Jersey Mike's Beats Chick-fil-A as America's New #1 Fast Food

Move over, Chick-Fil-A, there’s a new fast-food king in America, and it just ended an 11-year winning streak.

Every year, a massive national survey ranks the country's most popular fast-food spots based on everything from value to customer service and food quality. For over a decade, Chick-fil-A has basically been untouchable.

But the 2026 results were just released, and a sandwich shop barely squeaked past them to claim this year's crown.

Think you know which one??

The newly crowned champion has more than 4,000 locations across the US and Canada, according to their website, including two locations right here in Rochester, one on Commerce Drive and the other on Crossroads Drive... and I’ve actually never been.

According to the latest American Customer Satisfaction Index, Jersey Mike’s just officially took the top spot as America's new favorite fast food joint.

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If you've never been, Jersey Mike's is famous for fresh subs made "Mike's Way" (onions, lettuce, tomatoes, vinegar, oil, and spices). But, they're more than just good subs. According to their website, a huge part of their culture is giving back, they even donate 100% of sales to local charities during their annual Day of Giving.

Since I can't personally vouch for it yet, I looked at the numbers to see how close this race actually was. Jersey Mike's edged out the competition by a single point.

Here's how the rest of the top 10 shook out:

1. Jersey Mike's (84)

2. Chick-fil-A (83)

T-3. Jimmy John's (81)

T-3. Panda Express (81)

T-5. KFC (80)

T-5. Papa Johns (80)

T-5. Pizza Hut (80)

T-8. Domino's (79)

T-8. Raising Cane's (79)

T-8. Starbucks (79)

T-8. Subway (79)

The biggest shocker at the bottom? McDonald’s and Dairy Queen ended up tied for last place with a score of 72 out of 100.

So now I have to ask...

Do you agree?

Is Jersey Mike's really the best fast-food chain in America, or is Chick-fil-A (or somewhere else) still your go-to?

Rochester's First Ave Food Court Features Tastes From Around the World

Hidden in plain sight at 101 1st Ave SW in downtown Rochester, this skyway food court is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fast, flavorful lunch. Simply head up the stairs to the First Ave Food Court to explore a variety of international cuisines. See the current lineup below:

Gallery Credit: Troy Dunken