1PDQ
PDQThis Florida based establishment first opened in 2011 by founders Bob Basham and Nick Reader. What makes PDQ the best is their attention to detail. Every chicken tender is fried to perfection and their milkshakes are frothy enough for dairy connoisseurs. While they've expanded past their Tampa home-base, they still have kept their small-town charm.
2Waffle House
Facebook/Waffle HouseOpen since 1955, the Waffle House is more of a cultural establishment than just a local fast food spot. Its first location in Georgia is open 24 hours a day and every new shop since then has kept the same hours. You can spot them by their popular yellow-and-black sign alongside highways and roads in most southern states.
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3Tijuana Flats
Tijuana FlatsAnother southern native, Tijuana Flats first opened in Central Florida's Winter Park area and has since expanded to 2001 locations all throughout the south. Popular dishes include flautas and chimichangas, and we can't forget about their notorious sauce bar. Believe us, they're really good.
4Marco's Pizza
Marco's PIzzaFounded more than 42 years ago in Oregon, Ohio, by Italian immigrant Pasquale Giammarco, Marco's Pizza now has locations in more than 34 states. Known more for their company growth, we except this brand to rival bigger chains in the near future. What's better than unlimited topping pizzas for less than $7?
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5Culver's
Culver'sHospitality at Culver's rivals most local fast food spots, and this Wisconsin-based frozen custard hot spot sure knows how to keep it up. Their fan-favorite ButterBurgers are made with lightly buttered buns and a whole lot of love.
6Fazoli's
Fazoli's We might be a little biased to places that serve unlimited breadsticks, but Fazoli's really lives up to the hype. Emulating Italian roots, Fazoli's is the type of place you go to if you're looking for a hearty meal. Based in Kentucky, there 215 locations nationwide, so if you find one, take advantage.
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7Luke's Lobster
Luke's LobsterFounded in New York City, Luke's Lobster is what you think of when you imagine a success story. Since opening in 2009, you can find Luke's Lobster shops as far away as Japan. Supporting the communities they source from is a huge part of what makes Luke's Lobster such a great fast-food spot. They've partnered with organizations like The Ocean Foundation, who are committed to reversing the damage done to our oceans by non-environmental factors. Their lobster rolls are pretty spot on too.
8Jersey Mike's Subs
Jersey Mike's SubsSince 1956, Jersey Mike's Subs has been serving us with what we consider New Jersey sub royalty. Started by a high school senior and a football coach, Jersey Mike's Subs have 1,592 locations and more coming along the way.
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9Burger Street
Burger StreetFor 35 years, this Texas-based burger shop has been filling our bellies with standouts like their bacon cheese burger and chicken strips. What's great about Burger Street is its ability to take you back in time when burgers reined supreme.
10Del's
Del'sIf you're from New England then you know about Del's. Imported from Naples, Del's is a summertime favorite. You can usually find a truck or stand selling their famous frozen lemonade anytime from Memorial Day to Labor Day. It's the cutest way to end a summertime date by the pier.
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11Krystal
KrystalAdorable tiny cheeseburgers named Krystals are the epitome of hometown comfort food. Servicing the great state of George since 1932, Krystal has about 360 locations and specializes in sliders and chili cheese fries.
12Whataburger
WhataburgerFamous for their giant burgers and A-framed locations, Whataburger has been a favorite to many since the '50s. If you run into any of their shops, make sure to order a Whatachick'n. It's worth the calories.

Emy is a journalist and Florida native covering everything from lifestyle, travel, fashion, beauty and more.
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