Latest news with #burgerchain
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
In-N-Out named top burger chain in the US
The billboard trash talk didn't age well. Just 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. 'Today's consumers prioritize quality ingredients and customization in addition to convenience,' Yelp's Kadecia Ber told '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 french fries topped with onions, cheese, and a secret sauce. 'You can never go wrong with Double Doubles, animal style,' a Yelp user wrote, adding it always has 'great service.' 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 5 burger chains in the West and Northeast regions 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 have praised the chain's Charburger, which comes with onions, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayo. 'The menu is precisely thought out, the specialty burgers are just an example of the creativity the kitchen is capable of,' a New Jersey-based customer wrote on Yelp. 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. 'They have a delicious gluten-free bun and the bacon avocado burger is my go-to.' With over 320 restaurants across the US, 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 4 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. 'Great burgers. Very nifty custard ice cream. Good prices. Friendly service. What's not to love!,' a reviewer wrote. There are currently over 1,000 Culver's across 26 states and is 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. 'This is my go to for a burger, never flat soda, cool Cali vibes with plenty of televisions with sports and surf scenes,' a customer stated. Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is famous for its retro décor and fan favorite Steakburgers. However, reviewers have also praised its Original Double and its signature fry sauce. 'I love the old school vibe-a frozen custard and a burger is classic combo,' a customer admitted on Yelp. The brand operates over 500 restaurants in the US and Canada, and has been working on its plan 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 US regions, and has already opened more US 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. 'Wayback burgers are great to any food places is great these burgers are great to perfection,' a customer wrote. 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. 'Amazing lettuce wrapped burger, great spicy kick,' a customer wrote. 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. 'Red Robin: where the burgers are bold, the broccoli is shockingly tasty, and the fries... well, they play hard to get,' a customer joked. The 56-year-old chain operates over 490 restaurants in the US and Canada, and is one of the top-ranked burger chains in the Northeast.
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
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
Daily Mail
3 days ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
In-N-Out dethrones bitter rival to claim America's best burger chain... as McDonald's is also humiliated
The billboard trash talk didn't age well. Just 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 the 13th slot despite its bankruptcy filing last year. McDonald's and Burger King, two of the largest fast food 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. Scroll down for the full list. 'Today's consumers prioritize quality ingredients and customization in addition to convenience,' Yelp's Kadecia Ber told '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 french fries topped with onions, cheese, and a secret sauce. 'You can never go wrong with Double Doubles, animal style,' a Yelp user wrote, adding it always has 'great service.' 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 5 burger chains in the West and Northeast regions 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 have praised the chain's Charburger, which comes with onions, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayo. 'The menu is precisely thought out, the specialty burgers are just an example of the creativity the kitchen is capable of,' a New Jersey-based customer wrote on Yelp. 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. 'They have a delicious gluten-free bun and the bacon avocado burger is my go-to.' With over 320 restaurants across the US, 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 4 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. 'Great burgers. Very nifty custard ice cream. Good prices. Friendly service. What's not to love!,' a reviewer wrote. There are currently over 1,000 Culver's across 26 states and is 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. 'This is my go to for a burger, never flat soda, cool Cali vibes with plenty of televisions with sports and surf scenes,' a customer stated. Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is famous for its retro décor and fan favorite Steakburgers. However, reviewers have also praised its Original Double and its signature fry sauce. 'I love the old school vibe-a frozen custard and a burger is classic combo,' a customer admitted on Yelp. The brand operates over 500 restaurants in the US and Canada, and has been working on its plan 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 US regions, and has already opened more US 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. 'Wayback burgers are great to any food places is great these burgers are great to perfection,' a customer wrote. 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 Founded in California, In-N-Out Burger also beat out Habit Burger & Grill for the top burger chain in the Western region Top 25 burger chains in the US 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 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. 'Amazing lettuce wrapped burger, great spicy kick,' a customer wrote. 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. 'Red Robin: where the burgers are bold, the broccoli is shockingly tasty, and the fries... well, they play hard to get,' a customer joked. The 56-year-old chain operates over 490 restaurants in the US and Canada, and is one of the top-ranked burger chains in the Northeast.
Forbes
09-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Culver's: Over 1,000 Stores But Still Falling Under The Radar Screen
A food website recently pointed out that 'Culver's doesn't typically get mentioned alongside popular regional burger chains such as Whataburger and In-N-Out, but it probably should.' Indeed, it should. Culver's is a major franchising powerhouse, having recently surpassed its 1,000 location, and now has 1,004 stores with 997 of them or 99% franchised and only 7 company-owned. It also received a major investment from Roark Capital Group, an Atlanta, Ga. based private equity firm, with over $37 billion in equity, known for its investments in franchised restaurant chains as well as retail and consumer service sectors. Though many private equity firms invest in restaurant chains, expand them and sell them in several years for a profit, Roark started its investment in 2017 and has shared its expertise to help Culver's grow over 8 years and counting. And Culver's has been expanding at a steady pace since it opened 53 new locations in 2024, with 7 new locations so far in 2025. It expects to open another 50 or more locations by the end of 2025. Culver's is based in Prairie du Sac, Wisc., a Midwest town of 4,370 people but in proximity to Madison, the state capital, but far away from the two coasts which often generate more media coverage. A hamburger chain Culver's with over 1,000 mostly franchised locations doesn't get much national recognition but keeps growing at a steady pace. A New CEO Who Has Been Involved For 8 Years Julie Fussner, who was named CEO on April 28, 2025 of Culver's after being with the company since 2017 starting out in marketing and serving as CMO, is not perturbed about its lower profile on a national basis. 'Our focus is on being as well-known as possible in the local communities we're in,' she says. 'We don't advertise nationally. It doesn't make sense for us,' she notes. Moreover, she adds that its approach is working since 'volumes in the restaurants are high and we're growing.' Most restaurant owner/operators work in the restaurant and develops their local following, she says. Fussner adds that franchisees are permitted to own a small number of locations, if they stay within a close-by geographic area. She notes that even though it specializes in burgers, 'We're in the people business. When our owner-operators are present and engaged, they take care of their teams.' Burgers, Custard and Cheese Curds It's known for several menu items including ButterBurgers, frozen custard and Wisconsin Cheese Curds. Fussner says its name ButterBurgers emanates from its lightly-buttered toasted buns that adds flavor to its fresh beef seasoned on a grill. She says that its menu 'is inspired by where we come from in Wisconsin,' noting that fresh custard was invented in Milwaukee. But Fussner describes the brand's secret sauce as serving 'made-to-order meals with hometown hospitality.' She indicates that its staff is trained to provide a 'welcoming dine-in experience and small-town hospitality in every interaction.' More Americans are moving toward healthier menus, but Fussner notes that it offers a line of salads, with grilled chicken, soups, and seafood, though the cod is fried. Targets Mom And Dads Its target audience, she says, is 'the people who are making meal decisions, mostly moms and dads with families; however, we have a huge lunch business on weekdays, involving the person in the office, bringing the team to lunch.' Most of its outlets are located in the Midwest, but its footprint extends to the West and Southwest and of late, to the Southeast, so it's gone beyond Wisconsin's borders. Its shops are in various sites, ranging from its largest city Chicago, smaller cities, suburbs, and small towns. Fussner makes the case that Culver's has made a name for itself in the communities that it serves in a variety of ways: 1) Via local fund-raising efforts, 2) Engaging with its customers on social media via its Surprise and Delight programs, 3) Donating $6.5 million to the Thank You Farmers Project since 2013 to support agricultural education and support a climate-smart future. Fussner doesn't plan on changing Culver's culture now that she's been named CEO. Her focus, she indicates, 'is not to lose any of the foundation of what has made us successful.' She adds that operating a Culver's restaurant is 'difficult so identifying innovation or what we can do differently to deliver that exceptional experience is something we'd like to do,' She also expects to continue to open 50 to 55 outlets a year, and envisions seeing improvement in its digital experience, particularly in its loyalty program and plans to introduce new types of burgers on the menu. She sees the 3 keys to its sustained success as: 1) Continuing to identify present and engaged owner/operators, 2) Staying true to its roots regarding its menu, 3) Delivering outstanding hospitality for every guest at every location.
