Latest updated April 22, 2024 by

Beloved Midwestern Chain Named Best Fast Food in the US

Culver’s, butterburger and frozen custard haven, is basking in the glory of being named the top dog (best fast food chain) among fast food restaurants in the US. This accolade comes courtesy of Fodor’s, a travel guide giant known for…

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Culver’s, butterburger and frozen custard haven, is basking in the glory of being named the top dog (best fast food chain) among fast food restaurants in the US. This accolade comes courtesy of Fodor’s, a travel guide giant known for its discerning recommendations.

Travel writer Geena Truman, after a year-long exploration of American eats by car, placed Culver’s at the number one spot. Culver’s fans have long championed their menu, raving about the flavor-packed ButterBurgers, the golden-fried Wisconsin cheese curds, and of course, the legendary frozen custard with its ever-changing flavors.

Fodor’s said: “Culver’s is the most delicious fast food pit stop in America. There, I said it. If you don’t live in the Midwest, it’s likely you’ve never even heard of it. However, thankfully, the chain now serves mid-western-style beef and dairy products in 26 US states.”

And the recognition doesn’t just cover delicious food, Culver’s is also distinguished as a friendly place with a clean atmosphere, apparently a step up from the typical fast food experience.

Top 12 Fast Food Chains Ranked By Fodor’s

  • 1. Culver’s
  • 2. Shake Shack
  • 3. In-N-Out Burger
  • 4. Whataburger
  • 5. Raising Caines
  • 6. Five Guys Burger and Fries
  • 7. Chick-Fil-a
  • 8. Dave’s Hot Chicken
  • 9. Kelly’s Roast Beef
  • 10. White Castle
  • 11. Dick’s and Zip’s
  • 12. Jollibee’s

As far as the largest fast food chain? Starbucks recently grabbed ahold of Subway’s spot for second place in terms of ubiquity. Starbucks usurped the second position by adding 3,000 more locations in 2023. And Starbucks is now only eclipsed by mega-chain McDonald’s in numbers alone.

Since the chain is primarily concentrated in the Midwest, their win with Fodor’s might inspire more Culver’s to sprout up across the nation, giving everyone a chance to experience the goodness.

Can Culver’s expand into more territory, and conquer beyond the confines of the Mid-west? If that was the goal, they just might do it.

For now, cheese curd connoisseurs and custard devotees can celebrate Culver’s well-deserved win in 24 states (and counting).

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