QuickLinks -- Click here to rapidly navigate through this document

Exhibit 23.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

        As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the incorporation of our report included in this annual report on Form 11-K for Chart House Enterprises, Inc. Corporate Employees 401(k) Plan into Chart House Enterprises Inc.'s previously filed Registration Statement File No. 33-34947 for the Plan.

/s/ Arthur Andersen LLP

Arthur Andersen LLP

Chicago, Illinois
May 31, 2002

QuickLinks

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS