Technomic has just released an Annual Report detailing the growth rates of the top 500 largest restaurant chains in the U.S. The report compares annual sales between the years of 2009 and 2010, noticing a 1.8 percent increase in annual sales into 2010. Systemwide sales for the top 500 chains increased over $4 billion from 2009, reaching an estimated $234 billion in 2010.

Growth was notable across a plethora of genres, particularly the Steak category. While unit openings and expansion for Steak House operations were dismal over the past couple years, 2010 saw a sales gain of 2.2 percent in 2010, much more promising than the 6.4 percent decline noted in 2009. The hamburger genre was bolstered by Five Guys Burgers and Fries experiencing some serious success, with sales growth at 37.8 percent. Everyone from Starbucks, Dunkin' Donuts, Pizza Hut and Subway posted some notable growth.

For those interested in reading more, here is list of increases in the top 10 Fastest Growing Chains.