Rankings of the Most Influential Fast Food Brands for 2025
In the world of fast food, opinions can vary wildly. But when it comes to expertise, few can match the knowledge and experience of Matt Youmans. With over 50 years in the fast-food industry, Youmans has released his annual rankings, stirring up debate and excitement among food lovers.
Culver's Tops the List
For the second year in a row, Culver's has taken the top spot. Known for its ButterBurgers, spicy crispy chicken, and a wide variety of menu options, Culver's has consistently impressed Youmans with its quality and consistency. The chain, which is based in Wisconsin, is currently expanding, with plans to enter Nevada within the next two years.
Nevada Expansion on the Horizon
Lori Deschene, the owner of the Bullhead City franchise, has confirmed that Culver's is set to expand into Nevada. While specific locations and opening dates have yet to be announced, the expansion is expected to begin around 2027. This news has been met with excitement by many, as Culver's has been missing from the Nevada fast-food scene.
A Mixed Bag of Opinions
As with any ranking, opinions vary. Some enthusiasts argue that the absence of Culver's in Nevada has affected its ranking, with Shake Shack being ranked higher due to its availability in Las Vegas. However, Youmans stands by his choices, citing food quality, menu variety, drive-thru service, nationwide availability, and intangibles as the deciding factors.
Other Notable Entries
While Culver's takes the top spot, there are several other fast-food chains that have impressed Youmans. Portillo's, a Chicago-based chain, ranks second with its Italian beef, hot dogs, and chocolate cake shake. Taco John's, popular in Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska, and North Dakota, ranks higher than Taco Bell in Youmans' opinion.
For those with a sweet tooth, Dunkin' Donuts offers coffee and doughnuts, although Youmans prefers the bacon, egg & cheese sandwich and hash browns. For a healthier option, El Pollo Loco offers Mexican-style grilled chicken.
Polarizing Choices and Surprising Enthusiasm
Some chains, like White Castle and Fatburger, are polarizing, with some people loving them and others hating them. Taco Bell, on the other hand, is a chain that Youmans finds to be in decline and expensive. However, the return of the Mexican pizza helps its power rating, and Youmans respects the opinions of Moss and Circa owner Derek Stevens, who both ring the Bell with surprising enthusiasm.
The rankings have triggered debates on social media, with some enthusiasts disagreeing with the choices. However, Youmans remains confident in his decisions, citing decades of daily experiences and research, supported by a subjective mathematical formula.
In conclusion, Matt Youmans' fast-food rankings offer a unique perspective on the fast-food industry. Whether you agree or disagree, one thing is certain: these rankings are sure to spark conversations and debates among fast-food lovers everywhere.
- Matt Youmans, known for his expertise in the fast-food industry, has also expressed his opinions about college football, predicting odds and making rankings that stir up debates and excitement among football enthusiasts.
- After expressing his views on the fast-food industry, Youmans occasionally ventures into other areas of general news, including entertainment, such as when he shares his thoughts on the revival of the popular dish – the Mexican pizza at Taco Bell.
- Just as he takes a serious approach to education and self-development in the fast-food industry, Youmans cautions against gambling and reckless behavior, discouraging unnecessary involvement in casino-and-gambling activities that may lead to financial loss and personal harm.