ARK RESTAURANTS CORP - Quarter Report: 2016 December (Form 10-Q)

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

For the quarterly period ended December 31, 2016

Commission file number 1-09453

ARK RESTAURANTS CORP.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:     (212) 206-8800     

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”) during the preceding 12 months (or for shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes x   No ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes x   No ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes ¨   No x

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date:

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

On one or more occasions, we may make statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q regarding our assumptions, projections, expectations, targets, intentions or beliefs about future events. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included or incorporated by reference herein relating to management’s current expectations of future financial performance, continued growth and changes in economic conditions or capital markets are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

Words or phrases such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “predicts,” “projects,” “targets,” “will likely result,” “hopes,” “will continue” or similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed. We caution that while we make such statements in good faith and we believe such statements are based on reasonable assumptions, including without limitation, management’s examination of historical operating trends, data contained in records and other data available from third parties, we cannot assure you that our projections will be achieved. Factors that may cause such differences include: economic conditions generally and in each of the markets in which we are located, the amount of sales contributed by new and existing restaurants, labor costs for our personnel, fluctuations in the cost of food products, adverse weather conditions, changes in consumer preferences and the level of competition from existing or new competitors.

We have attempted to identify, in context, certain of the factors that we believe may cause actual future experience and results to differ materially from our current expectation regarding the relevant matter or subject area. In addition to the items specifically discussed above, our business, results of operations and financial position and your investment in our common stock are subject to the risks and uncertainties described in “Item 1A Risk Factors” in Part I of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 1, 2016 (“Form 10-K”) as may be updated by the information contained under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in Part II of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

From time to time, oral or written forward-looking statements are also included in our reports on Forms 10-K, 10-K/A, 10-Q, 10-Q/A and 8-K, our Schedule 14A, our press releases and other materials released to the public. Although we believe that at the time made, the expectations reflected in all of these forward-looking statements are and will be reasonable; any or all of the forward-looking statements may prove to be incorrect. This may occur as a result of inaccurate assumptions or as a consequence of known or unknown risks and uncertainties. Many factors discussed in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, certain of which are beyond our control, will be important in determining our future performance. Consequently, actual results may differ materially from those that might be anticipated from forward-looking statements. In light of these and other uncertainties, you should not regard the inclusion of a forward-looking statement in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q or other public communications that we might make as a representation by us that our plans and objectives will be achieved, and you should not place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements.

We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. However, your attention is directed to any further disclosures made on related subjects in our subsequent periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on Forms 10-K, 10-K/A, 10-Q, 10-Q/A and 8-K and Schedule 14A.

Unless the context requires otherwise, references to “we,” “us,” “our,” “ARKR” and the “Company” refer specifically to Ark Restaurants Corp., and its subsidiaries, partnerships, variable interest entities and predecessor entities.

Part I. Financial Information

Item 1. Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements

ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS

(In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)

See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (Unaudited)

FOR THE 13 WEEKS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2016 AND JANUARY 2, 2016

 (In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)

See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (Unaudited)

FOR THE 13 WEEKS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2016 AND JANUARY 2, 2016

(In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)

See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited)

FOR THE 13 WEEKS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2016 AND JANUARY 2, 2016

(In Thousands)

See notes to consolidated condensed financial statements.

ARK RESTAURANTS CORP. AND SUBSIDIARIES

The consolidated condensed balance sheet as of October 1, 2016, which has been derived from audited financial statements included in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 1, 2016 (“Form 10-K”), and the unaudited interim consolidated condensed financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Accordingly, certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP have been condensed or omitted. All adjustments that, in the opinion of management are necessary for a fair presentation for the periods presented, have been reflected as required by Regulation S-X, Rule 10-01. Such adjustments are of a normal, recurring nature. These consolidated condensed financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Form 10-K. The results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the operating results to be expected for the full year or any other interim period.

PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION — The consolidated condensed interim financial statements include the accounts of Ark Restaurants Corp. and all of its wholly-owned subsidiaries, partnerships and other entities in which it has a controlling interest, collectively herein referred to as the “Company”. Also included in the consolidated condensed interim financial statements are certain variable interest entities (“VIEs”). All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

RECLASSIFICATIONS — Certain reclassifications of prior period balances related to the income statement presentation of $822,000 of certain administrative fees related to catering revenue received have been reclassified from payroll expense to revenue to conform to the current period presentation.

SEASONALITY — The Company has substantial fixed costs that do not decline proportionally with sales. The first and second fiscal quarters, which include the winter months, usually reflect lower customer traffic than in the third and fourth fiscal quarters. In addition, sales in the third and fourth fiscal quarters can be adversely affected by inclement weather due to the significant amount of outdoor seating at the Company’s restaurants.

FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS — The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, receivables, accounts payable and accrued expenses approximate fair value due to the immediate or short-term maturity of these financial instruments. The fair values of notes receivable and payable are determined using current applicable rates for similar instruments as of the consolidated condensed balance sheet date and approximate the carrying value of such debt instruments.

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS — Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, deposits with banks and highly liquid investments generally with original maturities of three months or less. Outstanding checks in excess of account balances, typically vendor payments, payroll and other contractual obligations disbursed after the last day of a reporting period are reported as a current liability in the accompanying consolidated condensed balance sheets.

CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK — Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. The Company reduces credit risk by placing its cash and cash equivalents with major financial institutions with high credit ratings. At times, such amounts may exceed Federally insured limits. Accounts receivable are primarily comprised of normal business receivables, such as credit card receivables, that are paid off in a short period of time and amounts due from the hotel operators where the Company has a location, and are recorded when the products or services have been delivered. The Company reviews the collectability of its receivables on an ongoing basis, and provides for an allowance when it considers the entity unable to meet its obligation. The concentration of credit risk with respect to accounts receivable is generally limited due to the short payment terms extended by the Company and the number of customers comprising the Company’s customer base.

For the 13-week periods ended December 31, 2016 and January 2, 2016, the Company did not make purchases from any one vendor that accounted for 10% or greater of total purchases for the respective period.

SEGMENT REPORTING — As of December 31, 2016, the Company owned and operated 22 restaurants and bars, 19 fast food concepts and catering operations, exclusively in the United States, that have similar economic characteristics, nature of products and service, class of customers and distribution methods. The Company believes it meets the criteria for aggregating its operating segments into a single reporting segment in accordance with applicable accounting guidance.

RECENTLY ADOPTED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS — In June 2014, the FASB issued guidance which clarifies the recognition of stock-based compensation over the required service period, if it is probable that the performance condition will be achieved. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2015 and should be applied prospectively. The adoption of this guidance did not have any impact on the Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

In January 2015, the FASB issued guidance simplifying the income statement presentation by eliminating the concept of extraordinary items. Extraordinary items are events and transactions that are distinguished by their unusual nature and by the infrequency of their occurrence. Eliminating the extraordinary classification simplifies income statement presentation by altogether removing the concept of extraordinary items from consideration. The amendments are effective for annual reporting periods, including interim periods within those reporting periods, beginning after December 15, 2015. The adoption of this guidance did not have any impact on the Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

In February 2015, the FASB amended the consolidation standards for reporting entities that are required to evaluate whether they should consolidate certain legal entities. Under the new guidance, all legal entities are subject to reevaluation under the revised consolidation model. Specifically, the guidance (i) modifies the evaluation of whether limited partnerships and similar legal entities are variable interest entities (VIEs) or voting interest entities; (ii) eliminates the presumption that a general partner should consolidate a limited partnership; (iii) affects the consolidation analysis of reporting entities that are involved with VIEs, particularly those that have fee arrangements and related party relationships; and (iv) provides a scope exception from consolidation guidance for reporting entities with interests in legal entities that are required to comply with or operate in accordance with requirements that are similar to those in Rule 2a-7 of the Investment Company Act for registered money market funds. The amendments are effective for annual reporting periods, beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The adoption of this guidance did not have any impact on the Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS NOT YET ADOPTED — In January 2017, the FASB issued guidance clarifying the definition of a business. The update provides that when substantially all the fair value of the assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets, the set is not a business. The new rules will be effective for the Company in the first quarter of 2019. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact adoption of this guidance on its Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

In January 2017, the FASB guidance simplifying the test for goodwill impairment. The update simplifies how an entity is required to test goodwill for impairment by eliminating Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. Step 2 measures a goodwill impairment loss by comparing the implied fair value of a reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying amount. The new rules will be effective for the Company in the first quarter of 2021. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact adoption of this guidance on its Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

The Company consolidates any variable interest entities in which it holds a variable interest and is the primary beneficiary. Generally, a variable interest entity, or VIE, is an entity with one or more of the following characteristics: (a) the total equity investment at risk is not sufficient to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support; (b) as a group the holders of the equity investment at risk lack (i) the ability to make decisions about an entity’s activities through voting or similar rights, (ii) the obligation to absorb the expected losses of the entity, or (iii) the right to receive the expected residual returns of the entity; or (c) the equity investors have voting rights that are not proportional to their economic interests and substantially all of the entity’s activities either involve, or are conducted on behalf of, an investor that has disproportionately few voting rights. The primary beneficiary of a VIE is generally the entity that has (a) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance, and (b) the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could potentially be significant to the VIE.

The Company has determined that it is the primary beneficiary of three VIEs and, accordingly, consolidates the financial results of these entities. Following are the required disclosures associated with the Company’s consolidated VIEs:

The liabilities recognized as a result of consolidating these VIEs do not represent additional claims on the Company’s general assets; rather, they represent claims against the specific assets of the consolidated VIEs. Conversely, assets recognized as a result of consolidating these VIEs do not represent additional assets that could be used to satisfy claims against the Company’s general assets.

On October 22, 2015, the Company, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Ark Shuckers, LLC and Ark Shuckers Real Estate, LLC, acquired the assets of Shuckers Inc. (“Shuckers”), a restaurant and bar located at the Island Beach Resort in Jensen Beach, FL, and six condominium units (four of which house the restaurant and bar operations). In addition, Ark Island Beach Resort LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, acquired Island Beach Resort Inc., a management company that administers a rental pool of certain condominium units under lease. The total purchase price was $5,717,000. The acquisition is accounted for as a business combination and was financed with a bank loan in the amount of $5,000,000 and cash from operations.

On November 30, 2016, the Company, through newly formed, wholly-owned subsidiaries, acquired the assets of the Original Oyster House, Inc., a restaurant and bar located in the City of Gulf Shores, Baldwin County, Alabama and the related real estate and an adjacent retail shopping plaza and the Original Oyster House II, Inc., a restaurant and bar located in the City of Spanish Fort, Baldwin County, Alabama and the related real estate. The total purchase price was for $10,750,000 plus inventory of approximately $293,000. The acquisition is accounted for as a business combination and was financed with a bank loan from the Company’s existing lender in the amount of $8,000,000 and cash from operations. A preliminary allocation of the fair values of the assets acquired, subject to final acquisition accounting, is as follows:

The Consolidated Condensed Statements of Income for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016 include revenues and losses of approximately $1,680,000 and $(54,000), respectively, related to the Shuckers and Oyster House properties. The unaudited pro forma financial information set forth below is based upon the Company’s historical Consolidated Condensed Statements of Income for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016 and January 2, 2016 and includes the results of operations for Shuckers and the Oyster House properties for the periods prior to acquisition. The unaudited pro forma financial information is presented for informational purposes only and may not be indicative of what actual results of operations would have been had the acquisition of Shuckers occurred on the dates indicated, nor does it purport to represent the results of operations for future periods.  

Lease Expirations – On November 30, 2015, the Company’s lease at the V-Bar located at the Venetian Casino Resort in Las Vegas, NV expired. The closure of this property did not result in a material charge.

The Company was advised by the landlord that it would have to vacate the Center Café property located at Union Station in Washington, DC which was on a month-to-month lease. The closure of this property occurred in February 2016 and did not result in a material charge.

Other – On November 18, 2016, Ark Jupiter RI, LLC (“Ark Jupiter”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, entered into a ROFR Purchase and Sale Agreement (the “ROFR”) with SCFRC-HWG, LLC, the landlord (the “Seller”) to purchase the land and building in which the Company operates its Rustic Inn location in Jupiter, Florida. The Seller had entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement with a third party to sell the premises; however, Ark Jupiter’s lease provided the Company with a right of first refusal to purchase the property. Ark Jupiter exercised the ROFR on October 4, 2016 and made a ten (10%) percent deposit on the purchase price of approximately Five Million Two Hundred Thousand Dollars ($5,200,000). Concurrent with the execution of the ROFR, Ark Jupiter entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement with 1065 A1A, LLC to sell this same property for Eight Million Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($8,250,000). In connection with the sale, Ark Jupiter and 1065 A1A, LLC have entered into a temporary lease and sub-lease arrangement which expires on April 30, 2017, at which time the Company expects to vacate the space. In connection with these transactions the Company recognized a gain in the amount of $1,637,000 during the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016.

The Company’s is in the process of transferring its lease and the related assets of Canyon Road located in New York, NY to an unrelated third party. In connection with this pending transfer, the Company recognized an impairment loss included in depreciation and amortization expense in the amount of $75,000 for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016.

On March 12, 2013, the Company made a $4,200,000 investment in the New Meadowlands Racetrack LLC (“NMR”) through its purchase of a membership interest in Meadowlands Newmark, LLC, an existing member of NMR. On November 19, 2013, the Company invested an additional $464,000 in NMR through a purchase of an additional membership interest in Meadowlands Newmark, LLC resulting in a total ownership of 11.6% of Meadowlands Newmark, LLC, subject to dilution. In 2015, the Company invested an additional $222,000, as a result of capital calls, bringing its total investment to $4,886,000 with no change in ownership. This investment has been accounted for based on the cost method. .

In addition to the Company’s ownership interest in NMR through Meadowlands Newmark, LLC, if casino gaming is approved at the Meadowlands and NMR is granted the right to conduct said gaming, neither of which can be assured, the Company shall be granted the exclusive right to operate the food and beverage concessions in the gaming facility with the exception of one restaurant.

In conjunction with this investment, the Company, through a 97% owned subsidiary, Ark Meadowlands LLC (“AM VIE”), also entered into a long-term agreement with NMR for the exclusive right to operate food and beverage concessions serving the new raceway facilities (the “Racing F&B Concessions”) located in the new raceway grandstand constructed at the Meadowlands Racetrack in northern New Jersey. Under the agreement, NMR is responsible to pay for the costs and expenses incurred in the operation of the Racing F&B Concessions, and all revenues and profits thereof inure to the benefit of NMR. AM VIE receives

an annual fee equal to 5% of the net profits received by NMR from the Racing F&B Concessions during each calendar year. At December 31, 2016, it was determined that AM VIE is a variable interest entity. However, based on qualitative consideration of the contracts with AM VIE, the operating structure of AM VIE, the Company’s role with AM VIE, and that the Company is not obligated to absorb any expected losses of AM VIE, the Company has concluded that it is not the primary beneficiary and not required to consolidate the operations of AM VIE.

The Company’s maximum exposure to loss as a result of its involvement with AM VIE is limited to a receivable from AM VIE’s primary beneficiary (NMR, a related party) which aggregated approximately $11,000 and $164,000 at December 31, 2016 and October 1, 2016, respectively, and are included in Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets in the Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets.

On April 25, 2014, the Company loaned $1,500,000 to Meadowlands Newmark, LLC. The note bears interest at 3%, compounded monthly and added to the principal, and is due in its entirety on January 31, 2024. The note may be prepaid, in whole or in part, at any time without penalty or premium. On July 13, 2016, the Company made an additional loan to Meadowlands Newmark, LLC in the amount of $200,000. Such amount is subject to the same terms and conditions as the original loan as discussed above. The principal and accrued interest related to this note in the amounts of $1,830,000 and $1,815,000, are included in Investment In and Receivable From New Meadowlands Racetrack in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2016 and October 1, 2016, respectively.

In accordance with the cost method, our initial investment is recorded at cost and we record dividend income when applicable, if dividends are declared. We review our Investment in NMR each reporting period to determine whether a significant event or change in circumstances has occurred that may have an adverse effect on its fair value, such as the defeat of the referendum for casino gaming in Northern New Jersey in November 2016. The voter referendum for casino gaming in Northern New Jersey was defeated in November 2016. State law prohibits the issue from being put on the ballot before voters for the following two years. In connection with NMR’s restructuring of an existing loan which comes due on June 30, 2018, and to extend the loan through December 2021, the Company funded its proportionate share of a $3 million capital call rather than having its interest diluted (see Note 13).

As a result, we performed an assessment of the recoverability of our indirect Investment in NMR as of October 1, 2016 which included estimates requiring significant management judgment, include inherent uncertainties and are often ·interdependent; therefore, they do not change in isolation. Factors that management estimated include, among others, the probability of gambling being approved in Northern NJ which is the most heavily weighted assumption and NMR obtaining a license to operate a casino, revenue levels, cost of capital, marketing spending, tax rates and capital spending.

In performing this assessment, we estimated the fair value of our Investment in NMR using our best estimate of these assumptions which we believe would be consistent with what a hypothetical marketplace participant would use. The variability of these factors depends on a number of conditions, including uncertainty about future events and our inability as a minority shareholder to control certain outcomes and thus our accounting estimates may change from period to period. If other assumptions and estimates had been used when these tests were performed, impairment charges could have resulted. As a result of the above, no impairment was deemed necessary as of December 31, 2016.

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consist of the following:

Long-term debt consists of the following:

On February 25, 2013, the Company issued a promissory note to Bank Hapoalim B.M. (the “BHBM”) for $3,000,000. The note bore interest at LIBOR plus 3.5% per annum, and was payable in 36 equal monthly installments of $83,333, commencing on March 25, 2013. On February 24, 2014, in connection with the acquisition of The Rustic Inn, the Company borrowed an additional $6,000,000 from BHBM under the same terms and conditions as the original loan which was consolidated with the remaining principal balance from the original borrowing at that date. The new loan is payable in 60 equal monthly installments of $134,722, which commenced on March 25, 2014. As of December 31, 2016, the outstanding balance of this note payable was $3,503,000.

On October 22, 2015, in connection with the acquisition of Shuckers, the Company issued a promissory note to BHBM for $5,000,000. The note bears interest at LIBOR plus 3.5% per annum, and is payable in 60 equal monthly installments of $83,333, commencing on November 22, 2015. As of December 31, 2016, the outstanding balance of this note payable was $3,833,000.

On November 30, 2016, in connection with the acquisition of the Oyster House properties, the Company issued a promissory note to BHBM for $8,000,000. The note bears interest at LIBOR plus 3.5% per annum, and is payable in 60 equal monthly installments of $133,273, commencing on January 1, 2017. As of December 31, 2016, the outstanding balance of this note payable was $8,000,000.

On October 22, 2015, in connection with the Shuckers transaction, the Company also entered into a credit agreement (the “Revolving Facility”) with BHBM which expires on October 21, 2017 and provides for total availability of the lesser of (i) $10,000,000 and (ii) $20,000,000 less the then aggregate amount of all indebtedness and obligations to BHBM. Borrowings under the Revolving Facility will be evidenced by a promissory note (the “Revolving Note”) in favor of BHBM and will be payable over five years with interest at an annual rate equal to LIBOR plus 3.5% per year. As of July 2, 2016, no additional amounts were outstanding under the Revolving Facility.

Deferred financing costs incurred in connection with the Revolving Facility in the amount of $130,585 are being amortized over the life of the agreements on a straight-line basis. Amortization expense of $11,000 and $9,000 is included in interest expense for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016 and January 2, 2016, respectively.

Borrowings under the Revolving Facility, which include all of the above promissory notes, are secured by all tangible and intangible personal property (including accounts receivable, inventory, equipment, general intangibles, documents, chattel paper, instruments, letter-of-credit rights, investment property, intellectual property and deposit accounts) and fixtures of the Company.

The loan agreements provide, among other things, that the Company meet minimum quarterly tangible net worth amounts, as defined, maintain a fixed charge coverage ratio of not less than 1.1:1 and minimum annual net income amounts, and contain customary representations, warranties and affirmative covenants. The agreements also contain customary negative covenants, subject to negotiated exceptions, on liens, relating to other indebtedness, capital expenditures, liens, affiliate transactions, disposal of assets and certain changes in ownership. The Company was in compliance with all debt covenants as of December 31, 2016.

Leases — The Company leases its restaurants, bar facilities, and administrative headquarters through its subsidiaries under terms expiring at various dates through 2032. Most of the leases provide for the payment of base rents plus real estate taxes, insurance and other expenses and, in certain instances, for the payment of a percentage of the restaurant’s sales in excess of stipulated amounts at such facility and in one instance based on profits.

On January 12, 2016, the Company entered into an Amended and Restated Lease for its Sequoia property in Washington D.C. extending the lease for 15 years through November 30, 2032 with one additional five-year option. Annual rent under the new lease is approximately $1,200,000 increasing annually through expiration. Under the terms of the agreement, the property will be closed from January 1, 2017 through March 31, 2017 for renovation and reconcepting. The Company is currently developing the concept and design relating to the renovated space and estimates the total cost to be approximately $6,000,000 to $7,000,000.

Legal Proceedings — In the ordinary course of its business, the Company is a party to various lawsuits arising from accidents at its restaurants and worker’s compensation claims, which are generally handled by the Company’s insurance carriers. The employment by the Company of management personnel, waiters, waitresses and kitchen staff at a number of different restaurants has resulted, from time to time, in litigation alleging violation by the Company of employment discrimination laws. Management believes, based in part on the advice of counsel, that the ultimate resolution of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Share Repurchase Plan — On July 5, 2016, the Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program authorizing management to purchase up to 500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock during the next twelve months. Any repurchase under the program will be effected in compliance with Rule 10b-18 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 “Purchases of Certain Equity Securities by the Issuer and Others”, funded using the Company’s working capital and be based on management’s evaluation of market conditions and other factors. No repurchases were made during the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016.

The Company has options outstanding under two stock option plans, the 2004 Stock Option Plan (the “2004 Plan”) and the 2010 Stock Option Plan (the “2010 Plan”), which was approved by shareholders in the second quarter of 2010. Effective with this approval, the Company terminated the 2004 Plan. This action terminated the 400 authorized but unissued options under the 2004 Plan, but it did not affect any of the options previously issued under the 2004 Plan. Options granted under the 2004 Plan are exercisable at prices at least equal to the fair market value of such stock on the dates the options were granted. The options expire ten years after the date of grant. Options granted under the 2010 Plan are exercisable at prices at least equal to the fair market value of such stock on the dates the options were granted. The options expire ten years after the date of grant.

On April 5, 2016, the shareholders of the Company approved the 2016 Stock Option Plan and the Section 162(m) Cash Bonus Plan. Under the 2016 Stock Option Plan, 500,000 options were authorized for future grant and are exercisable at prices at least equal to the fair market value of such stock on the dates the options were granted. The options expire ten years after the date of grant. Under the Section 162(m) Cash Bonus Plan, compensation paid in excess of $1,000,000 to any employee who is the chief executive officer, or one of the three highest paid executive officers on the last day of that tax year (other than the chief executive officer or the chief financial officer) will meet certain “performance-based” requirements of Section 162(m) and the related IRS regulations in order for it to be tax deductible.

During the quarter ended December 31, 2016, options to purchase 90,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $29.60 per share expired unexercised.

No options or performance-based awards were granted during the 13-week period ended December 31, 2016.

A summary of stock option activity is presented below:

Compensation cost charged to operations for the 13-week periods ended December 31, 2016 and January 2, 2016 was $0 and $103,000, respectively. The compensation cost recognized is classified as a general and administrative expense in the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Income.

As of December 31, 2016, there was no unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock options.

The Company’s provision for income taxes consists of Federal, state and local taxes in amounts necessary to align the Company’s year-to-date provision for income taxes with the effective tax rate that the Company expects to achieve for the full year. Each quarter, the Company updates its estimate of the annual effective tax rate and records cumulative adjustments as deemed necessary. The income tax provisions for the 13-week periods ended December 31, 2016 and January 2, 2016 reflect effective tax rates of approximately 30% and 23%, respectively.  The Company expects its effective tax rate for its current fiscal year to be significantly lower than the statutory rate as a result of the generation of FICA tax credits and operating income attributable to the non-controlling interests of the VIEs that is not taxable to the Company. The final annual tax rate cannot be determined until the end of the fiscal year; therefore, the actual tax rate could differ from current estimates.

The Company’s overall effective tax rate in the future will be affected by factors such as the utilization of state and local net operating loss carryforwards, the generation of FICA tax credits and the mix of earnings by state taxing jurisdiction as Nevada does not impose a  state income tax, as compared to the other major state and local jurisdictions in which the Company has operations.

During the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016, certain equity compensation awards expired unexercised. As such, the Company reversed the related deferred tax asset in the amount of approximately $397,000 as a charge to Additional Paid-in Capital as there was a sufficient pool of windfall tax benefit available.

Net income per share is calculated on the basis of the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during each period plus, for diluted net income per share, the additional dilutive effect of potential common stock. Potential common stock using the treasury stock method consists of dilutive stock options.

For the 13-week period ended December 31, 2016, options to purchase 66,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $12.04 per share and options to purchase 160,800 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $14.40 per share were included in diluted earnings per share. Options to purchase 201,808 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $22.50 per share were not included in diluted earnings per share as their impact would be anti-dilutive.

For the 13-week period ended January 2, 2016, options to purchase 66,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $12.04 per share, options to purchase 164,700 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $14.40 per share and options to purchase 203,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $22.50 per share were included in diluted earnings per share. Options to purchase 90,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $32.15 were not included in diluted earnings per share as their impact was anti-dilutive.

On December 7, 2016, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share on the Company’s common stock to be paid on January 3, 2017 to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 20, 2016. The Company intends to continue to pay such quarterly cash dividends for the foreseeable future, however, the payment of future dividends is at the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors and is based on future earnings, cash flow, financial condition, capital requirements, changes in U.S. taxation and other relevant factors.

On January 4, 2017, the Company closed its Sequoia property in Washington, DC for a major renovation. The restaurant is expected to re-open in May 2017. In connection with this closure, the Company recognized an impairment loss related to fixed asset disposals in the amount of $283,000, which is included in Depreciation and Amortization Expense for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016.

On February 7, 2017, the Company invested an additional $222,000 in NMR as a result of a capital call bringing its total equity investment to $5,108,000.

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Overview

As of December 31, 2016, the Company owned and operated 22 restaurants and bars, 19 fast food concepts and catering operations, exclusively in the United States, that have similar economic characteristics, nature of products and service, class of customer and distribution methods. The Company believes it meets the criteria for aggregating its operating segments into a single reporting segment in accordance with applicable accounting guidance. The Consolidated Condensed Statements of Income for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016 include revenues and losses of approximately $1,680,000 and $(54,000), respectively, related to Shuckers, which was acquired on October 22, 2015 and the Oyster House properties, which were acquired on November 30, 2016.

Accounting Period

Our fiscal year ends on the Saturday nearest September 30. We report fiscal years under a 52/53-week format. This reporting method is used by many companies in the hospitality industry and is meant to improve year-to-year comparisons of operating results. Under this method, certain years will contain 53 weeks. The periods ended December 31, 2016 and January 2, 2016 each included 13 weeks.

Seasonality

The Company has substantial fixed costs that do not decline proportionately with sales. At our properties located in the northeast, the first and second fiscal quarters, which include the winter months, usually reflect lower customer traffic than in the third and fourth fiscal quarters. However, sales in the third and fourth fiscal quarters can be adversely affected by inclement weather due to the significant amount of outdoor seating at the Company’s restaurants.

Results of Operations

The Company’s operating income for the 13 weeks ended December 31, 2016 was $2,942,000 as compared to $633,000 for the 13 weeks ended January 2, 2016. This increase resulted from the recognition of a gain in connection with the sale of the real estate underlying our Rustic Inn, Jupiter, FL property combined with overall better performance at most of our other properties partially offset by (i) decreases in operating income at the Rustic Inn, Dania Beach Florida, (ii) professional fees incurred in connection with our acquisition of the Oyster House properties and $358,000 of additional depreciation expense related to asset write-offs at Sequoia (which is undergoing a major renovation) and Canyon Road (whose lease is in the process of being transferred to an unrelated third party).

The following table summarizes the significant components of the Company’s operating results for the 13-week periods ended December 31, 2016 and January 2, 2016, respectively:

Revenues

During the Company’s 13-week period ended December 31, 2016, revenues increased 3.8% as compared to revenues in the 13-week period ended January 2, 2016. This increase resulted primarily from: (i) revenues related to the Oyster House properties in Gulf Shores, Alabama (which were acquired on November 30, 2016), and (ii) the same-store sales impacts discussed below, partially offset by the closure of Center Café in Washington, DC and the V Bar in Las Vegas as a result of lease expirations.

Food and Beverage Same-Store Sales

On a Company-wide basis, same-store sales increased 2.7% during the first fiscal quarter of 2017 as compared to the same period last year as follows:

Same-store sales in Las Vegas increased 6.5% primarily as a result of an increase in tourism and convention business, all related to the current economic conditions. Same-store sales in New York increased 5.5%, primarily as a result of good weather conditions and strong catering revenues. Same-store sales in Washington, DC, which excludes Center Café which closed in February 2016, increased 7.6%, primarily as a result of good weather conditions and strong catering revenues. Same-store sales in Atlantic City increased 10.5%, primarily due to increased traffic at properties in which we operate our restaurants. Same-store sales in Boston decreased 8.0%, primarily as a result of decreased traffic at Faneuil Hall Marketplace where our property is located. Same-store sales in Florida decreased 8.7% reflecting decreased traffic at The Rustic Inn in Dania Beach, FL due to a road construction project started in the second quarter of fiscal 2016 by the local municipality that is expected to last approximately 18 months combined with increased competition at one of our food court properties. Other food and beverage sales consist of sales related to new restaurants opened or acquired during the applicable period (e.g. the Oyster House properties) and sales related to properties that were closed due to lease expiration and other closures.

Costs and Expenses

Costs and expenses for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016 and January 2, 2016 were as follows (in thousands):

The decrease in food and beverage costs as a percentage of total revenues for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016 compared to the same period of last year is primarily the result of menu price increases in fiscal 2016 and the stabilization of commodity prices.

Payroll expenses as a percentage of total revenues for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016 decreased primarily as a result of better labor management and the increasing mix of sales in markets where labor costs are lower.

Occupancy expenses as a percentage of total revenues for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016 were consistent as compared to the same period of last year as a result of higher sales at properties where rents are relatively fixed or where the Company owns the premises at which the property operates (The Rustic Inn in Dania Beach, FL, Shuckers in Jensen Beach, FL and the Oyster House properties in Gulf Shores, Alabama) offset by rent increases at our other properties.

Other operating costs and expenses as a percentage of total revenues for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016 were consistent with the same period of last year.

General and administrative expenses (which relate solely to the corporate office in New York City) as a percentage of total revenues for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016 were consistent with the same period of last year.

Depreciation and amortization expense for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016 increase $345,000 as compared to the same period of last year as a result of additional depreciation in the amount of $358,000 related to asset write-offs at Sequoia (which is undergoing a major renovation) and Canyon Road (whose lease is in the process of being transferred to an unrelated party).

Income Taxes

The Company’s provision for income taxes consists of Federal, state and local taxes in amounts necessary to align the Company’s year-to-date provision for income taxes with the effective tax rate that the Company expects to achieve for the full year. Each quarter, the Company updates its estimate of the annual effective tax rate and records cumulative adjustments as deemed necessary. The income tax provisions for the 13-week periods ended December 31, 2016 and January 2, 2016 reflect effective tax rates of approximately 30% and 23%, respectively. The Company expects its effective tax rate for its current fiscal year to be significantly lower than the statutory rate as a result of the generation of FICA tax credits and operating income attributable to the non-controlling interests of the VIEs that is not taxable to the Company. The final annual tax rate cannot be determined until the end of the fiscal year; therefore, the actual tax rate could differ from current estimates.

The Company’s overall effective tax rate in the future will be affected by factors such as the utilization of state and local net operating loss carryforwards, the generation of FICA tax credits and the mix of earnings by state taxing jurisdiction as Nevada does not impose a state income tax, as compared to the other major state and local jurisdictions in which the Company has operations.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our primary source of capital has been cash provided by operations and, in recent years, bank and other borrowings to finance specific transactions and acquisitions. We utilize cash generated from operations to fund the cost of developing and opening new restaurants and remodeling existing restaurants we own.

Net cash provided by operating activities for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016 increased to $1,824,000 as compared to $961,000 used in operations in the same period of last year. This increase was attributable to an increase in operating income discussed above combined with changes in net working capital primarily related to accounts receivable, prepaid, refundable and accrued income taxes and accounts payable and accrued expenses.

Net cash used in investing activities for the 13-week period ended December 31, 2016 was $2,260,000 and resulted primarily from purchases of fixed assets at existing restaurants and the cash portion of the purchase of the Oyster House properties in the amount of $3,043,000, partially offset by the net proceeds in the amount of $2,474,000 from the sale of The Rustic Inn in Jupiter, Florida.

Net cash used in investing activities for the 13-week period ended January 2, 2016, was $942,000 and resulted primarily from purchases of fixed assets at existing restaurants and the cash portion of the purchase of Shuckers in the amount of $717,000.

Net cash used in financing activities for the 13-week periods ended December 31, 2016 and January 2, 2016 of $2,141,000 and $1,952,000, respectively, resulted primarily from the payment of dividends, principal payments on notes payable and distributions to non-controlling interests.

The Company had a working capital deficiency of $4,434,000 at December 31, 2016 as compared with a deficiency of $658,000 at October 1, 2016. This decrease resulted primarily from our purchase of the Oyster House properties in November 2016. We believe that our existing cash balances and cash provided by operations will be sufficient to meet our liquidity and capital spending requirements at least through the next 12 months.

On January 12, 2016, the Company entered into an Amended and Restated Lease for its Sequoia property in Washington D.C. extending the lease for 15 years through November 30, 2032 with one additional five-year option. Annual rent under the new lease is approximately $1,200,000 increasing annually through expiration. Under the terms of the agreement, the property will be closed from January 1, 2017 through March 31, 2017 for renovation and reconcepting. The Company is currently developing the concept and design relating to the renovated space and estimates the total cost to be approximately $6,000,000 to $7,000,000.

On December 7, 2016, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share on the Company’s common stock to be paid on January 3, 2017 to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 20, 2016. The Company intends to continue to pay such quarterly cash dividends for the foreseeable future, however, the payment of future dividends is at the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors and is based on future earnings, cash flow, financial condition, capital requirements, changes in U.S. taxation and other relevant factors.

Recent Restaurant Expansion

On October 22, 2015, the Company, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Ark Shuckers, LLC and Ark Shuckers Real Estate, LLC, acquired the assets of Shuckers Inc. (“Shuckers”), a restaurant and bar located at the Island Beach Resort in Jensen Beach, FL, and six condominium units (four of which house the restaurant and bar operations). In addition, Ark Island Beach Resort LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, acquired Island Beach Resort Inc., a management company that administers a rental pool of certain condominium units under lease. The total purchase price was $5,717,000. The acquisition was accounted for as a business combination and was financed with a bank loan in the amount of $5,000,000 and cash from operations.

On November 30, 2016, the Company, through newly formed, wholly-owned subsidiaries, acquired the assets of the Original Oyster House, Inc., a restaurant and bar located in the City of Gulf Shores, Baldwin County, Alabama and the related real estate and an adjacent retail shopping plaza and the Original Oyster House II, Inc., a restaurant and bar located in the City of Spanish Fort, Baldwin County, Alabama and the related real estate. The total purchase price was for $10,750,000 plus inventory of approximately $293,000. The acquisition is accounted for as a business combination and was financed with a bank loan from the Company’s existing lender in the amount of $8,000,000 and cash from operations.

On March 27, 2015, the Company, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, entered into an agreement to operate a kiosk in Bryant Park, NY for the sale of food and beverages for an initial period expiring on March 31, 2020 with an option to extend the agreement for five additional years. Renovations totaled approximately $400,000 and the property opened in July 2015.

On July 24, 2015, the Company, through a wholly-owned subsidiary, paid $544,000 (including a $144,000 security deposit) to assume the lease for an event space located in New York, NY. The assumed lease expires through March 31, 2026 with an option to extend the agreement for five additional years and provides for annual rent in the amount of approximately $300,000.

Recent Restaurant Dispositions

Lease Expirations – On November 30, 2015, the Company’s lease at the V-Bar located at the Venetian Casino Resort in Las Vegas, NV expired. The closure of this property did not result in a material charge.

The Company was advised by the landlord that it would have to vacate the Center Café property located at Union Station in Washington, DC which was on a month-to-month lease. The closure of this property occurred in February 2016 and did not result in a material charge.

Other – On November 18, 2016, Ark Jupiter RI, LLC (“Ark Jupiter”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, entered into a ROFR Purchase and Sale Agreement (the “ROFR”) with SCFRC-HWG, LLC, the landlord (the “Seller”) to purchase the land and building in which the Company operates its Rustic Inn location in Jupiter, Florida. The Seller had entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement with a third party to sell the premises; however, Ark Jupiter’s lease provided the Company with a right of first refusal to purchase the property. Ark Jupiter exercised the ROFR on October 4, 2016 and made a ten (10%) percent deposit on the purchase price of approximately Five Million Two Hundred Thousand Dollars ($5,200,000). Concurrent with the execution of the ROFR, Ark Jupiter entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement with 1065 A1A, LLC to sell this same property for Eight Million Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($8,250,000). In connection with the sale, Ark Jupiter and 1065 A1A, LLC have entered into a temporary lease and sub-lease arrangement which expires April 30, 2017 at which time the Company expects to vacate the space. In connection with these transactions the Company recognized a gain in the amount of $1,637,000 during the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016.

The Company is in the process of transferring its lease and the related assets of Canyon Road located in New York, NY to an unrelated third party. In connection with this pending transfer, the Company recognized additional depreciation in the amount of $75,000 for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016.

Recent Developments

On January 4, 2017, the Company closed its Sequoia property in Washington, DC for a major renovation. The restaurant is expected to re-open in May 2017. In connection with this closure, the Company recognized a loss related to fixed asset disposals in the amount of $283,000, which is included in Depreciation and Amortization Expenses for the 13-weeks ended December 31, 2016.

On February 7, 2017, the Company invested an additional $222,000 in NMR as a result of a capital call bringing its total investment to $5,108,000.

Critical Accounting Policies

The preparation of financial statements requires the application of certain accounting policies, which may require the Company to make estimates and assumptions of future events. In the process of preparing its consolidated condensed financial statements, the Company estimates the appropriate carrying value of certain assets and liabilities, which are not readily apparent from other sources. The primary estimates underlying the Company’s consolidated condensed financial statements include allowances for potential bad debts on accounts and notes receivable, leases, the useful lives and recoverability of its assets, such as property and intangibles, fair values of financial instruments, the realizable value of its tax assets and other matters. Management bases its estimates on certain assumptions, which it believes are reasonable in the circumstances, and actual results could differ from those estimates. Although management does not believe that any change in those assumptions in the near term would have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial position or the results of operations, differences in actual results could be material to the consolidated condensed financial statements.

The Company’s critical accounting policies are described in the Company’s Form 10-K for the year ended October 1, 2016. There have been no significant changes to such policies during fiscal 2017 other than those disclosed in Note 1 to the Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

Recently Adopted and Issued Accounting Standards

See Note 1 to the Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements for a description of recent accounting pronouncements, including those adopted in fiscal 2017 and the expected dates of adoption and the anticipated impact on the Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

Item 3.     Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

The Company purchases commodities such as chicken, beef, lobster, crabs and shrimp for the Company’s restaurants. The prices of these commodities may be volatile depending upon market conditions. The Company does not purchase forward commodity contracts because the changes in prices for these items have historically been short-term in nature and, in the Company’s view, the cost of the contracts is in excess of the benefits.

The Company’s business is also highly seasonal and dependent on the weather. Outdoor seating capacity, such as terraces and sidewalk cafes, is available for dining only in the warm seasons and then only in inclement weather.

Item 4.     Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). Based on this evaluation, our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2016 to ensure that all material information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to them as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure and that all such information is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) that occurred during the first quarter of fiscal 2017 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Limitations of the Effectiveness of Internal Control

A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the internal control system are met. Because of the inherent limitations of any internal control system, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues, if any, within a company have been detected.

PART II

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.     Legal Proceedings

The Company is not subject to pending legal proceedings, other than ordinary claims incidental to its business, which the Company does not believe will materially impact results of operations.

Item 1A.   Risk Factors

The most significant risk factors applicable to the Company are described in Part I, Item 1A (Risk Factors) of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 1, 2016 (the “2016 Form 10-K”). There have been no material changes to the risk factors previously disclosed in the 2016 Form 10-K. The risks described in the 2016 Form 10-K are not the only risks facing the Company. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to management may materially adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition, and/or operating results.

Item 2.    Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

None.

Item 3.    Defaults upon Senior Securities

None.

Item 4.    Mine Safety Disclosures

Not Applicable.

Item 5.   Other Information

None.

Item 6.   Exhibits

*Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, the Interactive Data Files on Exhibit 101 hereto are deemed not filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, are deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and otherwise are not subject to liability under those sections.

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.