Sep. 21--When looking deeper into the report, however, Burger King's results didn't quite hit the spot. Sales trends remain dismal. Fourth-quarter sales fell 15.8 percent versus the year-ago quarter, and global sales at locations open a year or more decreased 2.4 percent. U.S. and Canadian restaurants saw a decline of 4.5 percent. Still, for fiscal 2009, the company achieved some success, including worldwide sales growth of 1.2 percent at units open a year or more and a 28 percent increase in operating cash flow.

Management's near-term outlook was less than reassuring, though. It declined to provide expected numbers for fiscal 2010, citing "consumer uncertainties," but reiterated annual long-term growth targets of 6 percent to 7 percent for revenue and 15 percent for EPS.

The stock looks reasonably priced based on next year's earnings estimates, with a forward P/E ratio of less than 13. Unfortunately, with sales trends and operating expenses moving in the wrong direction, analysts may become more pessimistic in the months ahead.

For those seeking appetizing quick-serve restaurant stock, McDonald's or Yum! Brands may be preferable. Either will quench your thirst for international growth

and is better-positioned for the weak consumer demand in the U.S.

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