Exploring the Best 15 UK Fast Food Restaurants

For all the foodies out there studying in the UK, this blog is for you! When it comes to fast food, the UK has no shortage of options. From classic fish and chips to international street food, the country is home to diverse quick bites that cater to every taste and budget. In this article, we will dive into the 15 best UK fast-food restaurants that are worth exploring! So, come on, follow along! 

Five Guys

Five Guys is a popular American fast-food chain that has gained a loyal following in the UK. The chain is known for its burgers made with fresh, never-frozen beef and its famous hand-cut fries. With a variety of toppings and sauces to choose from, Five Guys offers a customizable fast-food experience that is sure to satisfy!

Leon

Leon is a UK fast food chain that specialises in healthy, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Leon's menu features a range of dishes that are made with fresh, natural ingredients and are free from additives and preservatives. The company's ethos is to serve fast food that is good for you and offers a range of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Leon's most popular dishes include its Moroccan meatballs, sweet potato falafel, and baked fries. 

Nando's

Nando's is a South African fast food chain that has become a UK sensation. The chain is known for its peri-peri chicken, which is marinated in a spicy sauce and grilled to perfection. With various sides and sauces to choose from, Nando's is a great option for those looking for a fast food meal with a bit of spice. It is one of the best UK fast food restaurants!

Pizza Hut

Pizza Hut is a popular American pizza restaurant chain that has been operating in the UK since 1973. The company has over 260 locations across the UK, offering a range of pizza, pasta, salad dishes, sides, and desserts. Pizza Hut's signature dish is its stuffed crust pizza, made with a ring of melted cheese baked into the crust. The company also offers a range of vegetarian and vegan options, including its Vegan Margherita pizza, which features dairy-free cheese and a selection of vegetables. With a variety of topping and crust options to choose from, Pizza Hut offers a customizable fast-food experience that is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Subway

This is yet another popular UK fast food restaurant. Subway is an American fast-food chain that specialises in made-to-order sandwiches and salads. The company has been operating in the UK since 1996 and has over 2,500 locations nationwide. Subway's menu features a range of bread options, including its signature sub roll, and a selection of meats, cheeses, vegetables, and sauces. Customers can customise their sandwiches to their liking, choosing from a range of fillings and toppings!

Pret a Manger

Pret a Manger is a popular British sandwich and coffee shop chain that was founded in London in 1983. The name "Pret a Manger" is French for "ready to eat," which reflects the company's commitment to serving freshly made, high-quality food and coffee. Pret a Manger sources its ingredients from local and organic farms, and it offers a wide range of sandwiches, wraps, salads, soups, and pastries.

Greggs

Greggs is a UK fast food chain that is known for its baked goods. The company has over 2,000 locations across the UK and is best known for its savoury pastries, including sausage rolls and steak bakes. Greggs also offers a range of sandwiches, wraps, salads, and sweet treats, including its famous doughnuts and pastries. In recent years, the company has introduced a range of healthier options, including vegan and vegetarian products, and it has committed to reducing the sugar content in its products.

Costa Coffee

Costa Coffee is a UK fast food chain that specialises in coffee and baked goods. Costa Coffee offers a wide range of coffee options, including lattes, cappuccinos, and Americanos, as well as a range of teas, hot chocolates, and cold drinks. The company also offers a range of snacks and light meals, including its popular cheese and ham toasties and sweet treats, such as muffins and cakes. Costa Coffee has also introduced a range of healthier options, including salads and wraps, and it offers a range of plant-based milk options for its coffee drinks. With a range of hot and cold drinks to choose from, as well as a variety of snacks and sandwiches, Costa Coffee is a great option for those who need a quick caffeine fix.

Burger King

Burger King is another American fast-food chain that has been operating in the UK since 1977. The company has over 500 locations nationwide and is known for its flame-grilled burgers and Whopper sandwiches. Burger King's menu also features a range of chicken and vegetarian options, sides, and desserts. Over the years, the company has introduced various innovations to its menu, including its "Angry Whopper" and "Plant-based Whopper" options. The company's affordable prices and widespread availability have made it a popular choice for people looking for a quick and convenient meal, and its delivery and takeaway services have made it even more accessible to customers in the UK.

Taco Bell

Taco Bell is also an American fast-food chain that is known for its Mexican-inspired cuisine. The company opened in the UK in 1986 and has since expanded to over 40 locations nationwide. Taco Bell's menu features a range of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, sides, and desserts. The company is known for its affordable prices and bold flavour combinations, with options like the Crunchwrap Supreme and the Cheesy Gordita Crunch. Taco Bell has also introduced a range of vegetarian and vegan options, including its Crunchwrap Supreme and Black Bean Quesarito. It is one of the top UK fast food restaurants!

The West Cornwall Pasty Company

The West Cornwall Pasty Company is a British fast-food chain that specialises in traditional Cornish pastries. The company was founded in 1998 and had over 50 locations across the UK, including major train stations and airports. The West Cornwall Pasty Company's pastries are made using locally sourced ingredients and traditional recipes, including the famous steak pasty, which is made with locally reared beef and a combination of potatoes, onions, and seasoning. The company has also introduced a range of vegetarian and vegan pastries and other products, such as sandwiches, cakes, and hot drinks. 

McDonald's

Everyone’s all-time favourite! McDonald’s is known for its iconic Big Mac and Quarter Pounder burgers, as well as its famous fries and Chicken McNuggets. McDonald's menu also features a range of breakfast options, including the Egg McMuffin and the Sausage and Egg McMuffin, as well as a range of sides and desserts. The company has introduced various innovations to its menu over the years, including its McFlurry desserts and the more recent introduction of the plant-based McPlant burger. With a range of menu options to choose from, as well as a variety of sides and sauces, McDonald's is a go-to fast food destination for many people.

Yo! Sushi

Yo! Sushi is a UK fast food chain that specialises in Japanese cuisine. Yo! Sushi's menu features a range of traditional Japanese dishes, such as sushi rolls, sashimi, and ramen, as well as fusion dishes that incorporate elements of Western cuisine. The company is known for its innovative "kaiten" conveyor belt system, which allows customers to choose dishes as they pass by their table. Yo! Sushi also offers a range of vegetarian and vegan options, including its popular Vegetable Gyoza and Tofu Katsu Curry.

Shake Shack

Shake Shack is an American fast food chain that has recently gained popularity in the UK. Shake Shack's menu features a range of classic American-style burgers, including the ShackBurger and SmokeShack, as well as vegetarian options, such as the “Shroom Burger.” The company strongly emphasises using fresh, high-quality ingredients, with its burgers made from 100% Aberdeen Angus beef and its buns baked fresh daily. Shake Shack also offers a range of desserts, including its famous frozen custard and hand-spun milkshakes.

Wimpy

Last but not least, Wimpy! Wimpy is a classic UK fast food chain that is known for its burgers and milkshakes. The first Wimpy restaurant in the UK opened in 1954, and since then, it has grown to become a popular destination for fast food lovers. Wimpy UK offers table service and a more relaxed dining experience, unlike other fast-food chains. The menu includes a variety of burger options, including vegetarian and halal options, as well as breakfast items, hot dogs, and desserts. With a retro vibe and a menu full of comfort food classics, Wimpy is a great option for those looking for a nostalgic fast food experience.

And there you have it!

There are plenty of UK fast food restaurants you can enjoy, ranging from classic burger chains to international cuisine. Whether you're looking for a quick and tasty snack or a satisfying meal, there is something for everyone! It is also worth mentioning that the UK has some of the best Indian and Chinese restaurants you need to check out!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the most popular fast food restaurant in the UK?

The UK has plenty of popular fast food restaurants, including Greggs, Subway, and Leon.

2. How many fast food restaurants are there in the UK?

In 2022, there were more than 46,200 fast food and takeaway restaurants in the UK. It is predicted that this number will increase to around 48,800 by 2023.