3 Fast Food Chains That Provide the Best Value Besides McDonald’s
Written by
Caitlyn Moorhead
Edited by
Nicholas Morine
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
Fast food might not get much love from health advocates, but there’s no question that these grab-and-go chains let consumers load up on protein and calories at affordable prices. This has become increasingly important in recent years with sharply rising food costs at both restaurants and grocery stores due to economic volatility and newly implemented tariffs by the Trump administration.
McDonald’s has long been the undisputed king of fast-food value, offering affordable meals, frequent promotions and a globally recognized dollar menu. However, other chains are also stepping up to deliver quality food at budget-friendly prices. So when it comes to getting a similar deal as Mickey D’s, here are three fast food chains that offer some of the best value.
Wendy’sÂ
Wendy’s has built a reputation for providing high-quality food at reasonable, always fresh, never frozen prices. Their $5 Biggie Bag ups the ante with your choice of a Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger or Crispy Chicken Sandwich, a 4-piece chicken nugget order, Jr. Hot & Crispy Fries and a small soft drink. Â
Wendy’s also regularly rotates deals through its app, such as the 2 for $3 Biggie Bundle. Early birds can mix and match several items on the breakfast menu listed below to mark them down to $1.50 apiece. Your options include but are not limited to, such favorites as the Sausage Biscuit, Egg & Cheese English Muffin, Small Seasoned Potatoes and Medium Hot Coffee.
Taco BellÂ
Taco Bell is known for its affordable and customizable menu, making it a go-to for value seekers. The Cravings Value Menu offers a variety of tacos, burritos and even nachos for just a few dollars each. For example, you can still get favorites like the Fiesta Veggie Burrito, Beefy Melt Burrito and Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito for only $2
The $5, $7 or $9 Cravings Box options are another fan-favorite, bundling multiple menu items into one meal at a fraction of the cost. Taco Bell also provides frequent discounts and rewards through its mobile app.
Ultimately, though, when it comes to cheap Cravings Menu items, these are where you’ll get the most for your dollar:
- Cheesy Roll-Up: $1.19
- Spicy Potato Soft Taco: $1.29
- Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito: $1.39
- Double Stacked Taco: $1.99
Burger KingÂ
Burger King has consistently provided strong value deals to compete with McDonald’s. The 2 for $5 and 3 for $7 mix-and-match deals let customers enjoy popular sandwiches at a reduced price.
The deal currently allows you to select two items for $5 or three items for $7 from a specific list of items which includes a Whopper Junior, Original Chicken Sandwich, Bacon Cheeseburger, Medium Fries, 8-piece Chicken Fries or a Medium Soft Drink.Â
When It Comes to Savings, Are You Loving It?
While McDonald’s may dominate the value meal landscape, they are not alone in creating menus for discounted cravings. Many worthy competitors can keep pace with the Golden Arches’ budget-friendly deals without compromising on quality. With their strategic pricing and regular promotions, these fast-food chains continue to provide customers with excellent value for their money.
More From GOBankingRates
