Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become a key theme of discussion and focus in all debates regarding the need for business enterprises to function in a manner that is responsive and sensitive to the needs of their communities and society. Academic research has also kept pace with the rising industry interest. The literature on CSR has grown appreciably, offering important insights that scholars must collectively evaluate if they are to inform theory and practice. Appreciating the value of such an endeavour, the present study utilised a critical systematic literature review (SLR) to analyse the literature published on the role of CSR in the restaurant sector from 2004 to 2021. The SLR was executed, first, by identifying relevant studies using a clearly defined search protocol. This process resulted in 67 studies. Subsequently, a content analysis we performed on these studies to delineate thematic areas of research. Based on the stakeholder perspective, two main themes and six sub-themes of research related to individual, organisational and societal levels were identified. In addition, the content analysis also identified crucial research gaps, providing the basis for a future research agenda and the development of a research framework for the reference of scholars and practitioners. The findings of the SLR provide valuable insights that can support efforts currently underway to strengthen CSR in the restaurant sector.