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 of 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 28 locations in 12 States spread across the Midwest and Northeast areas of the United States.