8 Fast Food Chains That America Could Do Without
Fast Food Failures
Jump into one of the most heated Reddit crazes where folks are hashing out a truly American question: which fast food joints should pack it up and hit the road? It might seem tricky at first, but once you realize there are heaps of underwhelming drive-thrus out there, it all starts to make sense. We've rounded up the top picks and most interesting debates from Redditors, but don't be shy—share your own spicy takes in the comments.
Steak ‘n Shake
“It used to be good, but they died during the pandemic,” one Redditor mourned, noting that nowadays, the "food just tastes sad." Other users echoed similar sentiments, sharing their own disappointing experiences that highlighted the chain's subpar service.
KFC
Once more, fast food aficionados took aim at the franchise model, pointing fingers at it for the decline in quality at this fried chicken chain. According to one Redditor, his neighborhood KFC, which is "locally owned and operated," still hits the spot perfectly, while other franchise joints are "all absolutely terrible.
Panera
Panera found itself in the crosshairs of Reddit critics who labeled it "overpriced" and "bland," with one commenter comparing its offerings to "hospital cafeteria food at upscale prices." Yet, amidst the backlash, another Redditor came to the chain's defense, highlighting Panera's charitable efforts by donating leftovers to charities and food banks.
Burger King
According to the Reddit grapevine, the kingdom of the Whopper is facing some tough criticism. Dissatisfied users labeled Burger King's offerings as "inedible," "disgusting," and downright "nasty," though several conceded that quality levels fluctuate depending on the location. One standout comment summed it up: "Going to a Burger King is like playing Russian Roulette but with food poisoning. The quality of the locations varies so much it's crazy."
Subway
Redditors didn't hold back in this thread, unleashing a storm of criticism aimed at the once-beloved sandwich chain. Everything from the "tasteless" bread to its franchise setup was fair game for their wrath. Adding fuel to the fire, earlier this year, John Oliver took aim at the chain in a scathing segment, highlighting its poorly managed franchises
Tim Hortons
According to numerous Redditors, this Canadian coffee and donut chain has taken a hit in quality. A prominent commenter described the food as "laughable" and likened the coffee to "dog water." "I feel like I'm the lone Canadian who can't stomach Tim Hortons," that same Redditor confessed.
Long John Silver's
This nautically themed seafood chain has its loyalists (they love the hush puppies), but Long John Silver’s also has enough detractors that critiques of the chain received thousands of upvotes. “I'd go about once a year, regret it, and then go back again when the bad memory wore off,” one Redditor wrote.
This seafood spot with a maritime vibe has its die-hard fans (especially those hankering for some hush puppies), but Long John Silver’s also reels in its fair share of critics. So much so that critiques of the chain scored thousands of upvotes. "I'd go about once a year, regret it, and then go back again when the bad memory wore off," confessed one Redditor
Golden Corral
Reddit isn't serving up any praise for this all-you-can-eat buffet chain. One user likened it to a "feeding trough for people," while another top commenter bluntly stated, "The best-tasting food there is the iceberg lettuce if that's any indication how bad the food is."
We edited this story using partial AI assistance.
This article was originally published on Cheapism
More From Cheapism
Free Burgers, Free Fries, and More Bonkers Fast-Food Deals Near You
The 24 Best Family Meal Deals From Popular Fast-Food Spots Offering Takeout and Delivery
Wendy's Dreamsicle Frosty, KFC's Saucy Nuggets, and More New Fast-Food Items To Try This Month
Best Wingstop Flavors: I Ranked 13 Flavors, Including the New Maple Sriracha Wings
