"Darden has a companywide pattern and practice of paying its employees below minimum wage and less than what the law requires," Mr. Lichter said. "We're seeking not only to correct the wrongs that have occurred at Darden, but hopefully, this will stimulate change across the country."
Olive Garden, Red Lobster hit with labor-law suit →
It seeks potentially tens of millions of dollars in back pay and other compensation, plus interest and attorneys' fees, said lead lawyer David Lichter.