Jack in the Box (JACK) 10-Q 15 May 14 2014 Q2 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_And_Entity_Informatio

Document And Entity Information	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014	9-May-14
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'JACK IN THE BOX INC /NEW/	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000807882	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--09-28	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'
Document Type	'10-Q	'
Document Period End Date	13-Apr-14	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2014	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q2	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	40,037,523

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Apr. 13, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$9,112	$9,644
Accounts and other receivables, net	56,317	41,749
Inventories	7,821	7,181
Prepaid expenses	45,344	19,970
Deferred income taxes	26,685	26,685
Assets held for sale	3,569	11,875
Other current assets	1,103	108
Total current assets	149,951	117,212
Property and equipment, at cost	1,507,467	1,516,913
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	-772,567	-746,054
Property and equipment, net	734,900	770,859
Intangible assets, net	16,006	16,390
Goodwill	149,115	148,988
Other assets, net	264,414	265,760
Total assets	1,314,386	1,319,209
Current liabilities:	'	'
Current maturities of long-term debt	10,851	20,889
Accounts payable	32,149	36,899
Accrued liabilities	135,772	153,886
Total current liabilities	178,772	211,674
Long-term debt, net of current maturities	498,882	349,393
Other long-term liabilities	275,579	286,124
Stockholders’ equity:	'	'
Preferred stock $0.01 par value, 15,000,000 shares authorized, none issued	0	0
Common stock $0.01 par value, 175,000,000 shares authorized, 79,639,009 and 78,515,171 issued, respectively	796	785
Capital in excess of par value	337,678	296,764
Retained earnings	1,219,910	1,171,823
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-60,508	-62,662
Treasury stock, at cost, 39,604,361 and 35,926,269 shares, respectively	-1,136,723	-934,692
Total stockholders’ equity	361,153	472,018
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$1,314,386	$1,319,209

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance1

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Apr. 13, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013
Stockholders’ equity:	'	'
Preferred stock, par value (usd per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	15,000,000	15,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, par value (usd per share)	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	175,000,000	175,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	79,639,009	78,515,171
Treasury stock at cost, shares	39,604,361	35,926,269

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Earnings (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013
Revenues:	'	'	'	'
Company restaurant sales	$257,773	$268,797	$596,602	$617,703
Franchise revenues	83,097	78,426	194,350	183,855
Total revenue	340,870	347,223	790,952	801,558
Company restaurant costs:	'	'	'	'
Food and packaging	81,422	88,036	189,660	200,572
Payroll and employee benefits	71,616	76,188	165,432	175,764
Occupancy and other	56,998	58,619	131,707	135,988
Total company restaurant costs	210,036	222,843	486,799	512,324
Franchise costs	41,996	39,661	97,507	92,149
Selling, general and administrative expenses	48,660	52,482	107,816	119,168
Impairment and other charges, net	9,056	2,373	10,965	5,625
(Gains) losses on the sale of company-operated restaurants	-1,757	2,418	-2,218	1,670
Total operating costs and expenses	307,991	319,777	700,869	730,936
Earnings from operations	32,879	27,446	90,083	70,622
Interest expense, net	4,311	3,426	8,853	8,791
Earnings from continuing operations and before income taxes	28,568	24,020	81,230	61,831
Income taxes	10,304	8,935	29,956	20,636
Earnings from continuing operations	18,264	15,085	51,274	41,195
Losses from discontinued operations, net of income tax benefit	-2,463	-1,795	-3,187	-7,216
Net earnings	$15,801	$13,290	$48,087	$33,979
Net earnings per share - basic:	'	'	'	'
Earnings from continuing operations (usd per share)	$0.44	$0.34	$1.22	$0.95
Losses from discontinued operations (usd per share)	($0.06)	($0.04)	($0.08)	($0.17)
Net earnings per share (usd per share)	$0.38	$0.30	$1.14	$0.78
Net earnings per share - diluted:	'	'	'	'
Earnings from continuing operations (usd per share)	$0.43	$0.33	$1.18	$0.92
Losses from discontinued operations (usd per share)	($0.06)	($0.04)	($0.07)	($0.16)
Net earnings per share (usd per share)	$0.37	$0.29	$1.11	$0.76
Weighted-average shares outstanding:	'	'	'	'
Basic (in shares)	41,464	43,747	42,018	43,319
Diluted (in shares)	42,632	45,274	43,336	44,736

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme1

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013
Net earnings	$15,801	$13,290	$48,087	$33,979
Net change in fair value of derivatives	-31	-94	-85	-90
Net loss reclassified to earnings	322	311	748	724
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, before Tax	291	217	663	634
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax	-112	-84	-254	-244
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax	179	133	409	390
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, before Tax	1,210	4,361	2,825	10,175
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax	-464	-1,672	-1,084	-3,901
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax	746	2,689	1,741	6,274
Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax	0	3	7	6
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax	0	-1	-3	-1
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax	0	2	4	5
Other comprehensive income	925	2,824	2,154	6,669
Comprehensive income	$16,726	$16,114	$50,241	$40,648

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme2

Condensed Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (USD $)	6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'
Net earnings	$48,087	$33,979
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	49,725	52,590
Deferred finance cost amortization	1,177	1,249
Deferred income taxes	5,221	2,536
Share-based compensation expense	6,348	7,599
Pension and postretirement expense	7,410	16,772
Gains on cash surrender value of company-owned life insurance	-3,428	-5,669
(Gains) losses on the sale of company-operated restaurants	-2,218	1,670
Losses on the disposition of property and equipment	1,745	416
Impairment charges and other	6,937	4,828
Loss on early retirement of debt	789	939
Changes in assets and liabilities, excluding acquisitions and dispositions:	'	'
Accounts and other receivables	-14,274	25,227
Inventories	-640	25,883
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	-26,368	751
Accounts payable	1,725	-32,036
Accrued liabilities	-13,543	-4,256
Pension and postretirement contributions	-7,831	-7,052
Other	-9,910	-3,821
Cash flows provided by operating activities	50,952	121,605
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'
Purchases of property and equipment	-31,196	-41,754
Purchases of assets intended for sale and leaseback	-19	-25,165
Proceeds from sale and leaseback of assets	2,105	22,892
Proceeds from the sale of company-operated restaurants	7,842	2,866
Collections on notes receivable	1,774	2,987
Acquisitions of franchise-operated restaurants	-1,750	-11,014
Other	36	3,694
Cash flows used in investing activities	-21,208	-45,494
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'
Borrowings on revolving credit facilities	509,000	479,000
Repayments of borrowings on revolving credit facilities	-379,000	-539,000
Proceeds from issuance of debt	200,000	200,000
Principal repayments on debt	-190,549	-170,540
Debt issuance costs	-3,527	-4,392
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	22,457	37,113
Repurchases of common stock	-205,453	-40,465
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation arrangements	12,017	599
Change in book overdraft	4,774	-36,693
Cash flows used in financing activities	-30,281	-74,378
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents	5	0
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	-532	1,733
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	9,644	8,469
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$9,112	$10,202

Basis_Of_Presentation

Basis Of Presentation	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Basis Of Presentation	'
		BASIS OF PRESENTATION
	Nature of operations — Founded in 1951, Jack in the Box Inc. (the “Company”) operates and franchises Jack in the Box® brand quick-service restaurants and Qdoba Mexican Grill® (“Qdoba”) brand fast-casual restaurants. The following table summarizes the number of restaurants as of the end of each period:
		April 13,	April 14,
		2014	2013
	Jack in the Box:
	Company-operated	455	546
	Franchise	1,799	1,710
	Total system	2,254	2,256
	Qdoba:
	Company-operated	303	340
	Franchise	323	307
	Total system	626	647
	References to the Company throughout these Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are made using the first person notations of “we,” “us” and “our.”
	Basis of presentation — The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). During fiscal 2012, we entered into an agreement to outsource our Jack in the Box distribution business. In the third quarter of fiscal 2013, we closed 62 Qdoba restaurants (the “2013 Qdoba Closures”) as part of a comprehensive Qdoba market performance review. The results of operations for our distribution business and for the 62 closed Qdoba restaurants are reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented. Refer to Note 2, Discontinued Operations, for additional information. Unless otherwise noted, amounts and disclosures throughout these Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements relate to our continuing operations. In our opinion, all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of financial condition and results of operations for these interim periods have been included. Operating results for one interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results for any other interim period or for the full year.
	These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2013. The accounting policies used in preparing these condensed consolidated financial statements are the same as those described in our Form 10-K.
	Principles of consolidation — The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its wholly-owned subsidiaries and the accounts of any variable interest entities (“VIEs”) where we are deemed the primary beneficiary. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated. For information related to the VIE included in our condensed consolidated financial statements, refer to Note 13, Variable Interest Entities.
	Fiscal year — Our fiscal year is 52 or 53 weeks ending the Sunday closest to September 30. Fiscal years 2014 and 2013 include 52 weeks. Our first quarter includes 16 weeks and all other quarters include 12 weeks. All comparisons between 2014 and 2013 refer to the 12-weeks (“quarter”) and 28-weeks (“year-to-date”) ended April 13, 2014 and April 14, 2013, respectively, unless otherwise indicated.
	Use of estimates — In preparing the condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, management is required to make certain assumptions and estimates that affect reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and the disclosure of contingencies. In making these assumptions and estimates, management may from time to time seek advice and consider information provided by actuaries and other experts in a particular area. Actual amounts could differ materially from these estimates.

Discontinued_Operations

Discontinued Operations	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]	'
Discontinued Operations	'
		DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
	Distribution business — During fiscal 2012, we entered into an agreement with a third party distribution service provider pursuant to a plan approved by our board of directors to sell our Jack in the Box distribution business. During the first quarter of fiscal 2013, we completed the transition of our distribution centers. The operations and cash flows of the business have been eliminated and in accordance with the provisions of the Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 205, Presentation of Financial Statements, the results are reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented.
	The following is a summary of our distribution business operating results, which are included in discontinued operations for each period (in thousands):
		Quarter						Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Revenue	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	37,743
	Operating loss before income tax benefit	$	(124	)	$	(175	)	$	(696	)	$	(5,437	)
	The loss on the sale of the distribution business was not material to our results of operations in 2013. The year-to-date operating loss in 2014 includes $0.4 million related to insurance settlements and $0.2 million for lease commitment adjustments. Our liability for lease commitments related to our distribution centers is included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities and has changed as follows during 2014 (in thousands):
		Quarter						Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Balance at beginning of period	$	1,127		$	2,277		$	1,318		$	697
	Additions	—			—			—			1,846
	Adjustments	119			185			198			208
	Cash payments	(503		)	(346		)	(773		)	(635		)
	Balance at end of period	$	743		$	2,116		$	743		$	2,116
	Adjustments in 2014 relate to the termination of a lease agreement and the execution of a sublease agreement. Adjustments in 2013 primarily represent revisions to certain sublease and cost assumptions due to changes in market conditions. The balance at April 13, 2014 relates to one distribution center subleased at a loss.
	Qdoba restaurant closures — During the third quarter of fiscal 2013, we closed 62 Qdoba restaurants. The decision to close these restaurants was based on a comprehensive analysis that took into consideration levels of return on investment and other key operating performance metrics.
	Since the closed locations were not predominantly located near those remaining in operation, we do not expect the majority of cash flows and sales lost from these closures to be recovered. In addition, there will not be any ongoing involvement or significant direct cash flows from the closed stores. Therefore, in accordance with the provisions of ASC 205, Presentation of Financial Statements, the results of operations for these restaurants are reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented.
	The following is a summary of the results of operations related to the 2013 Qdoba Closures for each period (in thousands):
		Quarter						Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Company restaurant sales	$	—		$	8,400		$	—		$	19,588
	Operating loss before income tax benefit	$	(3,828	)	$	(2,717	)	$	(4,416	)	$	(6,227	)
	In 2014, the year-to-date operating loss includes $3.0 million of unfavorable lease commitment adjustments, $0.4 million for asset impairments, $0.6 million of ongoing facility related costs and $0.3 million of broker commissions. We do not expect the remaining costs to be incurred related to this transaction to be material. Our liability for lease commitments related to the 2013 Qdoba closures is included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities and has changed as follows during 2014 (in thousands):
		Quarter			Year-to-Date
	Balance at beginning of period	$	7,031		$	10,712
	Adjustments	3,265			2,979
	Cash payments	(3,165		)	(6,560		)
	Balance at end of period	$	7,131		$	7,131
	In 2014, adjustments primarily relate to revisions to certain sublease and cost assumptions due to changes in market conditions as well as charges to terminate 13 lease agreements. These amounts were partially offset by favorable adjustments for locations that we have subleased.

Indebtedness

Indebtedness	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Indebtedness	'
	INDEBTEDNESS
	New credit facility — On March 19, 2014, the Company refinanced its former credit facility and entered into an amended and restated credit agreement. The new credit facility is comprised of (i) a $600.0 million revolving credit facility and (ii) a $200.0 million term loan facility. The interest rate on the new credit facility is based on the Company’s leverage ratio and can range from London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 1.25% to 2.00% with no floor. The initial interest rate was LIBOR plus 1.75%. The revolving credit facility and the term loan facility both have maturity dates of March 19, 2019. As part of the credit agreement, we may also request the issuance of up to $75.0 million in letters of credit, the outstanding amount of which reduces our net borrowing capacity under the agreement.
	Use of proceeds — The Company borrowed $200.0 million under the new term loan and approximately $220.0 million under the new revolving credit facility. The proceeds from the refinancing transaction were used to repay all borrowings under the former facility and to pay related transaction fees and expenses associated with the refinance of the facility, and will also be available for permitted share repurchases, permitted dividends, permitted acquisitions, ongoing working capital requirements and other general corporate purposes. At April 13, 2014, we had borrowings under the revolving credit facility of $305.0 million, $200.0 million outstanding under the term loan and letters of credit outstanding of $23.0 million.
	Collateral — The Company’s obligations under the new credit facility are secured by first priority liens and security interests in the capital stock, partnership, and membership interests owned by the Company and/or its subsidiaries, and any proceeds thereof, subject to certain restrictions. Additionally, there is a negative pledge on all tangible and intangible assets (including all real and personal property), with customary exceptions.
	Covenants — We are subject to a number of customary covenants under our new credit facility, including limitations on additional borrowings, acquisitions, loans to franchisees, capital expenditures, lease commitments, stock repurchases and dividend payments, and requirements to maintain certain financial ratios defined in the credit agreement.
	Repayments — The term loan requires amortization in the form of quarterly installments of $2.5 million from June 2014 through March 2016, $3.75 million from June 2016 through March 2018, and $5.0 million from June through December 2018 with the remainder due at the expiration of the term loan agreement in March 2019. We are required to make certain mandatory prepayments under certain circumstances and we have the option to make certain prepayments without premium or penalty. The new credit facility includes events of default (and related remedies, including acceleration and increased interest rates following an event of default) that are customary for facilities and transactions of this type.

Summary_Of_Refranchisings_Fran

Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Abstract]	'
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions	'
	SUMMARY OF REFRANCHISINGS, FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT AND ACQUISITIONS
	Refranchisings and franchise development — The following is a summary of the number of restaurants sold to franchisees, number of restaurants developed by franchisees and the related gains and fees recognized (dollars in thousands):
		Quarter						Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Restaurants sold to franchisees	14			4			14			4
	New restaurants opened by franchisees	6			9			19			29
	Initial franchise fees	$	755		$	389		$	1,154		$	1,035
	Net proceeds (1)	$	7,374		$	2,033		$	7,842		$	2,866
	Net assets sold (primarily property and equipment)	(2,240		)	(1,635		)	(2,240		)	(1,720		)
	Goodwill related to the sale of company-operated restaurants	(120		)	(67		)	(129		)	(67		)
	Other	(142		)	—			(140		)	—
	Gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants	4,872			331			5,333			1,079
	Losses on anticipated sale of Jack in the Box company-operated markets	(3,115		)	(2,749		)	(3,115		)	(2,749		)
	Total gains (losses) on the sale of company-operated restaurants	$	1,757		$	(2,418	)	$	2,218		$	(1,670	)
	____________________________
	-1	Amounts in 2014 and 2013 include additional proceeds recognized upon the extension of the underlying franchise and lease agreements related to restaurants sold in a prior year of $0.7 million and $0.2 million, respectively, in the quarter and $1.2 million and $1.0 million, respectively, year-to-date.
	Franchise acquisitions — During 2014, we repurchased four Jack in the Box franchise restaurants. In 2013, we acquired twelve Qdoba franchise restaurants and one Jack in the Box franchise restaurant. We account for the acquisition of franchised restaurants using the acquisition method of accounting for business combinations. The purchase price allocations were based on fair value estimates determined using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). The goodwill recorded primarily relates to the sales growth potential of the locations acquired and is expected to be deductible for tax purposes. The following table provides detail of the combined acquisitions in each year-to-date period (dollars in thousands):
		April 13, 2014			April 14, 2013
		Jack in the Box			Qdoba			Jack in the Box			Total
	Restaurants acquired from franchisees	4			12			1			13
	Property and equipment	$	1,398		$	2,632		$	145		$	2,777
	Reacquired franchise rights	96			106			34			140
	Liabilities assumed	—			(281		)	(2		)	(283		)
	Goodwill	256			7,207			1,173			8,380
	Total consideration	$	1,750		$	9,664		$	1,350		$	11,014

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurements	'
	FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
	Financial assets and liabilities — The following table presents the financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis (in thousands):
		Total			Quoted Prices			Significant			Significant
					in Active			Other			Unobservable
					Markets for			Observable			Inputs
					Identical			Inputs (3)			(Level 3)
					Assets (3)			(Level 2)
					(Level 1)
	Fair value measurements as of April 13, 2014:
	Non-qualified deferred compensation plan (1)	$	(37,378	)	$	(37,378	)	$	—		$	—
	Interest rate swaps (Note 6) (2)	(527		)	—			(527		)	—
	Total liabilities at fair value	$	(37,905	)	$	(37,378	)	$	(527	)	$	—
	Fair value measurements as of September 29, 2013:
	Non-qualified deferred compensation plan (1)	$	(39,135	)	$	(39,135	)	$	—		$	—
	Interest rate swaps (Note 6) (2)	(1,190		)	—			(1,190		)	—
	Total liabilities at fair value	$	(40,325	)	$	(39,135	)	$	(1,190	)	$	—
	____________________________
	-1	We maintain an unfunded defined contribution plan for key executives and other members of management excluded from participation in our qualified savings plan. The fair value of this obligation is based on the closing market prices of the participants’ elected investments.
	-2	We entered into interest rate swaps to reduce our exposure to rising interest rates on our variable debt. The fair values of our interest rate swaps are based upon Level 2 inputs which include valuation models as reported by our counterparties. The key inputs for the valuation models are quoted market prices, interest rates and forward yield curves.
	-3	We did not have any transfers in or out of Level 1 or Level 2.
	The fair values of the Company’s debt instruments are based on the amount of future cash flows associated with each instrument discounted using the Company’s borrowing rate. At April 13, 2014, the carrying value of all financial instruments was not materially different from fair value, as the borrowings are prepayable without penalty. The estimated fair values of our capital lease obligations approximated their carrying values as of April 13, 2014.
	Non-financial assets and liabilities — The Company’s non-financial instruments, which primarily consist of property and equipment, goodwill and intangible assets, are reported at carrying value and are not required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis. However, on a periodic basis (at least annually for goodwill and intangible assets, and semi-annually for property and equipment) or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying value may not be recoverable, non-financial instruments are assessed for impairment. If applicable, the carrying values are written down to fair value.
	The following table presents non-financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis during fiscal 2014 (in thousands):
		Fair Value Measurement			Impairment Charges
	Long-lived assets held and used	$	619		$	180
	Long-lived assets held for sale	$	1,844		$	3,115
	Long-lived asset abandoned	$	—		$	6,393
	Long-lived assets held and used consist primarily of Jack in the Box restaurants determined to be underperforming or which we intend to close. To determine fair value, we use the income approach, which assumes that the future cash flows reflect current market expectations. The future cash flows are generally based on the assumption that the highest and best use of the asset is to sell the store to a franchisee (market participant). These fair value measurements require significant judgment using Level 3 inputs, such as discounted cash flows, which are not observable from the market, directly or indirectly. Refer to Note 7, Impairment, Disposition of Property and Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs and Restructuring, for additional information regarding these impairment charges.
	Long-lived assets held for sale were written down to fair value less costs to sell and relate to the anticipated sale of two Jack in the Box company-operated markets. We have signed letters of intent related to the sale of both markets and fair value was determined based on the terms contained therein. These impairment charges are included in gains (losses) on the sale of company-operated restaurants in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of earnings.
	The abandoned long-lived asset relates to the impairment of a restaurant software asset we no longer plan to place in service, and for which we have determined fair value to be zero. Refer to Note 7, Impairment, Disposition of Property and Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs and Restructuring, for additional information regarding this impairment charge.

Derivative_Instruments

Derivative Instruments	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Assets [Abstract]	'
Derivative Instruments	'
		DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS
	Objectives and strategies — We are exposed to interest rate volatility with regard to our variable rate debt. To reduce our exposure to rising interest rates, in August 2010, we entered into two interest rate swap agreements that effectively convert $100.0 million of our variable rate term loan borrowings to a fixed-rate basis from September 2011 through September 2014. These agreements have been designated as cash flow hedges.
	Financial position — The following derivative instruments were outstanding as of the end of each period (in thousands):
		April 13, 2014				September 29, 2013
		Balance	Fair			Balance		Fair
		Sheet	Value			Sheet		Value
		Location				Location
	Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
	Interest rate swaps (Note 5)	Accrued	$	(527	)	Accrued		$	(1,190	)
		liabilities				liabilities
	Total derivatives		$	(527	)			$	(1,190	)
	Financial performance — The following is a summary of the accumulated other comprehensive income (“OCI”) activity related to our interest rate swap derivative instruments (in thousands):
		Location of Loss in Income	Quarter							Year-to-Date
			April 13,			April 14,				April 13,			April 14,
			2014			2013				2014			2013
	Losses recognized in OCI	N/A	$	(31	)	$	(94	)		$	(85	)	$	(90	)
	Losses reclassified from accumulated OCI into income	Interest	$	(322	)	$	(311	)		$	(748	)	$	(724	)
		expense,
		net
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated OCI into interest expense represent payments made to the counterparty for the effective portions of the interest rate swaps. During the periods presented, our interest rate swaps had no hedge ineffectiveness.

Impairment_Disposition_Of_Prop

Impairment, Disposition Of Property And Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs And Restructuring	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]	'
Impairment Disposition Of Property And Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs And Resturcturing	'
		IMPAIRMENT, DISPOSITION OF PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, RESTAURANT CLOSING COSTS AND RESTRUCTURING
	Impairment and other charges, net in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of earnings is comprised of the following (in thousands):
		Quarter						Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Restaurant impairment charges	$	85		$	362		$	180		$	2,884
	Losses on the disposition of property and equipment, net	749			1,261			1,701			396
	Costs of closed restaurants (primarily lease obligations) and other	731			407			1,295			1,190
	Restructuring costs	7,491			343			7,789			1,155
		$	9,056		$	2,373		$	10,965		$	5,625
	Restaurant impairment — When events and circumstances indicate that our long-lived assets might be impaired and their carrying amount is greater than the undiscounted cash flows we expect to generate from such assets, we recognize an impairment loss as the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the fair value of the assets. Impairment charges in both periods include charges for restaurants we have closed, and additionally in 2013, charges for underperforming Jack in the Box restaurants.
	Disposition of property and equipment — We also recognize accelerated depreciation and other costs on the disposition of property and equipment. When we decide to dispose of a long-lived asset, depreciable lives are adjusted based on the estimated disposal date and accelerated depreciation is recorded. Other disposal costs primarily relate to gains or losses recognized upon the sale of closed restaurant properties, and charges from our ongoing restaurant upgrade programs, remodels and rebuilds, and other corporate initiatives. Losses on the disposition of property and equipment for the year-to-date period ended April 14, 2013 include income of $2.4 million from the resolution of two eminent domain matters involving Jack in the Box restaurants.
	Restaurant closing costs consist of future lease commitments, net of anticipated sublease rentals and expected ancillary costs, and are included in impairment and other charges, net in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of earnings. Accrued restaurant closing costs, included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities, changed as follows (in thousands):
		Quarter						Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Balance at beginning of period	$	15,499		$	19,561		$	16,321		$	20,677
	Adjustments	650			312			1,262			738
	Cash payments	(1,553		)	(1,436		)	(2,987		)	(2,978		)
	Balance at end of quarter	$	14,596		$	18,437		$	14,596		$	18,437
	In 2014 and 2013, adjustments primarily relate to revisions to certain sublease and cost assumptions due to changes in market conditions.
	Restructuring costs — Since the beginning of 2012, we have been engaged in efforts to improve our cost structure and identify opportunities to reduce general and administrative expenses as well as improve profitability across both brands. The following is a summary of the costs incurred in connection with these activities (in thousands):
		Quarter						Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Severance costs	$	1,098		$	302		$	1,396		$	670
	Other	6,393			41			6,393			485
		$	7,491		$	343		$	7,789		$	1,155
	In 2014, other relates to the impairment of a restaurant software asset we no longer plan to place in service as a result of our efforts to integrate certain systems across both of our brands and lower costs.
	Total accrued severance costs related to our restructuring activities are included in accrued liabilities and changed as follows (in thousands):
		Quarter						Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Balance at beginning of period	$	98		$	671		$	253		$	1,758
	Additions	1,098			302			1,396			670
	Cash payments	(1,196		)	(934		)	(1,649		)	(2,389		)
	Balance at end of quarter	$	—		$	39		$	—		$	39
	We expect to incur additional charges related to our restructuring activities; however, we are unable to make a reasonable estimate at this time.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
		INCOME TAXES
	The income tax provisions reflect tax rates of 36.1% in the quarter and 36.9% year-to-date in 2014, compared with 37.2% and 33.4%, respectively, a year ago. The final annual tax rate cannot be determined until the end of the fiscal year; therefore, the actual 2014 rate could differ from our current estimates.
	At April 13, 2014, our gross unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain income tax positions were $0.8 million, which if recognized would favorably impact the effective income tax rate. There was no significant change in our gross unrecognized tax benefits from the end of fiscal year 2013. It is reasonably possible that changes to the gross unrecognized tax benefits will be required within the next twelve months due to the possible settlement of state tax audits.
	The major jurisdictions in which the Company files income tax returns include the United States and states in which we operate that impose an income tax. The federal statutes of limitations have not expired for fiscal years 2010 and forward. The Company has refund claims related to fiscal years 2008 and 2009 that allow the statute to remain open for the specific claim. The statutes of limitations for California and Texas, which constitute the Company’s major state tax jurisdictions, have not expired for fiscal years 2009 and forward. However, the Company has pending appeals for California (related to fiscal years 2001 to 2007) and Texas (related to fiscal year 2007) for specific claims.

Retirement_Plans

Retirement Plans	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Expense [Abstract]	'
Retirement Plans	'
		RETIREMENT PLANS
	Defined benefit pension plans — We sponsor two defined benefit pension plans: a qualified plan covering substantially all full-time employees hired prior to January 1, 2011, and an unfunded supplemental executive plan which provides certain employees additional pension benefits and was closed to new participants effective January 1, 2007. In fiscal 2011, the Board of Directors approved changes to our qualified plan whereby participants will no longer accrue benefits under this plan effective December 31, 2015. Benefits under both plans are based on the employees’ years of service and compensation over defined periods of employment.
	Postretirement healthcare plans — We also sponsor two healthcare plans, closed to new participants, that provide postretirement medical benefits to certain employees who have met minimum age and service requirements. The plans are contributory, with retiree contributions adjusted annually, and contain other cost-sharing features such as deductibles and coinsurance.
	Net periodic benefit cost — The components of net periodic benefit cost in each period were as follows (in thousands):
		Quarter						Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Defined benefit pension plans:
	Service cost	$	1,875		$	2,481		$	4,374		$	5,789
	Interest cost	5,364			5,222			12,516			12,185
	Expected return on plan assets	(5,652		)	(5,242		)	(13,188		)	(12,231		)
	Actuarial loss	1,024			4,116			2,388			9,604
	Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost	62			62			145			145
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	2,673		$	6,639		$	6,235		$	15,492
	Postretirement healthcare plans:
	Interest cost	$	379		$	366		$	883		$	854
	Actuarial loss	125			183			292			426
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	504		$	549		$	1,175		$	1,280
	Future cash flows — Our policy is to fund our plans at or above the minimum required by law. As of the date of our last actuarial funding valuation, there was no minimum contribution funding requirement. Details regarding fiscal 2014 contributions are as follows (in thousands):
		Defined Benefit			Postretirement
		Pension Plans			Healthcare Plans
	Net year-to-date contributions	$	7,167		$	664
	Remaining estimated net contributions during fiscal 2014	$	17,200		$	800
	We will continue to evaluate contributions to our qualified defined benefit pension plan based on changes in pension assets as a result of asset performance in the current market and economic environment.

ShareBased_Compensation

Share-Based Compensation	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Share-Based Compensation	'
	SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
	We offer share-based compensation plans to attract, retain and motivate key officers, employees and non-employee directors to work toward the financial success of the Company. In 2014, we granted the following shares related to our share-based compensation awards:
	Stock options	215,248
	Performance share awards	55,668
	Nonvested stock units	111,538
	The components of share-based compensation expense recognized in each period are as follows (in thousands):
		Quarter				Year-to-Date
		April 13,		April 14,		April 13,		April 14,
		2014		2013		2014		2013
	Stock options	$	489	$	1,269	$	1,778	$	3,159
	Performance share awards	999		547		2,496		1,664
	Nonvested stock awards	45		85		218		219
	Nonvested stock units	796		1,416		1,638		2,337
	Deferred compensation for non-management directors	218		220		218		220
	Total share-based compensation expense	$	2,547	$	3,537	$	6,348	$	7,599

Stockholders_Equity

Stockholders' Equity	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]	'
Stockholders' Equity	'
	STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
	Repurchases of common stock — In November 2012 and August 2013, the Board of Directors approved two programs, each of which provide repurchase authorizations for up to $100.0 million in shares of our common stock, expiring November 2014 and November 2015, respectively. Additionally, in February 2014, the Board of Directors approved a program which provides repurchase authorization for up to an additional $200.0 million in shares of our common stock, expiring November 2015. During 2014, we repurchased 3.7 million shares at an aggregate cost of $202.0 million and fully utilized the November 2012 and August 2013 authorizations. As of April 13, 2014, there was $134.7 million remaining under the February 2014 authorization.
	Repurchases of common stock included in our condensed consolidated statement of cash flows for the year-to-date period ended April 13, 2014, excludes $3.9 million related to a repurchase transaction traded in the second quarter of fiscal 2014, and settled in the third quarter of fiscal 2014 and includes $7.3 million related to repurchase transactions traded in fiscal 2013 and settled in 2014.

Average_Shares_Outstanding

Average Shares Outstanding	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract]	'
Average Shares Outstanding	'
	AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING
	Our basic earnings per share calculation is computed based on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding. Our diluted earnings per share calculation is computed based on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding adjusted by the number of additional shares that would have been outstanding had the potentially dilutive common shares been issued. Potentially dilutive common shares include stock options, nonvested stock awards and units, non-management director stock equivalents and shares issuable under our employee stock purchase plan. Performance share awards are included in the weighted-average diluted shares outstanding each period if the performance criteria have been met at the end of the respective periods.
	The following table reconciles basic weighted-average shares outstanding to diluted weighted-average shares outstanding (in thousands):
		Quarter		Year-to-Date
		April 13,	April 14,	April 13,	April 14,
		2014	2013	2014	2013
	Weighted-average shares outstanding – basic	41,464	43,747	42,018	43,319
	Effect of potentially dilutive securities:
	Stock options	640	950	725	840
	Nonvested stock awards and units	243	368	318	350
	Performance share awards	285	209	275	227
	Weighted-average shares outstanding – diluted	42,632	45,274	43,336	44,736
	Excluded from diluted weighted-average shares outstanding:
	Antidilutive	185	215	152	1,094
	Performance conditions not satisfied at the end of the period	20	223	30	223

Variable_Interest_Entities

Variable Interest Entities	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Variable Interest Entities ("VIEs") [Abstract]	'
Variable Interest Entities	'
		VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES
	In January 2011, we formed Jack in the Box Franchise Finance, LLC (“FFE”) for the purpose of operating a franchisee lending program to assist Jack in the Box franchisees in re-imaging their restaurants. We are the sole equity investor in FFE. The lending program was comprised of a $20.0 million commitment from the Company in the form of a capital note and an $80.0 million Senior Secured Revolving Securitization Facility entered into with a third party. The lending period and the revolving period expired in June 2012. At April 13, 2014, we had no borrowings under the FFE Facility and we do not plan to make any further contributions.
	We have determined that FFE is a VIE, and that the Company is the primary beneficiary. We considered a variety of factors in identifying the primary beneficiary of FFE including, but not limited to, who holds the power to direct matters that most significantly impact FFE’s economic performance (such as determining the underwriting standards and credit management policies), as well as what party has the obligation to absorb the losses of FFE. Based on these considerations, we have determined that the Company is the primary beneficiary and the entity is reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.
	FFE’s assets consolidated by the Company represent assets that can be used only to settle obligations of the consolidated VIE. Likewise, FFE’s liabilities consolidated by the Company do not represent additional claims on the Company’s general assets; rather they represent claims against the specific assets of FFE. The impacts of FFE’s results were not material to the Company’s condensed consolidated statements of earnings or cash flows.
	The FFE’s balance sheet consisted of the following at the end of each period (in thousands):
		April 13,			September 29,
		2014			2013
	Cash	$	—		$	250
	Other current assets (1)	2,449			2,368
	Other assets, net (1)	7,032			8,367
	Total assets	$	9,481		$	10,985
	Current liabilities	$	3,064		$	3,010
	Other long-term liabilities (2)	6,422			8,076
	Retained earnings	(5		)	(101		)
	Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	9,481		$	10,985
	____________________________
	-1	Consists primarily of amounts due from franchisees.
	-2	Consists primarily of the capital note contributions from Jack in the Box which are eliminated in consolidation.
	The Company’s maximum exposure to loss is equal to its outstanding contributions as of April 13, 2014. This amount represents estimated losses that would be incurred should all franchisees default on their loans without any consideration of recovery. To offset the credit risk associated with the Company’s variable interest in FFE, the Company holds a security interest in the assets of FFE subordinate and junior to all other obligations of FFE.
	The FFE’s balance sheet consisted of the following at the end of each period (in thousands):
		April 13,			September 29,
		2014			2013
	Cash	$	—		$	250
	Other current assets (1)	2,449			2,368
	Other assets, net (1)	7,032			8,367
	Total assets	$	9,481		$	10,985
	Current liabilities	$	3,064		$	3,010
	Other long-term liabilities (2)	6,422			8,076
	Retained earnings	(5		)	(101		)
	Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	9,481		$	10,985
	____________________________
	-1	Consists primarily of amounts due from franchisees.
	-2	Consists primarily of the capital note contributions from Jack in the Box which are eliminated in consolidation.

Contingencies_and_Legal_Matter

Contingencies and Legal Matters	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Legal Matters [Abstract]	'
Contingencies and Legal Matters	'
	CONTINGENCIES AND LEGAL MATTERS
	Legal Matters — The Company assesses contingencies, including litigation contingencies, to determine the degree of probability and range of possible loss for potential accrual in its financial statements. An estimated loss contingency is accrued in the financial statements if it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. Because litigation is inherently unpredictable, assessing contingencies is highly subjective and requires judgments about future events. When evaluating litigation contingencies, we may be unable to provide a meaningful estimate due to a number of factors, including the procedural status of the matter in question, the availability of appellate remedies, insurance coverage related to the claim or claims in question, the presence of complex or novel legal theories, and/or the ongoing discovery and development of information important to the matter.  In addition, damage amounts claimed in litigation against us may be unsupported, exaggerated or unrelated to possible outcomes, and as such are not meaningful indicators of our potential liability. The Company regularly reviews contingencies to determine the adequacy of the accruals and related disclosures. The ultimate amount of loss may differ from these estimates.
	Gessele v. Jack in the Box Inc. —  In August 2010, five former employees instituted litigation in federal court in Oregon alleging claims under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (“FLSA”) and Oregon wage and hour laws.  The plaintiffs alleged that the Company failed to pay non-exempt employees for certain meal breaks and improperly made payroll deductions for shoe purchases and for workers’ compensation expenses.  In April 2014, the district court granted our motion for summary judgment, dismissed the federal law claims with prejudice and dismissed the state law claims without prejudice to re-filing in state court. The plaintiffs are challenging the court’s decision to dismiss the federal claims. We continue to vigorously defend against this lawsuit.  In light of the procedural status of this case, (1) we continue to accrue for a single claim for which we believe a loss is both probable and estimable; and (2)  we have not established a loss contingency accrual for those claims as to which we believe liability is not probable or for which we are currently unable to estimate a range of loss. Our accrued loss contingency did not have a material effect on our results of operations. Nonetheless, an unfavorable resolution of this matter in excess of our current accrued loss contingencies could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, liquidity or financial condition.
	Other Legal Matters — In addition to the matter described above, the Company is subject to normal and routine litigation brought by former, current or prospective employees, customers, franchisees, vendors, landlords, shareholders or others.  We intend to defend ourselves in any such matters.  Some of these matters may be covered, at least in part, by insurance. Our insurance liability (undiscounted) and reserves are established in part by using independent actuarial estimates of expected losses for reported claims and for estimating claims incurred but not reported. As of April 13, 2014, our estimated liability for general liability and workers’ compensation claims exceeded our self-insurance retention limits by $22.9 million. We expect to be fully covered for these amounts by surety bond issuers or our insurance providers. Although the Company currently believes that the ultimate determination of liability in connection with legal claims pending against it, if any, in excess of amounts already provided for these matters in the consolidated financial statements will not have a material adverse effect on our business, the Company’s annual results of operations, liquidity or financial position, it is possible that our results of operations, liquidity, or financial position could be materially affected in a particular future reporting period by the unfavorable resolution of one or more of these matters or contingencies during such period.
	Lease Guarantees — In connection with the sale of the distribution business, we have assigned the leases at three of our distribution centers to third parties. Under these agreements, which expire in 2014, 2015 and 2017, we remain secondarily liable for the lease payments for which we were responsible under the original lease. As of April 13, 2014, the amount remaining under these lease guarantees totaled $3.4 million. We have not recorded a liability for the guarantees as the likelihood of the third party defaulting on the assignment agreements was deemed to be less than probable.

Segment_Reporting

Segment Reporting	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Segment Reporting	'
	SEGMENT REPORTING
	Our principal business consists of developing, operating and franchising our Jack in the Box and Qdoba restaurant concepts, each of which we consider reportable operating segments. Since the beginning of 2012, we have been engaged in restructuring activities related to our internal organization and have now instituted a shared-services model (refer also to Note 7, Impairment, Disposition of Property and Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs and Restructuring). As a result, in fiscal 2014, our chief operating decision makers, which consist of a collective group of executive leadership, revised the method by which they determine performance and strategy for our segments. This change was made to reflect a shared-services model whereby each brand’s results of operations are assessed separately and do not include costs related to certain corporate functions which support both brands. This segment reporting structure reflects the Company’s current management structure, internal reporting method and financial information used in deciding how to allocate Company resources. Based upon certain quantitative thresholds, each operating segment is considered a reportable segment. This change to our segment reporting did not change our reporting units for goodwill.
	We measure and evaluate our segments based on segment revenues and earnings from operations. The reportable segments do not include an allocation of the costs related to shared service functions, such as accounting/finance, human resources, audit services, legal, tax and treasury; nor do they include unallocated costs such as pension expense and share-based compensation. These costs are reflected in the caption “Shared services and unallocated costs,” and therefore, the measure of segment profit or loss is before such items. As it was impractical to recast prior period information, 2014 segment information is reported under both the old basis and new basis of segmentation (in thousands):
		Quarter									Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2014			2013			2014			2014			2013
		(New)			(Old)						(New)			(Old)
	Revenues by segment:
	Jack in the Box restaurant operations segment	$	260,089		$	260,089		$	277,916		$	609,912		$	609,912		$	645,492
	Qdoba restaurant operations segment	80,781			80,781			69,307			181,040			181,040			156,066
	Consolidated revenues	$	340,870		$	340,870		$	347,223		$	790,952		$	790,952		$	801,558
	Earnings from operations by segment:
	Jack in the Box restaurant operations segment	$	53,617		$	26,665		$	22,300		$	129,920		$	74,916		$	59,517
	Qdoba restaurant operations segment	7,105			6,246			5,184			16,713			15,240			11,192
	FFE operations (1)	—			(32		)	(38		)	—			(73		)	(87		)
	Shared services and unallocated costs	(29,600		)	—			—			(58,768		)	—			—
	Gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants	1,757			—			—			2,218			—			—
	Consolidated earnings from operations	32,879			32,879			27,446			90,083			90,083			70,622
	Interest expense, net	4,311			4,311			3,426			8,853			8,853			8,791
	Consolidated earnings from continuing operations and before income taxes	$	28,568		$	28,568		$	24,020		$	81,230		$	81,230		$	61,831
	Total depreciation expense by segment:
	Jack in the Box restaurant operations segment	$	15,418		$	17,203		$	17,750		$	36,269		$	40,193		$	41,433
	Qdoba restaurant operations segment	3,906			3,906			3,624			9,136			9,136			8,313
	Shared services and unallocated costs	1,785			—			—			3,924			—			—
	Consolidated depreciation expense	$	21,109		$	21,109		$	21,374		$	49,329		$	49,329		$	49,746
	____________________________
	(1)    FFE operations are included in the Jack in the Box operations segment under the new basis of segmentation.
	Income taxes and total assets are not reported for our segments, in accordance with our method of internal reporting.
	The following table provides detail of the change in the balance of goodwill for each of our reportable segments (in thousands):
		Qdoba			Jack in the Box			Total
	Balance at September 29, 2013	$	100,597		$	48,391		$	148,988
	Additions	—			256			256
	Disposals	—			(129		)	(129		)
	Balance at April 13, 2014	$	100,597		$	48,518		$	149,115
	Refer to Note 4, Summary of Refranchisings, Franchise Development and Acquisitions, for information regarding the transactions resulting in the changes in goodwill.

Supplemental_Consolidated_Cash

Supplemental Consolidated Cash Flow Information	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]	'
Supplemental Consolidated Cash Flow Information	'
	SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW INFORMATION (in thousands)
		April 13,		April 14,
		2014		2013
	Cash paid during the year for:
	Interest, net of amounts capitalized	$	9,114	$	8,556
	Income tax payments	$	28,701	$	22,907

Supplemental_Consolidated_Bala

Supplemental Consolidated Balance Sheet Information	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Balance Sheet Related Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Supplemental Consolidated Balance Sheet Information	'
	SUPPLEMENTAL CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION (in thousands)
		April 13,		September 29,
		2014		2013
	Other assets, net:
	Company-owned life insurance policies	$	98,132	$	94,704
	Deferred tax assets	82,274		88,833
	Other	84,008		82,223
		$	264,414	$	265,760
	Accrued liabilities:
	Payroll and related taxes	$	39,328	$	46,970
	Sales and property taxes	12,683		11,386
	Advertising	9,947		17,706
	Insurance	35,349		35,209
	Lease commitments related to closed or refranchised locations	9,639		12,737
	Deferred rent income	10,335		9,385
	Other	18,491		20,493
		$	135,772	$	153,886
	Other long-term liabilities:
	Pension plans	$	102,504	$	105,968
	Other	173,075		180,156
		$	275,579	$	286,124

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Subsequent Event [Line Items]	'
Subsequent Events	'
	SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
	Interest rate swaps — To reduce our exposure to rising interest rates, in April 2014, subsequent to the end of the quarter, we entered into nine forward-starting interest rate swap agreements that effectively convert $300.0 million of our variable rate borrowings to a fixed rate basis from October 2014 through October 2018. These agreements have been designated as cash flow hedges under the terms of the Financial Accounting Standards Board authoritative guidance for derivatives and hedging.
	Declaration of dividends — On May 9, 2014, the Board of Directors approved the initiation of a regular cash dividend. The initial quarterly cash dividend of $0.20 per share will be paid on June 9, 2014 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on May 27, 2014. Future dividends will be subject to approval by our Board of Directors.

Basis_Of_Presentation_Policy

Basis Of Presentation (Policy)	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Basis of presentation	'
	Basis of presentation — The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). During fiscal 2012, we entered into an agreement to outsource our Jack in the Box distribution business. In the third quarter of fiscal 2013, we closed 62 Qdoba restaurants (the “2013 Qdoba Closures”) as part of a comprehensive Qdoba market performance review. The results of operations for our distribution business and for the 62 closed Qdoba restaurants are reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented. Refer to Note 2, Discontinued Operations, for additional information. Unless otherwise noted, amounts and disclosures throughout these Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements relate to our continuing operations. In our opinion, all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of financial condition and results of operations for these interim periods have been included. Operating results for one interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results for any other interim period or for the full year.
	These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 29, 2013. The accounting policies used in preparing these condensed consolidated financial statements are the same as those described in our Form 10-K.
	Principles of consolida
Principles of consolidation	'
	Principles of consolidation — The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, its wholly-owned subsidiaries and the accounts of any variable interest entities (“VIEs”) where we are deemed the primary beneficiary. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated. For information related to the VIE included in our condensed consolidated financial statements, refer to Note 13, Variable Interest Entities.
Fiscal year	'
	Fiscal year — Our fiscal year is 52 or 53 weeks ending the Sunday closest to September 30. Fiscal years 2014 and 2013 include 52 weeks. Our first quarter includes 16 weeks and all other quarters include 12 weeks. All comparisons between 2014 and 2013 refer to the 12-weeks (“quarter”) and 28-weeks (“year-to-date”) ended April 13, 2014 and April 14, 2013, respectively, unless otherwise indicated.
Use of estimates	'
	Use of estimates — In preparing the condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, management is required to make certain assumptions and estimates that affect reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and the disclosure of contingencies. In making these assumptions and estimates, management may from time to time seek advice and consider information provided by actuaries and other experts in a particular area. Actual amounts could differ materially from these estimates.

Basis_Of_Presentation_Tables

Basis Of Presentation (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Summary Of Number Of Restaurants	'
	The following table summarizes the number of restaurants as of the end of each period:
		April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013
	Jack in the Box:
	Company-operated	455			546
	Franchise	1,799			1,710
	Total system	2,254			2,256
	Qdoba:
	Company-operated	303			340
	Franchise	323			307
	Total system	626			647
	The following is a summary of the number of restaurants sold to franchisees, number of restaurants developed by franchisees and the related gains and fees recognized (dollars in thousands):
		Quarter							Year-to-Date
		April 13,				April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014				2013			2014			2013
	Restaurants sold to franchisees	14				4			14			4
	New restaurants opened by franchisees	6				9			19			29
	Initial franchise fees	$	755			$	389		$	1,154		$	1,035
	Net proceeds (1)	$	7,374			$	2,033		$	7,842		$	2,866
	Net assets sold (primarily property and equipment)	(2,240		)		(1,635		)	(2,240		)	(1,720		)
	Goodwill related to the sale of company-operated restaurants	(120		)		(67		)	(129		)	(67		)
	Other	(142		)		—			(140		)	—
	Gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants	4,872				331			5,333			1,079
	Losses on anticipated sale of Jack in the Box company-operated markets	(3,115		)		(2,749		)	(3,115		)	(2,749		)
	Total gains (losses) on the sale of company-operated restaurants	$	1,757			$	(2,418	)	$	2,218		$	(1,670	)

Discontinued_Operations_Tables

Discontinued Operations (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures	'
	The following is a summary of our distribution business operating results, which are included in discontinued operations for each period (in thousands):
		Quarter						Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Revenue	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	37,743
	Operating loss before income tax benefit	$	(124	)	$	(175	)	$	(696	)	$	(5,437	)
	The loss on the sale of the distribution business was not material to our results of operations in 2013. The year-to-date operating loss in 2014 includes $0.4 million related to insurance settlements and $0.2 million for lease commitment adjustments. Our liability for lease commitments related to our distribution centers is included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities and has changed as follows during 2014 (in thousands):
		Quarter						Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Balance at beginning of period	$	1,127		$	2,277		$	1,318		$	697
	Additions	—			—			—			1,846
	Adjustments	119			185			198			208
	Cash payments	(503		)	(346		)	(773		)	(635		)
	Balance at end of period	$	743		$	2,116		$	743		$	2,116
	Adjustments in 2014 relate to the termination of a lease agreement and the execution of a sublease agreement. Adjustments in 2013 primarily represent revisions to certain sublease and cost assumptions due to changes in market conditions. The balance at April 13, 2014 relates to one distribution center subleased at a loss.
	Qdoba restaurant closures — During the third quarter of fiscal 2013, we closed 62 Qdoba restaurants. The decision to close these restaurants was based on a comprehensive analysis that took into consideration levels of return on investment and other key operating performance metrics.
	Since the closed locations were not predominantly located near those remaining in operation, we do not expect the majority of cash flows and sales lost from these closures to be recovered. In addition, there will not be any ongoing involvement or significant direct cash flows from the closed stores. Therefore, in accordance with the provisions of ASC 205, Presentation of Financial Statements, the results of operations for these restaurants are reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented.
	The following is a summary of the results of operations related to the 2013 Qdoba Closures for each period (in thousands):
		Quarter						Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Company restaurant sales	$	—		$	8,400		$	—		$	19,588
	Operating loss before income tax benefit	$	(3,828	)	$	(2,717	)	$	(4,416	)	$	(6,227	)
	In 2014, the year-to-date operating loss includes $3.0 million of unfavorable lease commitment adjustments, $0.4 million for asset impairments, $0.6 million of ongoing facility related costs and $0.3 million of broker commissions. We do not expect the remaining costs to be incurred related to this transaction to be material. Our liability for lease commitments related to the 2013 Qdoba closures is included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities and has changed as follows during 2014 (in thousands):
		Quarter			Year-to-Date
	Balance at beginning of period	$	7,031		$	10,712
	Adjustments	3,265			2,979
	Cash payments	(3,165		)	(6,560		)
	Balance at end of period	$	7,131		$	7,131
	In 2014, adjustments primarily relate to revisions to certain sublease and cost assumptions due to changes in market conditions as well as charges to terminate 13 lease agreements. These amounts were partially offset by favorable adjustments for locations that we have subleased.
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs	'
	Restructuring costs — Since the beginning of 2012, we have been engaged in efforts to improve our cost structure and identify opportunities to reduce general and administrative expenses as well as improve profitability across both brands. The following is a summary of the costs incurred in connection with these activities (in thousands):
		Quarter						Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Severance costs	$	1,098		$	302		$	1,396		$	670
	Other	6,393			41			6,393			485
		$	7,491		$	343		$	7,789		$	1,155
Contract Termination [Member]	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs	'
	Our liability for lease commitments related to the 2013 Qdoba closures is included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities and has changed as follows during 2014 (in thousands):
		Quarter			Year-to-Date
	Balance at beginning of period	$	7,031		$	10,712
	Adjustments	3,265			2,979
	Cash payments	(3,165		)	(6,560		)
	Balance at end of period	$	7,131		$	7,131

Summary_Of_Refranchisings_Fran1

Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Abstract]	'
Number Of Restaurants Sold And Developed By Franchisees And Related Gains And Fees Recognized	'
	The following table summarizes the number of restaurants as of the end of each period:
		April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013
	Jack in the Box:
	Company-operated	455			546
	Franchise	1,799			1,710
	Total system	2,254			2,256
	Qdoba:
	Company-operated	303			340
	Franchise	323			307
	Total system	626			647
	The following is a summary of the number of restaurants sold to franchisees, number of restaurants developed by franchisees and the related gains and fees recognized (dollars in thousands):
		Quarter							Year-to-Date
		April 13,				April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014				2013			2014			2013
	Restaurants sold to franchisees	14				4			14			4
	New restaurants opened by franchisees	6				9			19			29
	Initial franchise fees	$	755			$	389		$	1,154		$	1,035
	Net proceeds (1)	$	7,374			$	2,033		$	7,842		$	2,866
	Net assets sold (primarily property and equipment)	(2,240		)		(1,635		)	(2,240		)	(1,720		)
	Goodwill related to the sale of company-operated restaurants	(120		)		(67		)	(129		)	(67		)
	Other	(142		)		—			(140		)	—
	Gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants	4,872				331			5,333			1,079
	Losses on anticipated sale of Jack in the Box company-operated markets	(3,115		)		(2,749		)	(3,115		)	(2,749		)
	Total gains (losses) on the sale of company-operated restaurants	$	1,757			$	(2,418	)	$	2,218		$	(1,670	)
Purchase Price Allocations On Franchise Acquisitions	'
	The following table provides detail of the combined acquisitions in each year-to-date period (dollars in thousands):
		April 13, 2014				April 14, 2013
		Jack in the Box				Qdoba			Jack in the Box			Total
	Restaurants acquired from franchisees	4				12			1			13
	Property and equipment	$	1,398			$	2,632		$	145		$	2,777
	Reacquired franchise rights	96				106			34			140
	Liabilities assumed	—				(281		)	(2		)	(283		)
	Goodwill	256				7,207			1,173			8,380
	Total consideration	$	1,750			$	9,664		$	1,350		$	11,014

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'
Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring	'
	Non-financial assets and liabilities — The Company’s non-financial instruments, which primarily consist of property and equipment, goodwill and intangible assets, are reported at carrying value and are not required to be measured at fair value on a recurring basis. However, on a periodic basis (at least annually for goodwill and intangible assets, and semi-annually for property and equipment) or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying value may not be recoverable, non-financial instruments are assessed for impairment. If applicable, the carrying values are written down to fair value.
	The following table presents non-financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis during fiscal 2014 (in thousands):
		Fair Value Measurement			Impairment Charges
	Long-lived assets held and used	$	619		$	180
	Long-lived assets held for sale	$	1,844		$	3,115
	Long-lived asset abandoned	$	—		$	6,393
	Long-lived assets held and used consist primarily of Jack in the Box restaurants determined to be underperforming or which we intend to close. To determine fair value, we use the income approach, which assumes that the future cash flows reflect current market expectations. The future cash flows are generally based on the assumption that the highest and best use of the asset is to sell the store to a franchisee (market participant). These fair value measurements require significant judgment using Level 3 inputs, such as discounted cash flows, which are not observable from the market, directly or indirectly. Refer to Note 7, Impairment, Disposition of Property and Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs and Restructuring, for additional information regarding these impairment charges.
	Long-lived assets held for sale were written down to fair value less costs to sell and relate to the anticipated sale of two Jack in the Box company-operated markets. We have signed letters of intent related to the sale of both markets and fair value was determined based on the terms contained therein. These impairment charges are included in gains (losses) on the sale of company-operated restaurants in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of earnings.
	The abandoned long-lived asset relates to the impairment of a restaurant software asset we no longer plan to place in service, and for which we have determined fair value to be zero. Refer to Note 7, Impairment, Disposition of Property and Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs and Restructuring, for additional information regarding this impairment charge.
Financial Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis	'
	The following table presents the financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis (in thousands):
		Total			Quoted Prices			Significant			Significant
					in Active			Other			Unobservable
					Markets for			Observable			Inputs
					Identical			Inputs (3)			(Level 3)
					Assets (3)			(Level 2)
					(Level 1)
	Fair value measurements as of April 13, 2014:
	Non-qualified deferred compensation plan (1)	$	(37,378	)	$	(37,378	)	$	—		$	—
	Interest rate swaps (Note 6) (2)	(527		)	—			(527		)	—
	Total liabilities at fair value	$	(37,905	)	$	(37,378	)	$	(527	)	$	—
	Fair value measurements as of September 29, 2013:
	Non-qualified deferred compensation plan (1)	$	(39,135	)	$	(39,135	)	$	—		$	—
	Interest rate swaps (Note 6) (2)	(1,190		)	—			(1,190		)	—
	Total liabilities at fair value	$	(40,325	)	$	(39,135	)	$	(1,190	)	$	—
	____________________________
	-1	We maintain an unfunded defined contribution plan for key executives and other members of management excluded from participation in our qualified savings plan. The fair value of this obligation is based on the closing market prices of the participants’ elected investments.
	-2	We entered into interest rate swaps to reduce our exposure to rising interest rates on our variable debt. The fair values of our interest rate swaps are based upon Level 2 inputs which include valuation models as reported by our counterparties. The key inputs for the valuation models are quoted market prices, interest rates and forward yield curves.
	-3	We did not have any transfers in or out of Level 1 or Level 2.
	The fair values of the Company’s debt instruments are based on the amount of future cash flows associated with each instrument discounted using the Company’s borrowing rate. At April 13, 2014, the carrying value of all financial instruments was not materially different from fair value, as the borrowings are prepayable without penalty. The estimated fair values of our capital lease obligations approximated their carrying values as of April 13, 2014

Derivative_Instruments_Tables

Derivative Instruments (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Assets [Abstract]	'
Derivative Instruments Outstanding	'
	The following derivative instruments were outstanding as of the end of each period (in thousands):
		April 13, 2014				September 29, 2013
		Balance	Fair			Balance		Fair
		Sheet	Value			Sheet		Value
		Location				Location
	Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
	Interest rate swaps (Note 5)	Accrued	$	(527	)	Accrued		$	(1,190	)
		liabilities				liabilities
	Total derivatives		$	(527	)			$	(1,190	)
Gains Or Losses Recognized On Interest Rate Swap Derivative Instruments	'
	The following is a summary of the accumulated other comprehensive income (“OCI”) activity related to our interest rate swap derivative instruments (in thousands):
		Location of Loss in Income	Quarter							Year-to-Date
			April 13,			April 14,				April 13,			April 14,
			2014			2013				2014			2013
	Losses recognized in OCI	N/A	$	(31	)	$	(94	)		$	(85	)	$	(90	)
	Losses reclassified from accumulated OCI into income	Interest	$	(322	)	$	(311	)		$	(748	)	$	(724	)
		expense,
		net
	Amounts reclassified from accu

Impairment_Disposition_Of_Prop1

Impairment, Disposition Of Property And Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs And Restructuring (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Impairment and Disposal Costs Included in Impairment and Other Charges	'
	Impairment and other charges, net in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of earnings is comprised of the following (in thousands):
		Quarter						Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Restaurant impairment charges	$	85		$	362		$	180		$	2,884
	Losses on the disposition of property and equipment, net	749			1,261			1,701			396
	Costs of closed restaurants (primarily lease obligations) and other	731			407			1,295			1,190
	Restructuring costs	7,491			343			7,789			1,155
		$	9,056		$	2,373		$	10,965		$	5,625
Restaurant Closing Costs	'
	Total accrued severance costs related to our restructuring activities are included in accrued liabilities and changed as follows (in thousands):
		Quarter						Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Balance at beginning of period	$	98		$	671		$	253		$	1,758
	Additions	1,098			302			1,396			670
	Cash payments	(1,196		)	(934		)	(1,649		)	(2,389		)
	Balance at end of quarter	$	—		$	39		$	—		$	39
	We expect to incur additional charges related to our restructuring activities; however, we are unable to make a reasonable estimate at this time.
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs	'
	Restructuring costs — Since the beginning of 2012, we have been engaged in efforts to improve our cost structure and identify opportunities to reduce general and administrative expenses as well as improve profitability across both brands. The following is a summary of the costs incurred in connection with these activities (in thousands):
		Quarter						Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Severance costs	$	1,098		$	302		$	1,396		$	670
	Other	6,393			41			6,393			485
		$	7,491		$	343		$	7,789		$	1,155
Contract Termination [Member]	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'
Restaurant Closing Costs	'
	Restaurant closing costs consist of future lease commitments, net of anticipated sublease rentals and expected ancillary costs, and are included in impairment and other charges, net in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of earnings. Accrued restaurant closing costs, included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities, changed as follows (in thousands):
		Quarter						Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Balance at beginning of period	$	15,499		$	19,561		$	16,321		$	20,677
	Adjustments	650			312			1,262			738
	Cash payments	(1,553		)	(1,436		)	(2,987		)	(2,978		)
	Balance at end of quarter	$	14,596		$	18,437		$	14,596		$	18,437
	In 2014 and 2013, adjustments primarily relate to revisions to certain sublease and cost assumptions due to changes in market conditions.
Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs	'
	Our liability for lease commitments related to the 2013 Qdoba closures is included in accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities and has changed as follows during 2014 (in thousands):
		Quarter			Year-to-Date
	Balance at beginning of period	$	7,031		$	10,712
	Adjustments	3,265			2,979
	Cash payments	(3,165		)	(6,560		)
	Balance at end of period	$	7,131		$	7,131

Retirement_Plans_Tables

Retirement Plans (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Expense [Abstract]	'
Components Of Net Periodic Benefit Cost	'
	The components of net periodic benefit cost in each period were as follows (in thousands):
		Quarter						Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Defined benefit pension plans:
	Service cost	$	1,875		$	2,481		$	4,374		$	5,789
	Interest cost	5,364			5,222			12,516			12,185
	Expected return on plan assets	(5,652		)	(5,242		)	(13,188		)	(12,231		)
	Actuarial loss	1,024			4,116			2,388			9,604
	Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost	62			62			145			145
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	2,673		$	6,639		$	6,235		$	15,492
	Postretirement healthcare plans:
	Interest cost	$	379		$	366		$	883		$	854
	Actuarial loss	125			183			292			426
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	504		$	549		$	1,175		$	1,280
Schedule Of Defined Benefit Plan Contribution	'
	Future cash flows — Our policy is to fund our plans at or above the minimum required by law. As of the date of our last actuarial funding valuation, there was no minimum contribution funding requirement. Details regarding fiscal 2014 contributions are as follows (in thousands):
		Defined Benefit			Postretirement
		Pension Plans			Healthcare Plans
	Net year-to-date contributions	$	7,167		$	664
	Remaining estimated net contributions during fiscal 2014	$	17,200		$	800

ShareBased_Compensation_Tables

Share-Based Compensation (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Share-Based Awards Granted	'
	In 2014, we granted the following shares related to our share-based compensation awards:
	Stock options	215,248
	Performance share awards	55,668
	Nonvested stock units	111,538
Components Of Share-Based Compensation Expense	'
	The components of share-based compensation expense recognized in each period are as follows (in thousands):
		Quarter				Year-to-Date
		April 13,		April 14,		April 13,		April 14,
		2014		2013		2014		2013
	Stock options	$	489	$	1,269	$	1,778	$	3,159
	Performance share awards	999		547		2,496		1,664
	Nonvested stock awards	45		85		218		219
	Nonvested stock units	796		1,416		1,638		2,337
	Deferred compensation for non-management directors	218		220		218		220
	Total share-based compensation expense	$	2,547	$	3,537	$	6,348	$	7,599

Average_Shares_Outstanding_Tab

Average Shares Outstanding (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract]	'
Reconciliation Of Basic Weighted-Average Shares Outstanding To Diluted Weighted-Average Shares Outstanding	'
	The following table reconciles basic weighted-average shares outstanding to diluted weighted-average shares outstanding (in thousands):
		Quarter		Year-to-Date
		April 13,	April 14,	April 13,	April 14,
		2014	2013	2014	2013
	Weighted-average shares outstanding – basic	41,464	43,747	42,018	43,319
	Effect of potentially dilutive securities:
	Stock options	640	950	725	840
	Nonvested stock awards and units	243	368	318	350
	Performance share awards	285	209	275	227
	Weighted-average shares outstanding – diluted	42,632	45,274	43,336	44,736
	Excluded from diluted weighted-average shares outstanding:
	Antidilutive	185	215	152	1,094
	Performance conditions not satisfied at the end of the period	20	223	30	223

Variable_Interest_Entities_Tab

Variable Interest Entities (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Variable Interest Entities ("VIEs") [Abstract]	'
Components Of FFE's Balance Sheet	'
		VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES
	In January 2011, we formed Jack in the Box Franchise Finance, LLC (“FFE”) for the purpose of operating a franchisee lending program to assist Jack in the Box franchisees in re-imaging their restaurants. We are the sole equity investor in FFE. The lending program was comprised of a $20.0 million commitment from the Company in the form of a capital note and an $80.0 million Senior Secured Revolving Securitization Facility entered into with a third party. The lending period and the revolving period expired in June 2012. At April 13, 2014, we had no borrowings under the FFE Facility and we do not plan to make any further contributions.
	We have determined that FFE is a VIE, and that the Company is the primary beneficiary. We considered a variety of factors in identifying the primary beneficiary of FFE including, but not limited to, who holds the power to direct matters that most significantly impact FFE’s economic performance (such as determining the underwriting standards and credit management policies), as well as what party has the obligation to absorb the losses of FFE. Based on these considerations, we have determined that the Company is the primary beneficiary and the entity is reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements.
	FFE’s assets consolidated by the Company represent assets that can be used only to settle obligations of the consolidated VIE. Likewise, FFE’s liabilities consolidated by the Company do not represent additional claims on the Company’s general assets; rather they represent claims against the specific assets of FFE. The impacts of FFE’s results were not material to the Company’s condensed consolidated statements of earnings or cash flows.
	The FFE’s balance sheet consisted of the following at the end of each period (in thousands):
		April 13,			September 29,
		2014			2013
	Cash	$	—		$	250
	Other current assets (1)	2,449			2,368
	Other assets, net (1)	7,032			8,367
	Total assets	$	9,481		$	10,985
	Current liabilities	$	3,064		$	3,010
	Other long-term liabilities (2)	6,422			8,076
	Retained earnings	(5		)	(101		)
	Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	9,481		$	10,985
	____________________________
	-1	Consists primarily of amounts due from franchisees.
	-2	Consists primarily of the capital note contributions from Jack in the Box which are eliminated in consolidation.
	The Company’s maximum exposure to loss is equal to its outstanding contributions as of April 13, 2014. This amount represents estimated losses that would be incurred should all franchisees default on their loans without any consideration of recovery. To offset the credit risk associated with the Company’s variable interest in FFE, the Company holds a security interest in the assets of FFE subordinate and junior to all other obligations of FFE.
	The FFE’s balance sheet consisted of the following at the end of each period (in thousands):
		April 13,			September 29,
		2014			2013
	Cash	$	—		$	250
	Other current assets (1)	2,449			2,368
	Other assets, net (1)	7,032			8,367
	Total assets	$	9,481		$	10,985
	Current liabilities	$	3,064		$	3,010
	Other long-term liabilities (2)	6,422			8,076
	Retained earnings	(5		)	(101		)
	Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	9,481		$	10,985
	____________________________
	-1	Consists primarily of amounts due from franchisees.
	-2	Consists primarily of the capital note contributions from Jack in the Box which are eliminated in consolidation.

Segment_Reporting_Tables

Segment Reporting (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Summarized Financial Information Of Reportable Segments	'
		Quarter									Year-to-Date
		April 13,			April 13,			April 14,			April 13,			April 13,			April 14,
		2014			2014			2013			2014			2014			2013
		(New)			(Old)						(New)			(Old)
	Revenues by segment:
	Jack in the Box restaurant operations segment	$	260,089		$	260,089		$	277,916		$	609,912		$	609,912		$	645,492
	Qdoba restaurant operations segment	80,781			80,781			69,307			181,040			181,040			156,066
	Consolidated revenues	$	340,870		$	340,870		$	347,223		$	790,952		$	790,952		$	801,558
	Earnings from operations by segment:
	Jack in the Box restaurant operations segment	$	53,617		$	26,665		$	22,300		$	129,920		$	74,916		$	59,517
	Qdoba restaurant operations segment	7,105			6,246			5,184			16,713			15,240			11,192
	FFE operations (1)	—			(32		)	(38		)	—			(73		)	(87		)
	Shared services and unallocated costs	(29,600		)	—			—			(58,768		)	—			—
	Gains on the sale of company-operated restaurants	1,757			—			—			2,218			—			—
	Consolidated earnings from operations	32,879			32,879			27,446			90,083			90,083			70,622
	Interest expense, net	4,311			4,311			3,426			8,853			8,853			8,791
	Consolidated earnings from continuing operations and before income taxes	$	28,568		$	28,568		$	24,020		$	81,230		$	81,230		$	61,831
	Total depreciation expense by segment:
	Jack in the Box restaurant operations segment	$	15,418		$	17,203		$	17,750		$	36,269		$	40,193		$	41,433
	Qdoba restaurant operations segment	3,906			3,906			3,624			9,136			9,136			8,313
	Shared services and unallocated costs	1,785			—			—			3,924			—			—
	Consolidated depreciation expense	$	21,109		$	21,109		$	21,374		$	49,329		$	49,329		$	49,746
Schedule of Goodwill	'
	The following table provides detail of the change in the balance of goodwill for each of our reportable segments (in thousands):
		Qdoba			Jack in the Box			Total
	Balance at September 29, 2013	$	100,597		$	48,391		$	148,988
	Additions	—			256			256
	Disposals	—			(129		)	(129		)
	Balance at April 13, 2014	$	100,597		$	48,518		$	149,115

Supplemental_Consolidated_Cash1

Supplemental Consolidated Cash Flow Information (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]	'
Additional Information Related To Cash Flows	'
		April 13,		April 14,
		2014		2013
	Cash paid during the year for:
	Interest, net of amounts capitalized	$	9,114	$	8,556
	Income tax payments	$	28,701	$	22,907

Supplemental_Consolidated_Bala1

Supplemental Consolidated Balance Sheet Information (Tables)	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Supplemental Balance Sheet Disclosures [Line Items]	'
Schedule Of Supplemental Consolidated Balance Sheet Information	'
		April 13,		September 29,
		2014		2013
	Other assets, net:
	Company-owned life insurance policies	$	98,132	$	94,704
	Deferred tax assets	82,274		88,833
	Other	84,008		82,223
		$	264,414	$	265,760
	Accrued liabilities:
	Payroll and related taxes	$	39,328	$	46,970
	Sales and property taxes	12,683		11,386
	Advertising	9,947		17,706
	Insurance	35,349		35,209
	Lease commitments related to closed or refranchised locations	9,639		12,737
	Deferred rent income	10,335		9,385
	Other	18,491		20,493
		$	135,772	$	153,886
	Other long-term liabilities:
	Pension plans	$	102,504	$	105,968
	Other	173,075		180,156
		$	275,579	$	286,124

Basis_Of_Presentation_Details

Basis Of Presentation (Details)	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013
	restaurant	restaurant
Jack In The Box [Member]	'	'
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'
Number of restaurants	2,254	2,256
Qdoba [Member]	'	'
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'
Number of restaurants	626	647
Entity Operated Units [Member] | Jack In The Box [Member]	'	'
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'
Number of restaurants	455	546
Entity Operated Units [Member] | Qdoba [Member]	'	'
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'
Number of restaurants	303	340
Franchised Units [Member] | Jack In The Box [Member]	'	'
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'
Number of restaurants	1,799	1,710
Franchised Units [Member] | Qdoba [Member]	'	'
Nature Of Operations And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'
Number of restaurants	323	307

Basis_Of_Presentation_Presenta

Basis Of Presentation Presentation Details (Details) (2013 Qdoba Closures [Member])	Jul. 07, 2013
	restaurant
2013 Qdoba Closures [Member]	'
Number of restaurants closed [Line Items]	'
Number of Restaurants	62

Discontinued_Operations_Detail

Discontinued Operations (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
number of distribution center leases assigned to third parties	3	'	3	'
Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness	$0	$0	$0	$0
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	-2,463,000	-1,795,000	-3,187,000	-7,216,000
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share	($0.06)	($0.04)	($0.08)	($0.17)
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share	($0.06)	($0.04)	($0.07)	($0.16)
Asset Impairment Charges	85,000	362,000	'	'
2013 Qdoba Closures [Member]	'	'	'	'
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Number of Lease agreements	13	'	13	'
Disposal group, Including Discontinued Operations, Brokerage Commissions	'	'	300,000	'
Revenue	0	8,400,000	0	19,588,000
Operating loss before income tax benefit	-3,828,000	-2,717,000	-4,416,000	-6,227,000
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	7,031,000	'	10,712,000	'
Cash payments	3,165,000	'	6,560,000	'
Balance at end of period	7,131,000	'	7,131,000	'
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	3,265,000	'	2,979,000	'
Asset Impairment Charges	'	'	400,000	'
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Ongoing Facility Related Costs	'	'	600,000	'
Discontinued Operation - Distribution Business [Member]	'	'	'	'
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Reserve Addition	0	0	0	1,846,000
Revenue	0	0	0	37,743,000
Operating loss before income tax benefit	-124,000	-175,000	-696,000	-5,437,000
Restructuring reserve, accelerated depreciation	'	'	400,000	'
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Future Lease Commitments	'	'	200,000	'
Number of Distribution Centers	1	'	1	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	1,127,000	2,277,000	1,318,000	697,000
Balance at end of period	743,000	2,116,000	743,000	2,116,000
Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment	119,000	185,000	198,000	208,000
Cash paid to settle restructuring reserve	($503,000)	($346,000)	($773,000)	($635,000)

Indebtedness_Details

Indebtedness (Details) (USD $)

6 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

21 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

60 Months Ended

Apr. 13, 2014

Apr. 14, 2013

Mar. 01, 2019

Mar. 01, 2018

Mar. 01, 2016

Mar. 19, 2014

Mar. 21, 2014

Apr. 13, 2014

Mar. 19, 2014

Mar. 19, 2019

Mar. 19, 2019

Mar. 19, 2014

Apr. 13, 2014

Apr. 13, 2014

New Facility [Member]

New 2014 Facility [Member] [Member]

New 2014 Facility [Member] [Member]

New 2014 Facility [Member] [Member]

New 2014 Facility [Member] [Member]

New 2014 Facility [Member] [Member]

New 2014 Facility [Member] [Member]

Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

Term Loan Member

Minimum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Initial Interest Rate [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$600,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

Proceeds from issuance of debt

200,000,000

200,000,000

'

'

'

'

200,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Loans Payable to Bank

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

200,000,000

'

'

'

'

200,000,000

Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.25%

2.00%

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Initial Interest Rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.75%

'

'

Letters of Credit Maximum Issuance Available

'

'

'

'

'

75,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Proceeds from Lines of Credit

'

'

'

'

'

'

220,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term Line of Credit

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

305,000,000

'

Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

23,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment, Principal

'

'

$5,000,000

$3,750,000

$2,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Summary_Of_Refranchisings_Fran2

Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions (Number Of Restaurants Sold And Developed By Franchisees And Related Gains And Fees Recognized) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013
	restaurant	restaurant	restaurant	restaurant
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Significant Changes, Franchises Sold	14	4	14	4
New restaurants opened by franchisees	6	9	19	29
Initial franchise fees	$755	$389	$1,154	$1,035
Proceeds	-7,374	-2,033	-7,842	-2,866
Net assets sold (primarily property and equipment)	-2,240	-1,635	-2,240	-1,720
Goodwill related to the sale of company-operated restaurants	-120	-67	-129	-67
Disposal Group Not Discontinued Operation Other Gain Loss On Disposal	142	0	140	0
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	-1,757	2,418	-2,218	1,670
Subtotal of gains (losses) on sale of company-operated restaurants [Member]	'	'	'	'
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	-4,872	-331	-5,333	-1,079
Loss on anticipated sale [Member]	'	'	'	'
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	3,115	2,749	3,115	2,749
Total gain (loss) on the sale of company-operated restaurants [Member]	'	'	'	'
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	-1,757	2,418	'	1,670
Jack In The Box [Member]	'	'	'	'
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Goodwill related to the sale of company-operated restaurants	'	'	129	'
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	'	'	($2,218)	'

Summary_Of_Refranchisings_Fran3

Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions (Purchase Price Allocations On Franchise Acquisitions) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013
	restaurant	restaurant	restaurant	restaurant
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Proceeds From Extension Of Franchise And Lease Agreements	$700,000	$200,000	$1,200,000	$1,000,000
Significant Changes, Franchises Sold	14	4	14	4
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses	7,374,000	2,033,000	7,842,000	2,866,000
Significant Changes, Franchises Purchased During Period	'	'	'	13
Property and equipment	'	2,777,000	'	2,777,000
Reacquired franchise rights	'	140,000	'	140,000
Liabilities assumed	'	283,000	'	283,000
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	'	'	256,000	8,380,000
Total consideration	'	11,014,000	'	11,014,000
Assets, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit	2,240,000	1,635,000	2,240,000	1,720,000
Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit	120,000	67,000	129,000	67,000
Disposal Group Not Discontinued Operation Other Gain Loss On Disposal	142,000	0	140,000	0
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	1,757,000	-2,418,000	2,218,000	-1,670,000
Number of New Restaurants Opened by Franchisees	6	9	19	29
Qdoba [Member]	'	'	'	'
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Restaurants acquired from franchisees	'	'	'	12
Significant Changes, Franchises Purchased During Period	'	'	'	12
Property and equipment	'	2,632,000	'	2,632,000
Reacquired franchise rights	'	106,000	'	106,000
Liabilities assumed	'	281,000	'	281,000
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	'	'	0	7,207,000
Total consideration	'	9,664,000	'	9,664,000
Jack In The Box [Member]	'	'	'	'
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Restaurants acquired from franchisees	'	'	4	1
Significant Changes, Franchises Purchased During Period	'	'	4	1
Property and equipment	1,398,000	145,000	1,398,000	145,000
Reacquired franchise rights	96,000	34,000	96,000	34,000
Liabilities assumed	0	2,000	0	2,000
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	'	'	256,000	1,173,000
Total consideration	1,750,000	1,350,000	1,750,000	1,350,000
Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit	'	'	-129,000	'
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	'	'	2,218,000	'
Loss on anticipated sale [Member]	'	'	'	'
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	-3,115,000	-2,749,000	-3,115,000	-2,749,000
Total gain (loss) on the sale of company-operated restaurants [Member]	'	'	'	'
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	1,757,000	-2,418,000	'	-1,670,000
Subtotal of gains (losses) on sale of company-operated restaurants [Member]	'	'	'	'
Summary Of Refranchisings, Franchisee Development And Acquisitions [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	$4,872,000	$331,000	$5,333,000	$1,079,000

Fair_Value_Measurements_Financ

Fair Value Measurements (Financial Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis) (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

6 Months Ended

In Thousands, unless otherwise specified

Apr. 13, 2014

Apr. 13, 2014

Apr. 13, 2014

Apr. 13, 2014

Sep. 29, 2013

Apr. 13, 2014

Sep. 29, 2013

Apr. 13, 2014

Sep. 29, 2013

Apr. 13, 2014

Sep. 29, 2013

Apr. 13, 2014

Sep. 29, 2013

Apr. 13, 2014

Sep. 29, 2013

Apr. 13, 2014

Sep. 29, 2013

Apr. 13, 2014

Sep. 29, 2013

Apr. 13, 2014

Sep. 29, 2013

Apr. 13, 2014

Sep. 29, 2013

Apr. 13, 2014

Sep. 29, 2013

Apr. 13, 2014

Sep. 29, 2013

Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]

Interest Rate Swaps [Member]

Interest Rate Swaps [Member]

Non Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]

Non Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]

Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]

Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]

Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]

Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]

Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]

Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]

Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]

Interest Rate Swaps [Member]

Interest Rate Swaps [Member]

Non Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]

Non Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]

Interest Rate Swaps [Member]

Interest Rate Swaps [Member]

Non Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]

Non Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]

Interest Rate Swaps [Member]

Interest Rate Swaps [Member]

Non Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]

Non Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan [Member]

Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Assets Held and Used, Long Lived, Fair Value Disclosure

'

'

$619

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total liabilities at fair value

'

'

'

-37,905

-40,325

-527

[1]

-1,190

[1]

-37,378

[2]

-39,135

[2]

-37,378

[3]

-39,135

[3]

0

[1],[3]

0

[1],[3]

-37,378

[2],[3]

-39,135

[2],[3]

-527

[3]

-1,190

[3]

-527

[1],[3]

-1,190

[1],[3]

0

[2],[3]

0

[2],[3]

0

0

0

[1]

0

[1]

0

[2]

0

[2]

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use

'

'

180

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Assets Held-for-sale, Long Lived, Fair Value Disclosure

'

'

1,844

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of

'

'

3,115

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Asset Abandoned Fair Value Measurement

'

'

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Loss (Gain) on Write-down

$6,393

$6,393

$6,393

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

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[1]

We entered into interest rate swaps to reduce our exposure to rising interest rates on our variable debt. The fair values of our interest rate swaps are based upon Level 2 inputs which include valuation models as reported by our counterparties. The key inputs for the valuation models are quoted market prices, interest rates and forward yield curves.

[2]

We maintain an unfunded defined contribution plan for key executives and other members of management excluded from participation in our qualified savings plan. The fair value of this obligation is based on the closing market prices of the participants’ elected investments.

[3]

We did not have any transfers in or out of Level 1 or Level 2.

Derivative_Instruments_Narrati

Derivative Instruments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013	Apr. 14, 2014	Aug. 31, 2010
					agreements	agreements
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Interest rate derivatives held	'	'	'	'	9	2
Interest rate swaps hedge ineffectiveness	$0	$0	$0	$0	'	'
Interest Rate Swaps [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	'	'	'	'	300,000,000	100,000,000

Derivative_Instruments_Derivat

Derivative Instruments (Derivative Instruments Outstanding) (Details) (Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member], Interest Rate Swaps [Member], USD $)	Apr. 13, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Total liabilities at fair value	($527)	($1,190)
Derivatives Accrued Liabilities [Member]	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Total liabilities at fair value	($527)	($1,190)

Derivative_Instruments_Gains_O

Derivative Instruments (Gains Or Losses Recognized On Interest Rate Swap Derivative Instruments) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Gain (loss) recognized in OCI	($31)	($94)	($85)	($90)
Loss reclassified from accumulated OCI into income	-322	-311	-748	-724
Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instrument [Member]	'	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Gain (loss) recognized in OCI	-31	-94	-85	-90
Interest Rate Swaps [Member] | Interest Expense, Net [Member] | Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instrument [Member]	'	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Loss reclassified from accumulated OCI into income	($322)	($311)	($748)	($724)

Impairment_Disposition_Of_Prop2

Impairment, Disposition Of Property And Equipment, Restaurant Closing Costs And Restructuring (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013
				litigation
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Asset Impairment Charges	$85	$362	'	'
Losses (gains) on the disposition of property and equipment, net	'	'	1,745	416
Restructuring and Related Cost, Incurred Cost	731	407	'	'
Business Exit Costs	'	'	1,295	1,190
Impairment and other charges, net	9,056	2,373	10,965	5,625
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'
Severance costs	1,098	302	1,396	670
Restructuring Charges	7,491	343	7,789	1,155
Other restructuring costs	'	41	'	485
Other Asset Impairment Charges	6,393	'	6,393	'
Number of Closed Restaurants Related to Eminent Domain Proceeds in Current Period	'	'	'	2
Gains from imminent domain [Member]	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Losses (gains) on the disposition of property and equipment, net	'	'	'	-2,400
Facility Closing [Member]	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	15,499	19,561	16,321	20,677
Cash payments	-1,553	-1,436	-2,987	-2,978
Balance at end of period	14,596	18,437	14,596	18,437
Restructuring costs	650	312	'	'
business exit costs - adjustments	'	'	1,262	738
Employee Severance [Member]	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]	'	'	'	'
Balance at beginning of period	98	671	253	1,758
Cash payments	1,196	934	1,649	2,389
Severance costs	1,098	302	1,396	670
Balance at end of period	0	39	0	39
Jack In The Box Restaurants [Member]	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Asset Impairment Charges	'	'	180	2,884
Continuing Operations [Member]	'	'	'	'
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Losses (gains) on the disposition of property and equipment, net	$749	$1,261	($1,701)	$396

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Ineffectiveness	$0	$0	$0	$0
Effective tax rates	36.10%	37.20%	36.90%	33.40%
Gross unrecognized tax benefits associated with uncertain income tax positions	$800,000	'	$800,000	'

Retirement_Plans_Components_Of

Retirement Plans (Components Of Net Periodic Benefit Cost) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013
Defined Benefit Pension Plans [Member]	'	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Service cost	$1,875	$2,481	$4,374	$5,789
Interest cost	5,364	5,222	12,516	12,185
Expected return on plan assets	-5,652	-5,242	-13,188	-12,231
Actuarial loss	1,024	4,116	2,388	9,604
Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost	62	62	145	145
Net periodic benefit cost	2,673	6,639	6,235	15,492
Postretirement Healthcare Plans [Member]	'	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Interest cost	379	366	883	854
Actuarial loss	125	183	292	426
Net periodic benefit cost	$504	$549	$1,175	$1,280

Retirement_Plans_Schedule_Of_F

Retirement Plans (Schedule Of Future Cash Flows) (Details) (USD $)	6 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2014	Apr. 13, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Minimum required contribution for retirement plans	'	$0
Defined Benefit Pension Plans [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Net year-to-date contributions	'	7,167,000
Remaining estimated net contributions during fiscal 2012	17,200,000	'
Postretirement Healthcare Plans [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Net year-to-date contributions	'	664,000
Remaining estimated net contributions during fiscal 2012	$800,000	'

ShareBased_Compensation_Schedu

Share-Based Compensation (Schedule Of Share-Based Awards Granted) (Details)	6 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014
Stock Options [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Shares	215,248
Performance-Vested Stock Awards [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Shares	55,668
Nonvested Stock Units [Member]	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'
Shares	111,538

ShareBased_Compensation_Compon

Share-Based Compensation (Components Of Share-Based Compensation Expense) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation expense	'	'	$6,348	$7,599
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	2,547	3,537	'	'
Stock Options [Member]	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation expense	'	'	1,778	3,159
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	489	1,269	'	'
Performance-Vested Stock Awards [Member]	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation expense	'	'	2,496	1,664
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	999	547	'	'
Nonvested Stock Awards [Member]	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation expense	'	'	218	219
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	45	85	'	'
Nonvested Stock Units [Member]	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation expense	'	'	1,638	2,337
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	796	1,416	'	'
Deferred Compensation For Non Management Directors Member	'	'	'	'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation expense	$218	$220	$218	$220

Stockholders_Equity_Narrative_

Stockholders' Equity (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	6 Months Ended		10 Months Ended	21 Months Ended	24 Months Ended
Share data in Millions, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013	Nov. 15, 2014	Nov. 15, 2015	Nov. 15, 2014
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Repurchase of common stock, authorized amount	'	'	'	$200,000,000	$100,000,000
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired	3.7	'	'	'	'
Repurchase of common stock, remaining authorized amount	'	'	134,700,000	'	'
Repurchases of common stock	205,453,000	40,465,000	'	'	'
Q2 2014 trades settled Q3 2014 [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Repurchases of common stock	3,900,000	'	'	'	'
Fiscal 2013 Trades Settled Fiscal 2014 [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Repurchases of common stock	7,300,000	'	'	'	'
Treasury Stock [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Repurchases of common stock	$202,000,000	'	'	'	'

Average_Shares_Outstanding_Rec

Average Shares Outstanding (Reconciliation Of Basic Weighted-Average Shares Outstanding To Diluted Weighted-Average Shares Outstanding) (Details)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013
Average Shares Outstanding [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Weighted-average shares outstanding - basic	41,464	43,747	42,018	43,319
Weighted-average shares outstanding - diluted	42,632	45,274	43,336	44,736
Excluded from diluted weighted-average shares outstanding, Antidilutive	185	215	152	1,094
Excluded from diluted weighted-average shares outstanding, Performance conditions not satisfied at the end of the period	20	223	30	223
Stock Options [Member]	'	'	'	'
Average Shares Outstanding [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Effect of potentially dilutive securities	640	950	725	840
Nonvested Stock Awards And Units [Member]	'	'	'	'
Average Shares Outstanding [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Effect of potentially dilutive securities	243	368	318	350
Performance-Vested Stock Awards [Member]	'	'	'	'
Average Shares Outstanding [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Effect of potentially dilutive securities	285	209	275	227

Variable_Interest_Entities_Nar

Variable Interest Entities (Narrative) (Details) (Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary [Member], USD $)	Apr. 13, 2014
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]	'
Commitment to lending program from company through capital note	$20,000,000
Long-term Line of Credit	0
F F E Facility Member	'
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]	'
Senior secured revolving securitization facility	$80,000,000

Variable_Interest_Entities_Com

Variable Interest Entities (Components Of FFE's Balance Sheet) (Details) (USD $)	Apr. 13, 2014		Sep. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]	'		'
Other current assets	$1,103		$108
Current liabilities	178,772		211,674
Other long-term liabilities	275,579		286,124
Retained earnings	1,219,910		1,171,823
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	1,314,386		1,319,209
Jack In The Box Franchise Finance, LLC (FFE) [Member]	'		'
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]	'		'
Cash	0		250
Other current assets	2,449	[1]	2,368	[1]
Other assets, net	7,032	[1]	8,367	[1]
Total assets	9,481		10,985
Current liabilities	3,064		3,010
Other long-term liabilities	6,422	[2]	8,076	[2]
Retained earnings	-5		-101
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$9,481		$10,985
[1]	Consists primarily of amounts due from franchisees.
[2]	Consists primarily of the capital note contributions from Jack in the Box which are eliminated in consolidation.

Contingencies_and_Legal_Matter1

Contingencies and Legal Matters (Details) (USD $)	Apr. 13, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Guarantees [Abstract]	'
General liability and workers' comp estimated claims to be paid by insurance providers	$22.90
Guarantor obligations, maximum exposure, Undiscounted	$3.40

Segment_Reporting_Summarized_F

Segment Reporting (Summarized Financial Information Of Reportable Segments) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013	Sep. 29, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Consolidated revenues	$340,870	$347,223	$790,952	$801,558	'
Consolidated earnings from operations	32,879	27,446	90,083	70,622	'
Interest Income (Expense), Net	-4,311	-3,426	-8,853	-8,791	'
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest	28,568	24,020	81,230	61,831	'
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	1,757	-2,418	2,218	-1,670	'
Consolidated depreciation expense	21,109	21,374	49,329	49,746	'
Consolidated goodwill	149,115	'	149,115	'	148,988
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	'	'	256	8,380	'
Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit	120	67	129	67	'
Total goodwill disposals	'	'	-129	'	'
Jack In The Box [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Consolidated revenues	260,089	277,916	609,912	645,492	'
Consolidated earnings from operations	26,665	22,300	74,916	59,517	'
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	'	'	2,218	'	'
Consolidated depreciation expense	17,203	17,750	40,193	41,433	'
Consolidated goodwill	48,518	'	48,518	'	48,391
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	'	'	256	1,173	'
Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit	'	'	-129	'	'
Qdoba brand restaurant operations [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Consolidated revenues	80,781	'	'	'	'
Consolidated earnings from operations	7,105	'	16,713	'	'
Consolidated depreciation expense	3,906	'	9,136	'	'
Qdoba [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Consolidated revenues	80,781	69,307	181,040	156,066	'
Consolidated earnings from operations	6,246	5,184	15,240	11,192	'
Consolidated depreciation expense	3,906	3,624	9,136	8,313	'
Consolidated goodwill	100,597	'	100,597	'	100,597
Goodwill, Acquired During Period	'	'	0	7,207	'
Total goodwill disposals	'	'	0	'	'
F F E Operations New [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Consolidated earnings from operations	0	'	0	'	'
Jack in the box brand restaurant operations [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Consolidated revenues	260,089	'	'	'	'
Consolidated earnings from operations	53,617	'	129,920	'	'
Consolidated depreciation expense	15,418	'	36,269	'	'
FFE Operations [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Consolidated earnings from operations	-32	-38	-73	-87	'
Shared services and unallocated costs [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Consolidated earnings from operations	-29,600	'	-58,768	'	'
Consolidated depreciation expense	1,785	'	3,924	'	'
Shared services and unallocated costs old reporting [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Consolidated earnings from operations	0	0	0	0	'
Consolidated depreciation expense	0	0	0	0	'
Old segment reporting structure [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Disposal Group, Not Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal	$0	$0	$0	$0	'

Supplemental_Consolidated_Cash2

Supplemental Consolidated Cash Flow Information (Additional Information Related To Cash Flows) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 14, 2013	Apr. 13, 2014
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]	'	'
Interest, net of amounts capitalized	$8,556	$9,114
Income tax payments	$22,907	$28,701

Supplemental_Consolidated_Bala2

Supplemental Consolidated Balance Sheet Information (Details) (USD $)	Jul. 06, 2014	Apr. 13, 2014	Sep. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Supplemental Balance Sheet Disclosures [Line Items]	'	'	'
Company-owned life insurance policies	'	$98,132	$94,704
Deferred tax asset	'	82,274	88,833
Other	'	84,008	82,223
Other assets, net	'	264,414	265,760
Payroll and related taxes	'	39,328	46,970
Sales and Excise Tax Payable, Current	'	12,683	11,386
Advertising	'	9,947	17,706
Insurance	'	35,349	35,209
Liabilities of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Noncurrent	'	9,639	12,737
Other	'	18,491	20,493
Accrued liabilities	'	135,772	153,886
Pension plans	'	102,504	105,968
Other	'	173,075	180,156
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent	'	275,579	286,124
Deferred Rent Credit, Current	$10,335	'	$9,385

Subsequent_Events_Details

Subsequent Events (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended			21 Months Ended	24 Months Ended
	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013	Sep. 28, 2014	Apr. 13, 2014	Apr. 14, 2013	Nov. 15, 2015	Nov. 15, 2014	Apr. 14, 2014	Aug. 31, 2010
								agreements	agreements
Subsequent Event [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Number of Interest Rate Derivatives Held	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	9	2
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses	$7,374,000	$2,033,000	'	$7,842,000	$2,866,000	'	'	'	'
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount	'	'	'	'	'	200,000,000	100,000,000	'	'
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared	'	'	$0.20	'	'	'	'	'	'
Interest Rate Swaps [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Subsequent Event [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Derivative, Notional Amount	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	300,000,000	100,000,000