13:25 ET -- Investors are increasingly making bets on restaurants that have lagged in recent years, like Cracker Barrel, Dave & Buster's and Bloomin' Brands, UBS analysts say in a note. Investors appear to be encouraged by recent sales momentum and earnings that are set up to beat expectations, the analysts say. Restaurant hiring also gained steam in June, reflecting continued recovery in the industry after pressure earlier in the year, they say. Risks remain, though, with sales at small business restaurants slowing last month and recent surveys showing consumers plan to cut back on restaurant spending, they note. (kelly.cloonan@wsj.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

July 07, 2025 13:25 ET (17:25 GMT)

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