Ground Round restaurants have been a beloved staple in American dining for decades, known for their casual, family-friendly atmosphere and wide range of classic American dishes. From their origins in the 1960s to their modern-day presence, Ground Round has evolved with changing tastes and dining trends. In this guide, we’ll dive into everything there is to know about Ground Round restaurants—from the menu to their unique style and family-oriented focus, as well as where you can find these establishments today.

The History of Ground Round Restaurants

How Ground Round Started

Founded in 1969 by Howard Johnson’s company, Ground Round began as a unique concept to bring affordable, casual dining to families across the United States. The initial aim was to create a relaxed environment where families and friends could gather for quality food without breaking the bank. Over the years, Ground Round grew, quickly making a name for itself by serving American classics in a fun, approachable way.

Expansion and Changes Over Time

Ground Round saw rapid growth throughout the 1970s and 1980s, expanding to multiple locations across the United States. The restaurant became known for its laid-back atmosphere, where customers could enjoy free popcorn, peanuts, and a wide array of food and drink options. However, as the restaurant industry shifted in the 1990s and early 2000s, Ground Round faced challenges. Several locations closed, and the chain went through ownership changes. In 2004, Ground Round filed for bankruptcy, which led to a new ownership model where franchisees were allowed to take over many of the remaining locations.

Ground Round Today: Franchise-Based Model

Today, Ground Round operates on a franchise model, with many of its locations owned by independent franchisees. This model has allowed the brand to keep a strong presence in many communities, particularly in the Midwest and Northeast United States. Despite the shift in management, Ground Round continues to hold its reputation as a beloved family-oriented dining option.

What’s on the Ground Round Menu?

Classic American Fare with Something for Everyone

Ground Round is known for its extensive menu that caters to a wide range of tastes. Their menu features everything from burgers and steaks to seafood, salads, and pasta. The brand has maintained its focus on hearty American food with plenty of options for customization.

1. Appetizers and Starters

Ground Round’s appetizer menu is perfect for sharing, with popular options such as:

• Loaded Nachos: Layered with cheese, seasoned beef, jalapeños, and fresh salsa.
• Potato Skins: Topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, and sour cream.
• Mozzarella Sticks: Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside.
• Chicken Wings: Available in a variety of flavors including buffalo, BBQ, and garlic parmesan.

2. Main Dishes

The main courses at Ground Round are designed to satisfy a variety of preferences:

• Burgers and Sandwiches: Including signature creations like the Ground Rounder Burger and BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich.
• Steaks and Ribs: Hand-cut steaks grilled to perfection, with options like sirloin and ribeye.
• Seafood Dishes: Such as grilled salmon, fried shrimp, and fish & chips.
• Pasta and Salads: Caesar Salad, Chicken Alfredo, and other fresh options for lighter fare.

3. Kids’ Menu

Ground Round’s family-friendly atmosphere extends to a dedicated kids’ menu, featuring items like mini cheeseburgers, chicken tenders, and mac and cheese. Each meal is served with a side and a drink, making it easy and affordable for families dining with young children.

Signature Drinks and Bar Options

Ground Round locations also have a full bar with a wide selection of drinks. Their menu includes:

• Craft Beers and Local Brews: Rotating selections depending on the location.
• Classic Cocktails: Like margaritas, mojitos, and martinis.
• Signature Cocktails: Unique to Ground Round, with specialty drinks like the ‘Round Rita’ and ‘Classic Old-Fashioned.’

Why Ground Round Stands Out: Unique Dining Experiences

Family-Friendly Ambience with a Twist

Ground Round’s commitment to creating a relaxed, family-friendly environment has been central to its identity. The restaurant originally became famous for its quirky touches, such as complimentary popcorn and peanuts for guests. Kids could even throw peanut shells on the floor in some locations, adding a fun, unconventional element that set Ground Round apart.

Two Distinct Dining Areas

One unique feature of many Ground Round locations is the layout. Traditionally, the restaurant is divided into two main areas—a family dining section and a separate bar area. This allows families and individuals to have different dining experiences in the same establishment, with one side providing a quiet area for family meals and the other side offering a livelier atmosphere for social gatherings and sports fans.

Locations and Where to Find Ground Round Restaurants

Strong Regional Presence in the U.S.

Ground Round operates primarily in the Midwest and Northeast regions of the United States, although specific locations vary. Cities in states like Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and New York are known for housing multiple Ground Round locations. With its franchise model, the brand continues to maintain its regional strength, with each franchise owner actively engaged in their local community.

Finding a Location Near You

To locate a Ground Round near you, the brand’s website provides a convenient location finder tool. Customers can enter their zip code or city to find the closest restaurant. Additionally, franchise-operated locations often maintain their own websites and social media pages, where they post local events, special promotions, and menu updates.

Ground Round’s Commitment to Community and Tradition

Community Engagement

Many Ground Round franchise owners make it a point to connect with their communities by hosting events, supporting local sports teams, and participating in charity efforts. This local engagement has strengthened Ground Round’s image as a trusted community-centered brand, building a loyal customer base who return for both the food and the experience.

Preserving Tradition While Innovating

Although Ground Round has modernized its menu and operations to meet contemporary dining trends, the brand remains committed to its roots. By keeping classic menu items and traditional touches, like complimentary popcorn, they honor the original Ground Round experience that many customers fondly remember.

Why Families Love Ground Round

Affordability and Quality

Ground Round offers great value, with reasonably priced meals and generous portions. Families appreciate the fact that they can dine out without breaking the budget. Additionally, the kids’ menu and the relaxed setting make Ground Round a popular choice for family nights out.

Consistent, Quality Service

Many patrons praise Ground Round for its friendly and attentive staff, who contribute to a welcoming and pleasant dining experience. This consistent service has kept Ground Round relevant and cherished even after decades in the business.

Ground Round Specials and Promotions

Weekly Specials and Happy Hour

Ground Round frequently offers specials that add to the dining value. Common promotions include:

• Burger and Beer Night: Discounted burgers and select beers.
• Taco Tuesdays: Featuring a range of taco options.
• Happy Hour Deals: Discounted drinks and appetizers in the bar area.

Seasonal and Local Promotions

Franchisees often introduce seasonal promotions and deals unique to their location. This can include holiday-themed specials, limited-time menu items, and event-based promotions, especially around major sports games or local events.

How to Make the Most of Your Ground Round Visit

Tips for Families

When dining with kids, arrive early in the evening to take advantage of the family-friendly dining area. Look out for daily specials that make it easy to try multiple dishes without overspending.

Ideal for Group Gatherings

The casual atmosphere and diverse menu make Ground Round a great option for group outings, whether for a birthday party, family gathering, or office meet-up. Many locations are spacious, allowing large groups to dine comfortably.

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Conclusion

Ground Round restaurants continue to hold a special place in American dining by providing a warm, family-friendly environment paired with classic American dishes. From their rich history to their modern-day franchise model, Ground Round has managed to stay relevant while preserving the traditions that made them popular in the first place. Whether you’re enjoying their signature burgers, grabbing a drink with friends, or treating your family to a meal out, Ground Round is a restaurant that promises quality, community, and a taste of nostalgia.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What type of food does Ground Round serve? Ground Round offers a variety of American-style dishes, including burgers, steaks, seafood, salads, and more. The menu also includes kid-friendly options and appetizers perfect for sharing.

2. Where can I find a Ground Round restaurant? Ground Round is mostly located in the Midwest and Northeast regions of the United States. You can use the location finder on their official website to find the closest restaurant.