CULVER CITY, Calif. – Sizzler announced a development deal that would bring five new restaurants to the San Francisco Bay Area in addition to upgrades and remodels at existing locations in Sacramento, Auburn, Pinole, Hayword and Santa Clara.

The company made the deal with restaurateur Tony Lutfi, who plans to open his first Sizzler restaurant in the San Francisco Bay Area in the next 24 months. He will also renovate the five purchased locations. Lutfi has an extensive background in the franchise industry. He owns and operates 72 restaurants with brands such as Jack in the Box, Church's Chicken, Arby's and Little Caesars, according to Sizzler.

Sizzler said the company would continue its development in California and across the nation in a strategic expansion plan, which will also target Chicago, Minneapolis, Denver, Kansas City, and St. Louis. The deal with Lutfi marks the first multi-unit deal for Sizzler since Kerry Kramp became chief executive officer in 2008.

"The relaunch of Sizzler's franchise development is a result of the belief that the brand has broad consumer appeal," said Kramp. "The new generation Sizzler resonates with today's consumer because of its high quality, healthy menu offerings and its strong affordability."