USA Today just released its “Best Fast Food Restaurant” rankings. The ranking methodology process involved readers casting their votes.
This year saw some surprises. Chick-fil-A was no longer number 1. Del Taco was named the top U.S. fast-food chain.
See the 2024 rankings, below:
1.Del Taco
The California-based Mexican fast-food chain received the No. 1 spot on this year’s edition of USA Today’s “Best Fast Food Restaurant” list, which was decided by readers. Del Taco Restaurants has approximately 600 locations, but they are only in 16 states. More locations have opened in Florida, including one that opened in Orlando this month.
2. Kentucky Fried Chicken
Colonel Sanders’ famous recipe and international reach kept it among the top three fast food chains. KFC, which started under a different name back in 1930, continues to be a top place for those wanting fast food. KFC can be found in over 150 countries.
3. Chick-fil-A
Last year, readers ranked this company number 1. Though it dropped to number 3, it still attracts large numbers of customers. The company’s success remains a case study in customer loyalty. The chain could make far more revenue if it was open for the entire weekend but it has kept its policy of staying closed on Sundays, which is a tradition within the company to recognize as a day of worship.
4. In-N-Out Burger:
California’s famous burger stop maintains a strong presence among the top burger joints. In 2024, In-N-Out Burger continued its expansion to new states across the U.S. Known for its fresh ingredients and simple yet delicious menu, the chain’s expansion is highly anticipated by fans nationwide. This growth reflects In-N-Out’s cautious yet ambitious approach to becoming a national favorite while preserving its cult-like following.
5. Hardee’s
Still very popular in the south, the company has seen some ups and downs but still was liked to be number 5 by readers. Known in the west as Carls’ Jr., Hardees is reaping the rewards of consumers in search of larger portions for their money. Hardees is also known for being more innovative with its menu and has added new items and limited-time offers to keep customers coming back.
6. Captain D’s
Captain D’s, is the lone seafood restaurant that made the top 10. The chain continues to be a favorite among seafood lovers, offering a variety of menu items that cater to different tastes, including healthier grilled options. Captain D’s primary competitor, Long John Silver’s, Long, has been experiencing downsizing in recent years.
7. Taco Bell
Innovation and affordability have always been fundamental components of Taco Bell’s success, and 2024 is no exception. Taco Bell’s evolving menu featured bold new flavors and combinations, such as a Cheez-it flavored shell and Catinina style tacos and burritos.
8. Popeyes
Popeyes’ strategic marketing campaigns and collaborations with popular influencers and celebrities have kept it a top 10 fast food destination, despite a dip in interest in its most popular menu item. Popeyes In the past five years, the popularity of Popeyes’ chicken sandwich has declined. Initially, it was a sensation, but as other competitors introduced similar offerings and new food trends emerged, its novelty has worn off. While still popular, the sandwich no longer dominates the fast-food conversation as it once did. Orlando-area consumers were surprised to see the location at the corner of Fairbanks and Mills close.
9. Zaxby’s
Trailing just one spot behind Popeyes, Zaxby’s chicken doesn’t have the national footprint of Popeyes, but more stores have opened across the southeast. If they hope to stay in the top ten, they will have to win over more consumers who habitually stop at KFC, Chick-Fil-A and Popeyes.
10. Arby’s
Known as the “King of meats”, by its loyal fans, Arby’s has followed a strategy similar to Hardees. New flavors and sandwiches are rotated into the menu on a regular basis. Arby’s prices have already been higher than the leading fast food chains, which reduces sticker shock to new customers who have grown accustomed to paying $10 or more for a meal.
Some of the best name fast food restaurants that didn’t make the list by the USA Today 2024 “Best Fast Food Restaurants” readers were McDonald’s, Burger King and Wendys’
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