Independent operators always have been the industry’s backbone, its pioneers and leaders. R&I’s 23rd annual Top 100 Independent Restaurants survey examines the food, service and growth strategies propelling the most successful operations.

Top 100 Independents
The highest-grossing nonchain restaurants had aggregate food-and-beverage sales of $1.34 billion in 2005, an increase of 4.7% over the previous year.

Independence Days
More than ever, independent operations are feeling chain-restaurants’ competitive pressures. But the best independents always find means to match the multi-units’ strengths.

Seeing Double
More than one-third of this year’s Top 100 Independent Restaurants have opened at least a second location, adopting the core business philosophies of chain challengers.