America’s favorite fast food chains revealed: Jersey Mike’s to replace Chick-fil-A in 2026 rankings
America’s top chicken fast food chain has lost its No. 1 spot in a major customer satisfaction ranking. Chick-fil-A, which was ranked No. 1 in 2025, has now fallen to No. 2 in the latest survey. Jersey Mike’s tops this year’s rankings.
jersey mikeWe score 84 out of 100 on the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI). Chick-fil-A is close behind with a score of 83 out of 100, according to Fox News. This is the first time in more than a decade that a new brand is leading the quick service restaurant (QSR) category.
Jersey Mike’s tops survey
The study, released Tuesday, was based on 16,464 completed surveys. The surveys were collected via email between April 2025 and March 2026. ACSI named Jersey Mike’s a “new leader in QSR” after its strong performance. Fox News cited the report as saying Jersey Mike’s growth was tied to strong customer demand, rapid expansion and heavy use of digital ordering and pickup systems.
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Jersey Mike’s was founded in Point Pleasant, New Jersey in 1956 and currently has more than 4,000 locations across the United States us and Canada. The chain is known for its custom-made subs and its signature “Mike’s Way” style, which includes onions, lettuce, tomatoes, oil, vinegar and spices.
As Fox News reported, ACSI said Jersey Mike’s has a simple menu and a business model that supports franchise success. Although Chick-fil-A has lost its No. 1 spot for the first time in more than a decade, it remains the leading chain for chicken.
Fast food rankings and scores
In the remaining rankings, Jimmy John’s and Panda Express tied for third with 81 points. KFC, Papa John’s and Pizza Hut Followed by Domino’s, which scored 80 points, Raising Cane’s, Starbucks and Subway, all scored 79 points. Followed by Burger King, Culver’s, Dunkin’, Little Caesars and Panera Bread, with scores of 78 points. At the bottom of the list are Dairy Queen and McDonald’s, both with scores of 72, tied for last among the major chains.
