- Retailers
- Largest Clothing Companies
- Largest Book Stores In America
- Largest Food Stores
- Biggest Electronics Store
- Biggest Grocery Stores In Us
- Largest Restaurant Chains
- Largest Retailers
- Largest Jewelry Companies
- Largest Sporting Goods Companies
- Largest Gas Station Chains
- Largest Shoe Companies
- Largest Convenience Store Chains
10 Largest Restaurant Chains in the United States (2026 Edition)
As we navigate the evolving landscape of the U.S. dining industry in 2026, it’s essential to highlight the largest restaurant chains that continue to shape our culinary experiences. Excluding fast-food establishments, this updated list reflects the top 10 “sit down” restaurants based on their latest sales figures.
Detailed List of the 10 Largest Restaurant Chains in the United States
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Applebee’s. Glendale, California USA
Total sales for 2025: $4.5 billion
Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar is well-known for its casual dining experience, with riblets as a signature dish. Founded in 1980 by Bill and T.J. Palmer, the brand aims to create a neighborhood pub atmosphere focused on friendly service. The first outlet opened in Decatur, Georgia, and the company transitioned to a franchise model shortly after its inception.
In 2007, IHOP acquired Applebee’s International, subsequently rebranding as DineEquity and relocating its headquarters to California.
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Olive Garden. Orlando, Florida USA
Total sales for 2025: $4.35 billion
Originally a unit of General Mills, Olive Garden debuted in December 1982 and quickly gained popularity for its Italian-American cuisine. By 1989, it had expanded to 145 locations. Despite some setbacks in expansion plans, the chain remains the largest Italian-themed full-service restaurant in the U.S., focusing on customer experience and menu refinement.
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Buffalo Wild Wings. Sandy Springs, Georgia USA
Total sales for 2025: $3.9 billion
Founded in 1982, Buffalo Wild Wings started as Buffalo Wild Wings & Weck but later simplified its name. After quickly gaining traction, the chain expanded to franchise locations by 1992. The brand has transitioned from a college bar atmosphere to a family-friendly dining experience, significantly growing its presence under the ownership of Roark Capital Group.
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IHOP. Glendale, California USA
Total sales for 2025: $3.5 billion
Founded in 1958 and known for its pancakes, IHOP has become a staple in American breakfast dining. The brand has adapted over the years, expanding its menu to include lunch and dinner items, and has seen continuous growth since its acquisition of Applebee’s in 2007.
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Chili’s. Dallas, Texas USA
Total sales for 2025: $3.3 billion
Chili’s Grill & Bar, established in 1975, initially focused on hamburgers but has since expanded to include a variety of Tex-Mex offerings. The brand returned to its roots with a simplified menu that highlights its signature dishes, creating a unique dining experience.
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Cracker Barrel. Lebanon, Tennessee USA
Total sales for 2025: $3.1 billion
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, established in 1969, is celebrated for its Southern cuisine and nostalgic general store ambiance. The restaurant focuses on creating a welcoming atmosphere for families and travelers alike, maintaining strong sales through consistent customer service.
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Texas Roadhouse. Louisville, Kentucky USA
Total sales for 2025: $3.0 billion
Founded in 1993, Texas Roadhouse is known for its Texas-themed steakhouse experience. The brand emphasizes made-to-order meals and has built a loyal following by focusing on quality ingredients and a lively dining atmosphere.
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Denny’s. Spartanburg, South Carolina USA
Total sales for 2025: $2.9 billion
Denny’s began in 1953 as Danny’s Donuts and has evolved into a well-known diner chain famous for its 24-hour service and Grand Slam breakfasts. The brand has successfully expanded both domestically and internationally, becoming an enduring favorite.
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Outback Steakhouse. Tampa, Florida USA
Total sales for 2025: $2.75 billion
Established in 1988, Outback Steakhouse is known for its American cuisine with an Australian twist. The chain has successfully maintained its brand identity and continues to expand its presence in both domestic and international markets.
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Red Lobster. Orlando, Florida USA
Total sales for 2025: $2.5 billion
Red Lobster, focusing on seafood, debuted in 1968 and has grown into an international brand, renowned for its diverse menu and commitment to sustainability. The chain continues to thrive in both domestic and international markets, adapting its offerings to meet customer demands.
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As the restaurant industry continues to adapt to changing consumer preferences and economic conditions, these top chains showcase resilience and innovation in their operations. Whether through menu diversification, customer engagement strategies, or embracing technology, they remain at the forefront of the dining experience in America.
- Retailers
- Largest Clothing Companies
- Largest Book Stores In America
- Largest Food Stores
- Biggest Electronics Store
- Biggest Grocery Stores In Us
- Largest Restaurant Chains
- Largest Retailers
- Largest Jewelry Companies
- Largest Sporting Goods Companies
- Largest Gas Station Chains
- Largest Shoe Companies
- Largest Convenience Store Chains
Author
Kristin Kizer is an award-winning writer, television and documentary producer, and content specialist who has worked on a wide variety of written, broadcast, and electronic publications. A former writer/producer for The Discovery Channel, she is now a freelance writer and delighted to be sharing her talents and time with the wonderful Zippia audience.
