These 6 fast-food chains are serving up real fries—freshly cut, not frozen
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There’s something about a well-made French fry that keeps people coming back.
Whether it’s the crispy edge, the soft center, or the way it complements a burger, fries often steal the show.
While many fast-food spots serve frozen versions, a few chains are going the extra mile.
These places cut their potatoes fresh and cook them in-house.
The result? Fries that are a cut above the rest.
This West Coast favorite has built a loyal following with its fresh approach to fast food—and that includes fries.
At In-N-Out, there are no freezers, no microwaves, and every potato is hand-cut right in the kitchen.
They’re fried in sunflower oil and served hot.
Want them extra crisp? Order them “well done.”
Craving a treat? Ask for “Animal Style” and enjoy a cheesy, saucy, grilled onion topping.
Texas-based Mooyah goes the extra mile with a 24-hour, six-step fry prep routine.
Idaho potatoes are sliced fresh daily, soaked, rinsed, agitated, and double-fried to reach that ideal fry texture—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside.
The process is long, but the result is worth it.
This smaller chain offers a healthier spin on fast food, and its fries are no exception.
Hand-cut and cooked in olive oil, these fries are gluten-free and lighter than traditional versions.
If you’re looking for a guilt-free side, Elevation Burger’s approach may be just what you need.
Source: Instagram / elevationburger
Few chains are as generous with their fries as Five Guys.
Known for their heaping portions and boardwalk-style flavor, these fries start with premium Idaho potatoes and are double-fried in peanut oil.
The method helps lock in a crispy texture without going overboard on oil.
Ask for them extra crispy if you like your fries with a little more snap.
Hopdoddy takes fries seriously—so seriously, they use Chipperbec potatoes, known for their excellent fry quality.
Hand-cut daily and fried in eco-friendly oil from Zero Acre Farms, these fries are a hit with those looking for sustainability and flavor.
From truffle-Parmesan to nacho cheese-topped varieties, Hopdoddy offers creative takes on a familiar favorite.
BurgerFi rounds out the list with Russet potato fries cooked in peanut oil for a bold, hearty taste.
Their standard fries are delicious, but the “Urban Style” version, topped with Parmesan, herbs, and truffle aioli, brings a restaurant-quality feel to a fast-casual experience.
Source: Instagram / burgerfi
Fresh-cut fries aren’t just a trend—they taste different because they are different.
When fries are cut and cooked on-site, they tend to be crispier, less greasy, and more flavorful than frozen versions.
Plus, you know exactly what you’re eating—real potatoes, not a lab experiment in a bag.
It’s not just the cut—it’s the method.
The best fries are often double-fried, which creates that irresistible crunch.
Washing the potatoes removes starch, preventing sogginess.
And oils like peanut, sunflower, or olive each bring their own subtle taste and texture to the final product.
Want the best results? Here are a few simple ways to upgrade your next fry experience:
Whether you like your fries plain, loaded with toppings, or dipped in your favorite sauce, one thing’s for sure—fresh-cut makes a difference.
These chains prove that even fast food can have a little extra care and flavor packed in.
So next time you’re craving something crispy, consider giving one of these spots a try.
You might just find your new favorite fry!
Read next: This simple trick could get you more food at Wendy’s for less—here’s how
Do you have a favorite fry spot? Have you tried any of these hand-cut fries—or do you know of a hidden gem that deserves a shout-out? Share your thoughts, tips, or toppings in the comments below!
Whether it’s the crispy edge, the soft center, or the way it complements a burger, fries often steal the show.
While many fast-food spots serve frozen versions, a few chains are going the extra mile.
These places cut their potatoes fresh and cook them in-house.
The result? Fries that are a cut above the rest.
More fast-food chains are going back to basics—serving fries that are freshly cut, cooked on-site, and full of flavor. Image Source: Pexels / Marco Fischer.
In-N-Out: simple, fresh, and made to order
This West Coast favorite has built a loyal following with its fresh approach to fast food—and that includes fries.
At In-N-Out, there are no freezers, no microwaves, and every potato is hand-cut right in the kitchen.
They’re fried in sunflower oil and served hot.
Want them extra crisp? Order them “well done.”
Craving a treat? Ask for “Animal Style” and enjoy a cheesy, saucy, grilled onion topping.
At In-N-Out, every fry is hand-cut in-house and cooked in sunflower oil for a simple, fresh taste. Image Source: YouTube / Mashed.
Mooyah: A six-step fry process
Texas-based Mooyah goes the extra mile with a 24-hour, six-step fry prep routine.
Idaho potatoes are sliced fresh daily, soaked, rinsed, agitated, and double-fried to reach that ideal fry texture—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside.
The process is long, but the result is worth it.
Mooyah takes its fries seriously—with a 24-hour, six-step process that turns fresh Idaho potatoes into crispy, fluffy perfection. Image Source: Mooyah.
Also read: The good and the bad: Changes behind your favorite French fries and what you need to know!
Elevation Burger: A lighter option
This smaller chain offers a healthier spin on fast food, and its fries are no exception.
Hand-cut and cooked in olive oil, these fries are gluten-free and lighter than traditional versions.
If you’re looking for a guilt-free side, Elevation Burger’s approach may be just what you need.
Source: Instagram / elevationburger
Five Guys: Boardwalk-style with bold flavor
Few chains are as generous with their fries as Five Guys.
Known for their heaping portions and boardwalk-style flavor, these fries start with premium Idaho potatoes and are double-fried in peanut oil.
The method helps lock in a crispy texture without going overboard on oil.
Ask for them extra crispy if you like your fries with a little more snap.
Also read: Costco’s $7 Kirkland brand McDonald’s dupe has fans buzzing!
Hopdoddy Burger Bar:A gourmet touch
Hopdoddy takes fries seriously—so seriously, they use Chipperbec potatoes, known for their excellent fry quality.
Hand-cut daily and fried in eco-friendly oil from Zero Acre Farms, these fries are a hit with those looking for sustainability and flavor.
From truffle-Parmesan to nacho cheese-topped varieties, Hopdoddy offers creative takes on a familiar favorite.
BurgerFi: Hearty fries with a twist
BurgerFi rounds out the list with Russet potato fries cooked in peanut oil for a bold, hearty taste.
Their standard fries are delicious, but the “Urban Style” version, topped with Parmesan, herbs, and truffle aioli, brings a restaurant-quality feel to a fast-casual experience.
Source: Instagram / burgerfi
Also read: Perfect Crispy French Fries
Why fresh-cut fries really do taste better
Fresh-cut fries aren’t just a trend—they taste different because they are different.
When fries are cut and cooked on-site, they tend to be crispier, less greasy, and more flavorful than frozen versions.
Plus, you know exactly what you’re eating—real potatoes, not a lab experiment in a bag.
Also read: Shake Shack unveils its summer menu—here’s when you can try their new flavors
What makes a perfect fry?
It’s not just the cut—it’s the method.
The best fries are often double-fried, which creates that irresistible crunch.
Washing the potatoes removes starch, preventing sogginess.
And oils like peanut, sunflower, or olive each bring their own subtle taste and texture to the final product.
Also read: You asked, they listened! A Jack in the Box favorite makes its long-awaited return
Insider tips for your next fry order
Want the best results? Here are a few simple ways to upgrade your next fry experience:
- At In-N-Out: Ask for “well done” or go “Animal Style”
- At Five Guys: Request extra crispiness
- At Hopdoddy or BurgerFi: Try specialty styles for a gourmet touch
Whether you like your fries plain, loaded with toppings, or dipped in your favorite sauce, one thing’s for sure—fresh-cut makes a difference.
These chains prove that even fast food can have a little extra care and flavor packed in.
So next time you’re craving something crispy, consider giving one of these spots a try.
You might just find your new favorite fry!
Read next: This simple trick could get you more food at Wendy’s for less—here’s how
Do you have a favorite fry spot? Have you tried any of these hand-cut fries—or do you know of a hidden gem that deserves a shout-out? Share your thoughts, tips, or toppings in the comments below!
