Where to Eat... And Where Not To
Chain restaurants are all the rage in America. If you want a quick pick-me-up—whether to satisfy a fast food or dessert craving—there's probably the perfect spot to get your fix. Even then, you should choose wisely, as some franchises are favored much more than others. From In-N-Out to Taco John's, here are America's 10 best chains and 10 of its worst.
1. Chick-fil-A
Known for juicy chicken sandwiches and crispy waffle fries, Chick-fil-A is ranked as one of the top restaurant chains in America. But that's not all they offer: from salads to banana pudding milkshakes, it's no wonder why this eatery remains a favorite.
2. Five Guys
What place comes to mind when you think of the go-to burger joint? For many, it's probably Five Guys. The Little Bacon Burger features strips of mouthwatering applewood smoked bacon, and if that's not enough to get you drooling, their gooey Cheese Dog might.
3. Jersey Mike's Subs
Why pick another sandwich chain when you could go to Jersey Mike's? Stuffed with provolone cheese, ham, and a mountain of veggies, the subs here are perfect for lunch. If you're craving something heated up, try the Chipotle Pastrami, which is topped with grilled onions, Swiss cheese, and chipotle mayo.
4. Waffle House
Craving waffles or all-day breakfast? Waffle House has you covered. Despite the name, there's more to explore on the menu beyond waffles—hash brown bowls, Texas melts, and sirloin steaks are just some of the options. But while you're deciding, go ahead and order a Peanut Butter Chip Waffle.
5. Starbucks
Frappuccinos, anyone? This coffee chain giant is one of America's most frequented, featuring regular brews, hot teas, and decadent drinks swirled with whipped cream. If you're stopping by and want a quick bite, there are also sandwiches and wraps to pair with your cup of Joe.
6. In-N-Out
Five Guys isn't the only spot to eat burgers. The combos at In-N-Out include a sandwich of your choice—like the Double Double, which is stacked with two beef patties—along with fries and a drink. But if you also want to try one of the creamy cold shakes, we won't blame you.
7. Ruth's Chris Steakhouse
If fast food isn't on your radar, what about steaks? Start your dinner at Ruth's Chris Steakhouse with a few appetizers, like seared ahi tuna or barbecued shrimp, then choose your chop. Sizzling in rich, melted butter (with the option to add more), the steaks at this chain are unrivaled.
Ruth's Chris Steak House on Wikimedia
8. Bonefish Grill
Is seafood more up your alley? Poke bowls, pasta, and perfectly grilled fish are on the menu here, but the star favorite at Bonefish Grill is the Bang Bang Shrimp. Sweet, spicy, and addictive, this dish is an absolute must-try.
9. The Cheesecake Factory
For something to satisfy your sugar craving post-dinner, this dessert chain has over 30 types of cheesecakes to sink your teeth into. From The Cheesecake Factory's original tart with graham crust and sour cream topping to more indulgent ones like s'mores, there's a flavor for everyone.
10. Texas Roadhouse
Hungry for more steak? Texas Roadhouse is one of the best chain restaurants for carnivores, serving up tender New York strips and fall-off-the-bone ribs. But perhaps even more popular than the meat is the freshly baked bread rolls, which come with honey cinnamon butter on the side.
Those were the 10 best food chains in America, and now let's jump into the 10 worst ones.
1. Taco John's
You might think any restaurant fixing up tacos would be a hit, but unlike its competitor Taco Bell, Taco John's is ranked as one of the worst chains in America. For the curious, try the array of burritos and quesadillas on offer and be the final judge.
2. McDonald's
Despite global recognition, McDonald's isn't one of Americans' favorite fast food chains. Whether it's due to rising prices, quality issues, or lack of options, if you're looking for a place to grab a burger or two, this is probably not the best spot.
3. Bobby's Burgers by Bobby Flay
Though Bobby Flay is an acclaimed American celebrity chef with seven restaurants under his belt, the same sentiment can't be said about Bobby's Burgers. Many have complained that the items here are overpriced, bland, and poor quality.
4. Wahlburgers
Wahlburgers is another one on the not-favorite list of Americans, apparently due to similar reasons as Bobby's Burgers: overpriced, lacking in flavor, and not-so-fresh ingredients. Even so, they offer a variety of options for those daring enough to try.
5. Popeyes
Popeyes is known for chicken—chicken burgers, nuggets, drumsticks, and more—but compared to Chick-fil-A, it's subpar according to Americans. What used to be the go-to place for crunchy fried goodness is now said to be going downhill in quality.
6. Sonic
Once popular for its retro drive-in style, this quick-service diner fixes up your usual greasy, fast food eats: burgers, sandwiches, shakes, and sides. Recently, though, Sonic seems to have closed down several locations, as business hasn't been going as great as before.
7. South Philly Cheesesteaks & Fries
Simple as they are—beef and cheese stuffed into a sandwich roll—cheesesteaks in Philadelphia are a must-try. But it depends on where you try it, and you're probably better off visiting a more authentic spot located in the home state than a chain like South Philly Cheesesteaks & Fries.
pelican from Tokyo, Japan on Wikimedia
8. Panda Express
From Kung Pao chicken to chow mein, Panda Express is known for its Chinese-inspired plates. But aside from customers being displeased by the quality and flavor, just like Philly cheesesteaks, you're likely better off getting your Chinese fix someplace else.
9. Dunkin' Donuts
Who doesn't like a donut or two with their coffee? Yet, despite its popularity (and marketing slogan), Dunkin' isn't considered America's favorite coffeehouse or the best spot for sweet fried dough. Some have complained that certain locations don't make the donuts fresh in-house anymore and that the overall quality has gone down.
10. Wetzel's Pretzels
Wetzel's Pretzels bakes fresh hand-rolled pretzels and has over 300 locations across America, along with multiple food trucks in certain states. Even with the expansion, people have mixed opinions, with some claiming that the pretzels are too doughy and flavors like Sinful Cinnamon can taste overly sweet.
