Official definition

This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing food services (except snack and nonalcoholic beverage bars) where patrons generally order or select items and pay before eating. Food and drink may be consumed on premises, taken out, or delivered to the customer's location. Some establishments in this industry may provide these food services in combination with selling alcoholic beverages. Illustrative Examples: Delicatessen restaurants Pizza delivery shops Family restaurants, limited-service Takeout eating places Fast-food restaurants Fast casual restaurants Takeout sandwich shops Limited-service pizza parlors Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in--