DALLAS, March 4, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX News Network/ -- This week, a New York-based Chili's Grill & Bar(R) restaurant manager is being featured on the Food Network. Ivan Aviles, general manager at a Chili's Grill & Bar location in Long Island, submitted the prize-winning recipe for the Food Network's "Ultimate Recipe Showdown."

Aviles' Chipotle Grilled Steak Sandwich was selected by a panel of food experts as the nationwide winner in the contest's comfort food category.

"We were pleased to see a Chili's team member recognized by the Food Network for his culinary expertise and to see Ivan's recipe incorporated into the menu of one of our industry peers. As the old adage goes: Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery -- and we're extremely flattered!" said Dana Tilley, vice president of food and beverage innovation for Chili's Grill & Bar.

"Of course, every day, about one million guests at more than 1,400 Chili's restaurants worldwide experience this level of culinary supremacy and innovation," added Tilley.

Chili's is famous for incorporating kicked-up flavorful spices such as chipotle, poblano, and jalapeno into classic brand favorites. Popular items recently added to the menu include Crispy Honey-Chipotle Chicken Crispers, Blazin' Habanero Baby Back Ribs and Big Mouth(R) Burger Bites served with jalapeno-ranch dressing.

Chili's Grill & Bar is the flagship brand of Dallas-based Brinker International (NYSE: EAT), a recognized leader in casual dining. Chili's offers a fun, energetic atmosphere and a distinct, fresh mix of grilled American favorites at more than 1,400 locations in 25 countries. Other Brinker brands include Romano's Macaroni Grill, Maggiano's Little Italy and On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina. For more information, please visit http://www.chilis.com.

Contact: Media Relations

               (800) 775-7290      

SOURCE Chili's Grill & Bar

http://www.chilis.com  

Copyright (C) 2008 PR Newswire. All rights reserved

News Provided by COMTEX