Discover the Best Fast Food Restaurants

There are times when a quick, easy meal is just what you need. Whether it’s between meetings, when time for lunch is short or pre-workout, when your athleisure wear is on and yoga starts in 30 minutes, these restaurants offer counter service, relatively low wait times and tasty options without making you feel like a junkie.

Fast food is a $255 billion industry that’s become globally associated with American culture, inspiring cult-like devotion in some fans. While you can find a McDonald’s, Burger King or KFC just about anywhere on the planet, it is possible to avoid the big chains and discover something special in many small cities and U.S. states.

For example, a visit to New York City wouldn’t be complete without experiencing a bite at Shake Shack for mouthwatering burgers and crinkle-cut fries. Or try Bleecker Street Pizza, which is a great option for those with limited time, but still want a cheesie pizza slice.

In general, fast-food eateries that rely on fresh ingredients and offer healthy choices tend to perform better than those that are heavy in grease and sugar. Those that are known for their sandwiches and soups also tend to be more popular than those specializing in breakfast options.

On a state-by-state basis, Chick-fil-A has the highest customer satisfaction rating among fast food chains. McDonald’s comes in second, while Burger King and KFC are near the bottom of the list. The bottom of the list is dominated by chain restaurants that focus on pizza and other breaded and fried foods, including Domino’s, Papa John’s, and Five Guys. best fast food restaurants