In-N-Out dethrones its rivals to become America's best burger chain
A year ago, Habit Burger & Grill used a roadside sign to boast about beating In-N-Out's iconic Double-Double in a fast-food burger showdown.
Now, a new ranking puts the California cult favorite the top spot in its annual list of the nation's best burger chains.
The list, released by Yelp for International Burger Day, ranked chains with more than 100 locations across multiple states based on user reviews and brand performance.
Struggling brands like Wahlburgers and Jack In The Box made the list, and BurgerFi was in at 13th, despite its bankruptcy filing last year.
McDonald's and Burger King, two of the largest chains in the world, were down at 17 and 19 on the list, while smaller chains like Cook Out and Fatburger were 12th and 21st, respectively.
Yelp's Kadecia Ber said: 'Today's consumers prioritize quality ingredients and customization in addition to convenience.
'What's evident from our rankings is that burger chains resonating most with customers today are those finding the right balance between consistency, quality, and a distinctive brand identity.'
In-N-Out Burger
Founded in 1948, In-N-Out Burger is known for serving simple and inventive burgers and fries.
More than 119,000 Yelp reviewers have praised the California based restaurant chain for its service and drive-thru experience.
Some of the chain's popular menu items include its Double-Double burgers and Animal Style fFench fries topped with onions, cheese, and a secret sauce.
With more than 400 locations, In-N-Out Burger was named the top burger chain in the Western region and is planning to open seven new restaurants while phasing out artificial ingredients from its menu.
Habit Burger & Grill
The Habit Burger & Grill cracked the top five burger chains and is the second-best burger chain in the US overall.
The first restaurant opened in 1969, and it now has nearly 400 restaurants worldwide.
Yelp reviewers praised the chain's Charburger, with onions, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayo.
The chain recently opened new restaurants in Washington and Idaho.
Shake Shack
What began as a New York hot dog cart in 2001 is now the nation's third-best burger chain that cracked the top 3 burger chain listings in each US region.
It's also the top-ranked burger chain in 21 states and Washington DC, and its original New York restaurant has over 5,800 Yelp reviews.
With over 320 restaurants across the U.S., the chain plans to open 80 to 85 company-operated restaurants this year and rolled out its first loyalty program this week.
Culver's
Culver's has served burgers to customers since opening its first restaurant in 1984.
It rests at number four on the national ranking, but Yelp named it the top burger chain in the South and Midwest regions.
Several fans have given positive reviews over its ButterBurgers and frozen custard.
There are currently over 1,000 Culver's across 26 states and it's adding 55 new locations this year.
Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks
Founded in 1982, the nation's fifth-best burger chain has less than 50 locations and only operates in Arizona and California.
Each restaurant provides a beachy atmosphere while serving unique items like the spicy Kilauea and the veggie-friendly Shorebird.
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is famous for its retro decor as well as its fan favorite Steakburgers.
However, reviewers also praised its Original Double and signature fry sauce.
The brand operates over 500 restaurants in the U.S. and Canada, and has been working on its plan to add 130 new locations between 2024 and 2025.
Five Guys
Five Guys has become a burger chain empire with over 1,800 locations worldwide.
Opening its first location in 1986, fans enjoy the variety of options offered when customizing their burgers and food that's 'cooked to perfection'.
The restaurant chain is one of the top brands in three U.S. regions, and has already opened more U.S. locations this year.
Wayback Burgers
Wayback Burgers operates over 170 restaurants worldwide and has experienced consistent franchise system growth.
Its also famous for its rotating specials and unique flavor combinations in the eyes of Yelp users.
The chain has opened new restaurants in Georgia and North Carolina and plans to open more in Texas, Ohio, and Iowa later this year.
MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes
The youngest restaurant chain on the list, MOOYAH brings a high level of burger customization to over 100 restaurants nationwide.
Customers can also choose between Angus beef, turkey, or veggie patties when ordering food.
While it is smaller than several chains, MOOYAH is planning to add 54 locations in Texas by 2030.
Red Robin
Red Robin has not let their potential 70 restaurant closures stop them from receiving positive Yelp reviews.
The family friendly chain is known for its massive menu and offers multiple fan favorite foods like Whiskey River BBQ Burger and teriyaki-glazed Banzai Burger.
The 56-year-old chain operates over 490 restaurants in the U.S. and Canada, and is one of the top-ranked burger chains in the Northeast.
Foodie finds: Founded in California, In-N-Out Burger also beat out Habit Burger & Grill as the top chain in the Western region
Top 25 burger chains in the U.S.
In-N-Out Burger
The Habit Burger Grill
Shake Shack
Culver's
Islands Restaurants
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
Five Guys Burgers & Fries
Wayback Burgers
MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes
Red Robin
Jack in the Box
Cook Out
BurgerFi
Whataburger
Wahlburgers
Smashburger
McDonald's
Sonic Drive-In
Burger King
White Castle
Fatburger
Wendy's
Carl's Jr
Checkers and Rally's
Steak 'n Shake
SOURCE: Yelp
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