We Tasted All The Fast-Food Fries Here’s The Definitive Ranking

Fries are more than just a side—they’re a make-or-break moment for fast food fans. Some chains nail the crispy-salty combo with golden perfection, while others serve up limp, flavorless filler. We tried them all—crinkle-cut, shoestring, curly, and beyond—to figure out which fries are worth the hype and which ones deserve a hard pass. Here’s our definitive ranking of fast-food fries, from worst to fry royalty.

1. Dairy Queen

Dairy Queen fries often feel neglected on the menu. These spuds lack character, often arriving at the table unevenly cooked and unfortunately soggy. One might find themselves longing for the iconic Blizzard instead. Blandness is the primary flavor profile here, leaving much to be desired. The texture varies from piece to piece, providing an inconsistent experience.

While they may serve as a quick filler, they fail to deliver any memorable taste. Fans of Dairy Queen might still find solace in their sweet treats, but when it comes to fries, this chain falls short.

2. Sonic

Sonic’s fries are a rollercoaster of texture. On one visit, they could be perfectly crispy; on another, limp and lacking salt. It’s this inconsistency that keeps them from ranking higher. The potential is there; when done right, they complement their signature drinks beautifully.

However, more often than not, they disappoint. Frequent patrons might have a love-hate relationship with these fries, knowing that their experience can vary day to day. Sonic’s charm lies in its unique drive-in style, but its fries could use a bit more reliability.

3. In-N-Out

In-N-Out’s fresh-cut fries spark debate among fast food enthusiasts. Some adore their simplicity, while others find them lacking in flavor. Without sauce, these fries can taste bland, resembling cardboard more than a side dish. Their texture is another contentious point, often soft rather than crispy.

The chain’s devoted fans may argue that ordering them “well-done” improves the experience, but this trick doesn’t always hit the mark. Despite the hype surrounding the brand, these fries are more about the fresh-cut concept than delivering a crave-worthy taste.

4. Jack in the Box (Regular Fries)

Jack in the Box’s regular fries often leave much to be desired. Greasy and lacking distinct flavor, they tend to fall short of expectations. While the chain prides itself on variety, it’s the curly fries that truly shine. The regular fries, however, seem to struggle with finding a balance.

Some might describe them as mere placeholders, overshadowed by their seasoned counterparts. For those seeking a reliable fry fix, the curly version is the way to go. Regular fries at Jack in the Box often play second fiddle, begging for improvement.

5. White Castle

White Castle fries evoke nostalgia, with a taste reminiscent of cafeteria days. Soft and undeniably starchy, they carry a certain charm for those who appreciate simpler flavors. For some, they offer a trip down memory lane, back to childhood lunches.

However, in the realm of fast food, they don’t stand out as especially remarkable. Their sentimental appeal might win over some, but when seeking a crisp, flavorful experience, these fries often fall short. White Castle remains a spot for slider cravings rather than fry indulgence.

6. Burger King

Burger King’s fries are known for their thick-cut style, providing a hearty bite. However, their texture can be inconsistent, sometimes mealy rather than crisp. The potato-forward flavor might appeal to some, yet it often lacks the desired crunch.

While they pair well with a Whopper, they don’t always hold their own as a standalone snack. The potential for greatness is present, but execution varies. Enthusiasts might appreciate the attempt at a more substantial fry, though consistency remains a challenge for this fast-food staple.

7. Wendy’s (New Recipe)

Wendy’s sea-salt fries, with their new recipe, offer a better experience than their predecessors. However, they tend to cool quickly, losing their crispness along the way. When fresh, they present a delightful balance of salt and potato flavor, making them a worthy companion to a Frosty.

Yet, their tendency to go limp is a common critique. While a step up from the past, there’s room for improvement in maintaining heat and texture. Fans of Wendy’s may find them satisfying, but others might still crave a bit more durability in their fry experience.

8. Shake Shack

Shake Shack’s crinkle-cut fries deliver a satisfying snap but often need more seasoning to truly shine. When hot, they can be delightful, complementing a ShackBurger nicely. The shape offers a unique texture, standing out among competitors.

However, the seasoning—or lack thereof—is a frequent complaint. Flavors can come off as underwhelming, leaving some diners wanting more. Despite this shortfall, their crinkle-cut style holds appeal for many fast food aficionados. Perfect when fresh, Shake Shack fries require a bit more spice to reach their full potential.

9. Culver’s Crinkle-Cut Fries

Culver’s crinkle-cut fries offer a golden crunch that’s hard to resist. While they often shine on their own, the richness of a ButterBurger may overshadow them. Their shape provides a satisfying bite, capturing the essence of classic fast-food fries.

However, when paired with heavier meals, they sometimes fade into the background. Still, for those seeking a solid fry, Culver’s delivers reliability and taste. Their texture and flavor make them a noteworthy choice in the fast-food world, though they occasionally play second fiddle to the chain’s famous burgers.

10. Arby’s Curly Fries

Arby’s curly fries are a side that commands attention. With their zesty seasoning and fun spiral shape, they’re more than just an accompaniment—they’re an experience. Perfectly crispy, they add a playful twist to any meal and are often considered a snack in their own right.

Their seasoned crust tantalizes the taste buds, making them highly addictive. Arby’s has mastered the art of fry seasoning, creating a favorite among spice lovers. For those looking to elevate their fast-food experience, these curly wonders offer a delightful escape from the ordinary.