10 American Fast Food Chains That Aren't Worth the Line

Chick-fil-A fries

Fast food might be quick and convenient, but not all chains are worth your time. Here are 10 American fast food places where the long lines really don't justify what you get. Maybe save your time and try somewhere else next time you're hungry.

1. Burger King

Bangkok, TH - DECEMBER 21, 2017: American Burger King's branch are franchised in the base ground floor in the Siam Paragon, the most luxury shopping mall in Bangkok.
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

I have never been more disappointed in my life. I know I sound like my high school girlfriend, but bear with me: Burger King consistently fails to impress. From its drab food to its dated decor, the restaurant is a waste of money — and countless others agree! The best thing about Burger King in 2023 isn't their food but their insanely catchy jingle that lives rent-free in everyone's head. I regret it every time I eat at Burger King.

2. Subway

Subway
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Sadly, Subway is still struggling to capture an audience like it did during the heyday of its "Five-Dollar Footlong" promotions in the early 2000s. Consumers still have that magical five-dollar price point in mind when they are hungry, and any visit to Subway certainly leads to sticker shock in 2023. While the company is currently pushing a promotional campaign featuring famous athletes in an attempt to boost its image, I think Subway has a long way to go to recapture the magic of its glory days.

3. White Castle

White Castle
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

White Castle has built a reputation as the ultimate very late-night go-to fast-food spot. Unfortunately, when you set the bar so low, it's unsurprising that reviews aren't glowingly positive. "Sober me agrees with you if you proclaim White Castle is overrated," explains one man. "However, drunk me will fight you to the death because drunk me gets emotional and likes to sing its praises with my mouth full of sliders and cold fries."

4. Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A restaurant
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Don't get me wrong, Chick-fil-A is objectively delicious. However, the endless line of cars composing its drive-thru lanes is not worth it! At some point in the last decade, the general public collectively decided to make Chick-fil-A the most popular fast-food establishment in the United States. As a result, we all have to wait way too long for chicken sandwiches. In addition, I can't be the only one who craves Chick-fil-A on Sunday — the only day they're closed — am I?

5. Jimmy John's

Jimmy John's restaurant
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

In the eyes of many men and women, Jimmy John's is overrated simply because the entire experience is average. From their sandwiches to their service, the best words people use to describe the business is "fine." One person puts it all into perspective. "I think the deal with Jimmy John's is they literally deliver an average consistent product. Their whole business is built around being able to deliver food fast. Nothing fancy, just cold subs. Makes for an easy lunch or quick dinner, especially when it's just you, and you don't need a whole meal."

6. Five Guys

Staines upon Thames, Middlesex United Kingdom-January 27th 2023: Recently opened Five Guys restaurant and takeaway in Two Rivers shopping at Staines upon Thames.
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

The people have spoken: Five Guys offers the most negligible value in the fast food industry. Every item, from burgers to fries and everything in between, is overpriced! Nobody denies that Five Guys makes excellent food, but people still can't help but feel ripped off after spending close to $20 on a burger and fries. Frankly, I don't blame them for feeling this way!

7. In-N-Out Burger

Los Angeles - May 15, 2021: In-N-Out Burger Restaurant day exterior
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Although eating at In-N-Out is a rite of passage in California, most customers are turned off by the long wait times to receive their orders. "Places like In-N-Out are grossly overrated in that there will never be a time it's worth waiting in a line that wraps out into the street and around the block for an admittedly good burger or decent chicken sandwich," laments one woman. "That people willingly put themselves through that kind of insane line is a testament to their grossly overrated-ness." If In-N-Out can improve its execution, more diners will return and give the chain a second chance.

8. Chipotle

TORONTO, CANADA - NOVEMBER 13, 2018: Chipotle logo in front of their restaurant in Toronto, Ontario. Chipotle is an American fast food brand specialized in grill & Mexican food
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Ever-increasing prices and suspect food standards cause countless people to view Chipotle as over-hyped. The concept of "fast food" goes out the window the second you are waiting in line and the person ahead of you pulls out a list of five different custom burritos to order. While Chipotle's food is generally regarded as delicious, little things like long lines and confusing menu changes are cited by many people these days as off-putting.

9. McDonald's

Woman working at Mc Donalds
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

There's something about McDonald's that seems very lackluster in 2023. Everyone has fond memories of an authentic dollar menu that doesn't exist today, and the company's perplexing decision to push its entire customer base toward the McDonald's phone app makes it seem like they're putting customer service to the side. However you view McDonald's, everyone can at least agree that the quality of food you receive can vary wildly from location to location — and that's not a good thing!

10. Whataburger

Phoenix Arizona November 3,2020 Whataburger Fast Food Restaurant.
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

I must credit those who voice their opinion, even if they know they could get hammered for it! "I might be banished from Texas for saying this, but Whataburger is just okay," laments one Texan. "The burgers and fries are good, but not worth the insane hype that they receive, and I find most of the breakfast options to range from mediocre to inedible. Plus, most locations are incredibly slow, so it's fast food in name only." My condolences to this person, who most certainly got driven out of his home state!

Source: Reddit.

12 American Foods That People From Other Countries Are Obsessed With

Philly Cheesesteak
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

American cuisine is loved worldwide for its bold flavors and hearty portions. From coast to coast, here are 12 American foods that have won hearts across the globe.

Click Here For 12 American Foods That People From Other Countries Are Obsessed With

12 Poor People Foods We Can't Stop Eating, No Matter How Rich We Get

beans and hot dogs
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Simple and comforting, these foods remain favorites regardless of wealth. Their straightforward flavors bring back memories and offer satisfaction.

Click Here For 12 Poor People Foods We Can't Stop Eating, No Matter How Rich We Get

12 Common Ingredients That Can Totally Wreck Your Meal

Cilantro
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Navigating the kitchen can be tricky, especially with ingredients that can easily overpower or spoil a dish.

Click Here For 12 Common Ingredients That Can Totally Wreck Your Meal

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *