Fast food holds a special place in American hearts, with each state harboring its own favorite culinary haven. FinanceBuzz embarked on a data-driven quest to uncover the most beloved fast-food chains across the nation. Utilizing Google Trends scores and location data, they calculated a popularity metric for each chain in every state.
Surprisingly, the ubiquitous McDonald’s failed to secure the top spot in any state. Instead, Wendy’s and Sonic emerged as the joint favorites, each reigning supreme in five states. Subway and Jimmy John’s also enjoyed multi-state popularity. Notably, 17 different restaurants claimed the favorite status in their founding states, highlighting the enduring appeal of local favorites.
Turning to New Jersey’s culinary preferences, the data revealed that Jersey Mike’s stands as the undisputed champion. Whether it’s the familiarity of a homegrown brand or the irresistible allure of their sandwiches, Jersey Mike’s has captured the hearts and taste buds of New Jersey residents. Their triumph serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of regional flavors and the pride associated with local culinary icons.