Brinker International (EAT) Continues to Draw Analyst Attention Amid Strong Casual Dining Segment Outlook

Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE:EAT) is included in our list of the best restaurant stocks to buy now.

As of January 6, 2026, roughly 45% of analysts are bullish on Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE:EAT), setting a median price target of $170.00, which translates into a 13.70% upside.

On December 23, 2025, Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE:EAT) was seen drawing Evercore ISI’s attention. The firm’s David Palmer appeared on CNBC’s Squawk on the Street, highlighting EAT as his preferred stock. The senior managing director, who heads Evercore’s Restaurants and Food Producers team, cited the company’s strong execution and effective value positioning. He pointed toward the casual dining segment’s higher resilience compared to the fast-food market amid consumer headwinds. He described the segment’s environment as one that possesses a strong ability to benefit from tax relief while positioning itself as an affordable “treat” for middle-income consumers. Within this environment, the analyst sees Chili’s value-driven offerings resonating particularly well.

A more constructive analyst view was noted elsewhere across Wall Street, according to TheFly. On December 17, 2025, Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE:EAT) was revisited by Wells Fargo, which raised its price target from $160 to $175 and maintained an “Overweight” rating. The firm cited an improving early-2026 setup due to stimulus tailwinds, easier comparisons, depressed sentiment, and an attractive valuation. Amid lingering industry challenges and less visibility into second-half drivers, the bank emphasized selective opportunities such as EAT. Additionally, JPMorgan keeps an “Overweight” rating on the stock with a $160 price target.

Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE:EAT) is focused on owning, developing, and franchising Chili’s Grill and Bar and Maggiano’s Little Italy restaurant brands.

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