Sure, you know the big-name chains – but some of the best fast food experiences are hiding in plain sight. These regional chains are local, fiercely beloved, and absolutely worth a detour.
P. Terry’s Burger Stand — Austin, TX
A Central Texas favorite, P. Terry’s Burger Stand keeps things refreshingly simple. Burgers are made to order using all-natural beef with no hormones or antibiotics, while potatoes are shipped in from Idaho and fried fresh in 100% canola oil. Round out your meal with a hand-spun milkshake (try the caramel coffee) or homemade lemonade – and if you have room, don’t skip the banana bread or chocolate chip cookies.
Char-Grill — Raleigh, NC
Since 1959, Char-Grill has been Raleigh’s go-to spot for no-frills, char-broiled burgers. Walk up to the window, order a cheeseburger, hot dog, or fries, and watch the grill work its magic. With locations scattered across North Carolina, this classic drive-in keeps things old-school – right down to the shakes, brownies, and apple turnovers waiting for dessert.
Naugles Tacos — Orange County & Los Angeles, CA
Founded in 1970, Naugles became a Southern California cult favorite before most locations disappeared. Today, the legend lives on through a flagship restaurant and a roaming food truck. The menu blends tacos and burgers, with standouts like the famous bun taco (yes, a taco on a bun), plus tostadas, burritos, nachos, and churro nuggets for dessert.
Tommy’s Original World Famous Hamburgers (Original Group) — Los Angeles County, CA
Since 1946, Tommy’s has been slinging chili-cheese everything – from burgers and hot dogs to fries and even tamales. With dozens of locations across Los Angeles and Las Vegas, this 24/7 institution is perfect for late-night cravings or early-morning breakfast burritos, all piled high with their signature chili. One bite and you’ll understand the hype.
Runza — Nebraska
Deeply woven into Nebraska’s food culture, Runza specializes in its namesake sandwich: a warm baked pocket filled with seasoned beef, cabbage, and onions. Locations stretch across Nebraska, Kansas, and Iowa, serving burgers, fries, and onion rings alongside the classics. And yes, chili with a cinnamon roll on the side is a thing here. Trust the locals and try it.
Crown Burgers — Salt Lake City Area, UT
Family-owned and Greek-operated since 1978, Crown Burgers is best known for its iconic Crown Burger, a quarter-pound patty stacked with Thousand Island dressing, cheese, lettuce, onions, and a generous pile of hot pastrami. The menu also features gyros, burritos, fries, onion rings, and milkshakes, making it a go-to for serious comfort food.
Happy Joe’s Pizza & Ice Cream — Midwest
A Midwestern classic, Happy Joe’s is beloved for its playful vibe and over-the-top specialty pizzas. The taco pizza has a cult following, while the omelette pizza wins over breakfast lovers. Add in barbecue brisket pizza, ice cream treats, and kid-friendly arcades and play zones, and it’s easy to see why families keep coming back.
Tastee-Freez (Independent Locations) — Midwest & Northeast
The independently owned Tastee-Freez locations across the Midwest and Northeast provide a nostalgic stop for soft-serve lovers. Along with burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches, the real stars are the frozen treats – especially the Freezee, blended thick with Oreo or Reese’s. Go big with a parfait or banana split and lean fully into the old-school ice cream stand experience.
Superdawg Drive-In — Chicago, IL
A Chicago landmark since 1948, Superdawg Drive-In delivers pure retro charm. Expect bold neon signs, a walk-up window, and picnic tables filled with locals in the know. The star of the show is the Superdawg – a massive hot dog topped with mustard, piccalilli, dill pickle, Spanish onions, and a hot pepper, all tucked into a poppy-seed bun.
Maid-Rite — Iowa & Midwest
Serving customers since 1926 throughout Iowa, Illinois, and beyond, Maid-Rite is famous for its loose-meat sandwich – think sloppy joe vibes, minus the sauce. The seasoned beef is topped with ketchup, mustard, pickles, and onions, then paired with fries or onion rings. Add a chocolate shake or malt, and you’ve got a Midwestern classic done right.
