Restructuring and Severance Charges (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Oct. 24, 2014	Oct. 25, 2013	Oct. 24, 2014	Oct. 25, 2013
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Restructuring and Severance Costs	$ 0	$ 2,114	$ 950	$ 3,082
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Balance			1,227	3,820
Restructuring and severance charges incurred			950	3,082
Adjustments				(131)
Amounts paid			(1,606)	(3,401)
Balance	571	3,370	571	3,370
Bob Evans Restaurants
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Balance			486	1,260
Restructuring and severance charges incurred			285	1,345
Adjustments				(131)
Amounts paid			(583)	(2,035)
Balance	188	439	188	439
BEF Foods
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]
Balance			741	2,560
Restructuring and severance charges incurred			665	1,737
Adjustments				0
Amounts paid			(1,023)	(1,366)
Balance	$ 383	$ 2,931	$ 383	$ 2,931