I work a lot, sometimes on weekends, and I don’t always have the time or energy to cook. So, I’ve come to appreciate the convenience of eating out. Whether it’s a juicy steak, a classic burger, or a creamy Caesar salad, they may not be the most innovative, but chain restaurants are consistent, and you know what to expect.
In a country that often feels scattered and divided, there’s one thing we can all count on–our favorite chain restaurants. According to a 2023 survey, 65% of Americans hit up fast food at least once a week. Evidently, we’re all about that convenience food life, though not all eateries hit the mark.
So here are some of the chain restaurants loved the most by Americans chiming in on a recent online thread. Did your favorite make the cut?
Texas Roadhouse
Ok, I know it’s cheesy, but I actually love it when the servers at Texas Roadhouse break into a line dance in between the tables. Apart from the fun atmosphere, this Southern restaurant delivers a consistent product, good service, and probably the best steak you can get from an affordable chain. They have family meal bundles for $30-$50, with proteins, sides, salads, and those famous rolls.
With over 600 locations across 49 states (and even some overseas), it’s easy to see why people are hooked. Their cinnamon butter, warm rolls, steaks, and baby back ribs are absolutely legendary.
Cook Out
If you’ve ever been to Cook Out, you know the deal: the taste-to-cost ratio is unbeatable. For less than seven to eight bucks, you can feast like a king on fresh-made burgers, BBQ, and hot dogs. Plus, they’re open until 2:30 or 3:30 am—perfect for late-night cravings!
Cook Out has taken the South by storm, with over 300 locations across states like North Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee. And with 40 different milkshake flavors, where else will you find thick and dreamy cherry cobbler or Butterfinger shakes?
Culver’s
Have you seen the Culver’s vs. In-N-Out debate? I totally get the buzz. Culver’s may be known for its crave-able menu, but the real secret sauce is how much it cares about its people.
There are plenty of Wisconsin favorites to try, but founder Craig Culver’s go-to order? A Single Culver’s Deluxe, small Crinkle Cut Fries, and a small drink—classic! With locations in just over 20 states, people are begging for Culver’s to expand so they can finally try those famous ButterBurgers and cheese curds.
Chili’s
If you’re a millennial like me, you can’t hear about Chili’s without getting their 1990’s commercial jingle stuck in your head (I want my baby back, baby back, baby back!). Some say Chili’s is making a comeback this year, but for plenty of Americans, it never left. With their “3 for Me” value menu—an appetizer, entrée, and drink combo—it’s hard to beat. And don’t forget about those Big Smasher burgers, giving the McDonald’s Big Mac a run for its money.
Ask any Chili’s fan, and they’ll tell you: the quality is solid, the prices are right, and those little burgers? Amazing. Plus, you can catch football games on their many TVs while enjoying happy hour deals on beer, margaritas, and food.
Waffle House
No one can quite replicate Waffle House, and grabbing chicken and waffles there is practically an American tradition. The numbers are wild—127 cups of coffee, 341 strips of bacon, and 145 waffles served every minute. With over 1,900 locations across 25 states, all open 24/7, Waffle House in the middle of the night is an experience like no other.
It’s even been featured in TV shows and movies. And if you’re lucky, you might spot celebs like Donnie Wahlberg, who dropped $2,000 in tips while enjoying breakfast!
Five Guys
I’ve been told many times that if you’re craving a good burger and fries, there’s only one place to go and it’s Five Guys. With their iconic red and white decor and over 1,700 locations worldwide (including 123 in California), they’re a major player in the burger game.
Is it a little more pricey than other fast-food places? Maybe a bit, but you definitely get your money’s worth with their huge, juicy burgers and heaps of fries. The menu is simple, so they can focus on making each item amazing. Plus, with 15 toppings to choose from, you can customize your burger the way you like it!
Taco Bell
Taco Bell definitely has its die-hard fans, including yours truly (yes, I have a drawer full of Taco Bell Fire Sauce packets in my kitchen). We all have our favorite Taco Bell orders (and maybe a secret menu hack or two), but did you know this Mexican-inspired chain has been around since 1962, starting in California? Now, it’s serving over 2 billion customers a year at more than 7,000 locations worldwide.
So, why is it so popular? Most likely because it’s the go-to for something fast, cheap, and different from the usual burger and fries. Plus, who can resist a late-night Crunchwrap Supreme?
Chick-fil-A
Every time I hit up Chick-fil-A, I can’t help but think of their iconic “Eat Mor Chikin” cow billboards—it’s simple, funny, and gets the point across.
Chick-fil-A has taken the top spot for customer satisfaction five years straight, according to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI). What’s their secret? Fresh fruits and veggies delivered almost daily, high standards for their famous chicken, and service that’s always top-notch. With over 3,000 locations, they don’t just rely on their classic chicken sandwiches—their chicken biscuit breakfast is Southern perfection!
Raising Cane’s
It’s one of two things (but I’m betting on the second): you either want to try Raising Cane’s chicken fingers, or you’ve already been there… probably more than once! This American fast-food spot keeps it simple with a chicken finger-focused menu, and that’s exactly what keeps people coming back. With over 600 locations across 32 states and counting, they’re growing fast.
People rave about that perfect breading-to-chicken ratio. One bite, and you get the perfect mix of crispy coating and juicy chicken!
Wendy’s
Wendy’s is among the top 10 quick service restaurants in America with its unique square burger patties. With 7,166 locations, it’s a staple for many burger lovers.
But did you know the Freckled Lady (aka Wendy’s) is seriously underrated? People go wild for their fresh burgers, top-notch nuggets, and Frosty, especially when it comes in limited-time flavors like pumpkin spice and peppermint. Their Biggie Fresh Iced Tea is a fan favorite, and they’re one of the few fast-food spots that still offer salads.
Source: Reddit
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