Thousands of jobs are at risk as the owner of Bella Italia, Cafe Rouge and Las Iguanas is hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic.
Casual Dining Group (CDG) has confirmed a notice of intent to appoint administrators had been filed at the High Court today.
The group, which has furloughed the majority of its staff, traded from around 250 sites across the UK prior to the lockdown and employed around 6,000 workers.
A Casual Dining Group spokesman said: "As is widely acknowledged, this is an unprecedented situation for our industry and, like many other companies across the UK, the directors of Casual Dining Group are working closely with our advisers as we consider our next steps.
"These notifications are a prudent measure in light of the company’s position and the wider situation.
"These notifications will also protect the company from any threatened potential legal action from landlords while we review the detail of the Government advice, and formulate a plan for the company in these difficult times."
Reports suggested earlier today that CDG was in talks with creditors over a potential cash injection amid ongoing lockdown measures. They were expected to unveil plans for a series of insolvency arrangements this week, as part of efforts to save the business following months of lockdown.
The high-street has took a huge hit as a result of the coronavirus outbreak with many retailers unsure of their futures with some already announcing permanent closure.
There are also reports that troubled rival chain Carluccio's is closing on a rescue deal which could save 900 jobs at the business.
