Crisscross the country and you’ll find more than just golden arches and familiar drive-thru menus. Tucked into bustling cities and quiet highways are regional fast food gems that locals fiercely defend as the best of the best.
These beloved spots dish out everything from fiery green chile cheeseburgers to pillowy fried chicken biscuits that never make the national spotlight. If you’re hungry for flavors you can’t get anywhere else, here’s your guide to the top regional chains in every state—and a few secret favorites worth hunting down.
1. Alabama – Jack’s Family Restaurants
Jack’s Family Restaurants are a beloved staple in Alabama, offering a welcoming space where families gather for delicious meals.
It’s a place where memories are made over hearty meals, making it a cherished part of Alabama’s culinary landscape.
2. Alabama – Dreamland Bar-B-Que
Dreamland Bar-B-Que is an iconic Alabama eatery renowned for its legendary ribs and authentic Southern barbecue experience. Its signature ribs, served with a tangy sauce, are a testament to time-honored traditions.
Dreamland is not just about food; it’s about community, laughter, and the undeniable bond over shared meals in a warm, welcoming environment.
3. 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.
4. 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!
5. 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!
6. 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!
7. Arkansas – Feltner’s Whatta-burger
Established in 1967, this family-run diner exudes retro charm with its neon lights and vintage décor.
Known for its juicy burgers, hand-cut fries, and creamy shakes, it attracts burger aficionados from miles around.
8. 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!
9. 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!
10. 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!
11. 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!
12. 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!
13. 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?
14. 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!
15. 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.
16. 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!
17. 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.
18. 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!
19. 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!
20. Kentucky – Cook Out
Cook Out in Kentucky is a flavor festival.
With grilled delights and milkshakes galore, this place turns meals into memories.
21. 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!
22. 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.
23. 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?
24. 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!
25. 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.
26. 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!
27. Minnesota – Valleyfair’s Famous Pronto Pups
Pronto Pup (corn dog on a stick) is legendary at Minnesota fairs, especially the Minnesota State Fair. Several small vendors specialize in them statewide, making them a fast, regional food icon.
28. 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!
29. Missouri – Lion’s Choice
In Missouri, Lion’s Choice offers roast beef sandwiches that are a cut above. Tender, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying!
30. 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.
31. Nebraska – Runza
Runza in Nebraska is where stuffed sandwiches are a local legend.
Hearty, delicious, and wrapped in the rich tradition of the state!
32. 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!
33. 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!
34. 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!
35. 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!
36. 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!
37. 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.
38. 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!
39. Ohio – Swensons Drive-In
Swensons in Ohio offers drive-in dining with a smile.
Burgers, shakes, and carhop service make it a retro delight!
40. 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!
41. Oregon – Burgerville
Oregon’s Burgerville is all about sustainable, locally-sourced burgers.
Eco-friendly and flavorful—served with a side of flair!
42. Pennsylvania – Sheetz
Sheetz in Pennsylvania is a one-stop-shop for delicious.
Made-to-order sandwiches and coffee make it a road trip essential!
43. Rhode Island – Olneyville New York System
In Rhode Island, Olneyville serves up iconic hot wieners and coffee milk.
A local tradition bursting with flavor!
44. 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.
45. 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!
46. 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!
47. 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.
48. 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!
49. 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!
50. 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.
51. 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!
52. 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!
53. 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.
54. 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!