Chick-Fil-A

As restaurants go, Chick-Fil-A is particularly impossible to separate from its politics. Famously closed on Sundays for biblical reasons, the chain historically donated to anti-LGBTQ+ organizations in the name of promoting “traditional marriage,” later reversing its decisions – partially – in the face of legal and regulatory challenges. Though the company has softened its advocacy in recent years, many customers stopped or dramatically scaled back patronage as a result; you can decide for yourself whether this is a reason not to visit.

That having been said, Chick-Fil-A is unquestionably the fountainhead of the past and current fried chicken sandwich trend, having inspired numerous other chains (including Popeyes, Jollibee, and Fuku) to introduce competitors that are all measured by their benchmark. Chick-Fil-A’s original is unspiced, served on a buttered bun with pickle slices, and nearly perfect unless you’re looking for super-thick, ultra-crispy batter – the chain’s use of pressure cookers rather than traditional deep fryers somewhat limits this. Their spicy chicken sandwich is somehow perfectly peppered, hitting a level that’s simultaneously satisfactory to most spice fiends without turning off those with some but lower spice tolerances. Nuggets, strips, salads, and wraps make the same chicken available in smaller bite-sized pieces.

Chick-Fil-A’s beverages are also noteworthy. The quality of its lemonade, iced tea, and 50/50 “Sunjoy” mixes stood out enough years ago to inspire the chain to start selling gallon jugs, which are still available today. Its thick, strongly flavored old-fashioned milkshakes include flavors such as chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry year-round, with seasonal specials such as peppermint chip during the winter holidays.