I’ve driven from the East Coast to the West Coast for my California move, so I know the importance of good road trip eats. But, sometimes, you’re in a pinch, and fast food is the only option (not that it’s a bad one, but the convenience element certainly plays a role!). If you’re planning on hitting the road at any point in the future, then you should know the quick service restaurants that are worth the stop. 

Therefore, we narrowed down the top eateries by region: West Coast, New England, South, Midwest, Southwest, and Mid-Atlantic. Each has a signature fast food chain that locals depend on, so it’s only right that you partake in the culture by digging into those menus on a long road trip. Here’s our top restaurant picks, starting with In-N-Out. 

West Coast: In-N-Out

Okay, so this chain is actually pretty nationally well-known, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth spending your hard-earned dough on. The eatery currently operates in 10 states, from California to Tennessee, with plans to open in New Mexico by 2027. Order the Double-Double Animal Style with Animal Style fries if you really want to go all in, which features In-N-Out’s famous sauce. Another pro tip: order your fries “well done” if you want them ultra-crispy.

New England: Dunkin’ Donuts, D’Angelo Grilled Sandwiches

As someone who grew up in Connecticut, trust me when I say that Dunkin’ Donuts is a New Englander’s staple (haven’t you seen those Ben Affleck commercials?). I was impartial to the frosted donuts with sprinkles, but they’re also known for their extensive breakfast menu and box of munchkins (also referred to as donut holes) that you can order for a large party. The coffee chain has customizable sweet iced coffees and additional pastries, like croissants — which are perfect morning bites on a road trip. 

If you’re looking for a lunch spot, D’Angelo Grilled Sandwiches is also a popular food chain found in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, that’s worth adding to your list. 

South: Bojangles, Hattie B’s Hot Chicken 

Bojangles is most famous for its Cajun-seasoned fried chicken, buttermilk biscuits, and seasoned fries. So, basically, all of the mouth-wateringly delicious Southern foods. Stock up on the 4-piece chicken supremes combo that comes with fries, a biscuit, and a drink, or family meals that are offered in 8- and 12-piece chicken meals. They’re currently located in 17 states, spanning from North Carolina to Virginia. 

Another famous spot includes Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, which is more regional and known for its signature Nashville-style hot chicken that comes in a sandwich, tender plates, and different spice levels. 

Midwest: Culver’s

You can’t travel through the midwest without spending your money on Culver’s. The Double Deluxe butterburger, Wisconsin cheese curds, onion rings, and fish fry featuring North Atlantic cod are fan-favorites. Plus, the eatery has a slew of rich and creamy custard options that are ideal for sweet tooths, with flavors including caramel pecan, mint explosion, and over 100 more. The restaurant chain’s top states include Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, etc.

Southwest: Raising Cane’s, Whataburger

There’s nothing that upgrades a long car ride like chicken fingers. Raising Cane’s is popular for its Box Combo, which consists of hand-battered chicken fingers, crinkle-cut fries, buttery Texas toast, coleslaw, a drink, and their secret Cane’s sauce (which has garnered somewhat of a cult-following).

Or, if you’re a burger person, you can also take a gander at Whataburger and try their famous patty melt, chicken strip sandwich, or classic hamburgers. 

Mid-Atlantic: Sheetz

Sheetz is a family-owned convenience store that has been running since 1952, offering fresh, made-to-order food. The 24/7 eatery serves everything from mac n’ cheese bites to bakery items like freshly baked cookies, donuts, and muffins. You can snag burgers, pizza, and hot dogs, too, so the options are really endless. The store currently resides in Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Ohio, North Carolina, and Michigan. 

The post Best Fast Food Stops to Hit on Your Road Trip appeared first on The Real Deal by RetailMeNot.

Source link