Community Invited to Rise and Shine at Chain's First Prototype

COLUMBUS, OH -- (Marketwire) -- 08/10/09 -- Bob Evans (NASDAQ: BOBE) will open its prototype in Xenia, Ohio, on Monday, August 17, 2009. Located at 1981 Harner Drive, the restaurant will be the first Bob Evans location built from the ground up with a new "Home of Homestyle" design.

The company's prototype took a cue from the Bob Evans family homestead for design inspiration. The restaurant reflects a contemporary and relevant twist on the imagery and feel of the original Bob Evans family farm in Rio Grande, Ohio, where Bob Evans and his wife Jewell raised their family.

"It was a natural fit to launch our prototype in this community," said Mary Cusick, Bob Evans senior vice president of marketing. "Our relationship with Xenia has deep roots, dating back to 1953 when we opened our food processing plant here."

"We want our guests to be able to relax and connect with friends and family," said Cusick. "The new restaurant creates a comfortable dining experience while delivering the high-quality food and hospitality for which Bob Evans has become known."

Among the changes that Bob Evans guests will find at the Xenia location:

--  Flat screen televisions and free WiFi
--  New staff uniforms
--  Eat-in kitchen
--  Bob Evans curbside carryout
--  Bob's Table - a large farmhouse table which serves as a gathering spot
    for families and friends
--  A variety of flexible dining spaces
    

In 1953, Bob Evans Farms opened a sausage manufacturing plant in Xenia and currently employs 87 people at that facility.

"Along with a fresh image and additional guest conveniences, the new restaurant will employ about 100 people from the Xenia community," said Nicole Opfer, Bob Evans general manager. "We're proud of what our growth means for local residents and look forward to welcoming them into the Bob Evans family."

Bob Evans' Rise & Shine team will be handing out $12,000 worth of free prizes and gift cards throughout the day and big-dollar gift cards for the first 100 people in line. The opening ceremony will start before the restaurant opens at 6:00 a.m. with local dignitaries and Bob Evans CEO Steve Davis present.

"The prototype location is an integral part of our chain-wide innovation plans to create a contemporary homestead," said Randy Hicks, Bob Evans president and chief concept officer.