50 Most Popular Chain Restaurants

Chain restaurants are a staple of American culture, offering the comfort of familiarity and the convenience of quick service, no matter where you are in the country. From small towns to big cities, these eateries serve up everything from burgers and fries to pizza, pasta, and coffee—always ready to satisfy your hunger at a moment’s notice. For many, these restaurants are more than just a place to grab a bite—they’re tied to fond memories of road trips, family gatherings, and late-night snack runs. Whether it’s grabbing a Big Mac on the way to work, sharing a pizza during game night, or sipping a latte while catching up with friends, these places hold a special spot in our hearts.

Over the years, some of these chains have grown into mega-brands recognized around the world, while others have stayed more regional, but with just as devoted a following. They each have their own charm and a loyal customer base, often built on iconic menu items like McDonald’s fries, Chick-fil-A’s chicken sandwich, or Starbucks’ frappuccinos. Some focus on speed and affordability, while others aim to offer a slightly more upscale dining experience—but all have one thing in common: consistency. No matter where you go, the food tastes the same, which is comforting when you’re far from home or just craving that familiar favorite.

In this list, we’re diving into the 50 most popular chain restaurants across America. These are the places that millions of Americans turn to when they want a reliable meal. From fast food giants to family-friendly diners and trendy fast-casual spots, this rundown captures the variety of dining options that have become woven into the fabric of everyday American life. So, whether you’re a burger aficionado, a pizza lover, or a fan of chicken wings, there’s likely a favorite spot or two on this list that feels like home. Let’s take a look at the biggest names in the business, and maybe even find a few surprises along the way.

1. McDonald’s

Type: Fast Food (Burgers)
Famous For: Big Mac, Fries, McNuggets
Founded: 1940
Locations: 13,500+ in the U.S.
Overview: McDonald’s is the largest fast-food chain in the world, known for its quick service, iconic menu items, and affordability.

2. Starbucks

Type: Coffeehouse
Famous For: Coffee, Lattes, Frappuccinos
Founded: 1971
Locations: 15,000+ in the U.S.
Overview: Starbucks revolutionized the coffee industry with its vast selection of beverages, premium coffee blends, and cozy atmosphere.

3. Chick-fil-A

Type: Fast Food (Chicken)
Famous For: Chicken Sandwich, Waffle Fries
Founded: 1946
Locations: 2,800+ in the U.S.
Overview: Chick-fil-A is beloved for its focus on chicken sandwiches and customer service, with a business model that closes its doors on Sundays.

4. Subway

Type: Fast Food (Subs)
Famous For: Customizable Sub Sandwiches
Founded: 1965
Locations: 21,000+ in the U.S.
Overview: Subway offers a variety of freshly made sandwiches and salads, with a focus on healthier, made-to-order options.

5. Taco Bell

Type: Fast Food (Mexican)
Famous For: Crunchwrap Supreme, Tacos
Founded: 1962
Locations: 7,000+ in the U.S.
Overview: Taco Bell specializes in American-style Mexican food, with an innovative and budget-friendly menu.

6. Wendy’s

Type: Fast Food (Burgers)
Famous For: Frosty, Dave’s Single
Founded: 1969
Locations: 6,500+ in the U.S.
Overview: Known for its fresh, never frozen beef and square burgers, Wendy’s has maintained a strong presence in the fast-food industry.

7. Burger King

Type: Fast Food (Burgers)
Famous For: Whopper, Chicken Fries
Founded: 1954
Locations: 7,200+ in the U.S.
Overview: Burger King is known for its flame-grilled burgers and has built a reputation with its popular Whopper sandwich.

8. Domino’s Pizza

Type: Fast Food (Pizza)
Famous For: Pizza, Cheesy Bread
Founded: 1960
Locations: 6,500+ in the U.S.
Overview: Domino’s has become a leader in the pizza delivery business, known for its fast service and customizable pizzas.

9. Dunkin’

Type: Coffeehouse
Famous For: Donuts, Coffee, Breakfast Sandwiches
Founded: 1950
Locations: 9,000+ in the U.S.
Overview: Dunkin’ has carved out a niche as a coffee and donut chain, evolving its menu over the years to include sandwiches and beverages.

10. Panera Bread

Type: Fast Casual (Bakery-Café)
Famous For: Soups, Salads, Sandwiches
Founded: 1987
Locations: 2,200+ in the U.S.
Overview: Panera Bread is a leader in the fast-casual space, offering freshly baked goods alongside nutritious salads, soups, and sandwiches.

11. Pizza Hut

Type: Fast Food (Pizza)
Famous For: Pan Pizza, Breadsticks
Founded: 1958
Locations: 6,000+ in the U.S.
Overview: Pizza Hut pioneered the pan pizza and remains a dominant player in the American pizza industry.

12. Sonic Drive-In

Type: Fast Food (Drive-In)
Famous For: Slushes, Hot Dogs, Burgers
Founded: 1953
Locations: 3,500+ in the U.S.
Overview: Sonic offers a classic drive-in experience with a wide variety of menu items, including customizable drinks and shakes.

13. Chipotle

Type: Fast Casual (Mexican)
Famous For: Burritos, Bowls
Founded: 1993
Locations: 3,000+ in the U.S.
Overview: Chipotle has gained popularity with its focus on sustainably sourced ingredients and customizable Mexican-inspired dishes.

14. KFC

Type: Fast Food (Chicken)
Famous For: Original Recipe Chicken, Biscuits
Founded: 1952
Locations: 4,000+ in the U.S.
Overview: KFC is synonymous with fried chicken, offering a secret blend of spices and classic comfort food sides.

15. Applebee’s

Type: Casual Dining
Famous For: Riblets, 2-for-$20 Meals
Founded: 1980
Locations: 1,600+ in the U.S.
Overview: Applebee’s is a well-established casual dining chain, offering American classics in a neighborhood grill setting.

16. Olive Garden

Type: Casual Dining (Italian)
Famous For: Breadsticks, Pasta
Founded: 1982
Locations: 850+ in the U.S.
Overview: Olive Garden is known for its Italian-inspired dishes, particularly its never-ending pasta bowls and salads.

17. Buffalo Wild Wings

Type: Casual Dining (Sports Bar)
Famous For: Wings, Beer
Founded: 1982
Locations: 1,200+ in the U.S.
Overview: A popular sports bar, Buffalo Wild Wings is the go-to spot for wings and watching live games.

18. Arby’s

Type: Fast Food (Sandwiches)
Famous For: Roast Beef Sandwiches, Curly Fries
Founded: 1964
Locations: 3,400+ in the U.S.
Overview: Arby’s is known for its slow-cooked roast beef sandwiches and unique menu offerings, such as curly fries and shakes.

19. Five Guys

Type: Fast Casual (Burgers)
Famous For: Burgers, Fries, Milkshakes
Founded: 1986
Locations: 1,600+ in the U.S.
Overview: Five Guys is revered for its high-quality, customizable burgers and generous portions of fries.

20. Popeyes

Type: Fast Food (Chicken)
Famous For: Chicken Sandwich, Cajun Fries
Founded: 1972
Locations: 3,100+ in the U.S.
Overview: Famous for its Southern-style fried chicken and bold flavors, Popeyes has gained a devoted fanbase.

21. Raising Cane’s

Type: Fast Food (Chicken)
Famous For: Chicken Fingers, Cane’s Sauce
Founded: 1996
Locations: 750+ in the U.S.
Overview: With a laser focus on chicken tenders, Raising Cane’s has built a strong following for its simple menu and special sauce.

22. Jack in the Box

Type: Fast Food (Burgers, Tacos)
Famous For: Jumbo Jack, Tacos
Founded: 1951
Locations: 2,200+ in the U.S.
Overview: Jack in the Box offers an eclectic menu of burgers, tacos, and breakfast options, catering to both traditional and late-night crowds.

23. Red Lobster

Type: Casual Dining (Seafood)
Famous For: Cheddar Bay Biscuits, Lobster
Founded: 1968
Locations: 700+ in the U.S.
Overview: Red Lobster is the go-to chain for seafood lovers, known for its endless shrimp promotions and signature biscuits.

24. Cracker Barrel

Type: Casual Dining (Southern)
Famous For: Southern Comfort Food, Country Store
Founded: 1969
Locations: 660+ in the U.S.
Overview: Cracker Barrel offers a homey dining experience with Southern-style comfort food, paired with its signature country store.

25. IHOP

Type: Casual Dining (Breakfast)
Famous For: Pancakes, Breakfast Combos
Founded: 1958
Locations: 1,650+ in the U.S.
Overview: IHOP is a beloved breakfast chain, famous for its pancakes, but also offers lunch and dinner menus.

26. Denny’s

Type: Casual Dining (Diner)
Famous For: Grand Slam Breakfast, 24/7 Service
Founded: 1953
Locations: 1,500+ in the U.S.
Overview: Denny’s is synonymous with diner-style comfort food, known for its 24/7 service and all-day breakfast menu.

27. Wingstop

Type: Fast Casual (Chicken Wings)
Famous For: Chicken Wings, Fries
Founded: 1994
Locations: 1,400+ in the U.S.
Overview: Wingstop specializes in wings with a variety of bold flavors, complemented by its crispy fries and dips.

28. The Cheesecake Factory

Type: Casual Dining
Famous For: Cheesecake, Large Portions
Founded: 1978
Locations: 200+ in the U.S.
Overview: Known for its extensive menu and oversized portions, The Cheesecake Factory also serves its namesake desserts in a variety of flavors.

29. Little Caesars

Type: Fast Food (Pizza)
Famous For: Hot-N-Ready Pizza, Crazy Bread
Founded: 1959
Locations: 4,000+ in the U.S.
Overview: Little Caesars offers inexpensive, ready-made pizza and is known for its “Hot-N-Ready” concept, providing convenience for customers.

30. Outback Steakhouse

Type: Casual Dining (Steakhouse)
Famous For: Bloomin’ Onion, Steaks
Founded: 1988
Locations: 700+ in the U.S.
Overview: Outback Steakhouse is a popular choice for steak lovers, combining Australian-themed decor with a variety of grilled dishes.

31. LongHorn Steakhouse

Type: Casual Dining (Steakhouse)
Famous For: Steaks, Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Founded: 1981
Locations: 500+ in the U.S.
Overview: LongHorn specializes in steaks, providing a Western-inspired dining atmosphere with high-quality cuts of meat.

32. Golden Corral

Type: Buffet
Famous For: Buffet, Comfort Food
Founded: 1973
Locations: 400+ in the U.S.
Overview: Golden Corral offers an all-you-can-eat buffet with a wide range of dishes, including carved meats, salads, and desserts.

33. Qdoba

Type: Fast Casual (Mexican)
Famous For: Burritos, Queso
Founded: 1995
Locations: 700+ in the U.S.
Overview: Qdoba offers customizable Mexican-inspired dishes, with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

34. Culver’s

Type: Fast Casual (Burgers)
Famous For: ButterBurgers, Frozen Custard
Founded: 1984
Locations: 850+ in the U.S.
Overview: Known for its ButterBurgers and rich frozen custard, Culver’s offers a Midwest-inspired take on fast-casual dining.

35. TGI Fridays

Type: Casual Dining
Famous For: Jack Daniel’s Glaze, Appetizers
Founded: 1965
Locations: 300+ in the U.S.
Overview: TGI Fridays is recognized for its fun, casual dining atmosphere and extensive appetizer menu, often associated with happy hours.

36. Zaxby’s

Type: Fast Casual (Chicken)
Famous For: Chicken Fingers, Zax Sauce
Founded: 1990
Locations: 900+ in the U.S.
Overview: Zaxby’s specializes in chicken tenders, wings, and sandwiches, with a signature sauce that keeps customers coming back.

37. El Pollo Loco

Type: Fast Casual (Mexican)
Famous For: Flame-Grilled Chicken, Tacos
Founded: 1975
Locations: 500+ in the U.S.
Overview: El Pollo Loco is famous for its flame-grilled chicken and Mexican-inspired dishes, offering healthier alternatives to traditional fast food.

38. In-N-Out Burger

Type: Fast Food (Burgers)
Famous For: Double-Double, Animal Style Fries
Founded: 1948
Locations: 400+ in the U.S.
Overview: In-N-Out has a cult following, thanks to its simple, high-quality menu, fresh ingredients, and secret menu options.

39. Papa John’s

Type: Fast Food (Pizza)
Famous For: Pizza, Garlic Sauce
Founded: 1984
Locations: 3,000+ in the U.S.
Overview: Papa John’s is known for its slogan, “Better Ingredients, Better Pizza,” and its signature garlic dipping sauce that accompanies every pizza.

40. Checkers & Rally’s

Type: Fast Food (Burgers)
Famous For: Burgers, Seasoned Fries
Founded: 1986
Locations: 800+ in the U.S.
Overview: Known for its drive-thru service and affordable menu, Checkers & Rally’s is popular for its seasoned fries and indulgent burger options.

41. Jersey Mike’s Subs

Type: Fast Casual (Subs)
Famous For: Fresh-Sliced Subs, Philly Cheesesteak
Founded: 1956
Locations: 2,000+ in the U.S.
Overview: Jersey Mike’s is known for its freshly sliced deli meats and freshly baked bread, offering both cold and hot sub options.

42. Blaze Pizza

Type: Fast Casual (Pizza)
Famous For: Customizable Pizzas, Fast Service
Founded: 2011
Locations: 300+ in the U.S.
Overview: Blaze Pizza is a leader in the fast-casual pizza space, offering customizable, fast-fired pizzas in a matter of minutes.

43. Hardee’s

Type: Fast Food (Burgers)
Famous For: Thickburgers, Breakfast
Founded: 1960
Locations: 1,800+ in the U.S.
Overview: Hardee’s offers a wide variety of burger options, including its premium “Thickburgers,” and is known for its hearty breakfast menu.

44. Carl’s Jr.

Type: Fast Food (Burgers)
Famous For: Western Bacon Cheeseburger, CrissCut Fries
Founded: 1941
Locations: 1,000+ in the U.S.
Overview: Known for its oversized burgers and indulgent flavors, Carl’s Jr. is often associated with its famous commercials and creative menu.

45. Whataburger

Type: Fast Food (Burgers)
Famous For: Whataburger, Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit
Founded: 1950
Locations: 900+ in the U.S.
Overview: Whataburger is beloved in the South for its large, customizable burgers and breakfast options, particularly the Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit.

46. Noodles & Company

Type: Fast Casual (Pasta)
Famous For: Mac & Cheese, Asian Noodles
Founded: 1995
Locations: 450+ in the U.S.
Overview: Noodles & Company offers a globally inspired menu focused on noodle dishes from around the world, including pasta, stir-fries, and soups.

47. Bojangles’

Type: Fast Food (Chicken & Biscuits)
Famous For: Cajun Chicken, Biscuits
Founded: 1977
Locations: 750+ in the U.S.
Overview: Bojangles’ offers Southern-inspired dishes, specializing in fried chicken and freshly baked biscuits.

48. Carrabba’s Italian Grill

Type: Casual Dining (Italian)
Famous For: Chicken Bryan, Pasta
Founded: 1986
Locations: 200+ in the U.S.
Overview: Carrabba’s is known for its Italian-inspired menu, with a focus on wood-grilled dishes and house-made pastas.

49. Fazoli’s

Type: Fast Casual (Italian)
Famous For: Pasta, Breadsticks
Founded: 1988
Locations: 200+ in the U.S.
Overview: Fazoli’s serves quick-service Italian food, including a variety of pasta dishes, pizza, and their famous unlimited breadsticks.

50. Moe’s Southwest Grill

Type: Fast Casual (Mexican)
Famous For: Burritos, Queso
Founded: 2000
Locations: 700+ in the U.S.
Overview: Moe’s offers customizable Southwestern-style dishes, from burritos to tacos, and is known for its welcoming “Welcome to Moe’s!” greeting.