Surprise favorite takes the top spot in new drive-thru rankings—did your go-to make the cut?
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For years, Chick-fil-A has been the top contender in America’s drive-thru scene, earning praise for quick service and consistently good food.
But a new poll has shaken things up—revealing a surprising name at number one.
It’s a brand that’s been around since the 1960s but has recently captured renewed attention thanks to its menu variety and unbeatable value.
If you’ve noticed longer lines at your local Del Taco lately, you’re not imagining it.
According to a recent USA Today poll, Del Taco has officially overtaken Chick-fil-A as the nation’s most popular drive-thru.
Del Taco’s steady rise to the top
Del Taco’s success story began in 1964, when tacos were 19 cents and cheeseburgers just 24.
On its first day, the original location sold 900 tacos—a promising start that grew into a loyal following over the decades.
Through menu expansions, value deals, and 24/7 service at select spots, Del Taco has consistently found ways to attract hungry customers.
Today, its popularity stems from a wide variety of choices—tacos, burritos, nachos, quesadillas, and even fresh guacamole made in-house.
The brand’s breakfast menu and “DEL’S REAL DEAL$” value offerings have only added to its reputation for delivering flavor without straining the budget.
Also read: Chipotle is giving away free burritos for a year—here’s how you could win
Who else made the top 10 list?
The full rankings reveal some interesting shifts among drive-thru favorites:
While many expected Chick-fil-A or McDonald’s to top the list, the results reflect shifting tastes—and a growing appreciation for value and variety.
Also read: Discover the latest crave-worthy item at Del Taco with a “dirty” secret that's turning heads!
Why tastes are changing
With food costs rising, more Americans are looking for meals that offer both flavor and affordability.
Del Taco has become a go-to for this reason, offering satisfying portion sizes, frequent deals, and a menu that goes far beyond tacos.
Many locations create a buzz when they open, drawing lines and community attention in ways that feel more like an event than a fast food run.
Other chains are staying competitive too—Wendy’s has launched spicy, Takis-inspired menu items, Taco Bell is experimenting with boozy options in some stores, and even McDonald’s has introduced new bundles to appeal to budget-conscious diners.
Also read: Cool down this summer with 7 tasty restaurant deals you won’t want to miss
Who has the best value menu right now?
Several major chains are offering limited-time value meals that pack a punch without the high price tag:
For families or retirees on fixed incomes, these types of offers can make fast food outings both fun and affordable.
Source: Instagram / mnmtwinz
Also read: This clever McDonald’s drive-thru tip makes eating in the car so much easier
Drive-thrus as part of American life
The drive-thru has long been a staple of American culture—from road trips to quick dinners after errands.
Whether it’s a treat for the grandkids, a comfort meal on a busy day, or just a convenient snack on the go, there’s something familiar and comforting about hearing your order repeated back through the speaker.
And when a new restaurant opens, it can spark genuine excitement and curiosity in the neighborhood!
Read next: You may be surprised by what this legend enjoys from a drive-thru—it's comforting, classic, and surprisingly relatable
Did your go-to make the list? Have you been surprised by the rising popularity of Del Taco or the resilience of classics like KFC and McDonald’s? Maybe you’ve got your own favorite deal or secret menu hack that always hits the spot.
Whatever it is, we’d love to hear what keeps you coming back—and how your tastes have changed over the years!
But a new poll has shaken things up—revealing a surprising name at number one.
It’s a brand that’s been around since the 1960s but has recently captured renewed attention thanks to its menu variety and unbeatable value.
If you’ve noticed longer lines at your local Del Taco lately, you’re not imagining it.
According to a recent USA Today poll, Del Taco has officially overtaken Chick-fil-A as the nation’s most popular drive-thru.
Drive-thrus remain a favorite stop for quick, affordable meals across generations. Image source: Pexels / RDNE Stock project.
Del Taco’s steady rise to the top
Del Taco’s success story began in 1964, when tacos were 19 cents and cheeseburgers just 24.
On its first day, the original location sold 900 tacos—a promising start that grew into a loyal following over the decades.
Through menu expansions, value deals, and 24/7 service at select spots, Del Taco has consistently found ways to attract hungry customers.
Today, its popularity stems from a wide variety of choices—tacos, burritos, nachos, quesadillas, and even fresh guacamole made in-house.
The brand’s breakfast menu and “DEL’S REAL DEAL$” value offerings have only added to its reputation for delivering flavor without straining the budget.
Also read: Chipotle is giving away free burritos for a year—here’s how you could win
Who else made the top 10 list?
The full rankings reveal some interesting shifts among drive-thru favorites:
- Del Taco
- Jack in the Box – Famous for burgers and late-night tacos
- A&W – A nostalgic favorite known for root beer floats
- Chick-fil-A – Still beloved for chicken sandwiches and service
- Wendy’s – Popular for spicy nuggets and witty branding
- KFC – The Colonel’s secret blend remains a staple
- Taco Bell – Crunchwraps and late-night runs still win fans
- Raising Cane’s – Known for chicken fingers and signature sauce
- Zaxby’s – Southern-style chicken and crinkle fries
- McDonald’s – A longtime staple that just barely made the list
While many expected Chick-fil-A or McDonald’s to top the list, the results reflect shifting tastes—and a growing appreciation for value and variety.
Also read: Discover the latest crave-worthy item at Del Taco with a “dirty” secret that's turning heads!
Why tastes are changing
With food costs rising, more Americans are looking for meals that offer both flavor and affordability.
Del Taco has become a go-to for this reason, offering satisfying portion sizes, frequent deals, and a menu that goes far beyond tacos.
Many locations create a buzz when they open, drawing lines and community attention in ways that feel more like an event than a fast food run.
Other chains are staying competitive too—Wendy’s has launched spicy, Takis-inspired menu items, Taco Bell is experimenting with boozy options in some stores, and even McDonald’s has introduced new bundles to appeal to budget-conscious diners.
Also read: Cool down this summer with 7 tasty restaurant deals you won’t want to miss
Who has the best value menu right now?
Several major chains are offering limited-time value meals that pack a punch without the high price tag:
- Taco Bell’s $7 Luxe Cravings Box: Chalupa Supreme, Beefy Five-Layer Burrito, Double Stacked Taco, chips and nacho cheese, and a drink
- McDonald’s $5 Meal Deal: McDouble or McChicken, 4-piece McNuggets, fries, and a drink
- Wendy’s $5 Biggie Bag: Junior Bacon Cheeseburger or Crispy Chicken Sandwich, nuggets, junior fries, and a drink
- Burger King’s $5 Your Way Meal: Choice of burger, fries, nuggets, and a drink
For families or retirees on fixed incomes, these types of offers can make fast food outings both fun and affordable.
Source: Instagram / mnmtwinz
Also read: This clever McDonald’s drive-thru tip makes eating in the car so much easier
Drive-thrus as part of American life
The drive-thru has long been a staple of American culture—from road trips to quick dinners after errands.
Whether it’s a treat for the grandkids, a comfort meal on a busy day, or just a convenient snack on the go, there’s something familiar and comforting about hearing your order repeated back through the speaker.
And when a new restaurant opens, it can spark genuine excitement and curiosity in the neighborhood!
Read next: You may be surprised by what this legend enjoys from a drive-thru—it's comforting, classic, and surprisingly relatable
Did your go-to make the list? Have you been surprised by the rising popularity of Del Taco or the resilience of classics like KFC and McDonald’s? Maybe you’ve got your own favorite deal or secret menu hack that always hits the spot.
Whatever it is, we’d love to hear what keeps you coming back—and how your tastes have changed over the years!
