Although brands have shown signs of recovery, casual-dining concepts continue to face an uphill battle as COVID impacts the entire country. 

Steakhouses, one of the premier segments in full service, are well-entrenched in that climb toward normal sales levels. Known for their in-restaurant experience and high-quality menu, these restaurants had to shift focus to customers outside the four walls. Even as dining rooms have opened, the off-premises channel—whether it’s takeout, curbside, or delivery—is still a major part of sales. Many operators anticipate that it will remain that way as demand for convenience keeps increasing. 

There’s no question the landscape has changed. And for the first time in a few years, FSR released a ranking of the top 50 full-service chains in the America, listing them by sales, AUV, and unit count. 

Backed by data from this year’s FSR 50, here’s a look at which steakhouses led the pack coming into the year, and where they could be going next. 

Note: The figures are by U.S. results as of 2019 year end. 

U.S. systemwide sales (millions): $2,886

Average sales per unit (thousands): $5,359

Unit count: 544

Total change in units from 2018: 11

Read more in the FSR 50 here.

A look at how Texas Roadhouse has navigated the COVID-19 pandemic, and why it could emerge in even better shape.

U.S. systemwide sales (millions): $2,630

Average sales per unit (thousands): $3,608

Unit count: 725

Total change in units from 2018: –8

Read more in the FSR 50 here.

Outback wins with simplicity as it prepares for a post-pandemic future.

U.S. systemwide sales (millions): $1,864

Average sales per unit (thousands): $3,626

Unit count: 518

Total change in units from 2018: 8

Read more in the FSR 50 here.

Darden sees growth potential on the other side of COVID-19.

U.S. systemwide sales (millions): $765

Average sales per unit (thousands): $5,625

Unit count: 136

Total change in units from 2018: Zero

Read more in the FSR 50 here.

For Ruth’s Chris, it’s all about mastering the margins.

U.S. systemwide sales (millions): $515

Average sales per unit (thousands): $2,581

Unit count: 199

Total change in units from 2018: –1

Read more in the FSR 50 here.

A new owner breathes life back into Logan’s Roadhouse.

U.S. systemwide sales (millions): $469

Average sales per unit (thousands): $8,017

Unit count: 59

Total change in units from 2018: 1

Read more in the FSR 50 here.

U.S. systemwide sales (millions): $375

Average sales per unit (thousands): $9,259

Unit count: 43

Total change in units from 2018: 5

Read more in the FSR 50 here.

U.S. systemwide sales (millions): $370

Average sales per unit (thousands): $6,435

Unit count: 62

Total change in units from 2018: 9

Read more in the FSR 50 here.

U.S. systemwide sales (millions): $302

Average sales per unit (thousands): $4,345

Unit count: 69

Total change in units from 2018: –1

Read more in the FSR 50 here.

U.S. systemwide sales (millions): $296

Average sales per unit (thousands): $3,973

Unit count: 76

Total change in units from 2018: 3

Read more in the FSR 50 here.