There’s a new No. 1 fast-food chain in America, and its roots are just across the Hudson River from New York.
Jersey Mike’s Subs, which got its start at the Jersey Shore, has dethroned Chick-fil-A as the nation’s top-rated quick-service restaurant in the 2026 American Customer Satisfaction Index Restaurant and Food Delivery Study.
Jersey Mike’s takes top spot
After leading the rankings for 11 consecutive years, Chick-fil-A fell to second place overall, though it remained the top-rated chicken chain.
According to the ACSI study, Jersey Mike’s earned a score of 84, edging Chick-fil-A’s score of 83. Researchers said customers rated Jersey Mike’s highly for freshness, food variety and value.
The rankings are based on customer satisfaction data collected throughout 2025 and published in the 2026 report.
Why sandwiches are a New York staple
Sandwiches have long been a cornerstone of New York’s food culture, reflecting the state’s immigrant roots and regional traditions.
New York City helped popularize iconic sandwiches such as pastrami on rye, Italian heroes and, more recently, the chopped cheese. Many of those creations trace their origins to immigrant communities that shaped the city’s culinary identity.
Upstate New York developed its own sandwich traditions, including Buffalo’s beef on weck and the Southern Tier’s spiedie sandwich.
While terminology varies by region — some New Yorkers say “sub,” others prefer “hero” — made-to-order sandwiches remain a staple across the state.
Top 15 fast-food chains in America
According to the 2026 ACSI Restaurant and Food Delivery Study, the highest-rated quick-service restaurant chains were:
Jersey Mike’s and Chick-fil-A locations in New York
Jersey Mike’s has 122 locations across New York, according to the company.
Chick-fil-A operates 55 locations in the state.
Customers can use each chain’s online store locator to find the nearest restaurant.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: What knocked Chick-fil-A out of the No. 1 spot? It’s a sandwich chain New Yorkers know well
Reporting by Beyonce Thomas-Reynoso, New York Connect Team / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Beyonce Thomas-Reynoso, New York Connect Team | USA TODAY Network
