America’s Most Popular Chain Has Over 200 Minnesota Locations

You know the big names in the fast-food industry - Chick-fil-A, Papa John’s, McDonald’s, Panera, etc. They’re practically on every corner with drive-thru lines a mile long. However, when it comes to the most popular chain in America, none of them take the crown.

What’s your favorite chain? Are you the person who can’t pass a Starbucks without grabbing a Frappuccino? Maybe you’re the road-tripper who swerves across three lanes of traffic because you spotted a Waffle House.

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We all have our go-to, but one chain stands above the rest, winning over customers across generations. Boomers, Gen X, and millennials all agree - everyone loves it! Or at least the majority of people!

And if you’re in Minnesota, you don’t have to look far to find one. However, not every location stays open year-round, so depending on where you are, you might be counting down the days until yours reopens for the season.

Also See: Experts Say This Is The Best Mom-And-Pop Shop in All of Minnesota

With over 200 locations across the state and a history stretching back to the 1940s, it’s no surprise that this fan-fave was named the most popular chain restaurant in the country by Stacker.

I’m talking about Dairy Queen! The ice cream icon made its Minnesota debut in 1947, opening two stores that year - one in Rochester and the other in Roseville.

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Fun fact, Dairy Queen got its start in 1940 when its founders developed a formula for soft-serve ice cream and opened a small stand in Illinois, according to MSN. It didn’t take long for it to turn into a fast-food giant!

From the classic Dilly bars to the Peanut Buster Parfait and Blizzards to burgers, hot dogs, and fries, DQ has become a go-to spot for way more than just a sweet treat.