This paper presents a methodology to solve the problem of service restoration in electric distribution systems, which is proposed as a model of mixed integer non-linear optimization where the objective function is to maximize the load that is outside of service, subject to a set of technical and operational constraints. The problem is solved using heuristic techniques, through sensitivity indicators that guide the restoration process. The methodology is validated in distribution systems, finding good-quality results. Key Word — Optimization, restoration, distribution systems, heuristic techniques