Exploring fast food in the U.S. & Canada

The concept of fast food as we know it today largely originated in the United States in the early 20th century. Fueled by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and the rise of the automobile, fast food chains emerged to meet the demand for quick, affordable meals for busy Americans.

By the mid-1900s, iconic brands like McDonald's and Burger King began shaping American dining culture, offering consistent, standardized meals across the country. Today, fast food remains an integral part of American life, valued for its convenience, affordability, and ubiquity. Whether you're on a cross-country road trip or simply exploring a new city, you'll find that these quick-service restaurants are often the easiest, most accessible way to grab a bite to eat.

For non-U.S. travelers, American fast food chains provide a fascinating glimpse into local culture, as well as a range of classic dishes like burgers, fries, fried chicken, and tacos. However, it's important to note that while many chains are available nationwide, some regional favorites may require a bit more exploring. Here's your ultimate guide to fast food in the United States.

Nationwide fast food chains

These chains can be found virtually everywhere in the U.S., making them familiar and reliable options wherever you go:

1. McDonald's

   Perhaps the most iconic fast food chain globally, McDonald's has a vast presence across the U.S., offering its signature burgers, fries, and breakfast items. No matter which state you're in, you're likely just minutes away from a McDonald's.

   
   

2. Burger King

   Like McDonald's, Burger King is widespread across the U.S., with its famous Whopper burgers and a variety of flame-grilled options. While it's slightly less ubiquitous than McDonald's, it remains a solid go-to nationwide.

   
   

3. Wendy's

   Known for its square burgers and fresh, never-frozen beef, Wendy's has thousands of locations across the U.S. It's easy to find, even in small towns, and is a favorite for its Frosty desserts and sea salt fries.

   
   

4. Subway

   Offering made-to-order sandwiches, Subway is a healthy-ish alternative to the typical burger chains. It's also one of the most widespread fast food chains in the U.S., with locations in almost every town, city, and gas station.

   
   

5. KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken)

   Famous for its "finger-lickin' good" fried chicken, KFC has a strong presence across the U.S. While there are a few gaps in rural areas, most cities and suburbs will have at least one location.

   
   

6. Taco Bell

   Serving up Tex-Mex inspired tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, Taco Bell is ubiquitous in American fast food culture. Most areas, from the smallest towns to the largest cities, will have a Taco Bell nearby.

   
   

7. Domino's Pizza

As a leading pizza delivery chain, Domino's is found almost everywhere in the U.S. From big cities to rural areas, it's the go-to option for quick, hot pizzas.

8. Dunkin' (formerly Dunkin' Donuts)

If you're looking for coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and donuts, Dunkin' has a strong presence, especially in the Northeastern U.S. However, you can now find locations in nearly every state.

Fast food chains with limited availability

While most chains are nationwide, some are notably absent in certain regions. If you have your heart set on visiting one of these, make sure to check its availability before you travel.

1. Chick-fil-A

   Known for its chicken sandwiches and excellent customer service, Chick-fil-A is present across the U.S. but tends to be less common in some areas of the Pacific Northwest and parts of the West Coast. It is also closed on Sundays, which can be surprising for international visitors.

   
   

2. Sonic Drive-In

   Sonic, which features a drive-in experience complete with carhops on roller skates, has a vast presence in the Southern and Midwestern U.S. but can be harder to find in the Northeast and parts of California.

   
   

3. Popeyes

   Famous for its Louisiana-style fried chicken, Popeyes is available across most of the country, though it is more prevalent in the Southern and Eastern states. It can be more sparse in the Western U.S.

   
   

4. Carl's Jr.

   Carl's Jr. is found mainly in the Western and Southwestern U.S., while its sister chain, Hardee's, dominates the Midwest and Southeast. Be mindful of this divide when you're traveling coast-to-coast.

   
   

Regional Fast Food Chains

For a more local experience, some fast food chains are deeply rooted in specific regions of the country. These regional chains offer flavors and specialties that can’t be found nationwide.

1. In-N-Out Burger

   Location: California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Texas, Colorado, and Oregon

   In-N-Out is a cult favorite for its simple menu of burgers, fries, and shakes. It's largely concentrated on the West Coast, but its reputation has spread nationwide.

   
   

2. Whataburger

   Location: Texas, Southern U.S., and some parts of the Midwest

   Texas's pride and joy, Whataburger, is known for its massive burgers and 24-hour service. While it’s growing in popularity, it’s still mainly found in the South and a few select states outside that region.

   
   

3. Culver's

   Location: Midwest (Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, and more)

   Famous for its ButterBurgers and frozen custard, Culver's is a Midwest staple. It has expanded to other regions, but the heaviest concentration remains in Wisconsin and neighboring states.

   
   

4. Bojangles

   Location: Southeastern U.S. (North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, etc.)

   Bojangles is beloved in the Southeast for its fried chicken and buttermilk biscuits. Travelers to the region should take the opportunity to try this Southern favorite.

   
   

5. Shake Shack

   Location: Major cities nationwide (New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, etc.)

   Originally a New York City hot dog cart, Shake Shack has grown into a popular burger chain, especially in large metropolitan areas. Though expanding, it’s still primarily found in major cities and upscale shopping centers.

   
   

American fast food is as diverse as the country itself, ranging from nationwide giants to beloved regional gems. For non-U.S. travelers, exploring these chains offers a fun way to taste the local culture and experience the convenience that Americans rely on daily. Whether you're craving a quick burger from McDonald's or want to seek out a regional favorite like In-N-Out or Whataburger, the variety is endless. Just remember, not all fast food chains are created equal, and some might require a little extra effort to find, depending on where you are in the U.S.

Fast food in Canada

Canada has its own unique fast food culture, with several chains that cater specifically to Canadian tastes and preferences. While international chains like McDonald's and KFC are common, travelers to Canada should take the opportunity to try some homegrown favorites that are distinctly Canadian.

1. Tim Hortons

   Often considered a national treasure, Tim Hortons is synonymous with Canadian coffee culture. Known for its coffee, donuts, and "Timbits" (donut holes), Tim Hortons also offers a variety of breakfast items, soups, and sandwiches. It’s the most ubiquitous fast food chain in Canada and can be found in almost every town and city across the country.

   
   

2. Harvey's

   Harvey's is Canada's answer to the classic burger joint. Famous for its flame-grilled burgers and customizable toppings, Harvey's is well-loved across the country for offering a distinctly Canadian twist on fast food. While it may not be as widespread as Tim Hortons, you can find Harvey's in most major cities and suburban areas.

   
   

3. Swiss Chalet

   Specializing in rotisserie chicken, Swiss Chalet is a Canadian institution known for its savory chicken dinners and famous Chalet Sauce. Primarily found in Ontario and other eastern provinces, it offers a slightly more sit-down experience compared to traditional fast food chains but still serves quick, comforting meals.

   
   

4. A&W Canada

   Although originally an American chain, A&W Canada has developed into a distinctly Canadian brand, with its own menu and a commitment to serving hormone-free, locally sourced beef and chicken. Popular for its root beer floats, burgers, and onion rings, A&W Canada can be found throughout the country, particularly in urban and suburban areas.

   
   

5. Pizza Pizza

A go-to for pizza lovers, Pizza Pizza is one of Canada's largest pizza chains, offering affordable pizzas, wings, and sides. While primarily located in Ontario, you can find Pizza Pizza in several other provinces as well, particularly in major cities.

6. New York Fries

Despite the name, New York Fries is a Canadian fast food chain specializing in hand-cut fries and poutines (a Canadian dish of fries, cheese curds, and gravy). It’s found mainly in malls and food courts across the country and is a must-try for anyone wanting to experience one of Canada’s most beloved comfort foods.

These Canadian-only fast food chains offer a taste of the local culture and are a great way for travelers to experience Canada’s unique twist on quick-service dining. Whether you're grabbing a coffee from Tim Hortons or indulging in poutine from New York Fries, these chains are an essential part of the Canadian fast food experience.