Cerca Trova Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy
The San Diego-based management company, Outback Steakhouse's largest domestic franchisee, has sought bankruptcy protection in Delaware.
Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Dining Out
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Cerca Trova Restaurant Group Holdings filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the U.S. Court for the District of Delaware on Nov. 2. The San Diego-based company operates approximately 100 Outback Steakhouse locations across Western states.
Why it matters
The filing affects a large share of Outback Steakhouse's domestic footprint and reflects broader pressure on casual dining chains facing rising operating costs and more dining options. San Diego diners who frequent Outback locations in the region may see changes as the restructuring proceeds.
Cerca Trova operates about 100 of the roughly 670 U.S. Outback Steakhouse locations, and it reported liabilities between $100 million and $500 million against assets of less than $50,000. The filing does not say whether any restaurants will close or change hands during the case.
The players
Cerca Trova Restaurant Group Holdings
A San Diego-based management company and Outback Steakhouse's largest domestic franchisee, which filed for bankruptcy protection.
Outback Steakhouse
A steakhouse chain founded in Tampa in 1988 that has grappled with rising food costs and a changing casual dining market.
Bloomin' Brands
The parent company of Outback Steakhouse that closed more than 40 underperforming locations in 2026 as part of a turnaround strategy.
The details
Cerca Trova, which previously operated as T-Bird Restaurant Group, was founded in 1994 and is backed by funds from the H.I.G. Capital holdings company. In 2017 it acquired 45 corporate-owned Outback locations in Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, and New Mexico.
Timeline
1988: Outback Steakhouse is founded in Tampa.
1994: Cerca Trova is founded.
2017: Cerca Trova acquires 45 corporate-owned Outback locations.
2026: Bloomin' Brands closes more than 40 underperforming locations as part of a wider turnaround.
Nov. 2, 2026: Cerca Trova files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
Market Pressure
The filing follows Bloomin' Brands' closure of more than 40 underperforming Outback locations in 2026, a sign that the restructuring is reaching the franchise system. Casual dining chains have faced rising operating costs and more competition for diners' spending.
San Diego diners who regularly visit Outback Steakhouse locations operated by Cerca Trova may see changes to hours, menus, or locations as the restructuring proceeds. The filing does not specify any immediate changes to service at individual restaurants.
The takeaway
Diners who rely on a specific chain should check directly with their local restaurant for current hours and availability during restructuring. Changes in ownership or closures often roll out gradually rather than all at once.
Further reading
For more on local restaurant trends, see Dining Out in San Diego.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Idaho Statesman.
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