Fast food might get a bad name, or conjure up images of just a handful of those big chains everyone thinks about. But in reality, there are a ton of local regional fast food chains that are both very good and affordable.
One region that has an abundance of fast food chains is the Midwestern part of the United States. Ranging from restaurants that cover a large swatch of the region, to a handful that are localized in just a few towns across one state, there are plenty of options for you to choose from.
So, on your next road trip across the Midwest, keep an eye out for a couple of these options and you’ll be able to grab a good meal at a very nice price.
Let’s take a look.
Skyline Chili
Via Skyline Chili on Facebook
There are thousands of people who swear by how absolutely delicious Skyline Chili’s famous chili is, even if it is one of the more unusual chili recipes out there. If you’re from the South-West be prepared for a bit of a shock to your system, since there are few other places where you can find a chili comprised of spaghetti and hot dogs.
Steak n’ Shake
Steak n’ Shake specializes in doing three things really well…steak burgers, shakes, and fries. Since they have tons of regular customers all over the Mid-West, it looks like they are succeeding. With super crispy fries and burgers made from quality beef, you’ll want to make a stop here, and don’t forget the shake.
Culver’s
Via Culvers on Facebook
According to many across the Midwest, you can’t say you’ve really had a burger until you’ve had a ButterBurger, the speciality of the Culver’s fast casual burger chain that started in Wisconsin. While the ButterBurger (served with a toasted buttered bun) is great, don’t forget to add a frozen custard for dessert.
Tony Packo’s
With a claim to fame dating back to their hot dogs being mentioned on the hit tv show MASH, Tony Packo’s has developed into a beloved Ohio based chain restaurant. Try their signature dish, the chili dog, and don’t forget to add on some of their home made sweet hot pickles on the side.
Monical’s Pizza
With plenty of devoted fans across Indiana, Missouri, Wisconsin, and Illinois, Monical’s Pizza has been serving their “family pleaser” for decades. They serve the typical options, but have a variety of styles of pizza to choose from including thin, pan, stuffed and point pizza, just to name a few.
These are five of the best Midwest fast food chains you’ll find on any road trip across the region. So, if you’re looking for something that’s quick and easy, but not what you’ll see where you live, you have plenty of options.
What did we miss? Let us know what some of your favorite fast food chains across the Midwest are so we can check them out in the future!
