Zacks Research Boosts Earnings Forecast for Darden Restaurants

Analysts see higher Q4 2026 earnings for the restaurant operator

Apr. 3, 2026 at 11:23am

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Analysts at Zacks Research have increased their Q4 2026 earnings per share (EPS) estimates for Darden Restaurants, Inc. (NYSE:DRI). The research firm now expects the restaurant operator to earn $3.57 per share for the quarter, up from their previous forecast of $3.55. Zacks also issued estimates for Darden's earnings in future quarters and fiscal years.

Why it matters

Darden Restaurants is one of the largest full-service restaurant companies in the world, operating popular chains like Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse. Positive earnings estimates from analysts can signal improving business conditions and growth potential for the company.

The details

Zacks Research analyst Team increased their Q4 2026 EPS estimate for Darden Restaurants from $3.55 to $3.57. The firm also issued estimates for Darden's earnings in Q2 2027 ($2.25 EPS), Q3 2027 ($3.24 EPS), Q4 2027 ($3.78 EPS), Q1 2028 ($2.15 EPS), and Q2 2028 ($2.48 EPS). The consensus estimate for Darden's current full-year earnings is $9.52 per share.

  • Zacks Research issued the updated earnings estimates on Thursday, April 2nd, 2026.

The players

Zacks Research

An American research firm that provides investment research and stock analysis.

Darden Restaurants, Inc.

A large American restaurant company that owns and operates chains like Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

The takeaway

Positive earnings estimates from respected research firms like Zacks can be an encouraging sign for Darden Restaurants, indicating the company may be well-positioned for continued growth and profitability in the coming years.