The first Ground Round^® was built in 1969, and provided a "neighborhood pub" experience where everyone, including couples and families, felt comfortable. The restaurant had a limited menu with only 12 items featuring primarily burgers in a basket, snack food and pitchers of beer. The atmosphere was casual, relaxed and permissive. As the original "no rules" place, the Ground Round^® was a big success with customers.

During the early 1980s, Ground Round^® evolved towards a fun, family-oriented environment. In the 1990s, everyone, including families, began to dine out more often. People expected quality food and service, and once again, the Ground Round^® met this guest expectation by improving food quality, taste profiles, portion size, customer service and overall value.

Today, the Ground Round^® menu offers a combination of variety, flavor profile and portion size that is unequaled in any other casual dining concept. We continue to create a dining experience and level of service that surpasses customer expectations and provides a true value for our guests.

In 2004, the ownership structure of Ground Round^® changed. On July 28, 2004, a cooperative group comprised of 58 former franchisees successfully acquired the majority of the assets of Ground Round^®, Inc. The newly formed company is named Independent Owners Cooperative, LLC. It is a diverse group with vast experience in the restaurant business, and a deep commitment to moving forward and offering guests the best dining experience possible. The new Cooperative operates more than 60 locations in 19 U.S. States.