1. A&W Restaurants
You probably recognize A&W for its iconic root beer, but did you know the chain still operates in over 500 locations? Once a staple of roadside dining, A&W has managed to survive, serving burgers, hot dogs, and, of course, root beer floats.
2. Bonanza Steakhouse
Remember Bonanza? Founded by the actor from Bonanza (yes, really), this chain has drastically shrunk since its heyday in the ‘70s. But it’s still out there, grilling steaks and serving up hearty comfort food in a handful of locations, mainly in the Midwest.
3. Blimpie
Subway may have taken over the sandwich game, but Blimpie is still around, hanging on by a thread. It peaked in the ‘90s, but you can still find some locations in states like Arizona and New Jersey. Their subs are worth a revisit if you happen to stumble across one!
4. Rax Roast Beef
Rax was once a contender to Arby’s, but after several setbacks, the chain slowly disappeared from most places. However, it still has a cult following and a few locations left, mostly in Ohio. You’ll find roast beef sandwiches and some old-school menu items like the BBC (Beef, Bacon, and Cheddar).
5. Del Taco
While Del Taco isn’t entirely forgotten, it often plays second fiddle to Taco Bell. But if you’re lucky enough to live near one of their 600 locations, you know their tacos, burritos, and fries are worth the trip—especially if you’re craving a little variety in your fast-food Mexican options.
6. Arthur Treacher’s Fish & Chips
Back in the day, Arthur Treacher’s was the go-to place for fish and chips. Though most locations are gone, a few remain open, mostly in Ohio. If you miss the crisp, golden fish fillets and hush puppies, these spots are like stepping back into a time capsule.
7. Hot ‘n Now
Once a booming chain with over 100 locations, Hot ‘n Now has dwindled down to just one—yes, just one—in Sturgis, Michigan. If you’re in the area, it’s a must-visit for a greasy burger experience straight out of the ‘90s.
8. Kenny Rogers Roasters
If you’re a fan of Seinfeld, you probably remember the famous Kenny Rogers Roasters episode. While it’s all but disappeared in the U.S., this rotisserie chicken chain still exists internationally, especially in Asia. But if you’re feeling nostalgic, there are a few U.S. outposts left—perfect for those craving a chicken and cornbread fix.
9. Fuddruckers
Fuddruckers has flown under the radar for a while now, but it still holds onto about 90 locations. Known for its “World’s Greatest Hamburgers” claim and fresh toppings bar, Fuddruckers is the place to go if you want a customizable burger experience.
10. Taco John’s
The battle of Taco Bell versus Taco John’s may have been lopsided, but Taco John’s still boasts hundreds of locations, mostly in the Midwest and Mountain West. Known for their “Potato Olés” and a unique take on tacos, this chain quietly carries on.
11. Roy Rogers
Once a major player in the fast-food world, Roy Rogers is now a regional chain you’ll find primarily along the East Coast. Famous for its roast beef sandwiches, fried chicken, and “Fixin’s Bar,” it’s a treat for those who want something a little different from typical burger joints.
12. The Original Pancake House
Okay, so this isn’t your standard fast-food joint, but it deserves a spot on this list. The Original Pancake House has been flipping flapjacks since the 1950s and still exists in over 100 locations. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden breakfast gem.
13. Checkers and Rally’s
While these two chains are technically separate, they’ve merged into one entity with the same branding. Known for their seasoned fries and bold burgers, Checkers and Rally’s still have nearly 900 locations, mostly in the South and Midwest, despite flying under the radar in the fast-food game.
14. Steak and Ale
If you were around in the ‘70s and ‘80s, you might remember Steak and Ale as a more upscale, yet affordable, dining option. It closed most of its locations in the early 2000s, but there are whispers of a comeback, with one location in Texas that’s still keeping the flame alive.
15. Wienerschnitzel
Hot dogs may not be the first thing you think of for fast food, but Wienerschnitzel still serves them up in over 300 locations across the country. They’ve expanded the menu to include burgers and chili, but their signature dogs are still the main draw.
