While fast-food and fast-casual chains dominate the restaurant industry, many casual dining and family-style restaurants are holding their own and thriving! Despite industry setbacks, like Red Lobster's recent bankruptcy, these family-style chains continue to attract customers looking for a relaxed sit-down dining experience. Popular names like Chili's, The Cheesecake Factory, and IHOP remain classics. Using data and research, Business Insider has highlighted the top 10 casual-dining/family-style restaurant chains in the U.S in 2024. Here they are:
- Olive Garden: Claiming the top spot is Olive Garden. Founded in 1982, this Italian-style family restaurant that remains popular, especially with promotions like endless breadsticks. With 908 restaurants and $5.1 billion in sales in 2023, they remain a fan-favorite!
- Texas Roadhouse: Founded in 1993, Texas Roadhouse has earned a loyal following with its famous cinnamon butter rolls, hand-cut steaks, crispy cactus blossom, and most of all a fun atmosphere. With 638 locations and $4.8 billion in sales, it's no surprise this is a top choice!
- Applebee's: Since 1980, Applebee's has been a classic, serving up American dishes and signature cocktails. Having 1,536 restaurants and $4.4 billion in sales, its family-friendly atmosphere continues its popularity.
- Chili's Grill & Bar: Known for its $1 Margaritas and Triple Dipper appetizer, Chilis' has been a staple in American dining since 1975. With $4 billions in sales across 1,230 locations, it remains a go-to spot, even finding a fresh wave of internet virality in 2024!
- Buffalo Wild Wings: Founded in 1982. Buffalo Wild Wings is the ultimate sport for sports fans and wing lovers alike. With 1,264 restaurants and $4 billion in sales, it's game day atmosphere and wide variety of wing flavors keep customers coming back.
- IHOP: A breakfast staple since 1958, IHOP is known for its delicious and customizable pancakes, perfect for all-day breakfast! Operating 1,696 location and $3.4 billion in sales, it remains a favorite for breakfast fans nationwide.
- Outback Steakhouse: Bringing a taste of Australia to the U.S. since 1988, Outback Steakhouse is famous for its Bloomin' Onion, flavorful steaks, and fun cocktails! With 668 restaurants and $2.8 billion in sales, it's a favorite for those craving unique and bold flavors.
- Longhorn Steakhouse: Since 1981, Longhorn Steakhouse has been serving expertly grilled steak with a Western flair. With $2.8 billion in sales and 680 locations, it remains a strong competitor in the steakhouse scene.
- Denny's: Open 24/7 since 1953, Denny's is the go-to-spot for breakfast, burgers, and late-night bites. With 1,407 locations and $2.7 billion in sales, it's a reliable choice for comfort food at any time.
- Cracker Barrel: Founded in 1969, Cracker Barrel offers a nostalgic dining experience with Southern comfort food and a country store aesthetic. With 662 locations and $2.7 billion in sales, it continues to be an old time favorite.
- The Cheesecake Factory: Since 1978, The Cheesecake Factory has built itself a reputation with a large, multi-page menu and over-the-top cheesecakes. Operating 216 restaurants and earning $2.6 billion in sales, it's a go-to spot for a nice, classy dinner.
- Red Lobster: Founded in 1968, Red Lobster has long been a leader in the seafood space. Despite recent challenges, it generated $2.2 billion in sales with 649 locations, fueled by a new CEO and iconic promotions like Endless Shrimp!
- Golden Corral: Known for their large buffets, Golden Carrol has been serving up a variety of dishes since 1973. With 357 locations and $1.6 billion in sales, it remains a favorite for all-you-can-eat dining.
- Red Robin: Since 1969, Red Robin has been delighting burger fans with its gourmet creations and bottomless fries. With $1.6 billion in sales across 506 locations, it's a staple for family-friendly dining.
- Waffle House: A Southern icon since 1955, Waffle House serves comfort food and provides late-night dining experiences. With 1,985 locations and $1.4 billion in sales, it remains a beloved spot for breakfast lovers, especially in the South.
Source: Business Insider
Photo: Getty