For the past few years, drive-thrus have lost their allure. What was once a quick and convenient way to grab a meal has turned into a frenzy of long lines and absurd wait times. And let’s not even talk about confusing AI-powered ordering systems. But there is hope for the future of drive-thrus.

There are several fast food restaurants that are leading the charge when it comes to speedy drive-thru wait times, according to a new study conducted by Intouch Insight and QSR Magazine. Titled the Drive-Thru Study, the study takes into consideration speed of service, accuracy of order, food quality, and customer satisfaction.

a truck is seen at the drive thru window of a taco bell fastpinterest

SOPA Images//Getty Images

We know the suspense is probably killing you. Well, Crunchwrap Supreme and Cheesy Gordita Crunch lovers will be pleased to hear that Taco Bell is #1 when it comes to both “Fastest Total Time” and “Fastest Service Time.” The complete lists are as follows:

Fastest Total Time

  1. Taco Bell
  2. KFC
  3. Arby’s
  4. Dunkin’
  5. Wendy’s

Fastest Service Time

  1. Taco Bell
  2. KFC
  3. Wendy’s
  4. Arby’s
  5. Dunkin’

And if you’re wondering where drive-thru fan-favorite Chick-fil-A stands on the Drive-Thru Study, the fast food restaurant did manage to nab the #1 spot on the “Fastest Total Time by Car” list and “Order Accuracy” list. The other restaurants to make the cut on those lists include:

Fastest Total Time by Car

  1. Chick-fil-A
  2. Raising Cane’s
  3. McDonald’s
  4. Wendy’s
  5. Taco Bell

Order Accuracy

  1. Chick-fil-A
  2. McDonald’s
  3. Carl’s Jr./Hardees
  4. KFC
  5. Arby’s
Lettermark

Danielle Harling is an Atlanta-based freelance writer with a love for colorfully designed-spaces, craft cocktails and online window shopping (usually for budget-shattering designer heels). Her past work has appeared on Fodor’s, Forbes, MyDomaine, Architectural Digest and more. 


Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *