Darden Restaurants (DRI) Did Okay Because of the Chicken, Says Jim Cramer

Company Overview - Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE:DRI) is a full-service restaurant firm that has faced challenges in 2025, with its shares remaining flat year to date [2]. Financial Performance - The company reported $3.04 billion in revenue for its fiscal first quarter, meeting analyst estimates, but its adjusted EPS of $1.97 fell short of the $2 estimate [2]. - For the second fiscal quarter, Darden's EPS of $2.08 also missed analyst expectations of $2.10 [2]. Market Reactions - Following the first quarter earnings report, Darden's stock experienced a 7.7% decline in September [2]. - Stephens reduced the share price target for Darden from $215 to $205 while maintaining an Equal Weight rating due to softness in its Olive Garden restaurants [2]. - BTIG reiterated a Buy rating with a price target of $225 for Darden [2]. Strategic Insights - CEO Rick Cardenas noted an increase in visits from higher-income customers, indicating a potential shift in the customer base [2]. - Jim Cramer highlighted that Darden's performance was positively influenced by its chicken menu offerings, which are in large supply [3].