The analyst said that "expectations for 7-8% commodity inflation over the next 18 months will be a headwind to margin expansion; however, we view DRI as best able to defend margins with price increases, supply chain efficiencies, and real estate ownership." The Bottom Line Shares of Darden Restaurants ( DRI ) have a 2.60% dividend yield, based on last night's closing stock price of $49.30. Full-service restaurant operator Darden Restaurants, Inc. ( DRI ) on Friday saw its price target and earnings estimates raised by analysts at Susquehanna.