Restaurant management services provider Sun Holdings, through its affiliate Louie Restaurants, has purchased US gastropub chain Bar Louie for an undisclosed sum.

The acquisition of the kitchen and cocktail bar concept follows its second Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in March 2025.

Bar Louie, known for its handcrafted martinis, currently operates 39 gastropub-style outlets across the US.

The acquisition is part of Sun Holdings’ ongoing efforts to diversify its holdings and broaden its footprint in the casual dining sector.

Its president and CEO stated: “This acquisition marks an exciting step forward in our growth strategy.

“Bar Louie is renowned for its signature Martinis and innovative, craveable food. Its unique brand identity makes it an ideal addition to our casual dining portfolio and highlights our strategy of pairing operational expertise with growth opportunities to drive value for both customers and stakeholders.”

Sun Holdings began as a franchisee and has expanded its portfolio through a series of acquisitions.

The company’s dealmaking activity dates back to 2019, when it announced the acquisition of the Taco Bueno chain following that company’s financial difficulties.

In October 2020, Sun Holdings acquired 41 IHOP locations after its previous owner CFRA Holdings filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and closed 49 IHOP restaurants due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Subsequent transactions include the purchase of Freebirds World Burrito in 2024 and the acquisition of casual dining brand Uncle Julio’s, adding a cluster of Mexican-food brands to the group.

Currently, Sun Holdings has more than 1,800 sites across the US, encompassing outlets of Arby’s, Applebee’s, Burger King, Golden Corral, McAlister’s, Papa John’s and Popeyes.

In April 2022 the company entered a refranchising agreement with Pizza chain Papa John’s International.