Accounting Policies [Abstract]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table]
Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis]
Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis]
Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain]
Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain]
Adjustments
Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 [Member]
Balances without adoption of Topic 606
Calculated under Revenue Guidance in Effect before Topic 606 [Member]
Product and Service [Axis]
Product and Service [Axis]
Product and Service [Domain]
Product and Service [Domain]
Franchise revenue
Franchise [Member]
Franchise advertising fee revenue
Franchise Advertising Fee [Member]
Franchise Advertising Fee [Member]
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis]
Type of Adoption [Domain]
Type of Adoption [Domain]
Accounting Standards Update 2014-09
Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 [Member]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Revenue
Revenues [Abstract]
Company-operated restaurant revenue
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax
Cost of operations
Cost of Goods and Services Sold [Abstract]
Franchise expenses
Franchisor Costs
Total expenses
Costs and Expenses
Loss from operations
Operating Income (Loss)
Net (loss) income
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Chicken Acquisition Corp
Chicken Acquisition Corp [Member]
Chicken Acquisition Corp [Member]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility [Axis]
Credit Facility
Credit Facility [Domain]
Revolving Credit Facility
Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
2018 Credit Agreement
Credit Agreement Two Thousand Eighteen [Member]
Credit Agreement Two Thousand Eighteen [Member]
Franchisor Disclosure
Franchisor Disclosure [Axis]
Franchisor Disclosure
Franchisor Disclosure [Domain]
Company-operated
Entity Operated Units [Member]
Franchised
Franchised Units [Member]
Geographical [Axis]
Geographical [Axis]
Geographical [Domain]
Geographical [Domain]
The Greater Los Angeles Area
Los Angeles [Member]
Information pertaining to Los Angeles.
Philippines
PHILIPPINES
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Number of restaurants
Number of Restaurants
Ownership interest
Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage
Senior secured revolving facility
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Senior secured revolving facility term
Debt Instrument, Term
Maximum annual repurchase or redemption of qualified entity interests
Debt Instrument, Restrictive Covenants, Maximum Annual Repurchase or Redemption of Qualified Entity Interests
Debt Instrument, Restrictive Covenants, Maximum Annual Repurchase or Redemption of Qualified Entity Interests
Restrictive covenants, maximum annual repurchase, redemption or acquired equity interests, up to
Debt Instrument, Restrictive Covenants, Maximum Annual Redemption, Repurchase, Acquired Equity Interests
Debt Instrument, Restrictive Covenants, Maximum Annual Redemption, Repurchase, Acquired Equity Interests
Maximum annual payment for stock option plans, employment agreements and incentive plans
Debt Instrument, Restrictive Covenants, Maximum Annual Payment For Stock Option Plans, Employment Agreements and Incentive Plans
Debt Instrument, Restrictive Covenants, Maximum Annual Payment For Stock Option Plans, Employment Agreements and Incentive Plans
Maximum annual payment for other restricted payments
Debt Instrument, Restrictive Covenants, Maximum Annual Payment For Other Restricted Payments
Debt Instrument, Restrictive Covenants, Maximum Annual Payment For Other Restricted Payments
Maximum leverage ratio
Debt Instrument, Covenant Description, Maximum Leverage Ratio
Debt Instrument, Covenant Description, Maximum Leverage Ratio
Number of operating segments
Number of Operating Segments
Authorized amount under share repurchase agreement
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount
Number of shares repurchased (shares)
Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired
Value of shares repurchased
Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method
Postemployment Benefits [Abstract]
Defined Contribution Plan [Table]
Defined Contribution Plan [Table]
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution [Axis]
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution [Axis]
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution [Domain]
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution [Domain]
[Domain] for Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution [Axis]
First 3% of Annual Qualified Compensation
Scenario1 [Member]
Scenario 1.
Next 2 % of Annual Qualified Compensation
Scenario2 [Member]
Scenario 2.
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined Contribution Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Qualified compensation of employees that may be contributed, maximum
Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Annual Contributions Per Employee, Percent
Employer's matching contribution
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Match
Percentage of employees' annual qualified compensation matched
Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Matching Contribution, Percent of Employees' Gross Pay
Benefit contribution
Defined Contribution Plan, Cost
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type
Document Type
Amendment Flag
Amendment Flag
Document Period End Date
Document Period End Date
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Trading Symbol
Trading Symbol
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Central Index Key
Entity Central Index Key
Entity Central Index Key
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Filer Category
Entity Filer Category
Emerging Growth Company
Entity Emerging Growth Company
Small Business Entity
Entity Small Business
Shell Company
Entity Shell Company
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Public Float
Entity Public Float
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue from Contracts with Customers
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block]
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Other Commitments [Table]
Other Commitments [Table]
Litigation Case [Axis]
Litigation Case [Axis]
Litigation Case [Domain]
Litigation Case [Domain]
Elliott Olvera, et al v. El Pollo Loco, Inc., et al
Elliott Olvera, et al v. El Pollo Loco, Inc., et al [Member]
Elliott Olvera, et al v. El Pollo Loco, Inc., et al [Member]
Daniel Turocy, et al. and Ron Huston et al v. El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc., et al
Daniel Turocy, et al. and Ron Huston et al v. El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc., et al [Member]
Daniel Turocy, et al. and Ron Huston et al v. El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc., et al [Member]
Janice P. Handlers-Bryman and Michael D. Bryman v. El Pollo Loco, Inc
Janice P. Handlers-Bryman and Michael D. Bryman v. El Pollo Loco, Inc [Member]
Janice P. Handlers-Bryman and Michael D. Bryman v. El Pollo Loco, Inc [Member]
Loss Contingency Nature [Axis]
Loss Contingency Nature [Axis]
Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain]
Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain]
Impact Damages
Impact Damages [Member]
Impact Damages [Member]
Lost Opportunity Damages
Lost Opportunity Damages [Member]
Lost Opportunity Damages [Member]
Total Damages
Total Damages [Member]
Total Damages [Member]
Range
Range [Axis]
Range
Range [Domain]
Minimum
Minimum [Member]
Category of Item Purchased
Category of Item Purchased [Axis]
Long-term Purchase Commitment, Category of Item Purchased
Long-term Purchase Commitment, Category of Item Purchased [Domain]
Chicken Acquisition Corp
Chicken [Member]
Chicken.
Guarantor Obligations, Nature
Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Axis]
Guarantor Obligations, Nature
Guarantor Obligations, Nature [Domain]
Property Lease Guarantee
Property Lease Guarantee [Member]
Title of Individual
Title of Individual [Axis]
Relationship to Entity
Relationship to Entity [Domain]
Officers
Officer [Member]
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Other Commitments [Line Items]
Accrual associated with loss contingencies
Loss Contingency Accrual
Number of lawsuits consolidated
Number Of Lawsuits
Number of lawsuits.
Value of damages awarded
Loss Contingency, Damages Awarded, Value
Payments made to plaintiff's attorneys
Professional Fees
Purchase commitments, estimated obligations
Purchase Obligation
Number of leases assigned to franchisees
Number Of Leases
Number of leases.
Contingent lease obligations, maximum exposure
Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted
Contingent lease obligations, maximum exposure, if discounted at estimated pre-tax cost of debt
Guarantee Obligations Maximum Net Exposure
Guarantee obligations maximum net exposure.
Number of at-will employment agreements
Number Of Employment Agreements
Number of employment agreements.
Leases [Abstract]
Future Lease Payments Due [Table]
Future Lease Payments Due [Table]
Future Lease Payments Due [Table]
Maximum
Maximum [Member]
Future Lease Payments Due [Line Items]
Future Lease Payments Due [Line Items]
Future Lease Payments Due [Line Items]
Capital Leases, Minimum Lease Payments
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
December 25, 2019
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
December 30, 2020
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years
December 29, 2021
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years
December 28, 2022
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years
December 28, 2023
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years
Thereafter
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter
Total
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Less: imputed interest (11.0% to 11.1%)
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments
Imputed interest rate
Capital Leases of Lessee, Contingent Rentals, Basis Spread on Variable Rate
Present value of capital lease obligations
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments
Less: current maturities
Capital Lease Obligations, Current
Noncurrent portion
Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent
Operating Leases, Minimum Lease Payments
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
December 25, 2019
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
December 30, 2020
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years
December 29, 2021
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years
December 28, 2022
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years
December 28, 2023
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years
Thereafter
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter
Total
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Operating Leases, Minimum Sublease Income
Operating Leases, Income Statement, Lease Revenue [Abstract]
December 25, 2019
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Next Twelve Months
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Next Twelve Months
December 30, 2020
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, within Two Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, within Two Years
December 29, 2021
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, within Three Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, within Three Years
December 28, 2022
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, within Four Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, within Four Years
December 28, 2023
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, within Five Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, within Five Years
Thereafter
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Thereafter
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Thereafter
Total
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Future Minimum Sublease Rentals
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable [Abstract]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable [Abstract]
December 25, 2019
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Current
December 30, 2020
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Two Years
December 29, 2021
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Three Years
December 28, 2022
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Four Years
December 28, 2023
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Five Years
Thereafter
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Thereafter
Total future minimum rental income
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]
Deferred rent
Deferred Rent Credit, Noncurrent
Deferred franchise and development fees
Deferred Franchise And Development Fees
Deferred Franchise And Development Fees
Other
Other Sundry Liabilities, Noncurrent
Total noncurrent liabilities
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Award Type
Award Type [Axis]
Equity Award
Equity Award [Domain]
Premium Options
Premium Options [Member]
Premium options.
Performance Based Stock Options
Performance Based Stock Options [Member]
Performance based stock options.
Time Based Stock Options
Time Based Stock Options [Member]
Time based stock options.
Stock Options
Employee Stock Option [Member]
Restricted Shares
Restricted Stock [Member]
Performance Shares
Performance Shares [Member]
Exercise Price Range
Exercise Price Range [Axis]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain]
Exercise price equal to the fair market value of the common stock on the date of grant
Exercise Price Two [Member]
Exercise Price Two [Member]
Directors
Director [Member]
Employees
Employees [Member]
Employees.
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Common stock, options outstanding (shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number
Common stock, options vested (shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested, Number of Shares
Common stock, options unvested (shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares
Options to purchase common stock granted (shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross
Option vesting period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Granted
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Granted
Stock-based compensation expense
Share-based Compensation
Options expiration period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period
Aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value
Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercisable
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value
Intrinsic value of options exercised
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value
Authorized number of common stock for issuance (shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized
Number of share available for grant (shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant
Expected dividend yield
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate
Weighted average grant date fair value (usd per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Expected volatility
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate
Expected life
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term
Risk-free interest rates, minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Minimum
Risk-free interest rates, maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Maximum
Expected volatility, minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Minimum
Stock-based compensation expense
Stock or Unit Option Plan Expense
Accelerated vesting of awards (shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Accelerated Vesting, Number
Incremental expense from plan modification
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Plan Modification, Incremental Compensation Cost
Unrecognized compensation expense
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized
Unrecognized compensation expense, recognition period
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition
Granted (shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period
Unrecognized compensation expense
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not yet Recognized, Stock Options
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility
Short-term Debt, Type
Short-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Short-term Debt, Type
Short-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Letter of Credit
Letter of Credit [Member]
Swing Line Loans
Swing Line Loans [Member]
Swing line loans.
2014 Credit Agreement
Credit Agreement Two Thousand Fourteen [Member]
Credit agreement two thousand fourteen.
Variable Rate
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate
Variable Rate [Domain]
Federal Funds Rate
Federal Funds Effective Swap Rate [Member]
LIBOR
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Base Rate
Base Rate [Member]
Sub limit of revolving facility
Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity
Debt instrument basis percentage
Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate
Debt instrument, interest rate
Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate During Period
Letters of credit outstanding
Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount
Revolving line of credit
Long-term Line of Credit, Noncurrent
Amount of borrowings available
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity
Principal payments prior to maturity
Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment, Principal
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule Of Quarterly Financial Information [Table]
Schedule Of Quarterly Financial Information [Table]
Schedule Of Quarterly Financial Information [Table]
System-wide
System Wide [Member]
System Wide [Member]
Schedule Of Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
Schedule Of Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
Schedule Of Quarterly Financial Information [Line Items]
Selected Financial Data
Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]
Total revenue
(Loss) income from operations
Provision (benefit) for income taxes ($)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Net (loss) income per share:
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Basic (usd per share)
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Diluted (usd per share)
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Weighted average shares used in computing net (loss) income per share:
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, Other Disclosures [Abstract]
Basic (shares)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Diluted (shares)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Selected Operating Data
Operating Data [Abstract]
Operating data.
Number of restaurants (at period end)
Average unit volume (AUV) (usd per restaurant)
Average Unit Volume Of Sales
Average unit volume of sales.
Comparable restaurant sales growth (%)
Comparable Restaurant Sales Growth [Abstract]
Comparable restaurant sales growth.
Comparable restaurant sales growth (%)
Sales Growth Percentage Increase Decrease
Sales growth percentage increase decrease.
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Assets
Assets [Abstract]
Current assets:
Assets, Current [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Accounts and other receivables, net
Receivables, Net, Current
Inventories
Inventory, Net
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current
Total current assets
Assets, Current
Property and equipment owned, net
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Property held under capital lease, net
Capital Leases, Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Net
Goodwill
Goodwill
Trademarks, net
Indefinite-Lived Trademarks
Other intangible assets, net
Other Intangible Assets, Net
Deferred tax assets
Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net
Other assets
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Total assets
Assets
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Current liabilities:
Liabilities, Current [Abstract]
Current portion of obligations under capital leases
Accounts payable
Accounts Payable, Current
Accrued salaries and vacation
Employee-related Liabilities, Current
Accrued insurance
Accrued Insurance, Current
Accrued income taxes payable
Accrued Income Taxes, Current
Accrued interest
Interest Payable, Current
Current portion of income tax receivable agreement payable
Payable Under Tax Receivable Agreement Current
Payable under tax receivable agreement current.
Other accrued expenses and current liabilities
Other Liabilities, Current
Total current liabilities
Liabilities, Current
Revolver loan
Line of Credit, Current
Obligations under capital leases, net of current portion
Other intangible liabilities, net
Intangible Liabilities Noncurrent
Intangible liabilities noncurrent.
Income tax receivable agreement payable, net of current portion
Payable Under Tax Receivable Agreement Noncurrent
Payable under tax receivable agreement noncurrent.
Other noncurrent liabilities
Total liabilities
Liabilities
Commitments and contingencies (Note 13)
Commitments and Contingencies
Stockholders’ Equity
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value—100,000,000 shares authorized; none issued or outstanding
Preferred Stock, Value, Issued
Common stock, $0.01 par value—200,000,000 shares authorized; 39,009,451 and 38,661,850 shares issued and outstanding
Common Stock, Value, Issued
Additional paid-in capital
Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock
Accumulated deficit
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Total stockholders’ equity
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
Liabilities and Equity
Preferred stock, par value (usd per share)
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Preferred stock, shares authorized (shares)
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized
Preferred stock, shares issued (shares)
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (shares)
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding
Common stock, par value (usd per share)
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Common stock, shares authorized (shares)
Common Stock, Shares Authorized
Common stock, shares issued (shares)
Common Stock, Shares, Issued
Common stock, shares outstanding (shares)
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Measurement Frequency [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain]
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring
Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring [Member]
Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis]
Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis]
Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain]
Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain]
Level 1
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Level 2
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Level 3
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Impairment Losses
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Table]
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Table]
Range
Range
Performance Obligation Type [Axis]
Performance Obligation Type [Axis]
Performance Obligation Type [Axis]
Performance Obligation Type [Domain]
Performance Obligation Type [Domain]
[Domain] for Performance Obligation Type [Axis]
Hardware Services
Hardware Services [Member]
Hardware Services [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Franchise license
Franchise Rights [Member]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Accumulated Deficit
Retained Earnings [Member]
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items]
Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of adjustment resulted in an increase in accumulated deficit
Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption
Number of revenue streams
Number Of Revenue Streams
Number Of Revenue Streams
Revenue allocated to loyalty points not redeemed
Accrued Loyalty Rewards Program Liability, Current
Accrued Loyalty Rewards Program Liability, Current
Loyalty rewards program, expected loyalty points redemption period
Loyalty Rewards Program, Expected Loyalty Points Redemption Period
Loyalty Rewards Program, Expected Loyalty Points Redemption Period
Franchise agreement term
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life
Franchise agreement renewal term
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Renewal Period
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Renewal Period
Performance obligations expected to be satisfied, renewal term
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Period
Unsatisfied performance obligations
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount
Total assets
Total current liabilities
Total liabilities
Total stockholders' equity
Total liabilities and stockholder’s equity
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Domestic Trademarks
Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Estimated Net Amortization
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, by Major Property Class [Table]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, by Major Property Class [Table]
Franchise, Rental Income
Franchise, Rental Income [Member]
Franchise, Rental Income [Member]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Initial term of lease
Lessee, Operating Lease, Term of Contract
Sublease income, contingent rental income
Operating Leases, Income Statement, Contingent Revenue
Lessor, term of contract
Lessor, Operating Lease, Term of Contract
Summary of Estimated Useful Service Lives
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]
Intangible Assets and Liabilities Remaining Useful Lives
Finite-lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Summary of Non-Financial Instruments Measured at Fair Value on Nonrecurring Basis
Fair Value Measurements, Nonrecurring [Table Text Block]
Impact of New Accounting Pronouncements
Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Trademarks
Trademarks [Member]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Cost
Intangible Assets, Gross (Excluding Goodwill)
Accumulated impairment charges
Accumulated Impairment Losses Intangible Assets
Accumulated Impairment Losses Intangible Assets
Trademarks, net
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)
Schedule of Costs and Related Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization of Major Classes of Property
Change in Contract with Customer, Liability [Roll Forward]
Change in Contract with Customer, Liability [Roll Forward]
Change in Contract with Customer, Liability [Roll Forward]
December 28, 2017
Contract with Customer, Liability
Revenue recognized - beginning balance
Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized
Additional contract liability
Contract with Customer, Liability, New Contract Additions
Contract with Customer, Liability, New Contract Additions
Revenue recognized - additional contract liability
Contract with Customer, Liability, New Contract Additions, Revenue Recognized
Contract with Customer, Liability, New Contract Additions, Revenue Recognized
September 26, 2018
Depreciation expense
Depreciation
Long-lived assets, non-cash impairment charges
Asset Impairment Charges
Schedule of Capital Leases
Schedule of Capital Leased Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Operating Leases
Lessee, Operating Lease, Disclosure [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Net Rent Expense
Schedule of Rent Expense [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Minimum Future Rental Income
Schedule of Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Table Text Block]
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Federal Income Tax Note [Table]
Federal Income Tax Note [Table]
California
CALIFORNIA
Tax Credit Carryforward
Tax Credit Carryforward [Axis]
Tax Credit Carryforward, Name
Tax Credit Carryforward, Name [Domain]
Enterprise Zone
Enterprise Zone [Member]
Enterprise zone.
WOTC
Work Opportunity Tax Credits [Member]
Work opportunity tax credits.
Income Tax Authority
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
Federal
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
State and Local Jurisdiction
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Investments, Owned, Federal Income Tax Note [Line Items]
Investments, Owned, Federal Income Tax Note [Line Items]
Change in tax rate, decrease in deferred tax asset
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Deferred Tax Asset, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Deferred Tax Asset, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Change in tax rate, decrease in deferred tax liability
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Deferred Tax Liability, Provisional Income Tax (Expense) Benefit
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Deferred Tax Liability, Provisional Income Tax (Expense) Benefit
Net benefit to deferred income tax expense
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Net Deferred Tax Asset (Liability), Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change In Tax Rate, Net Deferred Tax Asset (Liability), Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Valuation allowance
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance
Increase in valuation allowance
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount
Percentage of cash savings in taxes realized as a result of utilizing net operating losses payable to pre-IPO stockholders
Percentage Of Operating Loss Carryforwards Tax Savings Payable To Pre Initial Public Offering Stockholders
Percentage of operating loss carry forwards tax savings payable to pre initial public offering stockholders.
TRA tax expense (benefit)
Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Tax Receivable Agreement
Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Tax Receivable Agreement
Payments to pre-IPO stockholders under TRA
Payment Related To Tax Receivable Agreement
Payment related to tax receivable agreement.
Deferred tax asset credit
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards
Net operating loss carryforwards
Operating Loss Carryforwards
Tax credits carry forward
Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount
Alternative minimum tax credits
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Alternative Minimum Tax
Unrecognized tax benefits
Unrecognized Tax Benefits
Unrecognized tax benefits interest accrued
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued
Unrecognized tax benefits penalties accrued
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties Accrued
Shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward]
Unvested shares, beginning balance (shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number
Released (shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period
Forfeited, cancelled, or expired (shares)
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Forfeited And Expirations In Period
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Forfeited And Expirations In Period
Unvested shares, ending balance (shares)
Weighted-Average Fair Value
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract]
Unvested shares Weighted-Average Fair Value, beginning balance (usd per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Granted, Weighted-Average Fair Value (usd per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Released, Weighted-Average Fair Value (usd per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Forfeited, cancelled, or expired, Weighted-Average Fair Value (usd per share)
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Forfeitures And Expired Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Forfeitures And Expired Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Unvested shares Weighted-Average Fair Value, ending balance (usd per share)
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information
Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]
Trademarks, Other Intangible Assets and Liabilities
Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]
Shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Outstanding-beginning balance (shares)
Grants (shares)
Exercised (shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period
Forfeited, cancelled or expired (shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period
Outstanding-ending balance (shares)
Vested and expected to vest at end of period (shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number
Exercisable at end of period (shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract]
Outstanding-beginning balance (usd per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Grants (usd per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Exercised (usd per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Forfeited, cancelled or expired (usd per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding-ending balance (usd per share)
Vested and expected to vest at end of period (usd per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Exercisable at end of period (usd per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Weighted-average shares outstanding—Basic (shares)
Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted shares (shares)
Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements
Weighted-average shares outstanding—Diluted (shares)
Schedule of Other Noncurrent Liabilities
Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, decrease in deferred tax liability
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change in Tax Rate, Deferred Tax Liability, Provisional Income Tax Benefit
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change in Tax Rate, Deferred Tax Liability, Provisional Income Tax Benefit
TRA tax benefit
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change in Tax Rate, Tax Receivable Agreement Expense (Benefit)
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Change in Tax Rate, Tax Receivable Agreement Expense (Benefit)
Anti-dilutive securities not considered in diluted EPS calculation (shares)
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount
Legal settlements
Litigation Settlement, Expense
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table]
$ 4.09
Exercise Price Range One [Member]
Exercise Price Range One [Member]
$5.84
Exercise Price Range Two [Member]
Exercise Price Range Two [Member]
$9.65 - $13.95
Exercise Price Range Three [Member]
Exercise Price Range Three [Member]
$15.00
Exercise Price Range Four [Member]
Exercise Price Range Four [Member]
$4.09 - $15.00
Exercise Price Range Five [Member]
Exercise Price Range Five [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Range of exercise prices (usd per share)
Share Based Compensation Shares Authorized Under Stock Option Plans Options Exercise Price
Share-based compensation, shares authorized under stock option plans, options exercise price.
Range of exercise prices, minimum (usd per share)
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit
Range of exercise prices, maximum (usd per share)
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit
Number Outstanding (shares)
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Outstanding Options
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Weighted-Average Exercise Price (usd per share)
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Number Exercisable (shares)
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Exercisable Options
Weighted-Average Exercise Price (usd per share)
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Favorable Leasehold Interest
Off-Market Favorable Lease [Member]
Unfavorable Leasehold Interest Liability
Above Market Leases [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Amortization expense
Amortization
Intangible asset subject to amortization, weighted average amortization period
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Remaining Amortization Period
Leases
Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block]
Current income taxes:
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Federal
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit)
State
Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total current
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred income taxes:
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Federal
Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
State
Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total deferred
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Net of Revaluation
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Net of Revaluation
Charge in lieu of tax (attributable to stock options)
Income Tax Effects Allocated Directly to Equity, Employee Stock Options
Adjustment to deferred taxes for tax rate change
Tax provision for income taxes
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Buildings
Building [Member]
Land improvements
Land Improvements [Member]
Building improvements
Building Improvements [Member]
Restaurant equipment
Restaurant Equipment [Member]
Restaurant equipment.
Other equipment
Other Equipment [Member]
Other equipment.
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful service lives
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life
Schedule of Other Accrued Expenses and Current Liabilities
Other Current Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited)
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]
Description of Business
Nature of Operations [Text Block]
Land
Land [Member]
Buildings and improvements
Building and Building Improvements [Member]
Other property and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Other Types [Member]
Construction in progress
Construction in Progress [Member]
Property and equipment, gross
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Property and equipment, net
Statutory federal income tax rate applied to earnings before income taxes and extraordinary items
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent
TRA expense
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Exempt Income, Percent
Revaluation of deferred taxes
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Percent
Change in valuation allowance
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Percent
WOTC Credit
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deductions, Working Opportunity Tax Credit
Effective income tax rate reconciliation deductions working opportunity tax credit.
State tax benefit (net of federal benefit)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Percent
Stock option exercises
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Share-Based Compensation, Option Exercises
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Share-Based Compensation, Option Exercises
Other
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation,Other Reconciling Items, Percent
Total
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent
Unfavorable leasehold interest liability
Favorable leasehold interest
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross
Less: accumulated amortization
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization
Total favorable leasehold interest, net
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net
Unfavorable leasehold interest liability
Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Gross
Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Gross
Less: accumulated amortization
Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Accumulated Amortization
Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Accumulated Amortization
Unfavorable leasehold interest liability, net
Off-market Lease, Unfavorable
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table]
Company-operated restaurant revenue
Service [Member]
Core and Non-core Status [Axis]
Core and Non-core Status [Axis]
Core and Non-core Status [Domain]
Core and Non-core Status [Domain]
Core Market
Core [Member]
Non-Core Market
Non-core [Member]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Income Taxes
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table]
Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table]
Related Party
Related Party [Axis]
Related Party
Related Party [Domain]
Trimaran Pollo Partners, LLC
Trimaran Pollo Partners L L C [Member]
Information pertaining to Trimaran Pollo Partners, LLC.
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Company's outstanding common stock owned by Trimaran Pollo Partners, L.L.C.
Outstanding membership interest, percentage
Percentage Of Membership Interests
Percentage of membership interests.
Ownership percentage by stockholders
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners
Liquidity
Liquidity Policy [Policy Text Block]
Liquidity Policy [Policy Text Block]
Basis of Presentation
Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Principles of Consolidation
Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Use of Estimates
Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Restricted Cash
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Concentration of Risk
Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Accounts and Other Receivables, Net
Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Inventories
Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Property and Equipment Owned, Net
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Other Intangibles, Net-Definite Lived
Intangible Assets, Finite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Deferred Financing Costs
Deferred Charges, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Insurance Reserves
Insurance Reserve Policy [Policy Text Block]
Insurance reserve.
Restaurant and Franchise Revenue
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Policy Text Block]
Advertising Costs
Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Preopening Costs
Start-up Activities, Cost Policy [Policy Text Block]
Operating Leases
Revenue Recognition Leases, Operating [Policy Text Block]
Income Taxes
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Stock Based Compensation
Compensation Related Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Earnings per Share
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Base rent
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Minimum Rentals
Contingent rent
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Contingent Rentals
Less: sublease income
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Sublease Rentals
Net rent expense
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net
Income Statement [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Company-operated restaurant revenue
Company-Operated Restaurant Revenue [Member]
Company-Operated Restaurant Revenue [Member]
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
Food and paper costs
Cost, Direct Material
Labor and related expenses
Cost, Direct Labor
Occupancy and other operating expenses
Other Cost and Expense, Operating
Gain on recovery of insurance proceeds, lost profits
Gain On Business Interruption Insurance Recovery Lost Profit
Gain on business interruption insurance recovery lost profit.
Company restaurant expenses
Company Restaurant Expenses
Generally recurring costs associated with normal operations including cost of services.
General and administrative expenses
General and Administrative Expense
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization
Loss on disposal of assets
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets
Expenses related to fire loss
General Insurance Expense
Gain on recovery of insurance proceeds, property, equipment and expenses
Gain On Business Interruption Insurance Recovery Property Equipment And Expenses
Gain on business interruption insurance recovery property equipment and expenses.
Recovery of securities lawsuits related legal expenses
Recovery of Securities Class Action Legal Costs
Recovery of Securities Class Action Legal Costs
Asset impairment and closed-store reserves
Restructuring Costs and Asset Impairment Charges
Total expenses
Gain on disposition of restaurants
Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Business
(Loss) income from operations
Interest expense—net of interest income of $12, $25, and $28 for the years ended December 26, 2018, December 27, 2017, and December 28, 2016, respectively
Interest Income (Expense), Net
Income tax receivable agreement (income) expense
Tax Receivable Agreement (Income) Expenses
Tax receivable agreement (income) expenses.
(Benefit) provision for income taxes
Net (loss) income
Net (loss) income per share:
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Table]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Table]
Franchise Contract
Franchise Contract [Member]
Franchise Contract [Member]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Operating Cash Flows, Direct Method [Abstract]
Cash flows from operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Adjustments to reconcile changes in net (loss) income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Depreciation and amortization
Stock-based compensation expense
Impairment of property and equipment
Closed-store reserves
Restructuring Costs
Amortization of deferred financing costs
Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs
Amortization of favorable and unfavorable leases, net
Amortization of above and below Market Leases
Excess income tax benefit related to share-based compensation plans
Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities
Deferred income taxes, net
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Other
Other Noncash Income (Expense)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract]
Accounts and other receivables, net
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Other Receivables
Inventories
Increase (Decrease) in Inventories
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets
Income taxes receivable/payable
Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes
Other assets
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets
Accounts payable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable
Accrued salaries and vacation
Increase (Decrease) in Employee Related Liabilities
Accrued insurance
Increase (Decrease) in Insurance Liabilities
Payment related to tax receivable agreement
Other accrued expenses and liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Other Accrued Liabilities
Restricted cash
Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash
Net cash provided by operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
Cash flows from investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Proceeds from disposition of restaurant
Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses
Proceeds from fire insurance for property and equipment
Fire Insurance Proceeds For Property And Equipment
Fire insurance proceeds for property and equipment.
Purchase of property and equipment
Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment
Net cash flows used in investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
Cash flows from financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract]
Proceeds from borrowings on revolver and term loans
Proceeds from Secured Lines of Credit
Payments on revolver loan
Repayments of Lines of Credit
Minimum tax withholdings related to net share settlements
Payments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation
Proceeds from issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options, net of expenses
Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock
Payment of obligations under capital leases
Repayments of Long-term Capital Lease Obligations
Deferred financing costs for revolver loan
Payments of Financing Costs
Excess income tax benefit related to share-based compensation plans
Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities
Repurchases of common stock
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock
Net cash flows used in financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year
Supplemental cash flow information
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Cash paid for interest, net of capitalized interest
Interest Paid, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities
Cash paid during the year for income taxes, net
Income Taxes Paid, Net
Non-cash investing and financing activity
Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Unpaid purchases of property and equipment
Capital Expenditures Incurred but Not yet Paid
Borrowing on revolver for financing fees
Debt Issuance Costs Incurred During Noncash or Partial Noncash Transaction
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
Deferred assets:
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance [Abstract]
Capital leases
Deferred Tax Assets, Deferred Gain on Sale Leaseback Transaction
Accrued vacation
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Compensated Absences
Accrued legal
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Legal Settlements
Deferred rent
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Deferred Rent
Accrued workers’ compensation
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Compensation
Enterprise zone and other credits
Net operating losses
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards
Fixed assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Property, Plant and Equipment
Other
Deferred Tax Assets, Other
Total deferred tax assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross
Valuation allowance
Net deferred tax assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance
Deferred liabilities:
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross [Abstract]
Goodwill
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Goodwill
Trademark
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Intangible Assets
Prepaid expense
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Prepaid Expenses
Fixed asset
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment
Other
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other
Deferred tax liabilities
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross
Net deferred tax asset
Deferred Tax Assets, Net
Current Credit Agreements
Debt Disclosure [Text Block]
Disaggregation of Revenue
Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Change in Franchise Contract Liability Balances
Contract with Customer, Asset and Liability [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Estimated Revenue to be Recognized Related to Performance Obligations
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Table Text Block]
Other Noncurrent Liabilities
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block]
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Common Stock
Common Stock [Member]
Additional Paid-in Capital
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance (shares)
Shares, Outstanding
Beginning balance
Cumulative effect of accounting change (see Note 2)
Stock based compensation
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition
Issuance of common stock related to restricted shares, net (shares)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Gross
Issuance of common stock related to restricted shares, net
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Gross
Issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options (shares)
Issuance of common stock upon exercise of stock options
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Stock Options Exercised
Excess income tax benefit related to share-based compensation plans
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation
Shares repurchased for employee tax withholdings
Shares Paid for Tax Withholding for Share Based Compensation
Shares repurchased for employee tax withholdings (shares)
Adjustments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation
Repurchase of common stock (shares)
Repurchase of common stock
Net income
Ending balance (shares)
Ending balance
Other Accrued Expenses and Current Liabilities
Accounts Payable, Accrued Liabilities, and Other Liabilities Disclosure, Current [Text Block]
Concentration Risk Benchmark
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis]
Concentration Risk Benchmark
Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain]
Revenue
Sales Revenue, Net [Member]
Concentration Risk Type
Concentration Risk Type [Axis]
Concentration Risk Type
Concentration Risk Type [Domain]
Geographic Concentration Risk
Geographic Concentration Risk [Member]
Greater Los Angeles area market
Other markets
Other than Los Angeles [Member]
Other than Los Angeles [Member]
Percentage of concentration
Concentration Risk, Percentage
Basis Of Presentation And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Table]
Basis Of Presentation And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Table]
Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies table.
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event
Subsequent Event [Member]
Retained Earnings
First Lien Credit Agreement
First Lien Credit Agreement [Member]
First lien credit agreement.
Related Party Transaction [Axis]
Related Party Transaction [Axis]
Related Party Transaction [Domain]
Related Party Transaction [Domain]
Franchise Development Initial Option Agreement
Franchise Development Initial Option Agreement [Member]
Franchise development initial option agreement.
Franchise Development Additional Option Agreement
Franchise Development Additional Option Agreement [Member]
Franchise development additional option agreement.
Franchise Development Agreement
Franchise Development Agreement [Member]
Franchise development agreement.
Texas
TEXAS
Supplier
Supplier [Axis]
Share-based Goods and Nonemployee Services Transaction, Supplier
Share-based Goods and Nonemployee Services Transaction, Supplier [Domain]
Supplier One
Supplier One [Member]
Supplier one.
Supplier Two
Supplier Two [Member]
Supplier two.
Largest Supplier One
Largest Supplier One [Member]
Largest supplier one.
Purchased
Purchased [Member]
Purchased.
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable [Member]
Accounts Receivable
Accounts Receivable [Member]
Supplier Concentration Risk
Supplier Concentration Risk [Member]
Balance Sheet Location
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Other Assets
Other Assets [Member]
Income Statement Location
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Interest Expense
Interest Expense [Member]
General and Administrative Expense
General and Administrative Expense [Member]
Limited Liability Company
Limited Liability Company [Member]
Basis Of Presentation And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Basis Of Presentation And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies.
Total amount of outstanding debt
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Cash available
Number of restaurants closed
Number Of Restaurant Closed
Number of restaurant closed.
Prepayment for long-term line of credit
Repayments of Long-term Lines of Credit
Abandoned site and other site selection costs
Abandoned Site and Other Site Selection Costs
Abandoned Site and Other Site Selection Costs
Capitalized internal cost
Capitalized Internal Wages
Capitalized internal wages.
Capitalized internal interest cost
Capitalized Interest Costs, Including Allowance for Funds Used During Construction
Asset impairment charges
Transaction costs
Debt Refinancing Costs
Debt refinancing costs.
Deferred financing fees net of accumulated amortization
Debt Issuance Costs, Net
Amortization expense for deferred financing costs
Expense for payroll and benefits reserves
Labor and Related Expense
Promotional allowances amount
Promotional Allowances For Restaurant And Franchise Revenue
Promotional Allowances For Restaurant And Franchise Revenue
Advertising expense
Advertising Expense
Advertising fees
Advertising Fee From Affiliates
Advertising fee from affiliates.
Percentage of monthly franchise fee
Franchise Fee Percentage
Franchise fee percentage.
Accrued advertising
Accrued Advertising
Advertising cost included in accounts receivable and current assets
Advertising Costs Included In Accounts Receivable And Current Assets
Advertising costs included in accounts receivable and current assets.
Preopening costs
Pre-Opening Costs
Number of restaurants damaged by fire
Number Of Restaurants Damaged By Fire
Number of restaurants damaged by fire.
Expenses related to fire loss
General Insurance Expense, Fire Loss
General Insurance Expense, Fire Loss
Disposition of assets related to fire
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets
Gain on recovery of insurance proceeds, related to the reimbursement of property and equipment and expenses incurred
Gain Loss On Business Interruption Insurance Recovery
Gain (loss) on business interruption insurance recovery.
Gain on recovery of insurance proceeds, related to the reimbursement of lost profits
Amount received from insurance company in cash
Proceeds from Insurance Premiums Collected
Recovery of securities lawsuits related legal expenses
Unrecognized tax benefits, accrual of interest or penalties
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued
Unrecognized tax benefits, interest or penalties expenses
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense
Charge relating to present value of total expected TRA payments
Tax Receivable Agreement Expected Payments
Tax receivable agreement expected payments.
Impairment of assets
Number of restaurants that failed impairment testing
Number of Restaurants That Failed Impairment Testing
Number of Restaurants That Failed Impairment Testing
Cumulative effect of adjustment resulted in an increase in accumulated deficit
Cumulative effect adjustment as percentage of total assets
Cumulative Effect Adjustment, Percentage Of Total Assets
Cumulative Effect Adjustment, Percentage Of Total Assets
Number of commitments to open franchised restaurants
Number of Commitments to Open Franchised Restaurants
Number of Commitments to Open Franchised Restaurants
Number of years available under plan
Term Available Under Plan To Develop And Open Restaurants
Term available under plan to develop and open restaurants.
Related party agreement, termination period
Agreement Termination Period
Agreement termination period.
Operating lease obligations
Changes in Stock Options
Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block]
Stock Options By Range of Exercise Prices
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Changes in Restricted Shares
Nonvested Restricted Stock Shares Activity [Table Text Block]
Computation of Basic and Diluted Net Income per Share
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Reconciliation of Basic and Diluted Share Counts
Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares [Table Text Block]
Related Party Transactions
Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block]
Schedule of Provision for Income Taxes
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Effective Income Tax rate
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Numerator:
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Denominator:
Weighted-average shares outstanding—Diluted (shares)
Net (loss) income per share—Basic (usd per share)
Net (loss) income per share—Diluted (usd per share)
Unfavorable Leasehold Interest
Favorable Leasehold Interest
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
December 25, 2019
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months
December 30, 2020
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two
December 29, 2021
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three
December 28, 2022
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four
December 28, 2023
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five
Thereafter
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five
Unfavorable Leasehold Interest
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Finite-Lived Intangible Liabilities, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
December 25, 2019
Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Amortization Expenses Next Twelve Months
Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Amortization Expenses Next Twelve Months
December 30, 2020
Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Amortization Expenses Year Two
Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Amortization Expenses Year Two
December 29, 2021
Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Amortization Expenses Year Three
Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Amortization Expenses Year Three
December 28, 2022
Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Amortization Expenses Year Four
Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Amortization Expenses Year Four
December 28, 2023
Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Amortization Expenses Year Five
Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Amortization Expenses Year Five
Thereafter
Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Amortization Expenses After Year Five
Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities Amortization Expenses After Year Five
Accrued sales and property taxes
Taxes Payable, Current
Accrued legal settlements and professional fees
Accrued Legal Settlements And Professional Fees
Accrued Legal Settlements And Professional Fees
Gift card liability
Gift Card Liability, Current
Other
Other Accrued Liabilities, Current
Total other accrued expenses and current liabilities
Interest income
Investment Income, Interest
Earnings Per Share
Earnings Per Share [Text Block]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Employee Benefit Plans
Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans [Text Block]
Stock-Based Compensation
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]