Schedule of Comprehensive Income (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 24, 2014	Sep. 25, 2013	Sep. 26, 2012
Other comprehensive income
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net	$ (21,979)	$ (22,440)	$ 49,365
Parent Company
Other comprehensive income
Net earnings attributable to Biglari Holdings Inc	28,804	140,271	21,593
Reclassification of investment appreciation in net earnings	(29,578)	(182,286)	(1,455)
Applicable income taxes	11,237	67,640	553
Net change in unrealized gains and losses on investments	(4,930)	146,079	81,075
Applicable income taxes	1,874	(53,881)	(30,808)
Foreign currency translation	(582)	8	0
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net	(21,979)	(22,440)	49,365
Total comprehensive income	$ 6,825	$ 117,831	$ 70,958