Longhorn Steakhouse

LongHorn Steakhouse is a national restaurant brand known for its focus on grilled steaks and classic steakhouse dishes, all served in a relaxed, Western-inspired setting. The company began in 1981 in Atlanta, Georgia, when George McKerrow Jr. and his partners opened the first location. A turning point in its early history came during the Atlanta snowstorm of 1982, when the restaurant became a neighborhood refuge, helping it build a loyal customer base and setting the stage for future growth.

Over the decades, LongHorn expanded steadily, first across the Eastern United States and then into new regions, establishing a reputation for quality and consistency. In the 1990s, its growing presence attracted the attention of major restaurant groups, and today LongHorn operates as part of Darden Restaurants, Inc., a leading name in the full-service dining sector.

As of November 2025, LongHorn Steakhouse has reached 570 company-owned locations across 44 states. The brand’s footprint is especially strong in suburban and highway retail corridors, with a recent emphasis on high-growth Sun Belt markets and select Midwest suburbs. The past five years have seen a disciplined expansion strategy, with new restaurants opening in Texas, Florida, and the Carolinas, and additional growth planned through 2026. Priority markets include Texas, Florida, North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona, and Colorado.

LongHorn does not franchise; all locations are operated by Darden corporate staff, which ensures a consistent guest experience and streamlined real estate process. The company’s approach to site selection draws on Darden’s significant resources, supporting LongHorn’s preference for freestanding buildings with strong visibility and access. Its scale and stability, backed by a parent company that also owns Olive Garden and The Capital Grille, make LongHorn a reliable anchor for retail developments and a proven traffic driver in a variety of settings. The brand’s ongoing growth and established reputation position it as a sought-after tenant in both new and established commercial corridors.