Which term describes a restaurant that is linked to a national brand and follows a set operational model?

A franchise is a term that describes a restaurant connected to a national brand, allowing it to operate under the established name and operational procedures of that brand. This relationship grants the franchisee the rights to use the franchisor's trademark, business model, and support systems, which typically include marketing, training, and sometimes supply chain logistics. By following a standardized operational model, franchises can maintain consistency in quality and customer experience across various locations, which is crucial for the brand's reputation and customer loyalty.

In contrast, independent restaurants operate without ties to national brands or franchises, providing unique offerings tailored to their local markets but generally lacking the standardized support systems associated with franchises. Cooperatives involve a group of individuals or businesses working together but don’t necessarily tie to national branding issues. Partnerships refer to a business structure between two or more individuals but do not specifically denote a connection to a franchising system. Thus, the strongest fit for the description given in the question is a franchise.