26 Best Fast Food French Fries to Order in 2025

Of the many options in today's culinary landscape, have you ever wondered which spots offer the best fast food French fries? Whether they are curly, seasoned, with cheese on top, paired with vanilla ice cream or simply have the right amount of salt, there’s nothing that fresh French fries can’t solve.

Originating in Belgium, French fries have become a key aspect of American cuisine. Introduced to the U.S. by soldiers returning from World War I, these crispy delights quickly became a staple in fast food restaurants, creating the match made in heaven: burgers and fries. But, which fast food restaurant has the best French fries? This article has a comprehensive list that explores the best fast food French fries, guaranteed to satisfy your craving for golden goodness.

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• The 26 Best Fast Food French Fries To Try

The 26 Best Fast Food French Fries To Try

1. Shake Shack

Among the best fast food French fries, you’ll find Shake’s Shack’s signature crinkle-cut fries. Known for their distinctive wavy appearance, these fries are perfectly golden and crispy with the right amount of salt. You can enjoy them on their own or try one of the restaurant’s signature sauces, like the cheese sauce made with creamy cheddar cheese or the iconic ShackSauce that has a tangy and slightly sweet flavor. 

2. Sonic

Switch up your regular French fry orders at Sonic by opting for the tater tots. These bite-sized potato gems are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, easily making them one of the best fast food French fries to try. Each tot is lightly seasoned with salt and is ideal for dipping in sauces or enjoying with cheese.

3. In-N-Out Burger

We've got a secret to share, and it comes straight from the In-N-Out secret menu. It has some of the best fast food French fries worth trying. To elevate your dining experience, the secret menu’s Animal-Style fries always hit the spot. They come loaded with melted American cheese and grilled onions and are drizzled with In-N-Out’s signature sauce. 

4. Raising Cane’s

When it comes to the best fast food French fries, Raising Cane’s crinkle-cut fries are a fan favorite. They’re known for their distinctive shape and satisfying crunch that blends a golden crust with a soft interior. Whether enjoyed on their own or dipped in the restaurant's signature tangy sauce, these fries are the perfect complement to Cane's famous chicken fingers.

5. Arby's

Which fast food restaurant has the best French fries, you may ask? Claimed by many as the best fast food French fries, Arby’s iconic curly fries are simply exquisite. Beyond the signature spiral shape, Arby’s fries have a delicious blend of species that give them a bold, savory flavor. Ideal for pairing with any of Arby’s hearty sandwiches, these curly fries stand out not just for their unique appearance but also for their irresistible taste.

6. Dairy Queen

For most, Dairy Queen is a classic fast food spot to try at least once. While its French fries are not as widely known as its Blizzards, the chain still lands on the list of the best fast food French fries. Dairy Queen’s fries have a straight-cut shape, offering a pleasant crunch with a fluffy interior. They are seasoned with salt and are perfect for dipping in ketchup or parking with a classic burger or fried chicken.

7. Zaxby’s 

Zaxby's has to be on the list of the best fast food French fries, with its iconic crinkle-cut fry that is exquisitely seasoned. Beyond salt, Zaxby’s fries have a signature seasoning that makes them perfect for eating alone. The food chain also offers chicken, bacon and ranch-loaded fries, which are another crowd favorite worthy of this list of the best fast food French fries. Blending the flavor of crispy fries topped with fried chicken, natural hardwood smoked bacon, cheddar Jack cheese and ranch, how can you resist them?  

8. McDonald’s

For many, the best-tasting fast food French fries come from McDonald’s, primarily because the flavor is consistently delicious, no matter where you go. They’re thin and crispy, with just the right amount of salt. Especially when served fresh, they can be considered the best fast food French fries of all time. Plus, they pair perfectly with everything on the menu, whether it’s a Big Mac or a McFlurry.

9. Taco Bell 

Taco Bell is not only famous for its iconic burritos and tacos; its nacho fries are some of the best fast food French fries due to the perfect combination of golden, crispy potatoes and the tasty seasoned beef, black beans, guacamole, nacho cheese sauce, sour cream, creamy chipotle sauce, tomatoes and real shredded cheddar cheese they get topped with. The bad news is that despite the high demand, they are not always on the menu.

10. Jack in the Box 

For curly-fry lovers, Jack in the Box is considered by many as having the best fast food French fries because of their bold flavor profile. The unique blend of spices used to coat the fries includes paprika, garlic powder and a pinch of cayenne, which gives them a zesty and savory kick. These are also perfect to dip in Jack in the Box’s creamy ranch or zesty buttermilk house sauce. 

11. Del Taco 

Del Taco’s crinkle-cut fries are a delicious addition to its Mexican-inspired fast food menu. They stand out as some of the best fast food French fries due to their distinctive wave texture and the right amount of crispy crunch. They're ideal for scooping up sauces and toppings like Del Taco’s exquisite creamy queso or guacamole. Don't be afraid to venture out and try the other French fry options that come with a variety of delicious toppings.

12. Wendy’s 

Wendy’s fries are also considered some of the best-tasting fast food French fries because, while they are simple, their flavor and texture go beyond typical French fries. Wendy’s natural-cut fries are made from whole russet potatoes and are cut with the skin left on, giving them a rustic, homemade look and earthy flavor. They pair exceptionally well with Wendy’s burgers, chicken nuggets or a vanilla Frosty. 

13. Steak 'n Shake

Steak 'n Shake offers some of the best fast food French fries in the form of its thin and crispy Shoestring fries. They are cut much thinner than typical fast food fries, resulting in a delightful crunch with every bite. Lightly salted and perfectly golden, they provide a simple, yet incredibly satisfying taste that complements the rich flavors of Steak 'n Shake's steakburgers. 

14. White Castle

White Castle fries are known for their crinkle-cut shape and ridged texture, which enhances their crispiness. They are the perfect side to White Castle’s famous sliders, balancing out the savory, juicy burgers with their crispy bite. Each fry is carefully cooked to achieve a beautiful golden-brown exterior that contrasts with its soft interior — a staple requirement to be on the list of the best fast food French fries.

15. Portillo’s

Portillo’s crinkle-cut fries are considered some of the best fast food French fries due to their perfect combination of texture and flavor. They pair exceptionally well with the restaurant’s famous Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches and cheese sauce. In fact, their satisfying texture and rich flavor make them a standout side that complements any meal at Portillo’s.

16. Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A’s waffle fries are often touted as the best fast food French fries for their distinctive shape and perfect seasoning. These fries are cut into large, waffle-like pieces that provide a unique crispy, yet soft texture. Seasoned with a touch of salt, these waffle fries are ideal for dipping in Chick-fil-A's signature sauces, such as the chain's eponymous Chick-fil-A sauce or its popular Polynesian sauce.

17. Five Guys

Besides having world-famous burgers, Five Guys is also renowned for having some of the best fast food French fries, made from fresh-cut potatoes and fried in peanut oil. These fries are thick-cut, skin-on and cooked to golden perfection, offering a hearty and natural potato flavor. Available in both regular and Cajun seasoning, they cater to a variety of taste preferences. The regular fries are lightly salted, allowing the rich, earthy taste of the potatoes to shine, while the Cajun fries are coated in a zesty blend of spices that add a flavorful kick. 

18. Whataburger

Whataburger’s fries are among the best fast food French fries due to their consistent quality and classic taste. They are cut into uniform, medium-sized sticks that strike the perfect balance between crispy and tender. The simplicity of the seasoning allows you to taste the authentic flavor of the potato, making them an excellent pairing to Whataburger’s diverse menu.

19. Braum's

Braum's crinkle-cut fries provide a perfect balance of crispiness and softness. Fried to a perfect golden brown, with a crunchy, mouthwatering texture, they are easily one of the best fast food French fries worth trying. Seasoned with a touch of salt, Braum's fries complement the rich and savory flavors of the restaurant's burgers and chicken sandwiches. They are also an excellent side to Braum's famous ice cream treats, offering a contrast of salty and sweet.

20. Jollibee

Jollibee’s French fries are a delightful addition to its menu. They are often considered some of the best fast food French fries for their unique seasoning and crispy texture. Seasoned with a special blend of spices, they provide a savory flavor that complements Jollibee’s Filipino-inspired dishes. Whether you’re enjoying them alongside Jollibee’s famous Chickenjoy, dipping them in gravy or pairing them with Jolly spaghetti, these fries add a delicious and familiar taste to any meal.

21. A&W

A&W’s fries have been ranked by many as some of the best fast food French fries around. These fries are golden brown, with a deeply satisfying crunch. The light seasoning enhances their natural potato flavor without overpowering it, making them a versatile side that pairs well with A&W’s root beer floats and classic American burgers. Looking for something a little extra? Give the chili cheese fries a try for an added level of deliciousness.

22. Nathan’s Famous

If you've never tried Nathan’s Famous fries, you're missing out on some of the best fast food French fries around, without a doubt. Their thick-cut, crinkle shape and perfect balance of crispiness and flavor place them high up on this list. Their simple flavor complements the rich flavors of Nathan’s Famous hot dogs, making them a staple side at this iconic fast food chain. 

23. Bojangles

Known for their unique blend of spices that give them a bold, savory flavor, Bojangles’ seasoned fries are some of the best fast food French fries you can try. These fries are cut into thick sticks and fried to a crispy perfection. The special seasoning mix includes paprika, black pepper and a hint of cayenne, providing a flavorful kick that sets them apart from other fast food fries. They are the perfect side to Bojangles’ famous fried chicken and biscuits, adding an extra layer of taste. 

24. Burger King

Burger King’s fries are a must-add to this list of the best fast food French fries due to their thick-cut and salty, delicious flavor. They pair well with Burger King’s flame-grilled burgers, such as the Whopper, as well as its various chicken sandwiches. Whether you’re enjoying them on their own or as part of a meal, Burger King’s French fries deliver a consistently delicious experience. 

25. Popeyes

Popeyes’ Cajun fries are often hailed as the best fast food French fries for their spicy, flavorful seasoning and crispy texture. Particularly if you’re seeking the best vegan fast food options and want to avoid regular plain fries, Popeyes' fries offer a delicious blend of Cajun spices, including paprika, garlic and cayenne pepper. The seasoning provides a flavorful kick that complements the crispy exterior and tender interior of the fries.

26. Checkers and Rally's

Checkers and Rally’s famous seasoned fries are thick-cut and fried to a golden brown, with a special seasoning mix that includes a blend of spices that give them a sweet and spicy flavor. Their distinctive taste sets them apart as one of the best fast food French fries among fast food aficionados. 

Whether you’re seeking perfectly seasoned, crunchy, curly or crinkle-cut fries, and whatever your palate prefers, be it savory, spicy or somewhere in between, this roundup adapts to all preferences and tastes. Throw in a pot of one of these chains' delicious signature dips and pair it with your favorite fast food entrée, and this list of restaurants with the best fast food French fries is your go-to guide to getting the best out of the country's most popular fast food chains.

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