2016 top independent restaurants in Fla.

The Sunshine State is home to eight of the Top 100 Independents; last year, the count was six. Three of the highest-grossing restaurants in Florida are on Disney properties.

Top 100 Rank: 2

Annual Sales: $36,837,000

Average Check: $80

The Buzz: As per tradition, Joe’s closed on Aug. 8, reopening Oct. 14 when stone crab season resumes.

Restaurant profile | Top 100 ranking

Top 100 Rank: 9

Annual Sales: $23,600,000

Average Check: $115

The Buzz: The steakhouse is building a 6,000-square-foot space just for private parties of up to 200.

Restaurant profile | Top 100 ranking

Top 100 Rank: 20

Annual Sales: $19,900,000

Average Check: $48*

The Buzz: After the renovation of Downtown Disney into Disney Springs, Fulton’s was closed in in February 2016 for a six-month transformation into Paddlefish restaurant.

*RB estimate

Restaurant profile | Top 100 ranking

Top 100 Rank: 54

Annual Sales: $15,900,000*

Average Check: $28*

The Buzz: Ark Restaurants opened a second The Rustic Inn in Jupiter, Fla., in January 2015.

*RB estimate

Restaurant profile | Top 100 ranking

Top 100 Rank: 56

Annual Sales: $15,850,000*

Average Check: $40*

The Buzz: A Levy Restaurants-run spot in what is now Disney Springs after Downtown Disney's recent makeover.

*RB estimate

Restaurant profile | Top 100 ranking

Top 100 Rank: 61

Annual Sales: $15,211,632

Average Check: $44

The Buzz: One of several restaurants operated but not owned by Gibsons Restaurant Group.

Restaurant profile | Top 100 ranking

Top 100 Rank: 88

Annual Sales: $13,428,258

Average Check: $64

The Buzz: Chef Makoto Okuwa merges traditional sushi with modern influences.

Restaurant profile | Top 100 ranking

Top 100 Rank: 91

Annual Sales: $13,200,000*

Average Check: $52*

The Buzz: A favorite meeting and dining place at Bal Harbour Shops for 15 years.

*RB estimate

Restaurant profile | Top 100 ranking