For those who hit the open road in search of adventure, there are typically two kinds of road warriors: those who are eager to reach their destination without pause, and those who prefer to take a breather to savor a meal at a restaurant. As for me, I’m firmly in the camp that values a swift journey to the finish line, so I can maximize my time at the destination. To maintain momentum on a Southern road trip, one strategy is to energize the crew with some sustenance—and let’s be honest, the South’s fast food joints excel at whipping up tasty eats on the run.
Here’s a rundown of the cherished Southern fast food joints that have graced our taste buds. Some are exclusive to the region, while others have expanded their reach due to their popularity. All, however, have their origins in the South, so it’s no surprise that biscuits and fried chicken are often on the menu.
As you embark on your summer journey, keep an eye out for these iconic signs at the exits—they rarely let you down with a quick meal you can enjoy while driving. Here are 13 Southern fast food chains that have earned a permanent spot in our hearts.
Chick-fil-A, the king of Southern fast food, holds a special place in the hearts of Southerners, especially when the drive-thru line is a testament to its popularity. The chain’s roots are deeply embedded in the South, having first opened its doors in 1967 in Hapeville, Georgia, just outside Atlanta. Now, it has expanded across the country, with classic chicken sandwiches and seasonal specialties available in 48 states and counting.
Whataburger, with 1,000 locations spread across 14 states, has journeyed far from its Texas roots, dating back to the 1950s. Recognizable by its signature orange-and-white striped buildings, the restaurant is famous for its Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit. They offer a range of burger toppings, from jalapeño to avocado, and even have chicken options for those who prefer not to eat beef.
Raising Cane’s is all about the crispy, freshly fried chicken, but in our household, it’s the sauce that really makes it shine. This dipping sauce is crafted daily in-house and is used to flavor everything from chicken fingers to fries. The secret recipe is known only to a select few, making it all the more special.
The story of Raising Cane’s is one of perseverance and dedication by founder Todd Graves. After a series of challenging jobs to amass the necessary funds and with a loan from the Small Business Administration, the first location opened near Louisiana State University. Now, with over 800 locations, the restaurant’s success is a testament to true determination. The name even honors the founder’s Labrador retriever—a nod to the loyalty and companionship that helped him on his journey.
Cook Out, which started in Greensboro, North Carolina in 1989, combines the joy of burgers with the indulgence of ice cream. With over 40 shake flavors on the menu, including strawberry cheesecake and peach cobbler, it’s no wonder this fast food chain is a favorite. Add to that a vast menu of burgers, hot dogs, and barbecue, and you have a satisfying and quick meal. A Cheerswine float is the perfect Southern touch at their more than 300 locations across the South.
Bojangles, beloved for their handcrafted biscuits, bakes fresh, fluffy biscuits about every 20 minutes. The 48-step process ensures each biscuit is of the highest quality, thanks to a master biscuit maker. The company’s culture of freshness and friendly service began in 1977, and today, over 800 Bojangles restaurants serve up their famous biscuits filled with chicken, sausage, eggs, ham, or steak, or simply smothered in gravy.
The Five Guys name pays homage to the five sons of founders Jerry and Janie Murrell. This D.C.-area burger joint, which started in 1989, has grown from a family business to a global franchise with over 1,700 locations. Their hand-formed burgers and freshly cut fries are complemented by the classic malt vinegar that brings back memories.
Red Lobster, a beloved seafood chain, began in Lexington, Kentucky in 1969 and quickly grew to 1,000 locations within a few years. By 1980, they were nationwide, known for their fried fish and chips. They’ve since added healthier grilled options to their menu, and a slice of Cheesecake Factory cheesecake is a must-try indulgence.
Zaxby’s, founded by best friends Zach McLeroy and Tony Townley in Statesboro, Georgia in 1990, offers Fingerz, Zalads, and their signature sandwich, all with the incomparable Zax Sauce. The business started with a drum set sale and a few credit cards, and now has over 900 restaurants serving up these delicious offerings.
Popeyes chicken has been a Southern staple since the first restaurant opened in New Orleans in 1972. The menu features delicious buttermilk biscuits and cane sugar sweetened tea. The parent company now owns both Popeyes and Church’s Chicken, another Southern favorite.
Hardee’s, known for its made-from-scratch biscuits, originated in Greenville, North Carolina in 1960. By the 1990s, there were over 3,000 locations across the country, serving charbroiled burgers, chicken, and more.
Captain D’s, another seafood chain inspired by the ocean, opened in Donelson, Tennessee in 1969. They started with seafood and hamburgers, but by 1974, they focused on fried shrimp and fish. Today, over 500 restaurants offer grilled and fried seafood options.
Krystal, a Southern burger chain that started during the Great Depression, opened in 1932. The first order was just six burgers and a coffee, totaling 35 cents. The company is known for its cleanliness and has sold over 10 billion burgers in over 90 years.
Colonel Harland Sanders, the founder of KFC, served in the military but was made an honorary Colonel by Kentucky governor Ruby Laffoon. The original restaurant opened in 1930 in Corbin, Kentucky, and Sanders began wearing his iconic white suit in the 1950s. He used secret 11 herbs and spices to cook his fried chicken, which has contributed to the restaurant’s enduring popularity. After franchising, Sanders sold his shares and passed away in the 1980s, but his image remains a beacon for hungry travelers.
