Every year, restaurants introduce unique menu items and often evolve in terms of the restaurant’s quality and accessibility. My idea of the ideal chain restaurant is a restaurant that can offer great food that is accessible to all income levels, offers a unique and wide variety of items, and stands out from their competitors within the same food category. Here are my top 5 chain restaurants of 2024.

5. The fifth best chain restaurant of 2024 goes to Popeyes. Popeyes has been around for a very long time and is a prime spot for good quality chicken. I think that Popeyes is always a safe option if you are looking for a quick meal that won’t disappoint. Their chicken sandwiches and tenders never disappoint and with flavor and seasoning.

4. The fourth best chain restaurant of 2024 goes to Shake Shack. Shake Shack has been a hit this year for their burgers that use good quality ingredients, great seasoning and a wide variety of options to choose from. Although Shake Shack has great food such as their famous ShackBurger, many have complained that the prices at Shake Shack have been getting higher, and the prices are just too much for a meal.

3. The third best chain restaurant of 2024 is Chipotle. Chipotle offers a very different type of food to all of the restaurants on this list. Unlike most of the popular fast food restaurants that serve mainly unhealthy food such as burgers, fries, and milkshakes, Chipotle has much more healthy options such as burritos and burrito bowls. Chipotle provides a refreshing change from the usual unhealthy and greasy fast food that can get overwhelming at times.

2. The second best fast food restaurant of 2024 is Dave’s Hot Chicken. Dave’s hot chicken specializes in hot chicken sliders, crispy chicken tenders, and their crinkle cut fries. Dave’s never disappoints when it comes to seasoning, as they offer their signature Dave’s sauce as well as a customizable level of spice. Dave’s has been a fan favorite for their strong flavors and customizable options.

1. The best chain restaurant of the year is Chick-fil-A. Chick-fil-A stands out in the fast food industry because of their focus on good quality chicken sandwiches and their unique waffle fries. Chick-fil-a is also famous for their signature sauce which pairs well with their chicken sandwiches and fries, making Chick-fil-a a go to spot for a great chicken sandwich that will never disappoint.

Restaurants that have earned positive reviews but I have yet to try: Raising Cane’s, In-N-Out, Sonic, Whataburger.