Burger King, Wendy’s, McDonald’s, and… Eegee’s? The majority of us are familiar with the well-known fast food chains that have eateries all throughout the United States; you probably also know of a few hidden gems in your own town. What about the smaller local and regional chains, which are less common yet have amassed throngs of devoted followers? Here’s our list of the fast food places you probably haven’t tried but absolutely should, from tiny chains that have just started to spread their wings (chicken or otherwise) to cult eateries you might not have heard of.
Taco Cabana
Put away Taco Bell Residents of Texas and New Mexico go to this 24-hour taco shop for high-quality Tex-Mex. The pillowy, freshly baked tortillas are said to be the greatest in Dallas, and they taste even better when they’re topped with cheese and beans. Fun fact: Taco Cabana didn’t start staying up all night to cater to partygoers; rather, it did so to deter furniture theft from its patio area.
Raising Cane’s
Raising Cane’s, one of the US chains with the greatest growth, is causing Chick-Fil-A and KFC concern. One thing draws its cult following: hot, crispy chicken fingers. Because the only other items it offers are chicken sandwiches, Texas toast, crinkle-cut fries, coleslaw, and soft drinks. With its first restaurant opening in 1996, the chain now has more than 600 locations across the states.
Pollo Tropical
You might not be aware of Pollo Tropical’s grilled chicken with citrus marinade unless you’re from Florida. It comes with a number of complimentary sauces, such as guava barbecue and pineapple rum. Some patrons adore the franchise with a Caribbean theme so much that they even get married there. It began operations in 1988 and expanded quickly, but attempts to expand outside of the Sunshine State have so far been fruitless.
Burgerlords
Burgerlords is a super-hip, vegan burger joint with a few locations in Los Angeles. It is the new child in California. The Brainburner, which has jalapeno potato chips, Provolone cheese, yellow chilies, and aioli, is one of the menu’s highlights. However, the menu is so tiny that you could definitely sample everything.
Eegee’s
Eegee’s is a Tucson institution that is only available here and in a few other places in Arizona. The crinkle-cut fries topped with the ranch dressing made in-house as well as the enormous cookies are favourites among the locals. The slushies, which come in varieties like strawberry, pia colada, and lemon, offer much-needed relief from the oppressive Arizona heat.
Braum’s Ice Cream and Dairy Store
Since 1933, this Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Missouri, and Arkansas treasure has been renowned for its delectable fresh ice-cream milkshakes. Although its devoted supporters would like to see it grow even more, all of its stores must remain close to the dairy. Along with the enormous burgers, popular options include the orange sherbet, pecan praline and cream, and mint chocolate chip.
First Watch
The only meals served at this daytime café, which has more than 400 outlets, are breakfast and lunch. Because of this, the first shift of the day is referred to as First Watch by sailors. Customers adore it because it specialises in healthy foods like vegetarian omelettes, smashed avocado on toast, and French toast.