Some pretty popular chain restaurants are based in Tampa Bay, as you know. TripAdvisor's inaugural ranking of the Top Restaurant Chains in America for 2019 has given three of them — Bonefish Grill, Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar and The Melting Pot — a shout-out.
The travel website also recognized seven national chains headquartered outside of the region, but still in Florida: Eddie V's Prime Seafood, Seasons 52, Capital Grille, Yard House, Another Broken Egg Cafe, Ruth's Chris Steak House and First Watch.
"We are thrilled about this recognition and we'll continue to make the Bonefish Grill experience unique at each of our locations by catering to local tastes," said Bonefish Grill President David Schmidt in a statement. "We are grateful that our guests are excited about what we offer, including our locally-inspired dishes, and that they share their positive experiences with TripAdvisor."
Thirty honorees in total, which range from fine-dining eateries to fast-casual spots, were named as the country's favorite small (10 to 50 locations), medium (51 to 100 locations) and large (101 or more locations) chains.
Based on "millions of reviews and opinions" from TripAdvisor diners, the ranking used an algorithm to determine which restaurants landed on each list, taking quality, quantity and recency of reviews into account over a 12-month period.
"Chain restaurants are integral to the American dining experience as they offer consumers convenient and satisfying meals for all occasions," according to Bertrand Jelensperger, senior vice president for TripAdvisor Restaurants. "For the first time, TripAdvisor is ranking restaurant chains that provide exemplary food, service and value to diners. Every company featured in these rankings should be proud of the recognition they are receiving from TripAdvisor's community of millions of travelers and locals searching our site for a great place to eat."
This article appears in Dec 20-27, 2018.