LongHorn Steakhouse chain stakes site near Coralville Residence Inn

The LongHorn Steakhouse chain is proposing a restaurant in Coralville near the new Residence Inn by Marriott.

A final plat for the Coral Galleria subdivision slated for consideration by the Coralville City Council Monday includes a 1.4-acre lot for LongHorn Steakhouse at the southwest corner of Highway 6 and Coral Ridge Avenue.

It would be the second business in High Development's Coral Galleria subdivision.

LongHorn Steakhouse is a chain operated by Orlando, Fla.-based Darden Restaurants, which also operates such well-known chains as Red Lobster and Olive Garden.

Coral Galleria developer Darryl High said he expects the restaurant chain to begin construction this fall if the city approves the plan. He said several parties have expressed interest in the remaining 13 acres in the subdivision.

He expects more deals to be finalized later this summer after Highway 965 is extended south across James Street, improving access to Coral Galleria.

The ranch house-style LongHorn Steakhouse is a 30-year-old restaurant chain that specializes in fresh grilled meat. It began in Atlanta, Ga. It now consists of more than 370 restaurants in 35 states, including an Eastern Iowa location in Waterloo.