That would put the industry’s one-year income at $35 billion. And Texas eateries would have more than 1 million workers.

“Even in these tough economic times, it is clear that the Texas restaurant industry is the best place to do business in the nation,” said Richie Jackson, state association executive vice president and CEO. “While our country is coping with the weakest economy in decades, Texas restaurateurs continue to buck the trends and post positive sales and job growth.”

In Temple, nearly 500 restaurants employ nearly 10,000 workers, according to 2007 state work force data.

However, millions of dollars “leak” out of Temple as residents eat out in surrounding communities.

In “Choices ’08: City of Temple Comprehensive Plan 2008-2030,” it’s estimated as much as $74 million is spent by Temple residents in restaurants outside the city limits.

The Texas estimate is part of a national forecast published by the NRA at Christmastime. In addition to numbers, the new study also looks at food trends. Among the hottest for ’09:

nExpanded focus on value

nHealthy options in kids’ meals

nLocally purchased items

n“Green” initiatives