Fast food chains have become an integral part of American culture, with their iconic logos and familiar menus dotting the landscape of cities and towns across the country.
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic burger and fries or a more adventurous meal from global cuisine, fast food chains offer quick and convenient options for busy Americans on the go.
But as the popularity of fast food continues to grow, so too do concerns about the impact these chains have on our health, environment, and economy. This article will explore America’s best fast-food chains based on their popularity and health benefits. Keep reading for more details.
Top 60 Fast Foods Chains in America
Here are the top fast foods chains in America
#1. McDonald’s
Founded in 1940, McDonald’s is the world’s largest fast-food chain, with over 38,000 locations in over 100 countries. The chain is known for its burgers, fries, and shakes and has become an iconic symbol of American fast food.
While it has faced criticism for its high-calorie and high-fat menu items, McDonald’s has also made efforts in recent years to offer healthier options, such as salads and grilled chicken sandwiches.
#2. Starbucks
Starbucks is a coffee chain that offers a wide variety of coffee, tea, and other beverages, snacks, and pastries.
#3. Arby’s
Arby’s is a popular fast-food chain in America with a reputation for offering high-quality sandwiches, sides, and other fast-food options. The chain got founded in Boardman, Ohio, in 1964 and has since expanded to become one of the largest fast-food chains in America, with over 3,000 locations in eight countries.
#4. Baskin-Robbins
Baskin-Robbins is a well-known and beloved ice cream chain in America. It started in 1945 in Glendale, California, by two brothers-in-law, Burt Baskin and Irv Robbins. Today, it is a subsidiary of Dunkin’ Brands and has over 8,000 locations in 50 countries worldwide.
#5. Bojangles
Bojangles is a fast-food chain with a reputation as one of the best fast-food chains in America. Known for its delicious fried Chicken and fluffy buttermilk biscuits, Bojangles has become a staple in the Southeast region of the United States.
6. Burger King
Burger King is undoubtedly one of America’s most popular fast-food chains. With over 17,000 restaurants spread across the globe, Burger King is a well-known name in the fast food industry. Founded in 1954, this chain of restaurants has managed to maintain its position as one of the best fast-food chains in America.
#7. Carl’s Jr.
Carl’s Jr. is a fast-food chain that has become a beloved institution in the United States. Known for their delicious burgers, tasty fries, and mouthwatering milkshakes, Carl’s Jr. has been a popular choice for fast food lovers for decades.
#8. Checkers and Rally
Checkers and Rally is a popular fast-food chain in America known for its delicious burgers, hot dogs, fries, and shakes. With over 800 locations across the United States, Checkers and Rally are one of the best fast-food chains in America, loved by millions of customers for its unique and mouthwatering menu items.
#9. Chick-fil-A
Chick-fil-A is a popular fast-food chain known for its chicken sandwiches, nuggets, and waffle fries. Founded in 1946, the chain has become known for its focus on customer service and its commitment to ethical and sustainable practices.
Chick-fil-A has also faced some controversy over its support for anti-LGBTQ causes. However, it has also tried to improve its image by partnering with organizations supporting social justice causes.
#10. Chipotle
Chipotle is widely regarded as one of the best fast food chains in America, and for a good reason. The company, founded in 1993 in Denver, Colorado, has become a household name thanks to its commitment to high-quality ingredients, fresh flavours, and customizable menu options.
#11. Dairy Queen
Dairy Queen is a fast food chain offering soft-serve ice cream, burgers, hot dogs, and other food items.
#12. Domino’s Pizza
Founded in 1960, Domino’s is one of the largest pizza delivery chains in the world, known for its fast and convenient service. The chain has become known for its focus on technology, such as its online ordering system and delivery tracker. In addition to pizza, Domino’s also offers pasta, sandwiches, and desserts.
#13. Dunkin’
Dunkin’ Donuts is a popular chain that serves coffee, doughnuts, and other baked goods. Founded in 1950, the chain has become known for its focus on convenience, such as its drive-thru service and mobile ordering app.
#14. Five Guys
Five Guys is a fast-casual chain specializing in burgers, fries, and hot dogs. Founded in 1986, the chain has become known for its commitment to using high-quality ingredients and customizable toppings.
#15. Hardee’s
Hardee’s is a fast-food chain serving customers in America for over 60 years. Founded in 1960, Hardee’s has become one of the most recognizable and beloved fast food brands in the United States.
With its commitment to quality ingredients, tasty menu offerings, and innovative approach to fast food, Hardee’s has earned a reputation as one of America’s best fast food chains.
#16. In-N-Out Burger
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/20210607-INNOUTBURGERS-JANJIGIAN-seriouseats-23-b2b8a505ff414272aab71590a8985b85.jpg)
In-N-Out Burger is a West Coast chain known for its burgers, fries, and shakes. The chain has a cult following and a secret menu.
#17. Jack in the Box
Jack in the Box is undoubtedly one of America’s most popular and beloved fast food chains. With over 2,200 locations nationwide, Jack in the Box has become known for its delicious food, great prices, and unbeatable convenience.
#18. Jollibee
Jollibee is a Filipino fast-food chain that has quickly become one of the best fast-food chains in America. With over 1,300 locations worldwide, Jollibee has become known for its delicious menu offerings, friendly service, and unique cultural flair.
#19. KFC
KFC, or Kentucky Fried Chicken, is a fast food chain specializing in fried Chicken. Founded in 1952, the chain has become popular with people looking for a quick and tasty meal. While it has faced criticism for its high-calorie and high-fat menu items, KFC has also offered healthier options, such as grilled Chicken and salads.
#20. Krispy Kreme
Krispy Kreme is undoubtedly one of the finest fast-food establishments in America. With its signature hot and fresh doughnuts that melt in your mouth, it has captured the hearts of millions nationwide.
#21. Little Caesars
Little Caesars is a well-known and beloved fast-food chain that has been serving delicious, affordable pizza to hungry Americans for over 60 years. With its unique blend of quality ingredients, speedy service, and affordable prices, Little Caesars has become a go-to option for people looking for a quick and satisfying meal.
#22. Long John Silver’s
Long John Silver’s is a fast-food restaurant specializing in seafood dishes. Founded in 1969, it has become one of the largest seafood chains in the United States. With over 1,200 locations worldwide, Long John Silver’s has crispy fish and chips, buttery shrimp, and other seafood delights.
#23. Panda Express
Panda Express is a fast-food chain that offers Chinese-inspired cuisine, including orange Chicken, chow mein, and egg rolls.
#24. Papa John’s
Papa John’s is one of the most popular fast food chains in America, and for a good reason. Founded in 1984 by John Schnatter, the company has grown to become one of the largest pizza chains in the world, with over 5,000 locations in 45 countries.
#25. Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut is another major pizza chain that offers a wide variety of pizza toppings and crusts. Founded in 1958, the chain has become known for its iconic red-roofed restaurants and its commitment to innovation, such as its Stuffed Crust Pizza.
#26. Popeyes
Popeyes is a fast-food chain that specializes in Louisiana-style fried Chicken and seafood. Founded in 1972, the chain has become known for its spicy flavour and buttery biscuits.
#27. Quiznos
Quiznos is a popular fast-food chain in America that has been serving delicious, toasted sandwiches since 1981. With over 1,500 locations nationwide, Quiznos has become a go-to destination for anyone looking for a quick, hearty meal.
#28. Raising Cane’s
Raising Cane’s is widely regarded as one of the best fast food chains in America, and for a good reason. Raising Cane’s has established a loyal following among fast food enthusiasts and casual diners with a simple menu of chicken fingers, fries, coleslaw, and Texas toast.
#29. Shake Shack
Shake Shack is a fast food chain that offers burgers, hot dogs, and shakes. The chain has become famous for its fresh ingredients and commitment to sustainability.
#30. Sonic Drive-In
Sonic Drive-In is a popular fast-food chain in America serving its customers since 1953. With its unique concept of drive-in restaurants, Sonic has carved a special place for itself in the hearts of its customers.
Today, Sonic Drive-In is one of the best fast-food chains in America, known for its delicious food, excellent customer service, and innovative approach.
#31. Subway
With over 40,000 locations worldwide, Subway is the world’s largest submarine sandwich chain. Founded in 1965, the chain has become known for its “eat fresh” slogan and customizable sandwiches.
Customers can choose from bread, meats, cheeses, and toppings to create their perfect sandwich. In addition to sandwiches, Subway also offers salads, soups, and snacks.
#32. Taco Bell
Taco Bell is an American fast-food chain known for its Mexican-inspired menu, including tacos, burritos, and nachos. Founded in 1962, the chain has become popular with people looking for a quick and tasty meal.
While it has faced criticism for its use of processed ingredients and high sodium levels, Taco Bell has also tried to offer healthier options, such as vegetarian and lower-calorie options.
#33. Tim Hortons
.jpg?1662566263)
Tim Hortons is a famous Canadian fast food chain that has expanded to become one of America’s best fast food chains. The chain has delicious coffee, doughnuts, and other baked goods. With its quick and convenient service, affordable prices, and high-quality food, it’s no surprise that Tim Hortons has a loyal fan following.
#34. Wendy’s
Founded in 1969, Wendy’s is a popular fast-food chain that offers burgers, chicken sandwiches, and salads. The chain’s popularity is due to its square-shaped burgers, fresh ingredients, and innovative marketing campaigns.
In recent years, Wendy’s has also made efforts to offer healthier options, such as salads and grilled chicken sandwiches.
#35. Whataburger
Whataburger is undoubtedly one of the best fast-food chains in America. The Texas-based chain opened up in 1950 and has since grown to over 800 locations across ten states, primarily in the southern United States.
#36. White Castle
White Castle has been an American fast-food chain in business for nearly a century. Founded in 1921, the chain is famous for its small square hamburgers, which have been affectionately nicknamed “sliders.” Over the years, White Castle has become an icon of American culture, one of the country’s best fast-food chains.
#37. A&W Restaurants
A&W Restaurants is one of the best fast-food chains in America, known for its delicious food, nostalgic atmosphere, and exceptional service. Founded in 1919, A&W has served its signature root beer and classic American dishes for over a century and has become a beloved institution in the fast food industry.
#38. Boston Market
Boston Market is a well-known fast food chain in America that has been serving delicious and healthy meals to customers since 1985. With over 300 locations across the United States, Boston Market has become popular with people who want to enjoy high-quality meals on the go.
#39. Buffalo Wild Wings
Buffalo Wild Wings is a popular fast-food chain in America renowned for its tasty chicken wings and delicious sauces. The chain, founded in 1982, has become a household name thanks to its wide range of menu options and welcoming atmosphere.
#40. Captain D’s
Captain D’s is a popular fast-food chain in America known for its fresh, high-quality seafood dishes. The chain has been in operation since 1969 and has grown to become one of the most successful seafood chains in the country.
With its commitment to quality, affordable pricing, and exceptional customer service, it’s no wonder that Captain D’s is one of the best fast-food chains in America.
#41. Church’s Chicken
Church’s Chicken is a well-known fast-food chain in America, one of the country’s best fast-food chains. With over 1,500 locations in 29 states and several countries, Church’s Chicken has delicious fried Chicken, biscuits, and sides.
#42. Culver’s
Culver’s is a well-known fast food chain in America that has gained popularity among locals and tourists. Founded in 1984 in Sauk City, Wisconsin, Culver’s is known for its signature ButterBurgers and frozen custard desserts.
Over the years, the chain has expanded to over 800 locations in 25 states nationwide, making it one of America’s most successful fast-food chains.
#43. Del Taco
Del Taco is a popular fast-food chain that primarily serves Mexican-inspired cuisine. Founded in 1964, Del Taco has become a well-known brand with over 600 locations across the United States. The restaurant chain has affordable prices, quick service, and a wide variety of menu items that cater to different dietary needs.
#44. El Pollo Loco
El Pollo Loco is one of the best fast food chains in America, offering delicious and healthy Mexican-style grilled Chicken that has become a fan favourite for many Americans. The chain makes high-quality, fresh, and flavorful food prepared in-house daily.
#45. Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is widely considered one of the best fast-food chains in America. Founded in 2002 in Wichita, Kansas, Freddy’s has quickly gained a loyal following nationwide with its delicious food, friendly service, and unique atmosphere.
Their commitment to quality ingredients and cooking techniques sets Freddy’s apart from other fast food chains. Their signature steakburgers get made from 100% pure beef that is ground fresh throughout the day, ensuring that each burger is juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.
46. Golden Corral
Golden Corral is a famous American fast food chain serving delicious and affordable meals for over 40 years. With over 500 locations across the United States, Golden Corral offers a wide variety of food options and all-you-can-eat buffets.
#47. Jersey Mike’s Subs
Jersey Mike’s Subs is a sandwich chain that offers customizable subs, wraps, and salads. The chain always uses fresh ingredients.
#48. Jimmy John’s
Jimmy John’s is a fast-food chain that has quickly risen to become one of the best in America. Founded in 1983 in Charleston, Illinois, the chain now boasts over 2,800 locations across the United States.
#49. Krystal
Krystal is undoubtedly one of the best fast-food chains in America. Since its inception in 1932, this popular chain has been serving delicious burgers and snacks to customers nationwide.
Krystal has its popularity due to their affordable prices, quick service, and mouthwatering menu items, making it a favourite among fast food lovers.
#50. Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken
Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken is undoubtedly one of the best fast food chains in America, known for its delicious and flavorful fried Chicken. The chain was started in 1966 by Lee Cummings in Lima, Ohio, and has since expanded to over 100 locations across the United States.
#51. McAlister’s Deli
McAlister’s Deli is undoubtedly one of the best fast-food chains in America, known for its wide variety of delicious sandwiches, soups, salads, and desserts. The chain got founded in 1989 in Oxford, Mississippi, and has since expanded to over 450 locations across the United States.
#52. Nathan’s Famous
Nathan’s Famous is a fast food chain known for serving up some of the best hot dogs in America. Founded in 1916 in Coney Island, New York, Nathan’s has become a household name, with over 300 locations across the United States.
#53. Panera Bread
Panera Bread is a bakery-cafe chain that offers a variety of soups, salads, sandwiches, and pastries. The chain uses fresh and natural ingredients.
#54. Portillo’s Hot Dogs
Portillo’s Hot Dogs is a fast food chain renowned for its delicious hot dogs, burgers, and Italian beef sandwiches. Founded in 1963 in Villa Park, Illinois, Portillo’s has since expanded to over 60 locations across the United States, making it one of the best fast-food chains in America.
#55. Potbelly Sandwich Shop
Potbelly Sandwich Shop is one of America’s best fast food chains, known for its delicious sandwiches and unique atmosphere. With over 400 locations nationwide, Potbelly has become a popular destination for sandwich lovers looking for a quick and tasty meal.
#56. Smashburger
Smashburger is one of the best fast food chains in America, renowned for its juicy, flavorful burgers and unique toppings. With over 300 locations nationwide, Smashburger has quickly become a popular destination for burger lovers seeking a delicious and satisfying meal.
#57. Steak ‘n Shake
Steak ‘n Shake is a fast food chain in America that has gained a reputation as one of the best in the business. With a history dating back to 1934, the chain has been serving up its signature steakburgers and hand-dipped milkshakes for decades. Its commitment to quality and customer service has made it a favourite among fast-food fans nationwide.
#58. Jason’s Deli
This chain offers a wide variety of sandwiches, salads, soups, and other menu items made with organic, natural, and non-GMO ingredients. In addition, Jason’s Deli is known for its vegetarian and gluten-free options, making it a popular choice for people with dietary restrictions.
#59. Zaxby’s
Zaxby’s is a fast-food chain that has become a popular choice for people looking for delicious chicken dishes. The company was founded in 1990 in Georgia and has since expanded to over 900 locations across the United States.
60. QDOBA
QDOBA is undoubtedly one of the best fast-food chains in America. It is a popular Mexican restaurant chain that offers a wide range of delicious Mexican cuisine that caters to everyone’s tastes and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
#1. What is the most prosperous fast food chain?
McDonald’s had the world’s most valuable fast food brand, with an estimated brand worth of approximately 154.9 billion US dollars. Customers order and pay at a restaurant counter run by companies in this industry.
#2. Who sells the most food in the United States?
Walmart is the largest grocery retailer in the United States, with $573 billion in sales and a 26% market share. The grocery shop sector in the United States will be worth $811.5 billion in 2021.
#3. How many fast-food restaurants are there in America?
As of 2023, there are 201,865 Fast Food Restaurants establishments in the United States, a 0.9% growth from 2022.
#4. What is the most well-known food in the United States?
Hamburgers and cheeseburgers are undeniably famous in the United States. Traditional, gourmet, fast food, bacon, sliders, green chilli, Juicy Lucy style… there are endless possibilities and toppings. Burgers must be the most American of all foods if we had to pick just one.
#5. What is the most popular food in the United States?
The United States is famous for its high meat, such as Chicken, hog, and lamb intake. American food also includes a lot of potatoes, green veggies, and sweet bread.
Conclusion
The fast food industry in America is highly competitive, with several popular chains vying for the top spot. While taste preferences and dietary choices may vary, certain fast food chains stand out as fan favourites, offering a diverse menu of affordable and delicious food items.
Through careful analysis of factors such as taste, value, and customer service, our list of the top fast-food chains in America was formed, providing insight into the best options for those seeking a quick and satisfying meal on the go.
References
- qsrmagazine.com: Fast food chains in America
- wikipedia.org: Fast food restaurant chains