Largest Walk-On’s franchisee expands in brand’s hometown with “The Wildcat” prototype on July 28, paying homage to local high school
Baton Rouge, LA (RestaurantNews.com) R&R Brands, the largest Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux franchisee and a rapidly growing multi-concept hospitality and entertainment company, is celebrating a major milestone with the opening of its 12th Walk-On’s restaurant at 14365 Grand Settlement Blvd. in Baton Rouge on Monday, July 28.
More than two decades after Walk-On’s first opened its doors in Baton Rouge, the beloved Louisiana-born brand is coming full circle with a bold prototype in its hometown market. “The Wildcat,” named in honor of the Central High School mascot, introduces a next-gen design developed in partnership with R&R Brands – one that blends Walk-On’s signature scratch-made menu with new flexible seating, team-friendly layouts and a hyper-local community vibe.
“Central is a city built on tradition, family and Friday night lights,” said City of Central Mayor Wade Evans. “We’re thrilled to welcome Walk-On’s and R&R Brands to our growing community. This project brings more than a great place to eat; it brings jobs, pride, and a new hub for neighbors to gather and celebrate.”
“Opening in Central is a celebration of Walk-On’s proud history and a tribute to a community that lives and breathes high school and college sports,” said Bobby Fradella, COO of R&R’s Walk-On’s portfolio. “The new location amplifies local pride with dedicated gathering spaces, team tables and the game-day energy Walk-On’s fans expect. Whether you’re here for the food, the game, or the post-season celebration, we’re ready to welcome you like family.”
This opening signals what’s ahead for R&R Brands. Following a second Walk-On’s opening in Huntsville this past May, R&R is on pace to reach 14 locations by the end of 2025, with a second Florida opening slated for August in Jacksonville and a sixth Alabama unit launching in Dothan this September. This disciplined rollout is part of R&R’s larger strategy to develop best-in-class restaurants across high-growth markets while building long-term value.
“Adding our 14th Walk-On’s, and doing so in Baton Rouge, the birthplace of the brand, is a defining moment for our team,” said Shane Morrison, Chairman of R&R Brands. “We’re not just opening restaurants, we’re building culture, aligning with great partners and proving that growth doesn’t have to come at the cost of quality. Central is the playbook in action.”
In total, R&R Brands currently operates nearly 50 restaurant and entertainment venues across seven states – with additional strategic brands in development and new partnerships actively in progress.
To learn more about R&R Brands, visit RandRBrands.com.
About R&R Brands
R&R Brands is a parent company and embedded operating partner built by operators, for operators. With nearly 50 locations across seven states and a team behind more than 1,000 restaurant openings nationwide, R&R delivers strategic, sleeves-rolled-up support across operations, marketing, finance and systems – without sacrificing what makes each brand stand out. Backed by Morrison Companies, the group exists to grow exceptional restaurant and entertainment concepts with real alignment, operational integrity and long-term value creation. For more information, visit RandRBrands.com.
Contact:
Chandler Ray
Champion
817-694-2523
cray@championmgt.com
