Finding great fast food in a city like New York can be tricky because there are so many options. I wanted to narrow it down to places that offer tasty food, quick service, and good value.
I focused on a mix of popular spots and local favorites to help you find the best fast food restaurants in New York. This list is made to guide anyone looking for a quick, satisfying meal without sacrificing quality.
1) Shake Shack Theater District
I recently stopped by Shake Shack in the Theater District, and it was a solid choice for a quick bite. The place has a casual, counter-serve vibe where you can order classic American fast food like burgers, chicken, and frozen custard. The menu is straightforward, making it easy to choose something satisfying.
The location is busy but well-organized, so even during peak times, the wait isn’t too long if you order ahead with their app. I appreciated the fresh taste and quality of the food. The burgers were juicy and cooked just right, and the frozen custard was a great, cool finish.
It feels like a friendly spot for locals and tourists alike. I noticed many people grabbing food to go, but there are options if you want to eat there too. The staff seemed focused on good customer service, which made the experience smooth and pleasant.
Rating: 4.4 (14,355 reviews)
Location: 691 8th Ave, New York, NY 10036
Contact: (646) 435-0135
Website: Visit Website
2) Chick-fil-A
I recently stopped by Chick-fil-A on 6th Avenue, and I was impressed by how friendly and efficient the staff were. The place feels clean and welcoming, with simple decor and flowers on the tables that make it a pleasant spot to eat. Even when busy, service was quick, and the team kept things moving smoothly.
The menu has a range of options beyond just chicken sandwiches. I tried their chicken nuggets and waffle fries, both freshly made and tasty. They also serve breakfast, salads, and kid’s meals, so there’s something for different tastes. I liked that the food felt made with care and quality ingredients.
This location offers several service choices, including pickup, delivery, and catering. They even have a rewards program called Chick-fil-A One, which lets you earn points for your orders. It’s clear they focus on good customer service and community support, which adds to the experience.
Right now, the restaurant is closed for renovation until July, but you can visit nearby locations. They are also actively hiring if you’re interested in joining their team.
Rating: 4.4 (5103 reviews)
Location: 1000 6th Ave, New York, NY 10018
Contact: (212) 704-9920
Website: Visit Website
3) Five Guys
I recently stopped by Five Guys on West 55th Street, and it was exactly what I expected from a classic fast-food burger joint. The burgers are made fresh and you can pick from a wide range of toppings to build your own. What stood out to me was how everything smelled and tasted fresh, especially the buns and the hand-cut fries.
The place has a simple vibe, but it’s busy because people clearly love the food. They serve free peanuts while you wait, which is a nice touch. The fries are cooked twice in peanut oil, making them crispy, and you can choose regular or Cajun style. I found the Cajun fries added a good kick without being too spicy.
I also tried one of their milkshakes. You can mix in all kinds of flavors like Oreo pieces or peanut butter. The shake I had was thick and creamy, not too sweet. It’s clear they put care into more than just their burgers. The store stays open late, so it’s a good spot for a quick meal almost any time.
Rating: 4.2 (3152 reviews)
Location: 43 W 55th St, New York, NY 10019
Contact: (212) 459-9600
Website: Visit Website
4) Brooklyn Beef N’ Cheese
I stopped by Brooklyn Beef N’ Cheese and was impressed by the menu’s focus on classic sandwiches like cheesesteaks and chopped cheeses. The Classic Beef Cheese Steak stood out with its seasoned beef, melted mozzarella, and fresh veggies on garlic bread. The flavors were balanced, and the sandwich held up well without falling apart.
The Spicy Beef Steak was a good choice for something with a kick. It had just the right heat from hot cherry peppers and horseradish aioli, which added a pleasant spice without being too strong. Their homemade potato chips, which come with lunch orders before 3 p.m., were crunchy and tasty.
I tried the OG Chop Cheese, a New York staple, and it did not disappoint. The sandwich had plenty of juicy meat, melted cheese, and crisp lettuce, all held together by soft bread. The place is small, with only a few seats, so it’s best for takeout or quick bites.
Service here was friendly and quick. I noticed the staff was attentive and made sure my food was ready on time. Overall, the flavors and portion sizes made it worth the visit.
Rating: 4.6 (291 reviews)
Location: 70 Pine St, New York, NY 10270
Contact: (917) 261-4530
Website: Visit Website
5) Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers
I recently stopped by Raising Cane’s in New York, and the first thing I noticed was their simple but focused menu. They specialize in chicken fingers, and they do it well. The chicken was crispy and flavorful without being greasy.
The crinkle-cut fries paired nicely with the chicken. I also tried the Texas toast, which was buttery and toasted just right. The staff seemed friendly and worked quickly, which is great if you’re in a hurry.
The place feels casual but clean. It’s clear they care about quality because every bite was consistent. The atmosphere is inviting, making it a good spot for a quick lunch or dinner.
Rating: 4.3 (628 reviews)
Location: 20 Astor Pl, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 659-9981
Website: Visit Website
Frequently Asked Questions
New York fast food is known for its mix of classic chains and unique local spots. People often ask about top places, popular foods, special chains, and how these restaurants compare nationally. Healthier choices and customer favorites also come up a lot.
What are the top-rated fast food spots in New York City?
Some of the best-rated fast food spots include Shake Shack Theater District, Chick-fil-A, Five Guys, Brooklyn Beef N’ Cheese, and Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers. These places have strong customer reviews and are favorites for both locals and visitors.
Which fast food chains are unique to New York?
Brooklyn Beef N’ Cheese stands out as a local fast food option unique to New York. Shake Shack also started in New York City and has a special connection to the area, even as it expanded nationally.
What are the most popular fast food options among New Yorkers?
Chicken fingers from Raising Cane’s and burgers from Shake Shack and Five Guys are among the top popular choices. Chick-fil-A’s chicken sandwiches also have a big following here.
How do New York’s fast food restaurants rank nationally?
Shake Shack and Five Guys frequently rank highly on national fast food lists. Chick-fil-A is also well-regarded nationwide. Local spots like Brooklyn Beef N’ Cheese offer something different but are mostly known regionally.
What fast food restaurants do New Yorkers recommend the most?
I often hear recommendations for Shake Shack Theater District for its fresh ingredients. People also suggest Raising Cane’s for chicken fingers and Brooklyn Beef N’ Cheese for a unique sandwich experience. Chick-fil-A and Five Guys are reliable picks too.
Which New York fast food restaurants offer the healthiest options?
Shake Shack offers some healthier choices, like salads and grilled chicken sandwiches. Chick-fil-A also has grilled options and lighter sides. Most fast food places focus on classic comfort food rather than health, so options vary.
For more choices and details, check out some of the best fast food spots here.
