Introduction
The largest limited service and quick service restaurants are getting more popular in the United States due to several reasons. Some of the notable reasons include fast-food demand, lower dining costs, and an increased digital ordering growth. People are using QSRs like Subway, Starbucks, McDonald’s, and Hunt Brothers Pizza to build a strong empire in the USA in 2025. Around 51% of U.S. consumers, including Gen Z adults and Millennials, are ordering food from restaurants. The significant growth of QSRs in the USA remains remarkable.
Top 10 Limited-Service Restaurants In 2025
In this section, we will understand the realm of some well-known limited-service restaurants.
| Rank | Name of Brands | Number of Locations | States Present In | Cities Present In |
| #1 | Subway | 20,378 | 50 | 6,645 |
| #2 | Starbucks | 17,186 | 50 | 3800 |
| #3 | McDonald’s | 13,658 | 50 | 5,074 |
| #4 | Hunt Brothers Pizza | 10,489 | 50 | 4,529 |
| #5 | Taco Bell | 8,101 | 50 | 3,599 |
| #6 | Domino’s Pizza | 7,108 | 50 | 3,660 |
| #7 | Pizza Hut | 6,739 | 50 | 3,188 |
| #8 | Burger King | 6,606 | 50 | 3,211 |
| #9 | Wendy’s | 5,968 | 50 | 2,822 |
| #10 | Dairy Queen | 4,134 | 50 | 2,667 |
Detailed Brand Analyses
- Subway: Subway is available in 6,645 cities and almost all states in the US. These amounts signify Subway’s ubiquitous reach and accessibility in the country. It’s a strong brand loyalty that fuels greater market presence, significantly boosting investor appeal through proven customer retention and expansion. Subway has made an appealing menu strategy with healthier options.
- Starbucks: Starbucks is available in 17,186 major locations across 52 states in the USA. People can order fast food from this fast food restaurant in around 3,800 cities. Through innovation in beverages and menu diversification, this fast food chain allows people to order food in approximately 3800 cities. This restaurant is known for its loyalty program to increase customer engagement.
- McDonald’s: McDonald’s is in third position so far. This QSR has a total of 13,658 restaurants in the USA. It has covered 50 states and 5,074 cities. With this coverage, McDonald’s has become a global icon brand. It has achieved success in the competitive market through effective marketing campaigns. The consistent innovations of the menu make it people’s choice.
- Hunt Brothers Pizza: This QSR is available in 10,489 locations across 50 states of the USA. It has a significant reach with a presence in more than 4,529 cities. Hunt Brothers Pizza has developed simplicity and speed in providing food dishes to Americans. As a business expansion, this QSR has provided attractive partnership options. Hunt Brothers Pizza has a community-based model to engage loyal customers.
- Taco Bell: Taco Bell has 8,101 total stores across the USA. With the figure of 3,599, this LLS has covered all the major cities in the United States. In 2025, it offers unique food, which becomes its great strength. Taco Bell has a focus on developing a customized menu. It has become a good choice for investors looking for remarkable growth.
- Domino’s Pizza: It is a rising industry leader, having 7,108 total outlets. It has a presence in 50 states with coverage of 3,660 cities. Domino’s Pizza remains one of the fastest QSRs in the USA compared to other countries. This is likely because of convenient food ordering applications and Kiosks.
- Pizza Hut: Now, let’s have a seventh-ranking QSR, Pizza Hut. It has 6,739 total outlets in just the USA. It has a presence in 50 states and covers 3,188 cities. This fast food service provider remains a pioneer in 2025 because of its diverse menu options and delivery service focus. Today, Pizza Hut has become a popular family choice and it makes it worthwhile for investors.
- Burger King: It is a remarkable industry player; it has 6,606 total outlets available in 50 states of the USA. This restaurant has covered approximately 3,211 cities. Burger King is known for its traditional menu appeal. This way, it has continued to become popular in the USA.
- Wendy’s: This fast food chain has securely occupied ninth place. If we consider the possible growth of this restaurant, then it has 5,968 stores in 50 states of the USA. This Wendy’s restaurant is available in 2,822 cities. Wendy’s became famous in 2025 due to the quality & convenience of ordering food. It has high-engaged loyal customer base of 130 per year. Wendy’s has a targeted audience such as families, Gen Z, Hispanics, and more. Wendy’s is known for its fusion menu & frosty swirls. This restaurant is appealing to both customers and investors.
- Dairy Queen: This QSR holds a top ten position and is available in 4,134 stores and 49 states in the USA. Dairy Queen has gained enduring appeal in 2,667 cities. It has known segments such as snacks and desserts. This QSR is a charming option for those who are looking for an investment. Dairy Queen app ordering growth, rewards program usage, and third‑party partnerships have increased in 2025.
Analyzing Consumer Preferences in Limited Service Dining
In the year 2025, limited service dining trends continue shifting. It has given more preference to
convenience and quality. QSRs’ attraction remains a quick, tasty service. The modern edge people have demanded restaurants with a variety of food items. According to a Restaurant Dive report, 68% Americans choose limited service dining for affordability and speed.
Health-Conscious Choices
Americans have demanded more healthy menu options for their lunch and dinner. According to a Statista survey, 54% consumers prefer healthier menu options. Therefore, restaurants started offering plant-based and low-calorie food dishes to consumers.
The Role of Digital Ordering
The era of digital ordering surge has influenced limited-service restaurants. The customer preference rate has increased by 85%. People order food from mobile applications for their convenience. This helps businesses to tailor their offerings accordingly.
Investing in the Future of Limited Service Restaurants
The year 2025 is becoming exciting for limited service restaurants with 4.5% growth. The potential key drivers of this growth are consumer convenience, delivery & takeout, and tech advancements.
Adoption of Digital Innovations
For QSRs, digital innovations in their outlet is necessary to reduce manpower. This helps restaurants to fulfill customer requests more quickly. It enables restaurants to improve their operations. Digital food ordering applications, personalized campaigns, and the use of AI become pivotal for limited service restaurants. The report in QSR Magazine, 2025, shows that the online food ordering consumer preference rate is 78%.
Focus on Sustainability
In today’s era, consumers want a sustainable approach in their food orders. This approach has forced limited-service restaurants to adopt eco-friendly business practices. QSRs use more sustainable packaging materials. They have effectively improved their waste reduction efforts. It results in lower environmental impact, enhanced grand image, and a 15% boost in business.
Conclusion
The market of limited-service dining is dynamic and evolving in 2025. LSRs are focusing on innovation and technology adoption. These restaurants emphasize product strategy involving quality. Today, fast food businesses move towards sustainable practices. With great convenience, modern restaurants with the adoption of technology will continue to be a key factor in the future.
