5 %Depreciation and amortization1,059 2.1 %1,018 1.9 %41 4.0 %3,230 2.3 %3,245 2.4 %(15)-0.5 %
Total costs and expensesTotal costs and expenses$41,874 $39,359 $2,515 $87,115 $80,553 $6,562 Total costs and expenses$47,414 $47,797 $(383)$134,530 $128,349 $6,181 
Food and beverage costs as a percentage of total revenues for the 13 and 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 as compared with the same periodperiods of last year decreased as a result of targeted increases in menu pricing, changes in menu mix and a very strong event business in Washington, D.C. and New York City in the current period, partially offset by increasesand Washington, DC, which has higher margins, combined with some easing in commodity prices and other high-volume items caused by inflation.prices.

Payroll expenses as a percentage of total revenues for the 13 and 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 increased as compared with the same periodperiods of last year primarily as a result of record low unemployment and ongoing COVID-related labor challenges combined with merit increases.increases and increasing minimum wages in the states where we operate.

Occupancy expenses as a percentage of total revenues for the 13 and 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 increased as compared with the same periodperiods of last year primarily as a result of increases in base rents, percentage rents paid on higher sales in the current period and increases in property and liability insurance premiums.

Other operating costs and expenses as a percentage of total revenues for the 13 and 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 as compared to the same period of last year increased primarily as a result of inflation.

General and administrative expenses (which relate solely to the corporate office in New York City) for the 13 and 39 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 were comparable withdecreased as compared to the same periodperiods of last year. Generalyear as a result of severance accruals in the prior period partially offset by annual merit increases.

Depreciation and administrative expenses (which relate solely to the corporate office in New York City)amortization expense for the 2613 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 increased slightly as compared withto the same period of last year primarily as a result of annual merit increases.
the
Gallagher's Steakhouse
renovation costs being placed into service on April 28, 2023. Depreciation and amortization expense for the 13 and 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 decreased slightly as compared to the same period of last year primarily as a result of the timing of additions in the prior period.
Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our primary source of capital has been cash provided by operations and, in recent years, bank and other borrowings to finance specific transactions, acquisitions and large remodeling projects. We utilize cash generated from operations to fund the cost of developing and opening new restaurants and smaller remodeling projects of existing restaurants we own. Consistent with many other restaurant operators, we typically use operating lease arrangements for our restaurants. In recent years we have been able to acquire the underlying real estate at several locations along with the restaurant operation. We believe that our operating lease arrangements provide appropriate leverage of our capital structure in a financially efficient manner.
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As of AprilJuly 1, 2023, we had a cash and cash equivalents balance of $17,890,000.$13,986,000. The Company had a working capital deficit of ($5,842,000)4,081,000) at AprilJuly 1, 2023 as compared with working capital of $4,210,000 at October 1, 2022. This decrease is primarily the result of the prepayment of a promissory note in the amount of $6,666,000 on March 30, 2023 and the prepayment of three promissory notes in the aggregate amount of $6,046,000 on April 4, 2023 (see Note 14 - Subsequent Events).2023.
Inflation
The country is currently experiencing multi-decade high inflation. Our profitability is dependent on, among other things, our ability to anticipate and react to changes in the cost of food and other raw materials, labor, energy and other supplies and services. While we have not had material disruptions in our supply chain, we have experienced some product shortages and higher costs for many commodities. There has also been a general shortage in the availability of restaurant staff and hourly workers in certain geographic areas in which we operate and has caused increases in the costs of recruiting and compensating such employees. In addition, certain operating and other costs, including health benefits, taxes, insurance, and other outside services, continue to increase with the general level of inflation and may also be subject to other cost and supply fluctuations outside of our control.

While we have been able to offset inflation and other changes in the costs of key operating resources by targeted increases in menu prices, coupled with more efficient purchasing practices, there can be no assurance that we will be able to continue to do so in the future. From time to time, competitive conditions will limit our menu pricing flexibility. In addition, macroeconomic conditions that impact consumer discretionary spending for food away from home could make additional menu price increases imprudent. There can be no assurance that all of our future cost increases can be offset by higher menu prices or that higher menu prices will be accepted by our restaurant customers without any resulting changes in their visit frequencies or purchasing patterns.
Cash Flows for 2639 Weeks Ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022
Net cash provided by operating activities for the 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 decreased to $2,111,000$6,872,000 as compared to $4,963,000$15,836,000 in the same period of last year. This decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease in consolidated net income and changes in net working capital primarily related to accounts receivable, inventory, accounts payable and accrued expenses.
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities for the 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022 was $2,998,000$2,008,000 and $(1,090,000)$(1,774,000), respectively, and resulted primarily from purchases of fixed assets at existing restaurants and, in the current period, the proceeds from the maturity of a certificate of deposit.
Net cash used in financing activities for the 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 of $(10,658,000)$(18,333,000) resulted primarily from principal payments on notes payable of $8,640,000$15,835,000 (including the prepayment of a promissory note in the amount of $6,666,000 on March 30, 2023 and the prepayment of three promissory notes in the aggregate amount of $6,046,000 on April 4, 2023), the resumption of payment of dividends in the amount of $900,000$1,576,000 and the payment of distributions to non-controlling interests in the amount of $587,000.$961,000. Net cash used in financing activities for the 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 2, 2022 of $(4,052,000)$(6,631,000) resulted primarily from principal payments on notes payable of $2,468,000$5,275,000, the resumption of the payment of dividends in the amount of $444,000 and the payment of distributions to non-controlling interests in the amount of $1,069,000.$1,543,000.
Recent Restaurant Expansions and Other Developments
On April 8, 2022, the Company extended its lease for Gallagher's Steakhouse at the New York-New York Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV through December 31, 2032. In connection with the extension, the Company has agreed to spend a minimum of $1,500,000 (all of which has been expended to date) to materially refresh the premises by April 30, 2023 (as extended from September 30, 2022 due to supply chain issues), subject to various extensions as set out in the agreement. Accordingly, the property was substantially closed for renovation on February 5, 2023 and reopened on April 28, 2023. The total cost of the refresh was approximately $1,900,000.

On June 24, 2022, the Company extended its lease for America at the New York-New York Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV through December 31, 2033. In connection with the extension, the Company has agreed to spend a minimum of $4,000,000 to materially refresh the premises by December 31, 2024, subject to various extensions as set out in the agreement. No amounts have been expended to date related to this refresh.

On July 21, 2022, the Company extended its lease for the Village Eateries at the New York-New York Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV through December 31, 2034. As part of this extension, the Broadway Burger Bar and Grill and Gonzalez y Gonzalez, were carved out of the Village Eateries footprint and the extended date for those two locations is December 31, 2033. In connection with the extension, the Company has agreed to spend a minimum of $3,500,000 to materially refresh all three of these premises by December 31, 2023 (as extended from June 30, 2023 (of which2023). To date approximately $50,000 has been spent to date), subject to various extensions as set out in the agreement, which the Company expects will be agreed to.on this refresh.

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Each of the above refresh obligations are to be consistent with designs approved by the Landlordlandlord which shall not be unreasonably withheld. We will continue to pay all rent as required by the leases without abatement during construction. Note that our substantial completion of work set forth in plans approved by the Landlordlandlord shall constitute our compliance with the requirements of the completion deadlines, regardless of whether or not the amount actually expended in connection therewith is less than the minimum.

Our restaurants generally do not achieve substantial increases in revenue from year to year, which we consider to be typical of the restaurant industry. To achieve significant increases in revenue or to replace revenue of restaurants that lose customer favor or which close because of lease expirations or other reasons, we would have to open additional restaurant facilities or expand existing restaurants. There can be no assurance that a restaurant will be successful after it is opened, particularly since in many instances we do not operate our new restaurants under a trade name currently used by us, thereby requiring new restaurants to establish their own identity.
We may take advantage of other opportunities we consider to be favorable, when they occur, depending upon the availability of financing and other factors.
Recent Restaurant Dispositions and Other Developments
On July 5, 2022, the Company terminated its lease for Lucky 7 at the Foxwoods Resort Casino. The closure did not result in a material change to the Company's operations.
During the 26 weeks ended April 1, 2023, the Company dissolved the entity which owned Clyde Frazier's Wine and Dine, which was closed in September of 2021. In connection with the dissolution, the Company reclassified the remaining non-controlling interest balance to additional paid-in capital.
Credit Facility
On March 30, 2023, the Company entered into a Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), with its lender, Bank Hapoalim B.M. (“BHBM”). This facility, which matures on June 1, 2025, replaced our revolving credit facility which was entered into in June 1, 2018. Under the terms of the Credit Agreement: (i) a promissory note under the Prior Credit Agreement in the amount of $6,666,000 was repaid, (ii) BHBM established a new revolving credit facility in the amount of $10,000,000, with a commitment termination date of May 31, 2025, (ii)(iii) the Company may use the revolving commitments of BHBM to obtain letters of credit up to a sublimit thereunder of $1,000,000, and (iv) the LIBOR rate option for all borrowings was replaced with the secured overnight financing rate for U.S. Government Securities (“SOFR”). Advances under the Credit Agreement bear interest, at the Company's election at the time of the advance, at either BHBM's prime rate of interest plus a 0.45% spread or SOFR plus a 3.65% spread. In addition, there is a 0.30% per annum fee for any unused portion of the $10,000,000 revolving facility. As of AprilJuly 1, 2023, no advances were outstanding under the Credit Agreement. As of AprilJuly 1, 2023, the weighted average interest on the outstanding BHBM notes payable was approximately 8.2%8.8%. We do not expect theThe replacement of LIBOR with SOFR as a reference rate in our debt agreements todid not have a material adverse effect on our financial position or materially affect our interest expense.
Borrowings and all other obligations under Credit Agreement, which include the promissory notes as discussed in Note 8 of the consolidated condensed financial statements, are secured by all tangible and intangible personal property (including accounts receivable, inventory, equipment, general intangibles, documents, chattel paper, instruments, letter-of-credit rights, investment property, intellectual property and deposit accounts) and fixtures of the Company. The Credit Facility also requires, among other things, that the Company meet minimum quarterly tangible net worth amounts, maintain a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio and meet minimum annual net income amounts. The Credit Agreement contains customary representations, warranties and affirmative covenants as well as customary negative covenants, subject to negotiated exceptions on liens, relating to other indebtedness, capital expenditures, liens, affiliate transactions, disposal of assets and certain changes in ownership.
Paycheck Protection Program Loans
During the year ended October 3, 2020, subsidiaries and consolidated VIEs (the “Borrowers”) of the Company received loan proceeds from several banks (the “Lenders”) in the aggregate amount of $14,995,000 (the “PPP Loans”) under the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) of the CARES Act, which was enacted March 27, 2020. In addition, during the 13 weeks ended April 3, 2021, one of our consolidated VIEs received a second draw PPP Loan in the amount of $111,000. The PPP Loans were evidenced by individual promissory notes of each of the Borrowers (together, the “Notes”) in favor of the Lender, which Notes bore interest at the rate of 1.00% per annum. Funds from the PPP Loans were to be used only for payroll and related costs, costs used to continue group health care benefits, mortgage payments, rent, utilities, and interest on other debt obligations that were incurred by a Borrower prior to February 15, 2020 (the “Qualifying Expenses”). Under the terms of the PPP Loans, some or all of
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the amounts thereunder, including accrued interest, were to be forgiven if they were used for Qualifying Expenses as described in and in compliance with the CARES Act. During the 2613 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022, $272,000$0 and $1,122,000$1,298,000 of PPP Loans, respectively (including $6,000$0 and $20,000$46,000 of accrued interest, respectively) were forgiven. During the 1339 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022, $0$272,000 and $1,122,000$2,420,000 of PPP Loans, respectively, (including $0$6,000 and $20,000$66,000 of accrued interest, respectively) were forgiven. During the 2639 weeks ended AprilJuly 1, 2023 and AprilJuly 2, 2022, the Company made payments related to the unforgiven portion of PPP Loans in the aggregate amount of $531,000 and $976,000,$1,571,000, respectively. As of AprilJuly 1, 2023, no PPP Loans were outstanding; however, the Company is appealing a forgiveness denial in the amount of $280,000. Such loan was repaid as we await the appeal decision.
Cash Flow Outlook
We are not aware of any trends or events that would materially affect our capital requirements or liquidity. We believe that our existing cash balances, internal cash-generating capabilities, current banking facilities and ability to secure additional financing, if necessary, are sufficient to finance our capital expenditures, debt maturities and other operating activities for at least the next twelve months.
Recent Events
On April 4, 2023, the Company repaid the Shuckers and Oyster House promissory notes in the amounts of $3,485,000 and $2,564.000, respectively. Accordingly. such amounts are included in the current portion of notes payable in the accompanying Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheet as of April 1, 2023.
On April 20, 2023, the Company extended the due date of the $1,500,000 promissory note due from Meadowlands Newmark, LLC from January 31, 2024 to June 30, 2029.
On May 9,August 8, 2023, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.1875 per share to be paid on June 13,September 12, 2023 to shareholders of record of each share of the Company's common stock at the close of business on MayAugust 31, 2023. Future decisions to pay or to increase or decrease dividends are at the discretion of the Board and will depend upon operating performance and other factors.
Critical Accounting Estimates
The preparation of financial statements requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions of future events. In the process of preparing its consolidated condensed financial statements, the Company estimates the appropriate carrying value of certain assets and liabilities, which are not readily apparent from other sources. The critical accounting estimates underlying the Company’s consolidated condensed financial statements include projected cash flows for fixed asset impairments, allowances for potential bad debts on accounts and notes receivable, assumptions regarding discount rates related to lease accounting, the useful lives and recoverability of its long-lived assets, such as property and intangibles, fair values of financial instruments, the realizable value of its tax assets and other matters. Management bases its estimates on certain assumptions, which it believes are reasonable in the circumstances, and actual results could differ from those estimates. Although management does not believe that any change in those assumptions in the near term would have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated condensed financial position or the results of operations, differences in actual results could be material to the consolidated condensed financial statements.
The Company’s critical accounting estimates are described in the Company’s MD&A included in Form 10-K for the year ended October 1, 2022. There have been no significant changes to such critical accounting estimates during the secondthird fiscal quarter 2023.












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Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
Not Applicable
Item 4. Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). Based on this evaluation, our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of AprilJuly 1, 2023 to ensure that all material information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to them as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure and that all such information is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) that occurred during the secondthird quarter of fiscal 2023 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Limitations of the Effectiveness of Internal Control
A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the internal control system are met. Because of the inherent limitations of any internal control system, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues, if any, within a company have been detected.
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PART II
OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
Except as otherwise provided below, the Company is not subject to pending legal proceedings, other than ordinary claims incidental to its business, which the Company does not believe will materially impact results of operations.
On May 1, 2018, two former tipped service workers (the “Plaintiffs”), individually and on behalf of all other similarly situated personnel, filed a putative class action lawsuit (the “Complaint”) against the Company and certain subsidiaries as well as certain officers of the Company (the “Defendants”).  Plaintiffs alleged, on behalf of themselves and the putative class, that the Company violated certain of the New York State Labor Laws and related regulations.  In December 2020, the parties reached a settlement agreement resolving all issues alleged in the Complaint, which received final approval by the New York State Supreme Court in October 2022, for approximately $600,000, which was previously accrued on the October 1, 2022 consolidated balance sheet. Under the terms of the court approved settlement agreement, settlement proceeds were distributed to the Plaintiffs in the first quarter of fiscal year 2023.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
Not Applicable.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
None.
Item 3. Defaults upon Senior Securities
None.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
Not Applicable.
Item 5. Other Information
None.
Insider Trading Arrangements and Policies

During the third quarter of 2023, none of our directors or executive officers adopted Rule 10b5-1 trading plans and none of our directors or executive officers terminated a Rule 10b5-1 trading plan or adopted or terminated a non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement (as defined in Item 408(c) of Regulation S-K).
Item 6.    Exhibits

10.1 Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of March 30, 2023, by and between Ark Restaurants Corp., as borrower, and Bank Hapoalim B.M., as lender, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 5, 2023.

10.2Second Amended and Restated Security Agreement, dated as of March 30, 2023, by and between Ark Restaurants Corp., and Bank Hapoalim B.M., incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 5, 2023.
31.1* Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2* Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32** Certificate of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101.INS*  XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
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101.LAB* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
104 Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101).
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__________________________
* Filed herewith.
** Furnished herewith.
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Date:May 16,August 15, 2023
  
 ARK RESTAURANTS CORP.
  
By:/s/ Michael Weinstein
 Michael Weinstein
 Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
 (Principal Executive Officer)
  
By:/s/ Anthony J. Sirica
 Anthony J. Sirica
 President, Chief Financial Officer and Director
 (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

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