DALLAS, March 16, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --

Whether or not there's a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow or a leprechaun with a four-leaf clover in sight, everybody is Irish this St. Patrick's Day. So this Thursday only, guests can find their luck as they celebrate the Irish holiday at Chili's(R) Grill & Bar and have a cold, refreshing green beer at participating locations nationwide.

Thursday also kicks off the opening round of the men's college basketball tournament and is considered to be one of the year's 'least productive work days' because of all the action on the hardwoods throughout the day. Those drawn into the madness can keep a close eye on their brackets and cheer on their favorite teams to victory with Chili's 'winning combination' of bar specials and appetizers. Guests who want to catch the action in the bar area can complement their green beer with a variety of discounted appetizers, featuring favorites like Southwestern Eggrolls, Texas Cheese Fries, Boneless Buffalo Wings and more. Also available are deals on select draft beers, margaritas and well drinks. Prices and participation may vary by location.

According to a study by the National Restaurant Association, more than a quarter of Americans plan to visit a restaurant or bar on March 17. Of those planning to celebrate at a restaurant or bar, 15 percent said the most important factor to them was whether the location would air the men's basketball tournament.

"People are looking for an excuse to sneak out and watch the games this Thursday, so why not join us at Chili's and enjoy a cold green brew, eat some great food and hopefully watch your teams get 'lucky' and advance to the next round?" said Scott Zaleskin, senior marketing director for Chili's Grill & Bar.

Chili's is spicing things up as the destination of choice for all things St. Patrick's Day and college hoops and encourages guests to take advantage of the green beer special, which is available for domestic and import selections served on tap in both the dining room and bar areas.

About Chili's Grill & Bar

Chili's Grill & Bar is the flagship brand of Dallas-based Brinker International, Inc. (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 1,500 locations in 31 countries and two territories. Brinker's wholly-owned restaurant brands include Chili's(R) Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy(R). Brinker also holds a minority investment in Romano's Macaroni Grill(R). For more information, please visit www.chilis.com.

SOURCE Chili's Grill & Bar