Doug Thompson, former COO of Texas Roadhouse, partnered with two private equity firms to purchase Tumble 22, a five-unit hot chicken chain based in Texas.
The industry veteran acquired the concept with BRS & Co. and Rosser Capital. Both have deep experience in the food and beverage segment. BRS previously invested in Au Bon Bain, California Pizza Kitchen, Golden Corral, Logan’s Roadhouse, McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurant, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, and Steak and Ale. Meanwhile, Rosser is currently vested in Barcelona Wine Bar, Hickory Tavern, Skillets, and bartaco, and used to be part of many of the same chains as BRS.
Tumble 22, which uses Texas-raised chicken and proprietary seasoning, was founded by Guy Villavaso and Larry Foles. The chicken comes in six heat levels, from “wimpy” to “stupid hot,” and is hand-breaded and tumbled exactly 22 times, hence the name. The menu offers bone-in, tenders, bites, and a variety of sandwiches. Four of the casual-dining restaurants are based in the Greater Austin area while the fifth is in Houston.
The restaurant grew from a food trailer to five units in fewer than four years, according to its website.
“BRS’s and RCP’s partnership, knowledge of the restaurant industry, and capital support will be invaluable in helping Tumble 22 build upon its success in the emerging hot chicken space and develop its brand across a broader geographic area,” Villavaso said in a statement.
Thompson will become CEO. He spent almost 20 years at Texas Roadhouse before retiring in November 2021.
“It’s all about the people,” Thompson said in a statement. “[BRS managing partner Tory Rooney] and [Rosser managing partner Jacob Organek] are experienced partners on the financial side. Guy and Larry are legends in the industry, and I am honored to grow their brand. Tumble 22 has a fun culture, incredible food, and phenomenal growth potential. I am thrilled to begin this new venture.”
Villavaso and Foles—who have created a number of concepts under Guy+Larry Restaurants over three decades—are also responsible for Hopdoddy Burger Bar, Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, Roaring Fork, and Z’Tejas Southwestern Grille.
