As the domestic unemployment rate continues to rise, hitting 8.9 percent in April, quick-service chains that have so far battled successfully against the recession may find their good fortunes are running out.

Morton’s Restaurant Group Inc., owner and operator of 81 namesake steakhouses, posted Wednesday a first-quarter net loss as sales fell by double digits, which the company said was a result of the “continuing global recession.”

After steadily rising for the past four years, the average chef’s salary has taken a recession-driven hit, according to a recent report from StarChefs.com.

McDonald’s Corp. reported Wednesday a 4-percent jump in first-quarter profit on the strength of its breakfast sales, chicken offerings and new beverage initiative that focuses on specialty coffees and espressos. The parent to the No. 1 burger chain said it would continue to focus on value and convenience — two attributes that have helped it thrive during this recession.

Weakened credit profiles and the sustained U.S. recession continue to make access to capital difficult and more expensive for restaurant companies, a new report from Fitch Ratings said.

More: continued here

The Colorado Restaurant Association has launched a statewide public awareness campaign to encourage dining in restaurants.

More: continued here

The Colorado Restaurant Association has launched a statewide public awareness campaign to encourage dining in restaurants.

More: continued here

The recent rally in restaurant stocks and a trickle of more upbeat economic data have some observers thinking the industry has already suffered the worst of this recession’s hits.

More: continued here

Even as the recession continues to force restaurant operators to close units, cut jobs and reduce salaries, there are signs that the shedding is slowing, according to a survey released Thursday.

More: continued here