Julia Stewart’s entrepreneurial journey began in the late 1970s when she took a leap of faith, leaving her job as a teacher to pursue a career in the restaurant industry. She started with a single Sonic Drive-In franchise in Oklahoma, marking the beginning of what would become a remarkable career in the food service sector.

Stewart’s hard work and innovative strategies quickly paid off. By the 1990s, she had expanded her Sonic franchise to over 1,000 locations across the United States, making her one of the largest franchisees in the company’s history. This success caught the attention of the media and the business world, and Stewart began to gain national recognition for her accomplishments.

Julia Stewart’s Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Julia Stewart’s net worth is estimated to be around $700 million according to the latest available information.

Julia Stewart’s Career

Julia Stewart began her career in the restaurant industry in the 1970s, working her way up from a server to a manager. She co-founded the restaurant company, DineEquity, in 2006, which owns brands like Applebee’s and IHOP. She served as the CEO and Chairwoman until her retirement in 2016.

Other Ventures

After leaving DineEquity, Stewart founded the venture capital firm, The Stewart Group, in 2017. The firm focuses on investing in early-stage food and beverage companies. She also serves on several corporate boards.

Assets

Julia Stewart’s assets include a significant stake in DineEquity, real estate investments, and her venture capital firm. She also owns a private jet and luxury properties in California and Colorado.

Annual Income

As a retired CEO and Chairwoman, Stewart’s annual income is primarily derived from her investments and board positions. Her exact annual income is not publicly disclosed, but it’s estimated to be in the millions.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Julia Stewart

What is Julia Stewart’s net worth?

Julia Stewart’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 billion.

How did Julia Stewart make her fortune?

Julia Stewart made her fortune through her career in the restaurant industry. She served as the CEO of DineEquity, the parent company of Applebee’s and IHOP, from 2008 to 2017. She also founded and led several other restaurant chains.

What is Julia Stewart’s background?

Julia Stewart was born in Texas and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in marketing. She began her career in the restaurant industry in the 1970s and worked her way up to become a successful CEO.

What are some of the restaurant chains Julia Stewart has been involved with?

Julia Stewart has been involved with several restaurant chains throughout her career, including Applebee’s, IHOP, and the former chain, T.G.I. Friday’s. She also founded and led the restaurant chains, Fogatas and On the Border.

What is Julia Stewart’s role in the restaurant industry today?

As of 2021, Julia Stewart serves as the Chairwoman of the Board of Directors for DineEquity, the parent company of Applebee’s and IHOP. She also has investments in several other restaurant chains.

What is Julia Stewart’s leadership style?

Julia Stewart is known for her hands-on leadership style and her ability to turn around struggling restaurant chains. She is also known for her focus on customer satisfaction and employee development.

What are some of Julia Stewart’s awards and recognitions?

Julia Stewart has received numerous awards and recognitions throughout her career, including being named one of the “50 Most Powerful Women in Business” by Fortune magazine and being inducted into the Restaurant Hall of Fame.

What is Julia Stewart’s philanthropic work like?

Julia Stewart is involved in several philanthropic efforts, including supporting education and women’s empowerment initiatives. She also donates to various charities and causes through her family foundation.

What is Julia Stewart’s approach to work-life balance?

Julia Stewart has spoken about the importance of work-life balance and has made efforts to prioritize her family and personal life alongside her successful career. She has also mentored other women in business on achieving a healthy work-life balance.

What are some of Julia Stewart’s future plans or goals?

Julia Stewart’s future plans and goals are not publicly disclosed. However, given her track record, it is likely that she will continue to be involved in the restaurant industry and make a significant impact on the sector.