Firebirds Wood Fired GrillFirebirds Wood Fired Grill

Vanessa Van Landingham

HEADQUARTERS: Charlotte, N.C.
MARKET SEGMENT: upscale casual
MENU: fire-grilled steaks and fish, as well as burgers, salads, pasta
NO. OF UNITS: 20
SYSTEMWIDE SALES: $66 million in 2011
AVERAGE CHECK: $23.50
METHOD OF GROWTH: capital from private-equity firm Angelo, Gordon & Co.
LEADERSHIP: chief executive Mark Eason, executive chef Steven Sturm, chief financial officer Cheryl Hogan
YEAR FOUNDED: 2000
TARGET MARKETS: New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C.
WEBSITE: www.firebirdsrestaurants.com

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, a 20-unit Colorado-themed chain, has found its niche by catering to diners who want a sophisticated culinary experience without the price tag to match, said chief executive Mark Eason.


The C...