13 North Carolina Chain Restaurants Serving Unforgettable Onion Rings
There’s something deeply satisfying about the crunch of a perfectly fried onion ring – golden, crisp, and just a little indulgent.
North Carolina’s restaurant scene knows how to do them right, especially the chains that have mastered this sidekick to burgers, barbecue, and milkshakes.
Across the state, you’ll find everything from beer-battered towers to hand-cut classics that rival the main dish.
1. Showmars
Showmars has been slinging comfort food since the ’80s, and their onion rings are legendary among locals. Thick, crunchy, and fried to absolute perfection, these rings have a satisfying snap that makes every bite memorable.
Pair them with one of their famous Greek-style burgers for the ultimate Carolina experience. You won’t find flimsy rings here – just pure, crispy satisfaction!
2. Cook Out
Cook Out is a North Carolina treasure where you can grab ridiculously good food without breaking the bank. Their onion rings come as a side option in their famous tray combos, and they’re always hot and crunchy.
The batter is seasoned just right, giving you that addictive savory flavor. Perfect for late-night cravings when nothing else will do!
3. Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q
Who says barbecue joints can’t nail the onion ring game? Smithfield’s proves they can do it all with rings that complement their smoky meats beautifully.
These rings have a light, crispy coating that doesn’t overpower the sweet onion inside. They’re the perfect sidekick to pulled pork or fried chicken. Southern comfort food at its finest, y’all!
4. Golden Corral
At Golden Corral, the buffet life means unlimited onion rings, and that’s basically heaven for ring enthusiasts. Their rings are always fresh from the fryer, with a golden exterior that crunches delightfully.
You can pile your plate high without judgment – it’s all part of the experience. Go ahead, make that third trip; we won’t tell anyone!
5. Tupelo Honey Café
Tupelo Honey brings Southern charm with a modern twist, and their onion rings reflect that philosophy perfectly. These aren’t your average rings – they’re hand-battered with a special blend of spices that adds unexpected depth.
The result? Rings with personality and serious flavor that pair wonderfully with their honey-drizzled dishes. Fancy comfort food done right!
6. Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits
Bojangles’ is iconic for their chicken and biscuits, but their seasoned onion rings deserve equal fame. These rings pack a peppery punch that wakes up your taste buds with every bite.
The seasoning blend is bold and distinctive, making them stand out from typical fast-food rings. Grab some Bo’s sauce for dipping, and you’ve got yourself a winning combination!
7. Brian’s Cheesesteaks
Brian’s knows their way around Philly-style food, and their onion rings are no exception to their quality standards. Thick-cut and generously portioned, these rings have a satisfying heft that makes them feel substantial.
They’re the perfect accompaniment to a loaded cheesesteak, adding textural contrast. Simple, honest, and absolutely delicious – no frills needed here!
8. Cali Burger
Cali Burger brings West Coast vibes to North Carolina, and their onion rings have that California cool factor. Crispy on the outside with sweet, tender onion inside, they’re fried to golden perfection every time.
These rings are ideal for sharing – or not, we don’t judge! They complement their gourmet burgers beautifully, creating the ultimate burger-and-rings combo.
9. Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar
Bad Daddy’s takes onion rings seriously, offering gourmet versions that elevate this classic side dish. Their rings are hand-breaded and cooked to order, ensuring maximum crunchiness and flavor.
You can even get them tossed in special seasonings or served with creative dipping sauces. It’s upscale burger joint meets onion ring paradise—fancy yet fun!
10. Elmo’s Diner
Elmo’s Diner serves up classic American comfort food with a smile, and their onion rings fit right into that nostalgic vibe. These rings have that old-school diner quality – simple, satisfying, and cooked just right.
They’re not trying to reinvent the wheel; they’re just making consistently good rings that taste like home. Sometimes classic is exactly what you need!
11. Mary B’s Diner
Mary B’s is all about hearty portions and down-home cooking, which means their onion rings come piled high and ready to please. The batter is perfectly seasoned with a hint of sweetness that complements the onion beautifully.
These rings are comfort food at its finest – no pretense, just pure deliciousness. Grab extra napkins; you’ll need them!
12. The Pedalin’ Pig
The Pedalin’ Pig combines barbecue excellence with fantastic sides, including onion rings that deserve their own fan club. These rings have a slightly sweet batter that caramelizes beautifully during frying, creating incredible flavor depth.
They’re smoky, savory, and absolutely crave-worthy next to slow-cooked meats. Barbecue lovers, this is your new happy place!
13. Jamaica Kitchen
Jamaica Kitchen brings Caribbean flair to North Carolina, and their onion rings have a unique island-inspired twist. Seasoned with exotic spices that hint at jerk flavors, these rings are unlike anything else on this list.
They’re bold, adventurous, and absolutely delicious with their Caribbean entrees. Spice up your onion ring routine with something refreshingly different!
