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There will always be an endless debate over which burger joint or sandwich shop holds the throne as America’s favorite quick-service restaurant. While In-N-Out recently lost its place atop American’s tastebuds in favor of Chick-fil-A, according to a study, it still holds its place as America’s favorite spot for a quick burger.r
A new study by Market Force polled more than 7,6000 consumers on their favorite American quick-service restaurants based on seven different food categories: burgers, sandwiches, Mexican, pizza, chicken, coffee and bakery, and frozen dessert and smoothie. Each food chain was ranked based on different categories from food quality to which gives you more bang for your buck.
Based on the study’s findings, In-N-Out can at least still call itself the king of the burger.
The popular West Coast giant topped the rankings with 73% overall customer satisfaction, narrowly beating Five Guys (68%), Midwestern chain Culver’s (67%) and Texan restaurant Whataburger (58%). More accessible quick-bite stops like Wendy’s, Burger King, and McDonald’s all placed within the bottom four, according to the study.
In-N-Out’s strengths stem from its food quality, value, cleanliness, staff friendliness, and curb appeal, in which it topped each category separately. Smashburger ranked as the healthiest choice and Five Guys was found to have the best food quality.
For America’s favorite sandwich shop, Jersey Mike’s barely topped Firehouse Subs. Wawa, Jimmy John’s and Panera Bread followed behind while Subway was ranked the least favorite.
Subway, which has nearly 25,000 restaurants in the US, ranked dead last on food quality, staff friendliness, atmosphere, and curb appeal.
When Americans want chicken, Chick-fil-A was unsurprisingly favored locked down the highest overall score. Chipotle claimed the top spot on the Mexican food list for the third straight year. Blaze Pizza, a pizza chain backed by NBA star LeBron James, ranked first for fast-casual pizza.
Americans prefer Krispy Kreme the most for their coffee and bakery goods. Starbucks ranked in the top three of every category except value, where it was dead last by 7%.
