These Midwest staples ranked last for best fast-food restaurants. Iowans, do you agree?
When Taco Bell beats out Culver’s on best fast food in America, you know we have problem.
Time Out, a media outlet focused on dining, entertainment and the arts, published in January their best fast-food restaurants in America. Fifteen restaurants made the list, complete with an order suggestion for each.
Some of the restaurants included Shake Shack, Raising Cane’s and Taco John’s.
While there’s no real wrong or right answers when it comes to ranking popular fast-food chains, we’re going to advocate just a bit for the fast-food chains that originated in the Midwest.
What Midwest fast-food chains were featured and how did they rank?
Culver’s, which originated in Wisconsin, made the list in last place. Started in 1984, Culver’s has captivated diners with its ButterBurgers — burgers topped with a buttered, toasted bun — cheese curds and frozen custards.
Ranked just above Culver’s is Dairy Queen, likely best known for their soft serve treats and Blizzards. Dairy Queen got its start in Illinois in 1940. Iowa City will tell you — you know the season of warm weather months are approaching when the Dairy Queen on Riverside Drive (walk-up orders only) is open.
And at No. 10, Iowa's very own Maid-Rite makes the list. Founder Fred Angell is responsible for Maid-Rite’s signature “loose meat” sandwiches. The chain has locations across Iowa and in Illinois, Ohio, Minnesota and Missouri.
Which fast-food chain was ranked first?
At number one: California’s iconic burger chain, In-N-Out Burger. It’s a restaurant with a simple menu of burgers, fries and shakes that has been praised by celebrity chefs like Gordon Ramsay and has seen A-listers dine at their locations. And its classic burger has its own distinctive style to it: thin patties, a generous amount of crisp lettuce, your preference of grilled or raw onions and a sweet and tangy spread.
Where is an In-N-Out Burger near me?
Iowans are out of luck when it comes to enjoying In-N-Out with ease. If you’re up for serious traveling, Denver and Texas will be your closest options.
What other fast-food chains originated in Iowa?
Des Moines residents will know B-Bop’s, the burger spot that was established in 1988. B-Bop’s has several locations in the Des Moines metro and Ames. Find classic burgers, chicken sandwiches, chili cheese fries or treat yourself to a chocolate shake.
Another Iowa-originated chain is Pancheros, the fast-causal Mexican restaurant known for their fresh-pressed tortillas. The first location was in Iowa City in 1992. Since, Pancheros has expanded to 13 states across the country. Stuff your burrito with your choice of meat, salsa and queso or opt for a bowl at Pancheros.
Paris Barraza is a trending and general assignment reporter at the Des Moines Register. Reach her at [email protected]. Follow her on Twitter @ParisBarraza.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Midwest chains Culver's, Maid-Rite make best fast food in America list