Young Americans’ Top 15 Favorite Fast Food and Chain Restaurants

Fast food is the small splurge young people can’t give up, and these are their favorite spots in their own words

  • McDonald’s is still young consumers’ #1 favorite fast food spot
  • Despite the discourse, Gen Z and Millennials still love “slop bowl” spots like Chipotle
  • Chili’s is the only traditional chain restaurant on their favorites list—congrats, cheese pulls!
Gen Z and Millennials just can’t seem to quit fast food. While cooking at home may be the more budget-friendly option for these cash-strapped gens, YPulse’s Food Shopping and Trends report shows virtually all teens and young adults say they’ve visited a fast food spot like McDonald’s, Wendy’s, or Taco Bell in just the past month. Another 92% of both groups have been to fast casual spots like Panera Bread, Subway, or Chipotle in that same time frame. While 77% of teens and 73% of young adults say fast food feels like a splurge now because of how expensive it is, it’s still something worth the comfort. YPulse’s Finance / Spending Monitor report shows fast food is the top small splurge both teens (13-17) and young adults (18-24) say they’ll never give up.  These places are also familiar (read: nostalgic and comforting), accessible, and have become more than just a food stop. Fast food and chain brands are constantly tapping into young consumers’ interests through limited-time drops, viral menu...

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