JJ Johnson’s New York City concept Fieldtrip won an unspecified amount of Series A funding from Founders Table, the parent to the Chopt and Dos Toros chains. The investment will help grow the Harlem-based Fieldtrip brand in Manhattan and the Bronx.

Golden Corral parent Investors Management Corp. in November announced a strategic partnership with Taco Bamba, a Washington, D.C.-based taqueria founded by chef Victor Albisu. The six-unit concept plans national growth.

“South Park” creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker in November acquired the beloved Casa Bonita restaurant in Denver out of bankruptcy. The quirky concept is expected to reopen in 2022 with James Beard Award-nominated chef Dana Rodriguez at the helm in the kitchen.

The Los Angeles-based Ike’s Love & Sandwiches in September announced a strategic investment in the three-unit hot-chicken concept Bangin’ Buns. The company planned to open 15 new units by the end of 2022.

Dirty Bird Fried Chxx was acquired in September by boutique investment firm Wags Capital. The deal includes a $20 million investment to fuel aggressive growth, with as many as 30 new locations planned over the next 12 to 14 months.

The growth equity firm Mercato Partners in September announced a majority investment in the Miami-based fast-casual brand Pincho. The deal was the first for Mercato’s Savory Fund,  launched in 2018.

Tao Group Hospitality in May acquired the Hakkasan Group, creating a combined company operating 61 entertainment, dining and nightlife venues in 22 markets across five continents.

A group of investors agreed to acquire the vegan concept By Chloe out of bankruptcy in March, though they were forced to change the name. Chef Chloe Coscarelli, who left the company in 2016, battled in court to prevent to use of her name.