Bigger is anything but better in the fast-food world.
Consumer Reports readers slammed McDonald’s, KFC, Taco Bell and Sbarro, saying those gigantic national chains have the nation’s worst burgers, chicken, Mexican food and pizza, respectively.
McDonald’s rated dead last among 21 national and regional burger chains, according to Consumer Reports, with big-name rivals Burger King (No. 20) and Wendy’s (No. 16) not doing much better.
Famed California chain In-N-Out was named the No. 1 burger joint, followed by its Golden State neighbor, The Habit Burger Grill.
A McDonald’s rep wasn’t too concerned about the poor ratings, citing the burger giant’s massive bottom line of 27 million daily customers.
“We’re proud to serve 27 million customers every day at McDonald’s restaurants in the US,” a Golden Arches spokeswoman said. “It’s important for us to listen to their feedback as it helps us better meet their needs and expectations.”
KFC ranked eighth and last among chicken restaurants, according to Consumer Reports, while Chick-fil-A and Boston Market topped that category.
View videoAmong Mexican fast and fast-casual chains, Taco Bell came in last out of eight companies as Consumer Reporters readers tabbed Rubio’s and Chipotle as Nos. 1 and 2, respectively.
A Taco Bell official said the company will be “listening to our customers’ wants and needs,” which in this case, seems to be a demand for better food.
“As a growing brand, we’re constantly listening to our customers’ wants and needs, and are committed to great customer service, outstanding value and category-leading innovation,” said Chris Brandt, the taco joint’s chief marketing officer.
In the pizza wars, local operations were clearly favored over national brands. Out of 10 competitors, Sbarro was dead last with Pizza Hut at No. 8. Domino’s (No. 7), Little Caesars (No. 6) and Papa John’s (No. 5) also occupied bottom-half spots.
Washington state-based Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N’ Bake Pizza, Jet’s Pizza of Michigan and Marco’s Pizza of Ohio took the top three pizza spots.
Reps for KFC and Sbarro didn’t return messages seeking their comments.