Chick-fil-A Dethroned! You Won’t Believe America’s New #1 Chain

For over ten years, one name stood out in fast-food customer satisfaction. Across the country and in Washington, Chick-fil-A’s chicken sandwiches and friendly service seemed unbeatable. But the latest American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) shows that Jersey Mike’s, a fast-growing sandwich chain, has now taken the top spot.

The annual index is based on 16,464 surveys from adults across the United States and ranks fast-food chains on a 100-point scale. Jersey Mike’s took first place with a score of 84, just ahead of Chick-fil-A, which came in second with 83. Jimmy John’s and Panda Express tied for third place.

(Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Jersey Mike’s Rise to the Top

The ACSI report says Jersey Mike’s is the new leader in quick-service restaurants because it has maintained quality while growing quickly. The chain now has over 4,000 locations in the United States and Canada.

Jersey Mike’s stands out because it keeps high standards for food and service, even as it grows nationwide. Many local diners like the made-to-order experience, with meats sliced in front of them and subs served "Mike’s Way" with onions, lettuce, tomatoes, vinegar, oil, and spices.

Jersey Mike's Locations in Washington

There are 64 Jersey Mike's locations in the state, most of which are in Western Washington. East of the Cascades? There are locations in Moses Lake, Yakima, the Tri-Cities, and Spokane.

(Photo by Lisa Aileen Dragani/Getty Images for Best Buddies International)

How Other Chains Compare

Chick-fil-A may no longer be number one, but second place is still a strong showing. The competition among fast-food chains is still fierce. KFC, Papa John’s, and Pizza Hut are just below the top, while Domino’s, Raising Cane’s, Starbucks, and Subway all tied in the next group.

Further down the list are well-known names like Burger King, Dunkin’, and Panera.

McDonald’s and Dairy Queen are at the lower end for customer satisfaction. This change at the top suggests that people now care more about fresh food and good service than brand history. Whether you like chicken sandwiches or subs, the fast-food scene is shifting, and Jersey Mike’s is now in the lead.

America’s Favorite Fast Food Chains

1. Jersey Mike’s
2. Chick-fil-A
3. Jimmy John’s and Panda Express (tie)
4. KFC, Papa John’s and Pizza Hut (tie)
5. Domino’s, Raising Cane’s, Starbucks and Subway (tie)
6. Burger King, Culver’s, Dunkin’, Little Caesars and Panera (tie)
7. Dairy Queen and McDonald’s (tie)