You May Be Surprised Which CA Chain Dominates In USA Today Fast Food Fries Ranking

LAKE FOREST, CA — America’s best fast food fries can once again be found at Del Taco, according to a recent ranking from USA Today.

The newspaper’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards of 2026 gave the title to the Lake Forest-based chain earlier in July for the third year in a row.

“Known for its Mexican-inspired menu, Del Taco racks up plenty of fans with its crinkle cut fries,” the ranking said. “The shape holds salt and crispiness, which really helps if you order them covered in chili, queso, or carne asada.”

The Golden State was well-represented in this year’s ranking, with Riverside-based Farmer Boys coming in second and In-N-Out Burger, which is headquartered in Irvine, ranking 10th.

The USA Today 10Best fast food fries ranking is determined by editors and an expert panel, as well as readers voting for their favorites.

The full ranking is as follows:

1. Del Taco
2. Farmer Boys
3. A&W
4. McDonald’s
5. Shake Shack
6. Five Guys
7. Golden Chick
8. Chick-fil-A
9. Checkers and Rally’s
10. In-N-Out Burger