10 Fast Food Chains to Skip & 10 That Won’t Disappoint

Fast food has become an integral part of modern life, offering quick meals for busy individuals. However, not all fast food chains are created equal.

Here are the 10 fast food chains that might leave you with buyer’s remorse and 10 that consistently satisfy cravings.

1. Skip: Burger King

In recent years, Burger King, once a formidable competitor in the fast food industry, has fallen from grace. The chain’s reputation has taken a hit due to declining food quality and customer service issues. 

One of the main complaints about Burger King is the inconsistency in food preparation and taste. While their signature Whopper may still have fans, many customers report receiving cold, poorly assembled burgers. 

Additionally, the chain’s attempts to introduce new menu items have often failed, failing to attract customers and boost sales.

2. Try: Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A has consistently ranked high in customer satisfaction surveys, and for good reason. The chain is known for its friendly service, clean restaurants, and high-quality food.

Chick-fil-A was one of the first chains in the United States to offer a menu free of trans fat.

What sets Chick-fil-A apart is its commitment to using fresh ingredients and offering healthier options. Their grilled chicken nuggets, salads, and Greek yogurt parfait provide alternatives for health-conscious customers. 

The chain’s dedication to customer service is also evident in its efficient drive-thru operations and polite staff.

3. Skip: Subway

While Subway was once hailed as a healthier alternative to traditional fast food, the chain has faced numerous controversies and quality issues in recent years. Many customers have complained about the declining quality of ingredients and the inconsistency in sandwich preparation across different locations.

Subway’s reputation took a significant hit when concerns were raised about the quality of their chicken. This issue and other quality concerns have led many customers to seek out alternative sandwich options.

4. Try: Chipotle

Chipotle has built a strong reputation for using high-quality, organic ingredients and offering customizable meals. The chain specializes in tacos and burritos, allowing customers to create their perfect combination of meats, vegetables, rice, beans, and toppings.

What sets Chipotle apart is its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and meats from naturally raised animals. This focus on quality has helped the chain maintain a loyal customer base, even in the face of increased competition in the fast-casual Mexican food market. 

Chipotle’s transparency about its ingredients and preparation methods appeals to health-conscious consumers.

5. Skip: Domino’s

Despite its widespread presence, Domino’s has struggled with customer satisfaction. In fact, one of Domino’s New York branches managed a rating of just 2 stars, making it the lowest-rated fast food restaurant.

Customers frequently complain about long wait times, cold pizzas, and poor customer service.

The chain’s attempts to improve its image and food quality have had mixed results. While some locations have seen improvements, many customers still report disappointing experiences. 

Common complaints include pizzas arriving cold, incorrect orders, and unresponsive customer service when issues arise.

6. Try: In-N-Out Burger

In-N-Out Burger, a West Coast favorite, has built a cult following thanks to its simple menu, fresh ingredients, and consistent quality. The chain is known for its “secret menu,” which allows customers to customize their burgers in various ways.

Its commitment to using fresh, never-frozen beef and hand-cut fries sets In-N-Out apart. The chain also pays its employees well above minimum wage, improving service and employee satisfaction. 

While In-N-Out’s limited menu might not appeal to everyone, its focus on doing a few items exceptionally well has earned it a devoted fan base.

7. Skip: KFC

Kentucky Fried Chicken, once a leader in the fast-food chicken market, has faced criticism for declining food quality and inconsistent service. Many customers have reported receiving dry, overcooked chicken and disappointing sides.

While KFC has attempted to introduce healthier options, such as grilled chicken, these items often take a backseat to their traditional fried offerings. 

The chain’s reputation for unhealthy food has made it difficult to attract health-conscious consumers, even as competitors have successfully introduced more balanced menu options.

8. Try: Panera Bread

Panera Bread has positioned itself as a healthier alternative to traditional fast food, offering various soups, salads, and sandwiches made with high-quality ingredients. The chain has been proactive in catering to various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

What sets Panera apart is its commitment to transparency about ingredients and nutritional information. The chain has eliminated artificial preservatives, sweeteners, and flavors from its menu items. 

Panera’s comfortable dining areas and free Wi-Fi have also made it a popular spot for those looking to work or study while enjoying a meal.

9. Skip: Wendy’s

Despite its attempts to position itself as a higher-quality fast food option, Wendy’s has faced criticism for inconsistent food quality and poor customer service. Wendy’s had one of the lowest order accuracy rates among major fast food chains, with nearly two out of ten incorrect orders.

Customers have reported issues with long wait times, cold food, and rude staff at many Wendy’s locations. The chain’s attempts to introduce new menu items have had mixed results, with some offerings failing to resonate with customers.

While Wendy’s may still have fans, the inconsistency across locations has led many to seek alternatives.

10. Try: Shake Shack

Shake Shack has quickly risen to prominence in the fast-casual burger market, known for its high-quality ingredients and upscale take on classic fast food items. The chain uses 100% all-natural Angus beef for its burgers and antibiotic-free chicken for its sandwiches.

What sets Shake Shack apart is its focus on creating a more premium fast food experience. The chain offers craft beers and wines alongside burgers and shakes, appealing to a more adult audience.

While prices may be higher than traditional fast food, many customers find the quality justifies the cost. 

Shake Shack’s commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing has also helped it build a loyal customer base.

11. Skip: Taco Bell

Taco Bell, known for its Mexican-inspired fast food, has faced criticism for its offerings’ quality and nutritional value. Despite attempts to introduce healthier menu items, the chain still struggles with consistency and food safety concerns.

Many customers have reported digestive issues after eating at Taco Bell, leading to the infamous “Taco Bell effect.” While this may be partly due to some menu items’ high fat and spice content, it also raises questions about ingredient quality and food handling practices. 

The chain has also faced lawsuits regarding the content of its beef filling, with allegations that it doesn’t meet the USDA’s minimum requirements for beef. (ref)

12. Try: Five Guys

Five Guys serves high-quality burgers made from fresh, never-frozen beef. The chain’s commitment to simplicity and quality has earned it a loyal following among burger enthusiasts.

What makes Five Guys special is its focus on customization and generous portions. Customers can choose from various free toppings, allowing them to create their perfect burger. 

The chain’s hand-cut fries, cooked in peanut oil, are also a favorite. While prices may be higher than traditional fast food, many customers find the quality and portion sizes justify the cost.

13. Skip: Little Caesars

Little Caesars, known for its “Hot-N-Ready” pizzas and low prices, has faced criticism for the quality of its ingredients and overall taste. While the chain’s affordability may be appealing, many customers find the pizza lacking flavor and texture.

The chain’s focus on speed and low prices often comes at the expense of quality. Many customers have reported receiving undercooked or cold pizzas, even when ordering the “Hot-N-Ready” option. 

Additionally, the limited menu and lack of customization options can be a drawback for those seeking a more personalized pizza experience.

14. Try: Popeyes

Popeyes has recently gained popularity, particularly after introducing its famous chicken sandwich. The chain is known for its Louisiana-style fried chicken and flavorful side dishes.

The best part is its commitment to bold flavors and authentic Southern-inspired recipes. The chain uses a proprietary blend of spices and marinades its chicken for at least 12 hours before frying, resulting in a consistently juicy and flavorful product. 

While not the healthiest option, Popeyes’ dedication to taste and quality has earned it a loyal customer base.

15. Skip: Arby’s

With its slogan “We Have the Meats,” Arby’s has struggled to maintain relevance in the competitive fast food market. The chain’s focus on roast beef sandwiches and other meat-heavy options has limited its appeal to health-conscious consumers.

Many customers have complained about the quality and taste of Arby’s meat, describing it as processed and lacking in flavor. The chain has also faced criticism for its high sodium content and limited healthy options. 

Despite attempts to introduce new menu items, Arby’s has struggled to shake its reputation as a dated and unhealthy fast food option.

16. Try: Raising Cane’s

Raising Cane’s has built a cult following with its simple menu focused on high-quality chicken fingers. The chain’s commitment to fresh, never-frozen chicken and made-from-scratch sauces has set it apart in the crowded fast food market.

Raising Cane is dedicated to doing one thing exceptionally well. The chain has maintained consistent quality across all locations, focusing solely on chicken fingers. 

The company’s commitment to customer service and community involvement has also contributed to its growing popularity.

17. Skip: Jack in the Box

Jack in the Box, known for its eclectic menu and 24-hour service, has faced criticism for inconsistent food quality and poor customer service. The chain’s attempt to offer various menu items often results in mediocre execution across the board.

Many customers have reported receiving cold or poorly prepared food, even during peak hours. The chain has also faced food safety concerns, including a major E. coli outbreak in the 1990s that severely damaged its reputation. (ref)

While Jack in the Box has tried to improve its image, it struggles with consistency issues.

18. Try: Whataburger

Whataburger, a regional chain in the Southern United States, has developed a loyal following for its made-to-order burgers and friendly service. The chain’s commitment to customization and quality ingredients gives it an edge over larger competitors.

What makes Whataburger special is its focus on regional flavors and customer preferences. The chain offers unique menu items like the Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit and the Patty Melt, which have become fan favorites. 

Whataburger’s 24-hour service and consistent quality have made it a go-to option for late-night cravings and road trips across the South.

19. Skip: Quiznos

Quiznos, once a popular sub-sandwich chain, has faced significant challenges recently, including store closures and bankruptcy. The chain’s decline can be attributed to increased competition, high franchise costs, and inconsistent food quality.

Many customers have complained about shrinking portion sizes and rising prices at Quiznos, which have made it less competitive compared to other sub sandwich chains. The company’s focus on toasted subs, once a unique selling point, has become less distinctive as competitors have adopted similar techniques. 

Quiznos’ struggle to adapt to changing consumer preferences has significantly decreased its market presence.

20. Try: Culver’s

Culver’s, a Midwest-based chain known for its ButterBurgers and frozen custard, has gained popularity for its high-quality ingredients and commitment to customer service. The chain’s focus on fresh, made-to-order food has earned it a loyal following.

They use fresh, never-frozen beef and its signature frozen custard made in small batches throughout the day. The chain also offers a variety of regional specialties, such as cheese curds and walleye sandwiches, appealing to local tastes. 

Culver’s commitment to quality and community involvement has helped it expand beyond its Midwest roots while maintaining a solid reputation.