French fries are the quintessential fast food side dish, the crispy, golden accompaniment to everything from burgers to chicken sandwiches. Despite their seemingly simple nature, the quality and flavor of fries can vary dramatically from one fast food chain to another. To settle the debate once and for all, we embarked on an epic taste test, sampling fries from every major fast food chain we could find. After our taste buds had their fill, we ranked them shamelessly to determine which fries truly reign supreme.
1. Five Guys
When it comes to fries, Five Guys is the undisputed champion. Their hand-cut fries are cooked in peanut oil, which gives them a distinctive and delicious flavor. They come out hot, crispy, and with a perfect amount of seasoning. The generous portions and the option to get them “cajun-style” add extra flavor, making Five Guys’ fries the top pick in our ranking. The freshness and quality are unmatched, making them a must-try for any fry enthusiast.
2. McDonald’s
McDonald’s fries are a classic that have stood the test of time. The thin, perfectly golden fries are known for their consistent quality and flavor. They have a slightly crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy interior. The secret lies in their unique preparation method and the iconic flavor that many people associate with fast food. Although they might not be as hearty as Five Guys’ fries, their addictive quality and perfect seasoning put them solidly at number two.
3. Chick-fil-A
Chick-fil-A’s waffle fries offer a different take on the classic. Their unique shape provides a satisfying crunch and a slightly thicker bite. The seasoning is subtle yet effective, enhancing the flavor without overpowering it. The texture is consistently good, and the fries are always served hot. Chick-fil-A’s waffle fries are a delightful change of pace from traditional cut fries and are deserving of a high spot in our rankings.
4. In-N-Out Burger
In-N-Out Burger’s fresh-cut fries are a favorite for many. While they are made from real potatoes and cut in-house, they can sometimes be inconsistent, with a mix of crispy and slightly soggy fries. However, the flavor is always on point, especially when paired with the chain’s signature burger. The option to order them “Animal Style” with cheese and special sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence, elevating their fry game.
5. Arby’s
Arby’s curly fries are a fun and flavorful option. The distinctive spiral shape and seasoned coating offer a unique crunch and a burst of flavor with every bite. The seasoning is bold and can be a bit overwhelming for some, but if you love a flavorful fry, Arby’s curly fries are a standout choice. They might not be for everyone, but their unique taste and texture make them memorable.
6. Wendy’s
Wendy’s sea salt fries have undergone several changes over the years, and their current iteration is a solid choice. The fries are thick-cut and seasoned with sea salt, providing a satisfying crunch and a savory flavor. They are consistently good and always fresh, though they lack the exceptional quality that sets the top contenders apart. Wendy’s fries are dependable and enjoyable, making them a reliable option for fast food fans.
7. Burger King
Burger King’s fries are thin and long, offering a consistent crunch. However, they tend to be on the greasy side, which can detract from the overall experience. The flavor is decent, but they often lack the crispy exterior and fluffy interior that make fries truly great. While they’re not terrible, they fall short compared to some of the other options on our list.
8. Jack in the Box
Jack in the Box fries are standard fare with a relatively plain flavor. They are thin and cut uniformly, but they often come out limp and lacking in crispiness. The seasoning is minimal, which can make them seem bland compared to more flavorful competitors. They’re not terrible, but they lack the excitement and quality found in higher-ranked fries.
In Summary
After sampling fries from every major fast food chain, it’s clear that some chains rise above the rest in terms of flavor, texture, and overall fry experience. Five Guys takes the crown with its hand-cut, crispy fries cooked in peanut oil, while McDonald’s and Chick-fil-A offer strong competition with their classic and uniquely shaped fries, respectively. In-N-Out and Arby’s provide their own distinctive takes, adding variety to the fry landscape. Wendy’s, Burger King, and Jack in the Box offer dependable but less impressive options. Whether you’re a fry connoisseur or just a casual fan, knowing which fries to seek out can elevate your fast food experience to new heights.