23 American Fast Foods That People From Other Countries Claim Are The Best
American fast food has a way of winning hearts worldwide, even among people who swear they do not like fast food. There is something about crispy fries, saucy burgers, and clever regional twists that hits the spot. You might recognize these favorites, but hearing why global travelers crave them gives them new flavor. Ready to compare notes and find your next must try bite?
1. In-N-Out Double-Double
Travelers swear the Double-Double tastes cleaner and fresher than expected. You get juicy patties, melty cheese, crisp lettuce, and tomatoes that actually snap. The bun is soft without falling apart. It is simple, but everything lands.
Ask for Animal Style if you want a little extra punch. The griddled onions and tangy spread seep into every bite. Fries may be divisive, yet when hot, they complete the set. It is the California postcard that actually delivers.
2. Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich
People outside the US love how straightforward this sandwich feels. A juicy brined fillet, perfectly seasoned breading, and buttered bun create a reliable crunch and softness. Those pickle slices cut through the richness just right.
Service is fast and friendly, which adds to the experience when you are tired and hungry. Pair it with waffle fries and a tangy sauce for balance. The sandwich travels well too, keeping its bite even after a quick ride home.
3. Shake Shack ShackBurger
The ShackBurger nails the smash patty style with buttery edges and a tender center. That potato bun stays pillowy while soaking up ShackSauce and juices. It is compact, flavorful, and surprisingly balanced.
Visitors say it feels premium without being fussy. Crinkle fries add playful texture, especially when extra crispy. The vibe is modern diner, with consistent quality across locations. It is the burger you recommend to friends who care about details and still want comfort.
4. Five Guys Cheeseburger
Big, messy, and satisfying, this burger wins over skeptics fast. Custom toppings let you dial in the exact bite you want, from mushrooms to jalapenos. The patties are beefy and loose-packed, so juices run freely.
Yes, the foil wrap steams the cheese perfectly. Fries come in ridiculous portions and taste like real potatoes, especially Cajun style. The whole experience feels like a fun splurge. It is not dainty, and that is the charm.
5. McDonald’s Fries
These are the benchmark fries for a reason. Thin, salty, and crisp outside with a fluffy interior, they taste familiar anywhere you land. That first handful after the bag opens is pure joy.
Consistency keeps them iconic. Dip into ketchup or sweet and sour for a playful switch. Some travelers swear by eating them plain to appreciate the exact salt hit. When fresh, they feel like the definition of fast food comfort.
6. Popeyes Spicy Chicken Sandwich
Crunch lovers adore how Popeyes locks in texture. The crust shatters loudly, revealing juicy, peppery chicken underneath. Spicy mayo and pickles pull everything together on a slightly sweet bun.
Travelers say it feels more like a restaurant sandwich than fast food. Heat builds but never overwhelms. Grab red beans and rice or seasoned Cajun fries to round things out. You walk away satisfied, with just enough kick to crave another bite tomorrow.
7. Taco Bell Crunchwrap Supreme
This is late-night magic in handheld form. The toasted tortilla holds a crunchy tostada inside, so you get both crisp and soft textures. Beef, cheese, lettuce, and sour cream create a layered bite that feels playful.
Visitors love the engineering as much as the taste. It does not fall apart easily, so it travels well. Toss in Fire or Diablo sauce if you want an extra jolt. It is comfort food that knows how to party.
8. Wendy’s Frosty
The Frosty might be the best fast-food dessert for pure nostalgia. It is thick, creamy, and just chocolatey enough, somewhere between soft serve and milkshake. Dipping fries in it feels rebellious and delightful.
Travelers appreciate that it is not too sweet. The texture holds even on a warm day. It pairs with burgers but can stand alone as a treat. When you need a simple pick-me-up, this little cup delivers.
9. Domino’s Hand Tossed Pepperoni Pizza
It is not fancy, but it is reliable, and that matters when you are hungry at 11 pm. The hand tossed crust has a light chew and a buttery edge. Pepperoni delivers that savory curl and crisp.
People abroad love the tracker and speed just as much as the flavor. Custom sauces and dips keep it interesting. Because it is consistent city to city, it becomes a travel staple. You know exactly what you will get.
10. Krispy Kreme Original Glazed Doughnut
That hot light sign works like a beacon. Fresh off the line, the doughnut practically melts on your tongue, with a whisper of yeast and sugar. It is delicate, not dense, and wonderfully warm.
People who do not like overly sweet desserts still enjoy this. The glaze sets just enough to leave your fingers shiny. Pair with coffee to tame the sweetness. It is a tiny moment of joy you can eat standing up.
11. Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Bread Bowl
On a chilly day, this feels like a hug. The soup is creamy without being gluey, with tender broccoli and a cheddar bite. The bread bowl turns into a spoon, soaking up every last drop.
Travelers like the cozy cafe vibe and free Wi-Fi as much as the soup. It is an easy, comforting pause between sights. Add a half-sandwich for balance. By the end, the bowl tastes even better than when you started.
12. Arby’s Curly Fries
Curly fries feel like a celebration. The spirals hold extra crunch and seasoning, so you get a bold bite every time. They are fun to eat and perfect for dipping.
International visitors love the paprika-forward flavor that sets them apart from regular fries. They stay crispy longer than you expect. Pair them with a roast beef sandwich or eat them solo. Either way, they steal the show more often than not.
13. Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl
Customization is the superpower here. You pick rice, beans, salsa heat, and protein, and it all still tastes fresh. The chicken has smoky char, and the corn salsa brightens every bite.
Travelers praise the value and portion size. It is easy to eat on the go without dripping everywhere. Add guac when you want extra richness. When you need something hearty that does not feel heavy, this bowl hits a sweet spot.
14. Sonic Cherry Limeade
This is summertime in a cup. Bright lime, sweet cherry, and mountains of crushed ice make sips feel playful. The carbonation keeps it crisp to the last slurp.
People visiting the US love the drive-in quirk and the giant menu of drink add-ins. It pairs with everything from burgers to corn dogs. On long road trips, it is a refreshing reset. You finish it and instantly want another.
15. Little Caesars Hot-N-Ready Pepperoni
It is the definition of fast and affordable. You walk in, grab a hot pizza, and you are back in the car within minutes. The crust has a soft chew and a light crunch underneath.
Travelers love the predictability and price. When you are feeding a group, it is a no-brainer. Pepperoni cups add salty snap. It might not be fancy, but it gets the job done with a smile.
16. Culver’s ButterBurger
Midwest travelers rave about this burger’s buttery bun and fresh beef. The sear provides savory edges without drying the patty. Toppings stay crisp and well-proportioned.
The crinkle fries feel classic and soak up salt perfectly. Add frozen custard for the full experience. Everything tastes like small-town hospitality served fast. You leave feeling comforted rather than stuffed, which is a rare trick in fast food.
17. White Castle Sliders
These tiny steamed burgers have a cult following. The onions melt into the patty, perfuming each soft bite. Pickles deliver a quick snap that keeps you reaching for another.
Visitors love the late-night vibe and the novelty of ordering by the sack. They are light enough to sample a few flavors. Dipping in cheese sauce is encouraged. It is an American road trip rite many travelers happily adopt.
18. Raising Cane’s Box Combo
Simple menu, excellent execution. The chicken fingers are juicy with a thin, crackly crust. Cane’s Sauce balances peppery tang and creamy richness without overpowering.
Travelers like knowing exactly what they will get every time. The Texas toast and fries round it out, with coleslaw for crunch. It is the kind of meal you finish and immediately plan to repeat. No overthinking necessary, just great chicken done right.
19. Costco Food Court Hot Dog
Value like this makes headlines. A big, snappy hot dog with a drink for pocket change is hard to beat. The bun is soft, and the bite has that satisfying snap.
Travelers are amazed by the consistency across warehouses. It is quick fuel between errands or sightseeing. Add onions and relish if available. You walk away full and strangely proud of your savvy choice.
20. Jollibee Chickenjoy
Filipino born, American beloved, this crispy chicken wins hearts coast to coast. The coating is light and crunchy, with juicy meat inside. Dipping into the smooth gravy becomes second nature.
Travelers love mixing sweet Jolly Spaghetti on the side. The playful mascot and cheerful stores make it feel like a celebration. It is comfort food that travels well and tastes great cold. Many first timers become instant fans.
21. Whataburger Patty Melt
This sandwich is all about savory depth. Griddled Texas toast carries seared patties, melty cheese, and sweet onions. The pepper sauce ties everything together with gentle heat.
Out-of-towners call it Texas in a bite. It is messy in the best way, perfect for late nights. Fries or spicy ketchup on the side make it sing. You will crave it again on your flight home.
22. Auntie Anne’s Original Pretzel
The smell alone pulls you across the mall. Warm, buttery dough with a salty sparkle makes every bite soft and comforting. The outside has a delicate sheen and gentle chew.
Visitors love that it feels freshly baked to order. Dip in cheese or keep it classic. It is portable, shareable, and perfect while you wander. Somehow, the line makes it taste even better.
23. KFC Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
These mashed potatoes are pure comfort. Smooth, buttery, and drenched in savory gravy, they pair with anything on the menu. The texture is consistent and easy to love.
People abroad appreciate the balance of salty and creamy. It is the side you keep eating even when you are full. Add a biscuit to swipe the bowl clean. Sometimes, simple sides steal the entire meal.
