AUBURN – LongHorn Steakhouse is staking new ground at the corner of Turner Street and Mount Auburn Avenue.
Construction on the national chain’s newest Maine location begins this fall, with a projected opening in February. The Western-style restaurant has franchises in Augusta and South Portland.
The 5,600-square-foot restaurant will share space on a seven-lot parcel owned by Auburn Plaza Inc.’s George Schott. Ruby Tuesday already announced it is also planning a restaurant in that parcel; work is set to begin on it in September.
Plans for LongHorn show a one-story building with seating for 46 in the bar area and 142 in the dining section. The Planning Board has already approved its application.
The restaurant specializes in steaks and other Southwestern fare. Many of its dishes are prepared with chipotle, ranch and barbecue flavors.
The chain, owned by RARE Hospitality International Inc. of Atlanta, has grown significantly over the past several years. According to its shareholder’s letter, LongHorn has seen 11 consecutive years of increased sales in its restaurants. In 2004, it recorded 18.7 percent growth in revenues and opened 24 restaurants, bringing the total to 210. It expects to open 26 to 27 restaurants in 2005.
It is the strongest of the three franchises owned by RARE Hospitality, which includes LongHorn, Bugaboo Creek Steak House and The Capital Grille.
The restaurant is expected to employ 25 people.
Comments are no longer available on this story