If you're getting fed up with all of the casual dining chains posting soft comps, take heart in Benihana
For those keeping score at home, just closing out with positive gains at the store level has been challenging. Denny's
So what's the secret to Benihana's success? The company has been renovating many of its locations and expanding its sushi offerings, but it probably boils down to the unique nature of the eateries, where knife-wielding chefs prepare meals with lightning-quick precision.
Even though Kona Grill
Investors don't seem to mind standing out in a crowd. The stock has nearly tripled over the past four years. If Benihana's comps keep growing -- and profits go along for the ride -- the stock may continue to be hotter than a communal hibachi grill.
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Longtime Fool contributor Rick Munarriz lives near a Benihana and its Samurai sister concept. He's usually the one ordering the double order of fried rice. He does not own shares in any of the companies in this story. He is also part of the Rule Breakers newsletter research team, seeking out tomorrow's ultimate growth stocks a day early. The Fool has a disclosure policy.