Beyond the big names and fast food giants you'll find local and regional fast food chains scattered across the country. From small restaurants locals adore to cult brands that may have slipped under your radar, we've rounded up the best fast food restaurants in the US you probably haven’t tried – but really should.

Click or scroll through our gallery to discover America’s hidden gem fast food chains, counting down to the most iconic of all.

We've based our ranking on the enduring popularity of each restaurant in its place of origin and beyond, and on the opinions of our well-traveled (and well-fed) team. The list is unavoidably subjective.

The greatest hidden gem US fast food chains, ranked