Buckle up, snack seeker—we’re hitting the backroads of America’s drive-thru scene, where secret sauces flow like rivers and regional loyalty runs deeper than a milkshake.
Every state’s got that one spot locals swear is “way better than anything national,” and honestly, they might be right.
Just don’t ask for the recipe—you’ll get a side-eye and a “bless your heart” faster than you can say “extra crispy.”
1. Alabama – Milo’s Hamburgers
What if I told you Milo’s secret sauce is legendary in Alabama? Its burgers are a classic, dripping with southern charm and flavor.
This local delight will make you rethink fast food.
2. Alaska – Burger Jim
In the vast wilderness, Burger Jim serves up wild game burgers. Ever tried reindeer meat? It’s a staple here, and locals swear by its taste.
A true Alaskan experience!
3. Arizona – Eegee’s
Craving something cool in Arizona? Eegee’s offers frozen fruit drinks and subs that are as vibrant as the desert sun. It’s more than a meal; it’s a refreshing escape!
4. Arkansas – David’s Burgers
David’s Burgers in Arkansas is where freshness meets flavor. Their hand-cut fries and juicy burgers are worth the trip. Hungry yet?
This place is a local favorite!
5. California – In-N-Out Burger
In California, In-N-Out Burger reigns supreme. Known for its secret menu and fresh ingredients, it’s a cult favorite.
Animal-style fries, anyone? It’s a must-try!
6. Colorado – Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard
Good Times in Colorado offers burgers and frozen custard that’ll warm your soul. Nestled in the mountains, it’s a taste of comfort with every bite!
7. Connecticut – Duchess
Duchess in Connecticut is the diner of your dreams. With a menu as diverse as its patrons, it serves everything from burgers to breakfast all day.
Nostalgia on a plate!
8. Delaware – Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop
Ever had a Bobbie sandwich? Capriotti’s in Delaware serves this Thanksgiving delight year-round.
It’s comfort food wrapped in a bun, and locals can’t get enough!
9. Florida – Pollo Tropical
In Florida, Pollo Tropical serves up Caribbean flavors with a twist.
From citrus-marinated chicken to black beans and rice, it’s a tropical fiesta in every bite!
10. Georgia – The Varsity
The Varsity in Georgia is a fast food icon. Known for its chili dogs and frosted orange drinks, it’s been serving smiles since 1928.
What’ll ya have?
11. Hawaii – Zippy’s
Locals in Hawaii congregate to Zippy’s for a taste of paradise.
Its food is as varied as the islands, offering everything from chile to saimin. Deliciousness, aloha!
12. Idaho – Hudson’s Hamburgers
Serving burgers with a side of history, Hudson’s in Idaho has been a local treasure since 1907. A timeless classic where simplicity reigns, it’s the perfect place to savor both the past and a delicious meal.
13. Illinois – Portillo’s
Portillo’s in Illinois is more than hot dogs.
From Italian beef to chocolate cake shakes, it’s a feast for the senses. Chicagoans know it’s the real deal!
14. Indiana – Culver’s
In Indiana, Culver’s serves up butter burgers and custard that have everyone talking.
Each bite offers a taste of Midwestern comfort, wrapped in warmth and flavor.
15. Iowa – Maid-Rite
Maid-Rite in Iowa is the home of the loose meat sandwich.
No frills, just flavor. A bite of Iowa tradition, it’s comfort in a bun!
16. Kansas – Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
In Kansas, Freddy’s serves steakburgers and frozen custard with a side of nostalgia.
It’s like eating in the 50s, but with more cheese and less jukebox. Step into the past and smile!
17. Kentucky – Cook Out
Cook Out in Kentucky is a flavor festival.
With grilled delights and milkshakes galore, this place turns meals into memories.
18. Louisiana – Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers
What’s crispy, tender, and begging for Cane’s sauce? Raising Cane’s in Louisiana serves chicken fingers that are finger-lickin’ good. A Southern staple!
19. Maine – Amato’s
Amato’s in Maine serves Italian sandwiches that are a cut above.
Fresh ingredients make each bite a taste of Italy in New England.
20. Maryland – Royal Farms
Royal Farms in Maryland has earned its legendary status with fried chicken served right from a convenience store.
Who knew a quick stop could turn into a crispy, unforgettable experience?
21. Massachusetts – Kelly’s Roast Beef
Roast beef dreams come alive at Kelly’s in Massachusetts. Flavor-packed, juicy, and beachside—it’s a true taste of New England!
22. Michigan – Big Boy
Where burgers and breakfast collide—Big Boy in Michigan delivers, all while the iconic mascot brings a slice of Americana joy. This one is a heavy banger.
23. Minnesota – Juicy Lucy at Matt’s Bar
The Juicy Lucy at Matt’s Bar in Minnesota is a must-try. Gooey cheese stuffed inside a beefy patty—it’s a molten marvel that’ll melt your heart!
24. Mississippi – Ward’s
Ward’s in Mississippi serves burgers and root beer with Southern flair.
It’s a taste of nostalgia that’ll have you coming back for more!
25. Missouri – Lion’s Choice
In Missouri, Lion’s Choice offers roast beef sandwiches that are a cut above. Tender, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying!
26. Montana – The Pickle Barrel
The Pickle Barrel in Montana is known for its oversized sandwiches.
A local favorite, it’s a bite of Montana hospitality.
27. Nebraska – Runza
Runza in Nebraska is where stuffed sandwiches are a local legend.
Hearty, delicious, and wrapped in the rich tradition of the state!
28. Nevada – Roberto’s Taco Shop
Roberto’s in Nevada serves tacos that are a fiesta for the taste buds.
Authentic flavors make every meal feel like a celebration!
29. New Hampshire – Moe’s Italian Sandwiches
Italian sandwiches shine at Moe’s in New Hampshire.
With fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a touch of joy—it’s amore in every bite!
30. New Jersey – Rutt’s Hut
New Jersey’s Rutt’s Hut is the birthplace of the deep-fried hot dog.
Called “rippers,” these crispy, crunchy wonders are a culinary icon!
31. New Mexico – Blake’s Lotaburger
Blake’s Lotaburger in New Mexico serves green chile burgers that pack a punch.
A true taste of the Southwest!
32. New York – Shake Shack
Shake Shack in New York offers gourmet burgers and shakes that are a city staple.
It’s a taste of the Big Apple!
33. North Carolina – Cook Out
At Cook Out in North Carolina, flavor reigns supreme.
Grilled perfection and milkshakes galore turn each meal into a tasty memory.
34. North Dakota – Kroll’s Diner
At Kroll’s Diner in North Dakota, German and American cuisines collide.
It’s a retro experience with a hearty, flavorful twist!
35. Ohio – Swensons Drive-In
Swensons in Ohio offers drive-in dining with a smile.
Burgers, shakes, and carhop service make it a retro delight!
36. Oklahoma – Braum’s Ice Cream & Dairy Store
Braum’s in Oklahoma is an ice cream lover’s paradise.
With burgers and shakes, it’s a dairy dream come true!
37. Oregon – Burgerville
Oregon’s Burgerville is all about sustainable, locally-sourced burgers.
Eco-friendly and flavorful—served with a side of flair!
38. Pennsylvania – Sheetz
Sheetz in Pennsylvania is a one-stop-shop for delicious.
Made-to-order sandwiches and coffee make it a road trip essential!
39. Rhode Island – Olneyville New York System
In Rhode Island, Olneyville serves up iconic hot wieners and coffee milk.
A local tradition bursting with flavor!
40. South Carolina – Palmetto Pig Barbecue Restaurant
When it comes to BBQ, Palmetto Pig in South Carolina is a must-try.
The slow-cooked meat is smoky, tender, and packed with flavor, leaving you fully satisfied after every bite.
41. South Dakota – Taco John’s
With its bold Mexican flavors, Taco John’s in South Dakota offers more than just food—it’s a fiesta in every bite that leaves you craving more! Do not hesitate to try this one!
42. Tennessee – Pal’s Sudden Service
In Tennessee, Pal’s is a quirky gem.
With speedy service and burgers that hit the spot, you’ll be enjoying fries and smiles in no time!
43. Texas – Whataburger
If you’re in Texas, you’re bound to encounter Whataburger—where big, bold burgers are the star of the show. Each bite is a true testament to the proud flavors of the Lone Star State.
44. Utah – Crown Burgers
When it comes to burgers, Crown Burgers in Utah is the king.
Pastrami-topped and full of Greek-inspired flavors, each bite is a royal delight you won’t want to miss!
45. Vermont – Al’s French Frys
Step into Al’s in Vermont, where crispy fries meet a retro vibe.
Every crunchy bite transports you straight to a nostalgic, flavorful past!
46. Virginia – Cook Out
Grilled perfection and milkshakes galore come together at Cook Out in Virginia, making every meal a fun-filled flavor adventure you won’t forget! Perfection at one place.
47. Washington – Dick’s Drive-In
With its vintage charm, Dick’s in Washington is the ultimate drive-in dream.
Classic burgers and fries will have you reminiscing with every delicious bite!
48. West Virginia – Tudor’s Biscuit World
Freshly baked biscuits at Tudor’s in West Virginia make for breakfast bliss.
Comfort food at its finest, served with a side of true country warmth!
49. Wisconsin – Culver’s
Culver’s in Wisconsin serves up butter burgers and custard that are the talk of the town.
With each bite, you’re wrapped in Midwestern warmth.
50. Wyoming – Taco John’s
Feel the fiesta at Taco John’s in Wyoming, where Mexican flavors come to life.
It’s a tasty celebration you won’t want to miss!