The Habit Burger Grill Appoints New President and CEO

By FES Staff -- Foodservice Equipment & Supplies, 6/3/2008 11:19:00 AM

The Habit Burger Grill, a 20-unit, Santa Barbara, Calif.-based quick-casual restaurant concept hired Russ Bendel as president and chief executive officer. Bendel resigned as president and COO of The Cheesecake Factory last week after nine months on the job, following a resignation in August 2007 as CEO of Mimi’s Café.

Brent Richard, the founder and CEO of Habit will step down as CEO but remain active in the company’s growth as chairman. Dave Nordahl, the current president, will also stay actively involved in future plans as a board member.

The chain plans to open 100 to 120 units during the next five to seven years in California, Arizona and Nevada, and has been in business for more than 35 years.