#40. Carl’s Jr.
Carl’s Jr. is a fast-food chain that frequently receives bad reviews online. Despite serving a variety of popular foods, including chicken, burgers, and fries, many don’t consider its meals to be up to the mark. One of the biggest complaints is that the food is very greasy and lacks flavor, prompting customers to visit other fast-food chains with similar menus but better overall standards. While there are still some good options, they’re far eclipsed by other burger chains on this list.
Even the larger portions, particularly the burgers that Carl’s Jr. became known for, are no longer the same. Overall, this fast-food place has failed to evolve, allowing itself to be overtaken by competitors.
#39. Panda Express
Panda Express is the biggest Asian-segment fast food chain in the United States, with over 2,000 restaurants open for people across the country to enjoy American Chinese food. However, despite dominating its niche, Panda Express has received some lackluster reviews, with people calling the food “bland” and “tasteless”. And, despite being advertised as authentic Chinese food, Panda Express has frequently been accused of serving generic meals that are merely a poor imitation of the real thing.
The Chow Mein and Orange Chicken, a popular meal, has also been identified as containing a large number of calories, as well as lots of sodium and saturated fats. All in all, it lacks the “wow factor”.
#38. Little Caesars
Little Caesars is a fast food place that everyone will recognize. Known for its pizzas, it’s the fourth-largest pizza chain in the US. Though people love the low prices and how quick and convenient the service is, that means sacrificing a certain level of quality. When compared with its closest competitors, like Pizza Hut and Papa John’s, Little Caesars comes up short. Many people have complained about the food lacking flavor and not having enough sauce or cheese.
However, customers know what they’re paying for, so they mostly just expect a fast meal at a cheap price. If Little Caesars continues to deliver that, they will maintain their solid business model.
#37. Chick-Fil-A
It might seem shocking to see Chick-fil-A so low on our list, considering how big of a name it is, but the brand has been plagued by bad press. It has been sued many times over workplace discrimination and is also accused of supporting anti-LGBTQ behaviors. As for the food, its famous chicken sandwiches are regularly enjoyed, but mostly for their convenience. Many believe that the food is not high-quality enough to justify its high prices.
It’s a good choice for an easy meal, but it’s not something you’d want to eat regularly because it’s so high in fat and sodium. Some people may also boycott the brand because of its views.
#36. Starbucks
It almost seems sacrilege to criticize Starbucks, but it’s one of the more unimpressive chains when it comes to fast food options. There simply isn’t enough choice, with very limited options for those who want more than a small snack. The establishment dedicates the majority of its time to producing a range of complicated hot and cold drinks, with little thought to what people will eat. The morning pastries and lunchtime sandwiches are nice enough, but they lack variety.
Starbucks may also be a victim of its famous name. So many people love it, which elevates expectations to a level that Starbucks simply cannot reach, leading to more critical reviews.
#35. Subway
Subway is another world-famous name that is often overhyped. However, it’s a great option for people who want something quick but filling to eat, with total control over the sandwich that they receive. What may put some people off is the quality of the ingredients, which are usually quite cheap. And while the made-to-order business model has served Subway well for a long time, many other sandwich shops now offer the same service.
A fast food place can only maintain its unique selling point for a limited time, and Subway is one chain with massive competition. Sandwiches are also not the most exciting food, which works against them.
34. Panera Bread
With the majority of fast food places offering unhealthy options, anywhere serving healthy meals has an immediate edge. That was the case for Panera Bread back when the chain first opened, but many are now questioning if it’s still true. There are definitely healthy options, like salads and soups, but not every meal contains ultra-healthy ingredients, so it’s always best to check. Overall, the meals on offer are quite tasty, despite being a bit basic.
The biggest draw is absolutely the bread bowls, which, as the name implies, are made of real bread! It’s certainly unique to enjoy a meal and then consume the bowl afterward, too!
#33. Jack in the Box
It doesn’t get more basic than Jack in the Box, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. When people go for fast food, they want a hot meal for a low price, delivered in a short amount of time. Jack in the Box does exactly that, with plenty of staple fast foods, including burgers, fries, chicken tenders, and sandwiches. Though each item lacks extravagance, there’s plenty of choice, so everybody should find something they’ll enjoy.
However, as with all classic fast food items, you can expect some grease and fat, as well as a distinct lack of healthy options by comparison. Jack in the Box isn’t for everyone, but it has an audience.
#32. Potbelly Sandwich Shop
With a name like Potbelly Sandwich Shop, you’d certainly expect a big meal! Luckily, this fast food place has plenty of filling options, with sandwiches that cater to every preference. Though it doesn’t have as famous a name as Subway, its sandwiches are considered to be just as enjoyable, with some people even expressing a preference for Potbelly. The sandwiches are made to order and can be enjoyed in a comfortable, casual environment, which is perfect for lunch.
Though some customers feel that prices could be lower, Potbelly Sandwich Shop has some different fillings that you won’t find in every generic sandwich place, as well as a generally nice atmosphere.
#31. Taco Bell
Though many criticize it, Taco Bell has made a huge name for itself as one of the biggest fast-food chains in the United States. The menu, which mostly consists of hard and soft-shell tacos made with different meats, cheeses, and other toppings, is far from gourmet, but it’s super convenient and exactly as advertised. Many people love the tasty flavors and low prices, and they don’t go into Taco Bell expecting a healthy meal.
However, as demand has increased, the menu has changed, meaning that some items aren’t as good as they used to be. But there is plenty to choose from, and customers keep coming back for more.
#30. Pizza Hut
If you’re looking for a good pizza, chances are you’ll head into a Pizza Hut. This fast-food place has enjoyed so much success that it now has almost 20,000 restaurants open across the world. However, the bigger a chain becomes, the more likely people are to consider it to be overrated, and that has happened with Pizza Hut. In the 1980s and 90s, people praised its quality, which they say has declined over the successive decades.
The pizzas are now soggier and greasier, with an emphasis on quantity over quality. However, the salad bar remains a great addition to the chain, as are its refillable drinks and generally friendly, helpful service.
#29. Krispy Kreme
Doughnuts don’t come more famous than Krispy Kreme! We can’t claim that they’re a healthy fast food option, but there are so many flavors and variations to choose from, and the menu is constantly growing. The chain’s best-selling doughnuts include Biscoff, Nutty Chocolatta, Cookies and Kreme, New York Cheesecake, and the Original Glazed. One downside is how expensive these doughnuts are, but their prices reflect how elaborate, flavorful, and fresh they are.
Though it doesn’t offer different items like other fast food places, Krispy Kreme has a strong grip on the doughnut niche, and the people behind the chain are excellent at what they do.
#28. Domino’s
Domino’s has always been a solid choice for fast food takeaways, and the chain has mostly upheld its reputation throughout the years. The pizzas are still prepared and delivered as quickly as possible, and various excellent promotions help bring prices down. The sides and drinks are also great accompaniments, with a wide variety of toppings to choose from. However, some people have noticed a decline in quality, with pizzas becoming more rubbery and greasy.
But Domino’s continues to attract millions of customers worldwide, with comforting, hot pizzas that make the perfect fast food order for a night in. We don’t see its popularity waning any time soon.
#27. Burger King
Despite being a well-known fast food place, Burger King is often overlooked, especially when compared to other similar chains, like McDonald’s. But we can’t deny how delicious many of its items are, especially the famous Whopper, which remains a bestseller to this day. Another great thing about Burger King is its 100% beef, non-filler patties, which are flame-grilled to add a distinctive flavor. They actually use much higher-quality beef than many other fast food places, though their meals are still high-calorie and contain saturated fats.
Despite the expected lack of nutritional benefits, Burger King remains a great choice for an occasional unhealthy treat. Its already solid reputation will likely only continue to improve.
#26. Krystal
Though it may be a regional chain, Krystal has put its own great spin on hamburgers. It serves sliders, which are small, square burgers with plenty of great ingredients that classic burger lovers will enjoy, including cheese! It’s a refreshing fast food place with a great menu containing classics like corn pups, chili cheese, breakfast biscuits, and loaded fries. But the sliders are definitely the stars of the show, with great flavors that keep customers coming back.
Krystal may be big in the South, but its tasty menu will undoubtedly make it a bigger name across the US. It’s the perfect fast food choice for overindulging on the right occasion!
#25. Dairy Queen
Since its opening in 1940, Dairy Queen has been a major player in the fast food industry, and it won’t be slowing down any time soon! In addition to its signature dairy products, the Blizzards, there are plenty of options for an entire tasty meal. The menu is pretty standard, with popular fast food items like burgers, fries, sandwiches, and fried chicken, but it’s all cooked fresh and served with good flavor.
And there’s nothing as good on a hot day as a Dairy Queen Blizzard, which blends ice cream with a variety of sweet treats, including cookies, candy, and brownies. There are plenty of other delectable cold options available, too.
#24. Papa Johns
Pizza may be one of the most popular types of fast food, but Papa Johns still manages to put an identifiable spin on it. Many people have praised the quality of its cheese and other toppings, especially when compared to those used by other big pizza chains. It’s also a great choice for those who prefer thin pizza to thick. One common complaint is that the sauce is quite sweet, but many people have grown to love it.
Overall, Papa Johns is a solid choice. As well as pizza, there are tons of good sides on offer, including garlic sticks, potato tots, chicken wings, and jalapeno bites, so you’ll never be short of options.
#23. Arby’s
It’s become a running joke to say that Arby’s serves bad food, but this reputation is actually unearned. Arby’s specializes in meat sandwiches, and it serves customers exactly what they expect. From slow-roasted beef to chicken to turkey, there truly is a sandwich for everybody except vegetarians. With over 3,000 restaurants operating across the US, this niche has evidently not harmed Arby’s. In fact, many people regularly praise their sandwiches, which are best enjoyed with fries and a milkshake.
We suspect that more people will start to realize what a good fast-food place Arby’s is, especially if you’re looking for something quick, convenient, but still delicious when you’re out and about.
#22. El Pollo Loco
Who doesn’t love some good Mexican food? Its excellent take on this tasty cuisine is the reason why El Pollo Loco has seen so much success. Based in Mexico, this chain captures the delicious essence of authentic Mexican cuisine with an array of different spices and flavors. Even better, there are many healthy options, including rice, vegetables, and salad, and the chicken is grilled, not fried, for extra flavor.
El Pollo Loco uses fresh ingredients to accompany their chicken-based meals, which include burritos, quesadillas, and healthy bowls. This is a great alternative to typical unhealthy fast food.
#21. Steak ‘n Shake
There are some days when nothing beats a classic American burger, and Steak ‘n Shake is a great place to get one. The name comes from the chain’s iconic Steakburger, which consists of two juicy patties sandwiched between two buns with cheese. The slight greasiness of the burger actually makes it better, pairing well with the hand-cut fries and milkshakes topped with whipped cream. Even the restaurant's decor is designed to look like a traditional American diner.
The overall Steak ‘n Shake experience is very good. The prices are fairly low, considering the size of the burgers and the fact that premium beef is used to create these delicious smashed patties.
#20. McDonald’s
If there’s one fast food place that everybody knows, it’s McDonald’s. The food is, naturally, high-calorie and packed with sodium and saturated fats, but it isn’t designed to be a healthy fast food option. For years, people have been turning to McDonald’s for a cheap and convenient meal, enjoying classic items like the Quarter Pounder with Cheese, the Filet-O-Fish, and the world-famous Big Mac. There are even some healthier options, like the fruit bags and carrot sticks.
The chain currently has over 41,000 restaurants worldwide, with millions of happy customers visiting regularly. Although there has been some criticism over the years, McDonald’s has handled every setback with ease.
#19. Sonic
Sonic is a drive-in fast food place, so it’s one of the best when it comes to super-quick service. It began as a stand selling burgers and soda but has since dramatically transformed into a massive fast-food empire with over 3,500 restaurants. Some people consider the menu to be a bit pricey, but you certainly get a lot of food for your money. The burgers, in particular, are wide and stacked with patties and other toppings.
There are also some great customizable drink options, allowing customers to personalize their orders. All of the items are well-made and look great, so it’s not surprising that business is booming.
#18. Del Taco
Taco Bell may be the best-known American chain serving Tex-Mex cuisine, but Del Taco has been steadily rising over the years, and many now consider it to be the better option. All of the meat, vegetables, and other ingredients are well-sourced and fresh. The fish tacos, in particular, are highly praised, as are other Mexican-inspired items, like burritos. But there are also plenty of typical fast food options, like burgers and chicken wings, so there certainly isn’t a lack of variety.
The Del Taco value menu is also very well-priced, allowing customers to enjoy a hearty meal for a low price. In a world where fast food is often overpriced, Del Taco is affordable without forgoing quality.
#17. Dunkin’
Dunkin’ may be known for its drinks and sweet treats, but its establishments are set up more like traditional fast-food eateries than similar places like Starbucks. The coffee and doughnuts are so good that even Hollywood actor Ben Affleck raves about them! Hot and iced coffees are available, with great flavors like vanilla, hazelnut, caramel, and butter pecan. The range of doughnuts is similarly diverse, with plenty of sweet and sugary delights on offer.
Not many people know that Dunkin’ also serves savory foods, including breakfast wraps, bagels, hash browns, and sandwiches. Thus, you can get breakfast, caffeine, and a sugar hit all at once!
#16. Portillo’s
Chicago is considered to be one of the best places in the US to get fast food, and Portillo’s certainly lives up to that reputation. It serves Chicago-style street food, with an easy menu of casual foods like hotdogs, burgers, and Italian beef sandwiches. The chain has previously been named as one of the top casual restaurants in the country, which is no small feat when there is so much competition. Customers love the simplicity of its delicious dishes and casual dining experience.
But you’ll need to leave room for dessert because Portillo’s sells a signature chocolate cake that uses mayo as a secret ingredient! Clearly, this fast food place isn’t afraid to take risks, and they’ve absolutely paid off.
15. Jimmy John’s
Jimmy John’s describes its sandwiches as “freaky fresh and freaky fast”, and most customers would be inclined to agree with them. It hasn’t yet achieved the level of fame as Subway in the fast food industry, but that doesn't matter; its food speaks for itself. All of the sandwiches are made with high-quality, soft breads and fresh ingredients, and they can even be customized to create the perfect order. Customers can then add drinks, chips, and other additional items if they wish.
And nobody can say that the sandwiches aren’t prepared “freaky fast”. Employees form an assembly line and create a finished sandwich in 30 seconds or less! Customers rarely have issues with the service they receive.
#14. Biscuitville
Everything about Biscuitville perfectly encapsulates the beauty of Southern cuisine. They use the highest-quality biscuits and ensure that they’re served warm and fresh from the oven. The meats are all locally sourced, and they include sausage, chicken, bacon, and ham. These meats, as well as other fillings, are used to create the perfect sandwiches for both breakfast and lunch. Biscuitville’s success is even more impressive, considering it isn’t a franchise like many other fast food places.
It has previously been named “Best Fast Food Breakfast” and “Best Regional Fast Food”, emphasizing how good it is. The biggest complaint about Biscuitville is that there aren’t enough restaurants!
#13. KFC
Any fast food fan will have tried KFC, and there’s a reason why it’s so well-liked. Though some people believe that the chicken isn’t as good as it used to be, it’s still regarded as some of the best in the fast food industry. The wings, breasts, drumsticks, thighs, and nuggets are hot, crispy, and seasoned with a beautiful array of Southern-inspired spices. The box meals are reasonably priced and include sides like fries, mashed potato, and the iconic KFC gravy!
KFC knows what its customers want, so it maintains a strong menu with plenty of classics. We can’t deny its influence on newer chicken-based fast food restaurants, nor its position as the world’s second-largest restaurant chain.
#12. Raising Cane’s
Raising Cane’s has demonstrated that a fast food chain doesn’t need to have a wildly diverse menu in order to appeal to the masses. Its main focus is chicken fingers, which are deliciously juicy, tender, and full of flavor. They pair perfectly with the chain’s signature crinkle-cut fries and creamy ketchup-mayo sauce. If you don’t particularly enjoy chicken, you won’t find much else at Raising Cane’s besides the side dishes, but it’s a dream for those who do.
Even the drinks available at Raising Cane’s are top-tier. The lemonade is actually homemade, with freshly squeezed lemons and a sprinkling of cane sugar. Raising Cane’s has phenomenally mastered its niche.
#11. Jersey Mike’s Subs
With so many fast food places nailing the art of the sub, it takes something very special to garner such a huge reputation. What started as a neighborhood sandwich shop has grown into a massive empire with approximately 3,500 restaurants open in multiple different countries. Jersey Mike’s Subs prioritizes consistent excellence, sourcing the highest-quality breads, meats, salad fillings, and sauces for their sandwiches. Each sub is specifically crafted for the customer and made fresh or grilled in front of them.
Jersey Mike’s Subs offers a casual dining experience, but that’s perfect for a workday lunch or a family day out. The chain is going from strength to strength thanks to a sea of positive customer reviews.
#10. White Castle
White Castle receives lots of hype, but it’s definitely well-deserved. Like Krystal, it’s known for serving delicious sliders and has been doing so for over 100 years. White Castle actually paved the way for other huge fast-food burger chains, like McDonald’s, cementing itself as one of the industry’s giants. The sliders themselves are relatively simple, with classic ingredients like beef, cheese, and onions, but they taste exquisite. Some of the chain’s bestsellers include the Sloppy Joe, the Cheese Slider, and the signature Original Slider.
Prices are also great, and they help to keep White Castle on top. The chain started out with solid foundations and has built a huge empire, cementing its place in the fast food industry and wider pop culture.
#9. Wendy’s
In recent years, Wendy’s has become a huge hit on social media thanks to its sassy tweets and great sense of humor, but its food remains its biggest draw. The menu is incredibly broad, with a range of breakfast wraps and combos, plenty of fast food classics like hamburgers, fries, and chicken sandwiches, and tasty cold desserts. Even a casual fast food customer will recognize the iconic Wendy’s square patties, which have successfully differentiated the chain from its competitors.
Wendy’s is currently the third-largest hamburger chain in the world, just behind McDonald’s and Burger King. It’s also one of the most well-marketed and recognizable fast food brands, with a menu to back up that fame.
#8. Five Guys
Five Guys may be a hot fast-food joint now, but it has a very long history. The first restaurant opened in 1986 and has rapidly expanded since then, with over 1,700 locations now open. Its burgers and dogs are incredibly tasty and moist, with endless toppings available and massive portions of fries guaranteed. The shakes are also delicious, with flavors including Oreo, salted caramel, Biscoff, peanut butter, and chocolate. All sodas are free to refill.
One of the biggest drawbacks is how expensive it is. However, nobody can deny how good the food tastes, so many people are willing to spend more for a delicious and very filling meal.
#7. Popeyes
Popeyes is another fast food chain that some people disregard because it’s on the expensive side, but it’s indisputably fantastic. Fried chicken may not be a gourmet delicacy, but it’s delicious when cooked properly. Popeyes adds extra batter to achieve optimal crispiness and uses a range of Southern-inspired spices to take its chicken and fries to the next level. Customers can enjoy the chicken in a variety of ways, including sandwiches, tenders, and wings, with six signature sauces for some extra oomph.
It isn’t healthy, but it doesn’t pretend to be. Popeyes serves some of the best fried chicken in the current market quickly and conveniently, with a range of meals available to suit all appetites.
#6. Chipotle
Some people don’t consider Chipotle to be fast food, but the chain itself has proudly owned that label. It serves delectable Tex-Mex cuisine, specializing in classics like tacos, burritos, and bowls. Some of the flavors can be a bit overpowering, but the food is immensely well-liked and has inspired many other similar eateries over the years. All of the ingredients are top-tier in terms of quality, freshness, and taste, with flavors ranging from sweet to spicy to smoky.
Fast food can sometimes be exclusionary, but Chipotle provides options for all major dietary requirements, including veganism. It’s also one of the healthier fast food chains, with no artificial ingredients and plenty of good nutrients.
#5. Shake Shack
Shake Shack is one fast food chain that people across the world will know. It’s another highly-hyped and fairly expensive joint, but it delivers every single time. As the name suggests, Shake Shack serves a variety of delicious milkshakes, but its food items are just as good. The meat used in the burgers and dogs is cooked perfectly to stop it from drying out, and the fries are a great and well-seasoned accompaniment.
Shake Shack was only founded 20 years ago, but it now has 262 US locations and 142 international restaurants. Its traditional New York-style fast food made it famous and keeps customers coming back.
#4. Checkers and Rally’s
Checkers and Rally’s were originally two separate companies serving different regions, but they’re stronger together, with a combined franchise of over 700 restaurants. They specialize in classic fast food, like burgers, shakes, hot dogs, and fries, but they do it better than almost every other similar establishment. The fries are crispy, the burgers acceptably greasy, and the drinks delightfully refreshing. All items are competitively priced, and this doesn’t impact the portion sizes.
While other fast food places offer indoor dining to increase patronage, Checkers and Rally’s have been successful without it. The drive-thru setup hasn’t hindered the chain, and people are more than happy to queue for its food.
#3. Whataburger
The brand name says it best: “What a burger”! Burgers may be a typical fast food item, but this chain proves that they don’t all need to be the same. Whataburger’s creativity is one of its major draws, along with its incorporation of regional cuisine, like the delicious Texas toast. The burgers are designed to fill customers up, with some triple-stacked non-frozen patties that are made fresh for each order. Its fries and onion rings are also great if you have room!
The extraordinary quality of the food doubtless stems from wonderful management behind the scenes. Whataburger has received many culture excellence awards, including Top Workplace, which only further boosts its reputation.
#2. Culver’s
Culver’s has been named the best fast-food restaurant in the US, which is a high honor that it has absolutely earned. Founded in 1984, it has now expanded into a hugely successful franchise of 1,000 restaurants. Everything about Culver’s screams “premium.” Its beef is Midwest-raised and fresh, its buns are the softest brioche, and its burger toppings are simply mouth-watering. The brand’s ButterBurger is one of the best from any chain, and it has millions of fans.
In 2024, Fodor’s ranked Culver’s above McDonald’s, Wendy’s, and Burger King, which says a lot about how good it is. It achieves excellence through the thought and care that goes into every order.
#1. In-N-Out Burger
We’ve all heard of In-N-Out Burger, but those who haven’t tasted it are really missing out! There is no expense spared when crafting these divine burgers, which use self-ground patties, fresh vegetables, and classic toppings like cheese and pickles. Though there are some amazing contenders, In-N-Out Burger is unmatchable in terms of quality and consistency. The menu has mostly stayed the same, but it works, and the brand has absolutely perfected and dominated its niche.
People would doubtless pay more for In-N-Out Burger’s high-quality food, but all items are fairly priced, considering how delicious they are. In the fast food industry, In-N-Out Burger is a force to be reckoned with.