Steve Hislop, who left his post as president of O'Charley's in late 2006, plans to "connect the dots" along I-65 with outlets of his $43 million Chuy's chain, which now runs 13 locations in Texas.

Chuy's popularity may be attributed to its kitschy, offbeat decor, featuring hubcap-lined ceilings and shrines to Elvis. “Our motto has always been, 'If you've seen one Chuy's … you've seen one Chuy's,'” Hislop says, referring to the layout, which is designed to look as if dining rooms have been added over time.