Where To Get the Best Fast Food in NYC in 2025

Those searching for the best fast food in NYC won't be short of options. New York City has the most restaurants per capita of any U.S. city, which will, of course, include a wide array of fast food joints. 

But with so many fast food places in NYC, it can be tough to know where to start. And, not all of them serve up the quality you're looking for, so narrowing down the top choices is key.

Fortunately, we've done the hard work for you. We've compiled a list of the best fast food restaurants in NYC that should be on every food lover's bucket list.

Whether you're craving a classic burger or something more unique, these spots deliver the best quick bites in The Big Apple.

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• The 21 Best Fast Food Restaurants in NYC
• How We Choose the Best Fast Food in NYC
• Find the Best Fast Food Restaurants in NYC

The 21 Best Fast Food Restaurants in NYC

1.  Shake Shack

While not an exclusively New York-based chain, Shake Shack is still an NYC fast food favorite.  Since the first location of this American classic restaurant opened in 2004, it has become a firm favorite for made-to-order Angus beef burgers and delicious milkshakes.

The Vibe

For a fast food restaurant, Shake Shack has a contemporary and welcoming space, with lots of open windows to let in natural light and dark modern furniture.

What to Order

You can't visit this fast food chain in NYC without trying the classic cheeseburger with crinkle-cut fries.

If you want something a little different, go for the SmokeShack at this fast food restaurant in NYC. It comes with an Angus beef patty paired with American cheese, chopped cherry peppers, applewood-smoked bacon and ShackSauce, all served on a potato bun.

You can also get this burger, and a few others, with a lettuce wrap in place of the bread; a great option for those searching for the best keto fast food in The Big Apple. 

• Types of Fast Food: Burgers, Chicken Sandwiches, Hot Dogs, Fries, Milkshakes 
• Diets Catered To: Vegetarian, Keto, Gluten-Free*

Shake Shack | Multiple Locations | $

2. Nathan’s Famous

There are some things to do in NYC that you can't miss, and one of those is visiting one of the best NYC fast food restaurants: Nathan’s Famous. This international institution has been around for more than a century and serves up hot dogs alongside some other fast food favorites like burgers and milkshakes.

The Vibe

You can’t miss the huge yellow sign above the door beckoning you in. While it may not look like much from the outside, this NYC fast food joint packs each meal with flavor and history.

What to Order

Nathan’s is famous for its hot dogs, so you’ve got to try one for yourself. You can opt for a standard hot dog, spice things up with the chili cheese dog, or combine two popular comfort foods by going for the NY cheesesteak dog.

We also recommend pairing your food with a premium milkshake. Flavors to choose from include chocolate, strawberry, Oreo and orange creamsicle. 

• Types of Fast Food: Hot Dogs, Burgers, Chicken, Sandwiches, Fries, Milkshakes 
• Diets Catered To: Gluten-Free*

Nathan’s Famous | Multiple Locations | $

3. Fat Boys Burgers

Another great burger fast food place in NYC is Fat Boys Burgers. This fast food restaurant in New York City is the brainchild of two brothers, Alla and Nz, along with their brother-in-law, Ahmed Mohsen.

Along with a range of burgers, diners at this fast food place in NYC can indulge in comfort foods like loaded fries, onion rings and milkshakes. 

The Vibe

This popular spot for fast food in NYC keeps it simple inside with clean white walls and subway tiles to emphasize the casual, grab-and-go vibe. 

What to Order

We highly recommend the Fat Boy Burger, comprising two beef patties, classic burger toppings like pickles and a special sauce, all on a brioche bun. Add a side of chopped chicken fries and cheese sticks, and thank us later!

• Types of Fast Food: Burgers, Loaded Fries, Cheese Sticks, Chicken, Milkshakes 
• Diets Catered To: n/a

Fat Boys Burgers | Multiple Locations | $

4. Jollibee 

If you’re looking for some of the best fast food in NYC with an international twist, then you need to visit Jollibee. This fast-food restaurant is well-known for its high-quality food and Filipino take on burgers and the like. 

The Vibe

Jollibee sticks with the popular style of fast food décor that is crisp, clean and modern. Say "Hi" to the Jollibee mascot as you enter!

What to Order

The fried chicken is the must-order here. Get it alongside a serving of Jolly Spaghetti, the Jollibee take on a popular Filipino food that comes with a sauce including hot dogs and banana ketchup. 

• Types of Fast Food: Chicken, Burgers, Pasta, Fries, Desserts 
• Diets Catered To: Keto

Jollibee | Multiple Locations | $

5. Burger By Day 

There’s certainly no shortage of burger restaurants in NYC, but Burger By Day stands out as an NYC fast food must-visit.

Locally owned and operated, Burger By Day is also a kid-friendly option for families, thanks to the menu of both simple (think burgers with just a patty and cheese) and more topping-packed orders. 

The Vibe

The white floors and subway tile walls are modern and bright, with a large menu on display that makes ordering easy.

What to Order

Voted as one of the best burgers in New York City, you have to order the double bacon smash burger with a side of fries. There's also a veggie burger if someone in your group doesn't eat meat.

• Types of Fast Food: Burgers, Chicken, Fries, Milkshakes
• Diets Catered To: Vegetarian

Burger By Day | 242 Grand St., New York, NY 10002 | $

6. John’s Fried Chicken

When it comes to fast food in NYC, you can't go wrong with John’s Fried Chicken. This Dominican restaurant is beloved by locals for its rotisserie chicken and Latin American sides like yuca, rice and beans, and fried plantains. 

The Vibe

John’s is an unassuming restaurant with a bright yellow banner that beckons you into a friendly atmosphere.

What to Order

The fried chicken combo with a leg, thigh and wing is a great deal. We recommend adding rice, beans and plantains on the side, but you also have options like potato salad or macaroni salad. 

• Types of Fast Food: Chicken, Latin American Side Dishes, Dessert
• Diets Catered To: Keto, Gluten-Free*

John’s Fried Chicken | 512 W. 207th St., New York, NY 10034 | $

7. Raising Cane’s

Popular chicken spot Raising Cane’s has been expanding rapidly as of late, including into the New York City area. This NYC fast food joint serves up chicken with its famous Cane's sauce, crinkle-cut fries and Texas toast, alongside a few other menu items like chicken sandwiches. 

The Vibe

It’s bright, bold and funky inside one of this chain's NYC fast food restaurants, thanks to bold graffiti-inspired murals and bright art. 

What to Order

Go for the classic box combo at this chicken fast food chain that comes with chicken fingers, fries, Texas toast, coleslaw and a drink.

If you want something a little different, turn to the Raising Cane's secret menu. However, we recommend only ordering off-menu at non-peak times when the store isn't too busy. 

• Types of Fast Food: Chicken, Fries 
• Diets Catered To: n/a

Raising Cane’s | Multiple Locations | $

8. Five Guys 

Since 1986, the team at Five Guys has been cooking up some delicious burgers and fries. What makes this NYC fast food spot so popular is that everything is made fresh — so fresh that there are no freezers inside! 

The Vibe

Simple red booths line the dining area with red and white checkered murals running along the walls, giving this restaurant an American diner feel.

What to Order

You can’t go wrong ordering the American cheeseburger with your choice of toppings, plus fries and an indulgent banana milkshake. This fast food chain in NYC also has a few vegetarian options, along with some bun-less burger bowls and lettuce wraps for keto and gluten-free diners.

• Types of Fast Food: Burgers, Sandwiches, Hot Dogs, Fries, Milkshakes
• Diets Catered To: Vegetarian, Keto, Gluten-Free*

Five Guys | Multiple Locations | $

9. Melt Shop

Melt Shop is an NYC fast food restaurant that serves up some of the best comfort food in the city.

While classics like burgers and fries are on the menu, the standout at this popular spot for fast food in New York City is the menu of grilled sandwiches. These range from classic grilled cheese to Biggie Melts filled with cheese and various other ingredients like breaded chicken. 

The Vibe

Melt Shop is modern and minimalist, with black walls and white tiled floors. It's the perfect place to grab-and-go when looking for comfort food in a hurry. 

What to Order

You have to go for one of the toasted sandwiches with delicious, oozy and bubbly cheese, plus other fillings if desired. 

• Types of Fast Food: Grilled Sandwiches, Burgers, Chicken, Fries, Milkshakes
• Diets Catered To: Vegetarian

Melt Shop | Multiple Locations | $

10. Gray’s Papaya

You can’t visit the Big Apple without enjoying a legendary hot dog, and Gray’s Papaya is one of the best places to do so. Plus, this NYC fast food restaurant is open until around 11 p.m most days, allowing you to stop in (almost) whenever the craving hits. 

The Vibe

Follow the bright and bold yellow sign into a yellow–tiled room with fruit hanging from the ceiling. 

What to Order

The classic Frank is a winner. You can choose the toppings! Gray's Papaya also has breakfast sandwiches in the morning, some of which are suitable for vegetarians. 

• Types of Fast Food: Hot Dogs, Breakfast Sandwiches
• Diets Catered To: Vegetarian

Gray’s Papaya | 2090 Broadway, New York, NY 10023 | $

11. Wolfnights

Who said fast food in NYC had to be burgers or pizza? At Wolfnights, the order of the day is delicious and wholesome gourmet wraps. Whether you’re craving sweet, spicy or crunchy, this place for NYC fast food has it all.

It's also one of the healthiest fast food chains in the city for those looking for something convenient but not excessively calorie- or saturated-fat-laden.

The Vibe

Wolfnight’s all-black setting with exposed brick in most locations and industrial elements is funky and modern. This NYC fast food restaurant welcomes you to stay and eat in a laid-back space or grab-and-go. 

What to Order

This healthier NYC fast food spot has options for almost all diners, including vegetarian, vegan, keto and gluten-free friendly options, although cross-contamination is possible.

Top choices include the meat-free Himalayan (with seitan, spicy pickled pineapple, sumac onions and kohlrabi, paired with a vegan red chile aioli) and the Howling (with chicken, fried pickles, feta and mint yogurt sauce). 

• Types of Fast Food: Wraps, Bowls, Salads 
• Diets Catered To: Vegetarian, Vegan, Pescatarian, Keto, Gluten-Free*

Wolfnights | Multiple Locations | $

12. Toasties

This family-owned gourmet delicatessen is a staple NYC fast food spot that serves fresh sandwiches and salads as an alternative to fried fast food. It's also a great spot if you're looking for healthy restaurants in NYC that serve lighter food to go. 

Both Toasties locations are conveniently located near Radio City Music Hall and Rockefeller Center, making them easy to stop by if you're visiting the city and checking out the top landmarks. 

The Vibe

The open glass display counters are packed with the makings of a delicious sandwich, tempting you to order. All you’ve got to do is decide what you want!

What to Order

There is an array of signature sandwiches to order, served either on bread or in a wrap or pita. The Casper Sandwich is a great choice if you can't decide, featuring turkey breast with sliced avocado, hummus, mesclun and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. You can also make your own sandwich if you want to get creative. 

• Types of Fast Food: Sandwiches, Soups, Salads, Breakfast Dishes, Smoothies
• Diets Catered To: Vegetarian, Pescatarian

Toasties | Multiple Locations | $

13. Beyond Sushi

You don’t have to look any further than Beyond Sushi if you're searching for the best NYC sushi that's catered to plant-based diets. This spot for vegan fast food in NYC is the brainchild of renowned vegan Chef Guy Vaknin and is known for serving healthy and wholesome meals.

The Vibe

The natural wood, brick walls and indoor plants make this a modern and vibrant place to enjoy fast food in NYC.

What to Order

Enjoy a plate of colorful, vegan-friendly rainbow rolls or the spicy jackfruit crab roll at this popular vegan restaurant in NYC. 

• Types of Fast Food: Sushi, Noodle Dishes, Dessert
• Diets Catered To: Vegetarian, Vegan

Beyond Sushi | Multiple Locations | $

14. Sweetgreen 

Another healthy NYC fast food option can be found at Sweetgreen. In 2007, the idea of reimagining fast food was born, and since then, Sweetgreen has been serving sustainable and organic food to hungry New Yorkers. 

The Vibe

Warm natural woods, concrete floss and large display fridges keep this fast food joint bright and modern.

What to Order

The Protein Plate with steak is a popular choice among diners, featuring caramelized garlic steak with sweet potatoes, broccoli and tomatoes on a bed of wild rice.

As this spot has some of the best fast food salad in the city, we also recommend those for something lighter. The Hummus Crunch Salad is our top choice if you're on the fence about what to go for. 

• Types of Fast Food: Salads, Bowls, Protein Plates
• Diets Catered To: Vegetarian, Vegan, Pescatarian, Gluten-Free*

Sweetgreen | Multiple Locations | $

15. Joe’s Pizza

Looking for the best pizza in NYC? Look no further than Joe’s Pizza. Established in 1975 by Joe Pozzuoli, who still owns and runs the business, this pizza joint is an iconic spot that serves an authentic New York street slice.

The Vibe

Joe’s Pizza is cozy and full of history on the inside, with walls covered in photos of the past.

What to Order

You can’t visit this fast food in NYC without trying a slice of classic cheese pizza. The white pie is also a great order if you're looking for another slice, and whole pies are available for those wanting a larger meal or something to share. 

• Types of Fast Food: Pizza
• Diets Catered To: Vegetarian

Joe’s Pizza | Multiple Locations | $

16. 2 Bros Pizza 

Known for highly affordable pizza slices, 2 Bros Pizza is a popular spot for fast food in NYC that is open until late to curb those carb cravings. 

The Vibe

From graffiti-covered doors to classic subway tile walls, this is a hip and trendy spot for NYC fast food.

What to Order

We highly recommend the classics like pepperoni or extra cheese pie. 

• Types of Fast Food: Pizza
• Diets Catered To: Vegetarian

2 Bros Pizza | Multiple Locations | $

17. Dos Toros

Owned by two brothers who wanted to share their love for this cuisine, Dos Toros is an NYC fast food joint serving some of the best Mexican food in NYC.

The Vibe

Rustic leather chairs and warm wood furniture give this NYC fast food joint a rustic and cozy vibe.

What to Order

This popular NYC fast food joint offers a “build it yourself” kind of menu with options ranging from nachos to burritos. Choose your protein — perhaps some slow-cooked pork carnitas — and add toppings like rice, black beans and corn salsa.

• Types of Fast Food: Tacos, Burritos, Burrito Bowls, Nachos, Salads
• Diets Catered To: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free*

Dos Toros | Multiple Locations | $$

18. La Bagel Delight 

Skip the pizza and enjoy a classic New York bagel from La Bagel Delight, one of the best-known bagel stores in Brooklyn.

The Vibe

This small NYC fast food joint features a wrap-around deli counter with all the delicious bagel makings on display.

What to Order

Start your morning off with some of the best bagels in NYC by going for the bacon, egg and cheese bagel or the lox bagel with the Nova salmon, cream cheese, capers, onions and tomatoes. For something sweet, opt for the cinnamon raisin bagel.

• Types of Fast Food: Bagels, Breakfast Sandwiches, Cookies
• Diets Catered To: Vegetarian, Pescatarian

La Bagel Delight | Multiple Locations | $

19. Los Tacos No.1 

Experience authentic Mexican culture and cuisine at Los Tacos No.1 for your next NYC fast-food feast. Los Tacos No. 1 focuses on using family recipes with fresh ingredients and has a succinct but carefully curated menu of choices. 

The Vibe

This NYC fast food restaurant keeps it simple with an emphasis on the food and plenty of space for lines of hungry customers. 

What to Order

The abobada tacos with marinated pork, plus a side of chips and guacamole, are a top order. The nopal (grilled cactus) tacos are also a must-try. 

• Types of Fast Food: Tacos, Tostadas, Quesadillas 
• Diets Catered To: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free*

Los Tacos No.1 | Multiple Locations | $

20. Ray’s Pizza

If there’s one thing New York City is known for besides hot dogs, it's having some of the world's best pizza, and the version from Ray’s Pizza does not disappoint. Since its establishment in 1964 by Rosolino "Ray" Mangano, this pizza joint has become a staple spot for fast food in NYC. 

The Vibe

The bright red canopy calls patrons inside to the simple dining area, where good food can be enjoyed at ease with friends. 

What to Order

You’ve got your pick of delicious pizza with something for every palate, whether you prefer classic cheese or like your slices sprinkled with pineapple. This Italian New York City fast food place also serves up salads, pasta dishes and more. 

• Types of Fast Food: Pizza, Pasta, Salads, Desserts
• Diets Catered To: Vegetarian

Ray’s Pizza | 831 Seventh Ave., New York, NY 10019 | $

21. Taïm

The final NYC fast food place you need to visit on our list is Taïm, a Mediterranean kitchen that uses time-honored cooking techniques and flavors to serve up delicious and healthy food for locals and visitors on the go.  

The Vibe

Much like the food, Taïm is bright and colorful inside, with vibrant green walls and a large deli counter with bright ingredients on display. As NYC fast food goes, few places live up to the phrase "eating with your eyes" like Taïm.

What to Order

Everything here is custom-made, with the option to choose your base of either a bowl or pita and add proteins and vegetables. Throw in some exciting additional toppings like feta cheese or hot peppers, plus a drizzle of your chosen sauce, and discover what makes this NYC fast food spot so popular.

• Types of Fast Food: Pitas, Bowls, Salads
• Diets Catered To: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free*

Taïm | Multiple Locations | $$

How We Choose the Best Fast Food in NYC

With over a decade of experience in the food industry, the team at Cozymeal has an in-depth knowledge of the global restaurant scene, including the best fast food spots in cities across the U.S. and beyond.

As one of the most well-known food cities in the world, we were excited to take our existing knowledge and get to know the NYC fast food scene even better for this guide. To create this guide to the best fast food in New York City, we first rounded up our favorite spots, including those serving classics like burgers and those with internationally-inspired and healthier fast food options.

Next, we undertook research to discover even more excellent places for fast food in NYC. This included consulting local food blogs and scouring social media platforms and forums, such as Instagram, TikTok and Reddit. 

The resulting list of the best places for fast food in NYC features a range of options for all tastes. Being such a melting pot of cultures, this NYC fast food guide also highlights various cuisines, from classic American and comforting Italian American food to Mediterranean and Japanese-inspired options.  

*Finally, we provide an overview of which fast food restaurants in NYC serve dishes for various diets, such as gluten-free options. However, it’s important to note that there is still the potential for cross-contamination, so keep this in mind when choosing a place to eat and always double-check about preparation with the staff before ordering.

Find the Best Fast Food Restaurants in NYC

New York City is a sprawling metropolis, and with so many fast food restaurants scattered across the boroughs, trying to visit them all would take considerable time and effort.

If you're eager to dive into the fast food scene without the hassle of endless searching, joining food tours in NYC is one of the best ways to experience the top fast food spots that NYC has to offer.

These tours are designed to guide you to the hidden gems and iconic eateries where locals go for comforting fast food fixes. You'll learn where to eat NYC food like a local, find the best NYC burger and generally get a true taste of the city's vibrant food culture.

You could even learn to make your favorite fast food dishes at cooking classes in NYC. From pizza to burgers, tacos and more, these classes will offer all the tips and tricks you need to create a fast food feast at home.

There are many reasons why New York City draws visitors from around the globe. It's a city rich with history, heritage and culture, not to mention one of the financial capitals of the world, but as with all cities of its size, one of its key draws is the food.

It almost goes without saying that those in search of fine dining will be well served in the Big Apple, but for those on the go — as many who find themselves in New York will be — NYC's fast food scene has options to suit every palate.

Whether you want a classic burger and fries, a slice of New York's finest pizza or a zingy bowl packed with Mediterranean flavor, you can find a range of great fast food in NYC to tickle the fancy of even the most discerning palate.

For even more ways to explore NYC and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.