Steakhouse and grill franchises operate in the full-service dining segment, offering grilled proteins, casual dining experiences, and bar-driven menus.
These concepts typically require larger footprints, higher build-out costs, and more complex operations than quick-service models, making system scale, revenue durability, and unit-level efficiency especially important when evaluating performance.
Below are the top steakhouse and grill franchises based on overall system strength and unit economics.
Each franchise is evaluated using a balanced scoring model that weighs five core factors equally. The goal is to highlight brands that combine financial performance, operational maturity, and accessible investment levels. Scores are calculated as follows:
The final score out of 10 is calculated using this weighting model, ensuring the ranking highlights franchises that combine strong unit-level economics with system stability and consistent expansion.
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Fast-casual Tex-Mex restaurant franchise offering a variety of customizable burritos, tacos, and bowls, featuring fresh and flavorful ingredients with a Southwest flair.

KEY FRANCHISE STATS
All you need to know about this franchise
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$1,167,000
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10.2%
What WE LIKE
Here's the rationale for our score
Moe’s Southwest Grill operates a fast-casual, grill-focused concept with a nationally established brand and broad unit base.
Its ranking is driven by strong system scale and solid unit-level economics despite recent contraction.

Famous Dave's is a barbecue restaurant franchise known for its flavorful smoked meats, sauces, and classic BBQ dishes, offering a delicious and authentic barbecue dining experience.

KEY FRANCHISE STATS
All you need to know about this franchise
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$2,707,000
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n.a.
What WE LIKE
Here's the rationale for our score
Famous Dave’s delivers barbecue-focused casual dining with strong brand recognition and consistent revenue performance.
Its ranking reflects dependable unit economics offset by declining system size.

Applebee's is a casual dining restaurant franchise that serves a variety of American dishes, including appetizers, burgers, and entrees, offering a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere for dining out with friends and family.

KEY FRANCHISE STATS
All you need to know about this franchise
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$2,640,000
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n.a.
What WE LIKE
Here's the rationale for our score
Applebee’s is a nationally recognized casual dining chain offering grill-centric American fare.
Its ranking benefits from unmatched scale but is weighed down by high capital requirements.