SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

For the quarterly period ended April 1,December 30, 2017

Commission file number 1-09453

ARK RESTAURANTS CORP.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:    (212) 206-8800     

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 (the “Exchange Act”) 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.

Yesx Noo

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yesx Noo

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

InIf 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.
o

Yeso Noo

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yeso Nox

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date:

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.

We have attempted to identify, in context, certain of the factors that we believe may cause actual future experience and results to differ materially from our current expectation regarding the relevant matter or subject area. In addition to the items specifically discussed above, our business, results of operations and financial position and your investment in our common stock are subject to the risks and uncertainties described in “Item 1A Risk Factors” in Part I of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 1, 2016September 30, 2017 (“Form 10-K”) as may be updated by the information contained under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in Part II of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

From time to time, oral or written forward-looking statements are also included in our reports on Forms 10-K, 10-K/A, 10-Q, 10-Q/A 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-K, 10-K/A, 10-Q, 10-Q/A and 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.

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)

See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONSINCOME (Unaudited)

FOR THE 13 WEEKS ENDED DECEMBER 30, 2017 AND DECEMBER 31, 2016

(In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)

See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (Unaudited)

FOR THE 2613 WEEKS ENDED APRIL 1,DECEMBER 30, 2017 AND APRIL 2,DECEMBER 31, 2016

(In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)

See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited)

FOR THE 13 WEEKS ENDED DECEMBER 30, 2016 AND DECEMBER 31, 2016

(In Thousands)

See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

April 1,December 30, 2017

(Unaudited)                                               

The consolidated condensed balance sheet as of October 1, 2016,September 30, 2017, which has been derived from audited financial statements included in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 1, 2016September 30, 2017 (“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, Rule 10-01.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.

The Company had a working capital deficiency of $18,197,000 at December 30, 2017 primarily as a result of our purchase of The Oyster House properties in November 2016 and costs associated with the renovation of our Sequoia property in Washington, DC. We believe that our existing cash balances, current banking facilities and cash provided by operations will be sufficient to meet our liquidity and capital spending requirements at least through February 13, 2019. In addition, the Company is in the process of negotiating an increase in the amounts available under its existing credit facility and refinancing outstanding borrowings over longer repayment periods. Such refinancing is expected to be completed in Q2 2018.

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. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The results of operations for interim periodsthe three months ended December 30, 2017 are not necessarily indicative of the operating results to be expected for the full year or any other interim period.period or for the year ending September 29, 2018.

PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION — The consolidated condensed interim 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 interim financial statements are certain variable interest entities (“VIEs”). All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

RECLASSIFICATIONS — Certain reclassifications of prior period balances relatedhave been made to the statement of operationsprior year’s financial statements to enhance comparability with the current year’s presentation of $822,000 of certain administrative fees related to catering revenue receivedother income. As a result, comparative figures have been reclassified from payroll expense to revenueadjusted to conform to the current periodyear’s presentation.

SEASONALITY — The Company has substantial fixed costs that do not decline proportionally with sales. The first and second fiscal quarters, which include the winter months, usually reflect lower customer traffic than in the third and fourth fiscal quarters. In addition,However, sales in the third and fourth fiscal quarters can be adversely affected by inclement weather due to the significant amount of outdoor seating at the Company’s restaurants.

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS — 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 are determined using current applicable rates for similar instruments as of the consolidated condensed balance sheet date and approximate the carrying value of such debt instruments.

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 paid off in a short period of time and amounts due from the hotel operators where the Company has a location, and are recorded when the products or services have been delivered. The Company reviews the collectability of its

receivables on an ongoing basis, and provides for an allowance when it considers the entity unable to meet its 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 December 30, 2017 and September 30, 2017, the Company had accounts receivable balances due from two hotel operators totaling 48% and 39%, respectively, of total accounts receivable.

For the 26-week periods13-week period ended April 1,December 30, 2017 and April 2,the Company made purchases from one vendor that accounted for 10% of total purchases. For the 13-week period December 31, 2016, the Company did not make purchases from any one vendor that accounted for 10% or greater of total purchases for the respective period. For the 13-week period ended April 1, 2017, the Company made purchases from one vendor that accounted for approximately 10% of total purchases. For the 13-week period ended April 2, 2016, the Company did not make purchases from any one vendor that accounted for 10% or greater of total purchases for the respective period.

SEGMENT REPORTING — As of April 1,December 30, 2017, the Company owned and operated 2120 restaurants and bars, 19 fast food concepts and catering operations, exclusively in the United States, that have similar economic characteristics, nature of products and service, class of customers and distribution methods. The Company believes it meets the criteria for aggregating its operating segments into a single reporting segment in accordance with applicable accounting guidance.

NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS NOT YET ADOPTED — In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The guidance which establishesprovides a new standard on revenue recognition. The new standard outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes most currentnew revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. The core principle of the revenue model is that an entity shouldrequires a company to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers ina customer at an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entityit expects to be entitledreceive in exchange for those goods or services. The standard is designed to create greater comparability for financial statement users across industries and jurisdictions andguidance also requires enhanced disclosures. The guidanceadditional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts. This update is effective for the Company in the first quarter of fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017, with early adoption permitted for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016.2019, which is when we plan to adopt these provisions. This update permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method, however we have not yet selected a transition method. Upon initial evaluation, we do not believe this guidance will impact our recognition of revenue from company-owned restaurants, which is our primary source of revenue. We are continuing to evaluate the effect this guidance will have on other, less significant revenue sources, including catering revenues. The Company iscontinues to monitor additional changes, modifications, clarifications or interpretations being undertaken by the FASB, which may, in conjunction with the processcompletion of evaluating the impact that will result from the adoptionCompany’s overall assessment of the new standard but we do not anticipate a significantguidance, impact on our Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements. We currently plan to apply the new standard using the modified retrospective method beginning in fiscal 2019.Company’s current conclusions.

In February 2016, the FASB issued guidance to improve financial reporting about leasing transactions.ASU No. 2016-02, Leases. This guidance will require organizations that lease assets (“lessees”)update requires a lessee to recognize a lease liability and a right-of-use asset on itsthe balance sheet for all leases with terms of more than twelve months. A leasea liability is a lessee’s obligation to make lease payments and a corresponding right-of-use asset. The guidance also requires certain qualitative and quantitative disclosures about the amount, timing and uncertainty of cash flows arising from a lease, measured on a discounted basis and a right-of-use asset represents the lessee’s right to use, or control use of, a specified asset for the lease term. The guidanceleases. This update is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Lessees (for capital and operating leases) and lessors (for sales-type, direct financing, and operating leases) must apply a modified retrospective transition approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presentedCompany in the financial statements. The modified retrospective approach would not require any transition accountingfirst quarter of fiscal 2020, which is when we plan to adopt these provisions. We plan to elect the available practical expedients on adoption and we expect our balance sheet presentation to be materially impacted upon adoption due to the recognition of right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for leases that expired beforeoperating leases. We are continuing to evaluate the earliest comparative period presented. Lessees and lessors may not apply a full retrospective transition approach. The Company is evaluating the potential impact ofeffect this guidance will have on itsour Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.Statements and related disclosures.

In January 2017, the FASB issued guidance clarifying the definition of a business. The update provides that when substantially all the fair value of the assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets, the set is not a business. The new rules will be effective for the Company in the first quarter of 2019. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact adoption of this guidance on its Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

In January 2017, the FASB guidance simplifying the test for goodwill impairment. The update simplifies how an entity is required to test goodwill for impairment by eliminating Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. Step 2 measures a goodwill impairment loss by comparing the implied fair value of a reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount. The new rules will be effective for the Company in the first quarter of 2021. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact adoption of this guidance on its Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

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 required disclosures associated with the Company’s consolidated VIEs:

The liabilities recognized as a result of consolidating these VIEs do not represent additional claims on the Company’s general assets; rather, they represent claims against the specific assets of the consolidated VIEs. Conversely, assets 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.

On October 22, 2015, the Company, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Ark Shuckers, LLC and Ark Shuckers Real Estate, LLC, acquired the assets ofShuckers Inc.(“Shuckers”), a restaurant and bar located at the Island Beach Resort in Jensen Beach, FL, and six condominium units (four of which house the restaurant and bar operations). In addition, Ark Island Beach Resort LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, acquired Island Beach Resort Inc., a management company that administers a rental pool of certain condominium units under lease. The total purchase price was $5,717,000. The acquisition is accounted for as a business combination and was financed with a bank loan in the amount of $5,000,000 and cash from operations.

On November 30, 2016, the Company, through newly formed, wholly-owned subsidiaries, acquired the assets of the Original Oyster House, Inc., a restaurant and bar located in the City of Gulf Shores, Baldwin County, Alabama and the related real estate and an adjacent retail shopping plaza and the Original Oyster House II, Inc., a restaurant and bar located in the City of Spanish Fort, Baldwin County, Alabama and the related real estate. The total purchase price was for $10,750,000 plus inventory of approximately $293,000. The acquisition is accounted for as a business combination and was financed with a bank loan from the Company’s existing lender in the amount of $8,000,000 and cash from operations. The fair values of the assets acquired were allocated as follows (amounts in thousands):

The Consolidated Condensed Statements of OperationsIncome for the 13 and 26-weeks13-weeks ended April 1,December 30, 2017 include revenues and incomelosses of approximately $4,765,000$2,388,000 and $6,445,000 and $577,000 and $523,000,($125,000), respectively, related to theShuckers andOyster Houseproperties. The unaudited pro forma financial information set forth below is based upon the Company’s historical Consolidated Condensed Statements of OperationsIncome for the 26-weeks13-weeks ended April 1, 2017 and April 2,December 31, 2016 and includes the results of operations forShuckersand theOyster Houseproperties for the periodsperiod prior to acquisition. The unaudited pro forma financial information is presented for informational purposes only and may not be indicative of what actual results of operations

would have been had the acquisition ofShuckers and theOyster Houseproperties occurred on the dates indicated, nor does it purport to represent the results of operations for future periods.

Lease Expirations – On November 30, 2015, the Company’s lease at theV-Bar located at the Venetian Casino Resort in Las Vegas, NV expired. The closure of this property did not result in a material charge.

The Company was advised by the landlord that it would have to vacate theCenter CaféThe Grill at Two Trees property located at Union Stationthe Foxwoods Resort and Casino in Washington, DC Ledyard, CT,which was onhad a month-to-monthno rent lease. The closure of this property occurred in February 2016on January 1, 2017 and did not result in a material charge.

Other – On November 18, 2016, Ark Jupiter RI, LLC (“Ark Jupiter”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, entered into a ROFR Purchase and Sale Agreement (the “ROFR”) with SCFRC-HWG, LLC, the landlord (the “Seller”) to purchase the land and building in which the Company operates itsRustic Innlocation in Jupiter, Florida. The Seller had entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement with a third party to sell the premises; however, Ark Jupiter’s lease provided the Company with a right of first refusal to purchase the property. Ark Jupiter exercised the ROFR on October 4, 2016 and made a ten (10%) percent deposit on the purchase price of approximately Five Million Two Hundred Thousand Dollars ($5,200,000). Concurrent with the execution of the ROFR, Ark Jupiter entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement with 1065 A1A, LLC to sell this same property for Eight Million Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($8,250,000). In connection with the sale, Ark Jupiter and 1065 A1A, LLC have entered into a temporary lease and sub-lease arrangement which expiresexpired on July 18, 2017, at which time2017. The Company vacated the Company expects to vacate the space.space in June 2017. In connection with these transactions the Company recognized a gain in the amount of $1,637,000 during the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016.

The Company transferred its lease and the related assets ofCanyon Road located in New York, NY to an unrelated third party.a former employee. In connection with this transfer, the Company recognized an impairment loss included in depreciation and amortization expense in the amount of $75,000 for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016.

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 63.7% ownership interest. On November 19, 2013, the Company invested an additional $464,000 in NMR through a 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 of 7.4%, subject to dilution. In 2015, the Company invested an additional $222,000 in NMR and on February 7, 2017, the Company invested an additional $222,000 in NMR, both as a result of capital calls, bringing its total investment to $5,108,000 with no change in ownership. This investment has been accounted for based on the cost method.

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.

In conjunction with this investment, the Company, through a 97%98% 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. At April 1,December 30, 2017, it was determined that 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 any 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 a receivable from AM VIE’s primary beneficiary (NMR, a related party) which aggregated approximately $233,000$5,000 and $164,000$9,000 at April 1,December 30, 2017 and October 1, 2016,September 30, 2017, respectively, and are included in Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets in the Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets.

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. On July 13, 2016, the Company made an additional loan to Meadowlands Newmark, LLC in the amount of $200,000. Such amount is subject to the same terms and conditions as the original loan as discussed above. The principal and accrued interest related to this note in the amounts of $1,843,000$1,885,000 and $1,815,000,$1,871,000, are included in Investment In and Receivable From New Meadowlands Racetrack in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at April 1,December 30, 2017 and October 1, 2016,September 30, 2017, respectively.

In accordance with the cost method, our initial investment is recorded at cost and we record dividend income when applicable, if dividends are declared. We review our Investment in NMR each reporting period to determine whether a significant event or change in circumstances has occurred that may have an adverse effect on its fair value, such as the defeat of the referendum for casino gaming in Northern New Jersey in November 2016. State law prohibits the issue from being put on the ballot before voters for the following two years. As a result, we performed an assessment of the recoverability of our indirect Investment in NMR as of October 1, 2016September 30, 2017 which included estimates requiring significant management judgment, include inherent uncertainties and are often interdependent; therefore, they do not change in isolation. Factors that management estimated include, among others, the probability of gambling being approved in Northern NJ which is the most heavily weighted assumption and NMR obtaining a license to operate a casino, revenue levels, cost of capital, marketing spending, tax rates and capital spending.

In performing this assessment, we estimated the fair value of our Investment in NMR using our best estimate of these assumptions which we believe would be consistent with what a hypothetical marketplace participant would use. The variability of these factors depends on a number of conditions, including uncertainty about future events and our inability as a minority shareholder to control certain outcomes and thus our accounting estimates may change from period to period. If other assumptions and estimates had been used when these tests were performed, impairment charges could have resulted. As a result of the above, no impairment was deemed necessary as of April 1,December 30, 2017.

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consist of the following:

Long-term debt consists of the following:

Long-term debt consists of the following:

On February 25, 2013, the Company issued a promissory note to Bank Hapoalim B.M. (the “BHBM”) for $3,000,000. The note bore interest at LIBOR plus 3.5% per annum, and was payable in 36 equal monthly installments of $83,333, commencing on March 25, 2013. On February 24, 2014, in connection with the acquisition ofThe Rustic Inn, the Company borrowed an additional $6,000,000 from BHBM under the same terms and conditions as the original loan which was consolidated with the remaining principal balance from the original borrowing at that date. The new loan is payable in 60 equal monthly installments of $134,722, which commenced on March 25, 2014.

On October 22, 2015, in connection with the acquisition ofShuckers, the Company issued a promissory note to BHBM for $5,000,000. The note bears interest at LIBOR plus 3.5% per annum, and is payable in 60 equal monthly installments of $83,333, commencing on November 22, 2015.

Also on October 22, 2015, the Company also entered into a credit agreement (the “Revolving Facility”) with BHBM which expires on October 21, 20172019 and provides for total availability of the lesser of (i) $10,000,000 and (ii) $20,000,000 less the then aggregate amount of all indebtedness and obligations to BHBM. Borrowings under the Revolving Facility are evidenced by a promissory note (the “Revolving Note”) in favor of BHBM and will be payable over five years with interest at an annual rate equal to LIBOR plus 3.5% per year. On December 12, 2017, the Company amended its Revolving Facility to increase the total availability to be the lesser of (i) $12,000,000 and (ii) $22,000,000 less the then aggregate amount of all indebtedness and obligations to BHBM. As of December 30, 2017 and September 30, 2017, borrowings of $8,498,000 and $6,198,000 outstanding under the Revolving Facility had a weighted average interest rate of 5.0% and 4.7%, respectively.

On November 30, 2016, in connection with the acquisition of theOyster Houseproperties, the Company issued a promissory note under the Revolving Facility to BHBM for $8,000,000. The note bears interest at LIBOR plus 3.5% per annum, and is payable in 60 equal monthly installments of $133,273, commencing on January 1, 2017.

Deferred financing costs incurred in connection with the Revolving Facility in the amount of $130,585 are being amortized over the life of the agreements on a straight-line basis and included in interest expense. Amortization expense of $12,000approximately $6,000 and $11,000 is included in interest expense for the 13-weeks ended April 1,December 30, 2017 and April 2, 2016, respectively. Amortization expense of $23,000 and $20,000 for the 26-weeks ended April 1, 2017 and April 2,December 31, 2016, respectively.

Borrowings under the Revolving Facility, which include all of the above promissory notes, 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 loan agreements provide, among other things, that the Company meet minimum quarterly tangible net worth amounts, as defined, maintain a fixed charge coverage ratio of not less than 1.1:1 and minimum annual net income amounts, and contain customary representations, warranties and affirmative covenants. The agreements also contain 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. The Company was in compliance with all of its financial covenants under the Revolving Facility as of April 1,December 30, 2017 except for the fixed charge coverage ratio covenant. On May 11, 2017,February 9, 2018, we were issued a waiver for this covenant as of April 1,December 30, 2017. The Company believes, based on current projections that it will be in compliance with such covenant in 2017.

Leases — The Company leases itsseveral restaurants, bar facilities, and administrative headquarters through its subsidiaries under terms expiring at various dates through 2032. 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.

On January 12, 2016, the Company entered into an Amended and Restated Lease for itsSequoiaproperty in Washington D.C. extending the lease for 15 years through November 30, 2032 with one additional five-year option. Annual rent under the new lease is approximately $1,200,000 increasing annually through expiration. Under the terms of the agreement, the property was closed January 1, 2017 for renovation and reconcepting which is estimated to cost approximately $8,000,000 to $9,000,000, of which approximately $3,900,000 has been incurred as of April 1, 2017. The restaurant is expected to re-open in June 2017.$11,000,000. In connection with this closure, the Company recognized an impairment loss related to fixed asset disposals in the amount of $283,000, which is included in Depreciation and Amortization Expense for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016. The restaurant re-opened in June 2017.

LegalProceedings— In the ordinary course of its business, the Company is a party to various lawsuits arising from accidents at its restaurants and worker’s 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, from time to time, in 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.

Share Repurchase Plan — On July 5, 2016, the Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program authorizing management to purchase up to 500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock during the next twelve months. Any repurchase under the program will be effected in compliance with Rule 10b-18 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 “Purchases of Certain Equity Securities by the Issuer and Others”, funded using the Company’s working capital and be based on management’s evaluation of market conditions and other factors. No repurchases were made during the 26-weeks13-weeks ended April 1,December 30, 2017 and April 2,December 31, 2016.

The Company has options outstanding under two stock option plans, the 2004 Stock Option Plan (the “2004 Plan”) and the 2010 Stock Option Plan (the “2010 Plan”), which was approved by shareholders in the second quarter of 2010. Effective with this approval, the Company terminated the 2004 Plan. This action terminated the 400 authorized but unissued options under the 2004 Plan, but it did not affect any of the options previously issued under the 2004 Plan. Options granted under the 2004 Plan 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 ten years after the date of grant. Options granted under the 2010 Plan 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 ten years after the date of grant.

On April 5, 2016, the shareholders of the Company approved the 2016 Stock Option Plan and the Section 162(m) Cash Bonus Plan. Under the 2016 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 ten years after the date of grant. Under the 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) will meet certain “performance-based” requirements of Section 162(m) and the related IRS regulations in order for it to be tax deductible.

During the quarter ended December 31, 2016, options to purchase 90,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $32.15 per share expired unexercised.

No options or performance-based awards were granted during the 26-week13-week period ended April 1,December 30, 2017.

A summary of stock option activity is presented below:

A summary of stock option activity is presented below:

Compensation cost charged to operations for each of the 13-week periods ended April 1, 2016 and April 2, 2016 was $0 and $103,000, respectively, and for the 26-week periods ended April 1, 2017 and April 2, 2016 was $0 and $207,000, respectively. TheNo compensation cost recognized is classified as a general and administrative expensecosts are included in the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Operations.

As of April 1, 2017, there was no unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock options.Income as all has been previously recognized

On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Acts (“TCJA”) was enacted into law. The Company’s provision fornew legislation contains several key tax provisions including the reduction of the corporate income taxes consists of Federal, state and local taxes in amounts necessary to align the Company’s year-to-date provision for income taxes with the effective tax rate to 21% effective January 1, 2018, as well as a variety of other changes including limitation of the tax deductibility of interest expense, acceleration of expensing of certain business assets and reductions in the amount of executive pay that could qualify as a tax deduction. Under ASC 740, the effects of changes in tax rates and laws are recognized in the period in which the new legislation is enacted. As such, for the 13-weeks ended December 30, 2017, the Company expectsrevised its estimated annual effective rate to achievereflect the change in the federal statutory rate from 34% to 21%. The rate change is administratively effective at the beginning of our fiscal year, using a blended rate for the full year. Each quarter,annual period. As a result, the Company updates itsblended statutory tax rate for the year is 24%.

The SEC issued SAB 118, which provides guidance on accounting for the tax effects of TCJA. SAB 118 provides a measurement period that should not extend beyond one year from the TCJA enactment date for companies to complete the accounting under ASC 740. To the extent that a company’s accounting for certain income tax effects of the TCJA is incomplete but is able to determine a reasonable estimate, it must record a provisional estimate in the financial statements.

We have recorded a provisional increase to our deferred tax assets and liabilities to reflect the new corporate tax rate. As a result, income tax expense reported for the first three months was adjusted to reflect the effects of the change in the tax law and resulted in a discrete income tax benefit of approximately $1.2 million during the first quarter. While we were able to make a reasonable estimate of the annual effectiveimpact of the reduction in the corporate tax rate, and records cumulative adjustments as deemed necessary. it may be affected by other analyses related to the TCJA.

The income tax provisions for the 26-week13-week periods ended April 1,December 30, 2017 and April 2,December 31, 2016 reflect effective tax rates of approximately 30%(162.5)% and 65%30%, respectively. The effective tax rate for the 26-week period ended April 2, 2016 was significantly higher than the statutory rate due to lower income from continuing operations in the first half of the year and discrete items included in tax expense.  The Company expects its effective tax rate for its current fiscal year to be lower than the statutory rate as a result of the generation of FICA tax credits, and operating income attributable to the non-controlling interests of the VIEs that is not taxable to the Company.Company, and the one-time remeasurement of our deferred tax assets and liabilities for the TCJA. 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.

The Company’s overall effective tax rate in the future will be affected by factors such as the utilization of state and local net operating loss carryforwards, the generation of FICA tax credits and the mix of earnings by state taxing jurisdiction as Nevada does not impose a state income tax, as compared to the other major state and local jurisdictions in which the Company has operations.

During the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016, certain equity compensation awards expired unexercised. As such, the Company reversed the related deferred tax asset in the amount of approximately $397,000 as a charge to Additional Paid-in Capital as there was a sufficient pool of windfall tax benefit available.

Net income (loss) per share is calculated on the basis of the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each period plus, for diluted net income per share, the additional dilutive effect of potential common stock. Potential common stock using the treasury stock method consists of dilutive stock options.

For the 13-week period ended April 1, 2017, options to purchase 66,000, 158,800 and 201,500 shares of common stock at exercise prices of $12.04, $14.40 and $22.50 per share, respectively, were not included in diluted earnings per share as their impact was anti-dilutive.

For the 26-week period ended April 1, 2017, the treasury stock impact of options to purchase 66,000, 158,800 and 201,500 shares of common stock at exercise prices of $12.04, $14.40 and $22.50 per share, respectively, were included in diluted earnings per share.

For the 13-13-week period ended December 30, 2017, options to purchase 64,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $12.04 per share, options to purchase 156,300 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $14.40 per share and 26-week periodsoptions to purchase 194,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $22.50 per share were included in diluted earnings per share.

For the 13-week period ended April 2,December 31, 2016, options to purchase 66,000 164,700, 203,000 and 90,000 shares of common stock at an exercise pricesprice of $12.04 $14.40, $22.50 and $32.15 per share respectively,and options to purchase 160,800 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $14.40 per share were included in diluted earnings per share. Options to purchase 201,808 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $22.50 per share were not included in diluted earnings per share as their impact waswould be anti-dilutive.

On March 1,December 5, 2017, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share on the Company’s common stock to be paid on AprilJanuary 3, 20172018 to shareholders of record at the close of business on March 17,December 19, 2017. The Company intends to continue to pay such quarterly cash dividends for the foreseeable future, however, the payment of future dividends is at the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors and is based on future earnings, cash flow, financial condition, capital requirements, changes in U.S. taxation and other relevant factors.

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

Overview

As of April 1,December 30, 2017, the Company owned and operated 2120 restaurants and bars, 19 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 segments into a single reporting segment in accordance with applicable accounting guidance. The Consolidated Condensed Statements of OperationsIncome for the 1313-weeks ended December 30, 2017 and 26-weeks ended April 1, 2017December 31, 2016 include revenues and incomelosses of approximately $4,765,000$2,388,000 and $6,445,000($125,000) and $577,000$707,000 and $523,000,($52,000), respectively, related to theShuckers, which was acquired on October 22, 2015 and theOyster House properties, which were acquired on November 30, 2016.

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 April 1,December 30, 2017 and April 2,December 31, 2016 each included 2613 weeks.

Seasonality

The Company has substantial fixed costs that do not decline proportionately with sales. At our properties located in the northeast, the first and second fiscal quarters, which include the winter months, usually reflect lower customer traffic than in the third and fourth fiscal quarters. However, sales in the third and fourth fiscal quarters can be adversely affected by inclement weather due to the significant amount of outdoor seating at the Company’s restaurants.

Results of Operations

The Company’s operating lossincome for the 13 weeks ended April 1,December 30, 2017 was ($415,000)$882,000 as compared to ($623,000)$2,970,000 for the 13 weeks ended April 2,December 30, 2016. This increasedecrease resulted primarily from lower generalthe recognition of a gain in the prior period in connection with the sale of the real estate underlying our Rustic Inn, Jupiter, FL property combined with increases in costs and administrative expenses and operating income related to theOyster House properties in Gulf Shores, Alabama (which were acquired on November 30, 2016).as discussed below.

The following table summarizes the significant components of the Company’s operating results for the 13- and 26-week13-week periods ended April 1,December 30, 2017 and April 2,December 31, 2016, respectively:

Revenues

During the Company’s 13- and 26-week periods13-week period ended April 1,December 30, 2017, revenues increased 0.6% and 2.3%, respectively,2.4% as compared to revenues in the 13- and 26-week13-week period ended April 2,December 31, 2016. These increasesThis increase resulted primarily from: (i) revenues related to theOyster House properties in Gulf Shores, Alabama (which were acquired on November 30, 2016), and (ii)from the same-store sales impacts discussed below, partially offset by the closure for renovation ofSequoia DC in Washington, DC on January 4, 2017, the permanent closures ofCenter Café in Washington, DC and theV Bar in Las Vegas as a result of lease expirations.below.

Food and Beverage Same-Store Sales

On a Company-wide basis, same-store sales decreased 3.0%increased 2.2% during the secondfirst fiscal quarter of 20172018 as compared to the same period last year as follows:

Same-store sales in Las Vegas increased 6.8%3.1% primarily as a result of an increaseincreased traffic near the properties where we operate our restaurants in tourism and convention business, all related toconnection with the current economic conditions.opening of the T-Mobile Arena nearby. Same-store sales in New York decreased 10.2%increased 1.2%, primarily as a result of lower traffic atgood weather conditions during the months in which our properties and lower catering revenues.with outdoor seating areas are open. Same-store sales in Washington, DC which excludesCenter Café which closed in February 2016, decreased 52.9%,increased 8.3% as a result of the closurere-opening ofSequoia DCon January in June 2017 which was preparing to close for renovation onJanuary 4, 2017 for renovation.2017. Same-store sales in Atlantic City increased 7.7%decreased 4.0%, primarily due to increaseddecreased traffic at properties in which we operate our restaurants as other casinos closed.restaurants. Same-store sales in Boston decreased 17.0%13.2%, primarily as a result of decreased traffic at Faneuil Hall Marketplace where our property is located. Same-store sales in Florida decreased 1.6% reflecting decreasedAlabama increased 10.0%, which represent only December sales, primarily as a result of increased traffic atThe Rustic Inn our properties. Same-store sales in Dania Beach, FL due toFlorida increased 3.2% as a result of the completion of the road construction project started in the second quarter of fiscal 2016 by the local municipality that is expected to last approximately 18 months combined with increased competition at one of our food court properties.nearThe Rustic Inn in Dania Beach, FL. Other food and beverage sales consist of sales related to new restaurants opened or acquired during the applicable period (e.g. the Oyster Houseproperties)and sales related to properties that were closed due to lease expiration and other closures.

Costs and Expenses

Costs and expenses for the 13- and 26-weeks13-weeks ended April 1,December 30, 2017 and April 2,December 31, 2016 were as follows (in thousands):