Best of 10 fast food restaurants in East Brainerd
Fast food restaurants in East Brainerd offer a quick fix for cravings, whether you’re in the mood for burgers, tacos, or chicken. With familiar chains and local favorites, fast food restaurants in East Brainerd make it easy to find something tasty and convenient, no matter what you’re hungry for.
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1. Ankar's Hoagies
Family-owned since 1979, famous for massive hoagies and unbeatable onion rings.
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Ankar’s stands out as a reliable fast food destination, consistently delivering generous portions and fresh flavors. The Special Hoagie and gyro arrive brimming with meat, while the crinkle-cut fries strike a comforting note. Service runs smoothly, with staff maintaining a quick pace and a courteous attitude, making for an efficient stop for hungry travelers.
The menu spans a range of options suited to various tastes, all prepared to order for that just-made quality. Longevity and family ownership give the place a welcoming touch, and regulars appreciate the steady standard of quality over the years. The addition of desserts and classic sides like onion rings and pickles rounds off a satisfying meal experience.
Ankar’s stands out as a reliable fast food destination, consistently delivering generous portions and fresh flavors. The Special Hoagie and gyro arrive brimming with meat, while the crinkle-cut fries strike a comforting note. Service runs smoothly, with staff maintaining a quick pace and a courteous attitude, making for an efficient stop for hungry travelers.
The menu spans a range of options suited to various tastes, all prepared to order for that just-made quality. Longevity and family ownership give the place a welcoming touch, and regulars appreciate the steady standard of quality over the years. The addition of desserts and classic sides like onion rings and pickles rounds off a satisfying meal experience.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Suburban
- Lunch
2. Cook Out
Legendary late-night eats—mix and match combos and over 40 milkshake flavors.
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Staff at this location consistently demonstrate patience and helpfulness, even toward newcomers unfamiliar with the ordering process. Orders tend to be prepared swiftly, and portion sizes prove generous for the price. The drive-thru often attracts a busy late-night crowd, suggesting that Cook Out remains a popular choice among locals seeking quick, affordable food.
Despite recent changes and a shift in atmosphere—particularly with the music selection—Cook Out maintains a reputation for value and prompt service. Payment options could be improved, as the lack of chip readers and limited Tap-to-Pay availability presents inconvenience. Overall, the hardworking team contributes to a positive experience, even if there are minor drawbacks.
Staff at this location consistently demonstrate patience and helpfulness, even toward newcomers unfamiliar with the ordering process. Orders tend to be prepared swiftly, and portion sizes prove generous for the price. The drive-thru often attracts a busy late-night crowd, suggesting that Cook Out remains a popular choice among locals seeking quick, affordable food.
Despite recent changes and a shift in atmosphere—particularly with the music selection—Cook Out maintains a reputation for value and prompt service. Payment options could be improved, as the lack of chip readers and limited Tap-to-Pay availability presents inconvenience. Overall, the hardworking team contributes to a positive experience, even if there are minor drawbacks.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Suburban
- Late Night
3. Armando's East Brainerd Burger Co.
Locally-loved for big, fresh burgers and a warm, welcoming family-style atmosphere.
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Consistent quality and friendly service make this spot a reliable neighborhood choice, especially for those craving comfort classics like the fried bologna burger or their generously sized cheeseburgers. Diners praise the onion rings for their crisp, satisfying size and enjoy the convenience of both plenty of seating and a drive-through for quick pick-ups. Specialty sandwiches like the Philly Cheese Steak stand out, drawing favorable comparisons to larger chains with more flavor and freshness.
The kitchen garners mixed reviews—the burgers are consistently fresh though sometimes regarded as average in taste, while chicken tenders and tots seem to be customer favorites. Fries hold their own, and sweet tea earns high marks for those who like it on the sugary side. Dessert offerings such as buttermilk pie may divide opinion with their sweetness, yet the overall warm atmosphere and attentive service encourage guests to return regularly.
Consistent quality and friendly service make this spot a reliable neighborhood choice, especially for those craving comfort classics like the fried bologna burger or their generously sized cheeseburgers. Diners praise the onion rings for their crisp, satisfying size and enjoy the convenience of both plenty of seating and a drive-through for quick pick-ups. Specialty sandwiches like the Philly Cheese Steak stand out, drawing favorable comparisons to larger chains with more flavor and freshness.
The kitchen garners mixed reviews—the burgers are consistently fresh though sometimes regarded as average in taste, while chicken tenders and tots seem to be customer favorites. Fries hold their own, and sweet tea earns high marks for those who like it on the sugary side. Dessert offerings such as buttermilk pie may divide opinion with their sweetness, yet the overall warm atmosphere and attentive service encourage guests to return regularly.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Suburban
- Dinner
4. Burger King
Crowd-pleasing burgers with a fun drive-thru crew that lifts your day.
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Consistently fast service and fresh, hot fries make this drive-thru a solid choice for a quick meal. Both the morning and lunch staff are genuinely friendly, while the evening crew brings a laid-back, humorous energy. A standout employee in the drive-thru greets customers with contagious positivity, making even a rough day better. The team’s effort and mood set the place apart, earning high marks for customer experience and leaving many regulars thankful for their upbeat vibe.
That said, not every visit is perfect. Experiences can vary, especially when it comes to food quality. Some customers report lukewarm meals, like dry fish sandwiches and onion rings that haven't survived the short trip home. Disappointments like this stand in stark contrast to the otherwise strong reputation for speed and courtesy, suggesting inconsistency depending on timing or staffing. For some, it means seeking out better options rather than risking another subpar order.
Consistently fast service and fresh, hot fries make this drive-thru a solid choice for a quick meal. Both the morning and lunch staff are genuinely friendly, while the evening crew brings a laid-back, humorous energy. A standout employee in the drive-thru greets customers with contagious positivity, making even a rough day better. The team’s effort and mood set the place apart, earning high marks for customer experience and leaving many regulars thankful for their upbeat vibe.
That said, not every visit is perfect. Experiences can vary, especially when it comes to food quality. Some customers report lukewarm meals, like dry fish sandwiches and onion rings that haven't survived the short trip home. Disappointments like this stand in stark contrast to the otherwise strong reputation for speed and courtesy, suggesting inconsistency depending on timing or staffing. For some, it means seeking out better options rather than risking another subpar order.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Suburban
- Lunch
5. Zaxbys Chicken Fingers & Buffalo Wings
Homestyle chicken fingers with signature Zax Sauce and a variety of bold wing flavors.
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Communication with staff remains challenging, with repeated misunderstandings over simple add-ons like sprinkles, whipped cream, and cherries dragging out the ordering process. Specific preparation requests—such as well-done fries—are often overlooked, and menu items like chicken fingers have been inconsistently prepared. Online orders sometimes result in food that tastes and looks stale, suggesting it was held for too long before pick-up.
While Zaxby's impresses when orders are correct and fresh, experiences at this location are increasingly unreliable. Mistakes such as cold, messy food and frequent order inaccuracies have become the norm, overshadowing past positive experiences. What was once a regular spot now frustrates loyal customers, discouraging repeat visits due to these persistent issues.
Communication with staff remains challenging, with repeated misunderstandings over simple add-ons like sprinkles, whipped cream, and cherries dragging out the ordering process. Specific preparation requests—such as well-done fries—are often overlooked, and menu items like chicken fingers have been inconsistently prepared. Online orders sometimes result in food that tastes and looks stale, suggesting it was held for too long before pick-up.
While Zaxby's impresses when orders are correct and fresh, experiences at this location are increasingly unreliable. Mistakes such as cold, messy food and frequent order inaccuracies have become the norm, overshadowing past positive experiences. What was once a regular spot now frustrates loyal customers, discouraging repeat visits due to these persistent issues.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Suburban
- Lunch
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6. KFC
Crispy, hand-breaded chicken made fresh; famous biscuits; family meals for easy takeout.
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Arriving at the drive-through in the evening to order a family meal, staff seemed unsure whether basic menu items were available. After an extended check, only a partial order was offered. The chicken was disappointingly dry, mashed potatoes and gravy were both watery, but the biscuit managed to be a highlight.
Inside, the experience worsened with staff repeatedly ignoring waiting customers, headphones in and too distracted to serve those at the counter. Management appeared unconcerned by growing lines, focusing instead on unrelated matters. Service delays were excessive, even during slow periods, making the overall visit frustrating.
Arriving at the drive-through in the evening to order a family meal, staff seemed unsure whether basic menu items were available. After an extended check, only a partial order was offered. The chicken was disappointingly dry, mashed potatoes and gravy were both watery, but the biscuit managed to be a highlight.
Inside, the experience worsened with staff repeatedly ignoring waiting customers, headphones in and too distracted to serve those at the counter. Management appeared unconcerned by growing lines, focusing instead on unrelated matters. Service delays were excessive, even during slow periods, making the overall visit frustrating.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Suburban
- Lunch
7. Bojangles
Southern fried chicken and biscuits made fresh, classic comfort food for any time of day.
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Service at this Bojangles location consistently stands out, with staff members showing patience and attentiveness even during busy times. Orders are handled efficiently, and items such as the bobites and bo-berry biscuits are served hot and fresh. The team, particularly the manager, demonstrates a clear effort to accommodate customer preferences and maintain a welcoming atmosphere.
Despite the positive service and consistently fresh food, some experiences have raised concerns about quality. While presentation is generally appealing, reports of overcooked items and rare incidents of foodborne illness cannot be ignored. Staff courtesy remains a highlight, but consistency in food preparation is an area for improvement.
Service at this Bojangles location consistently stands out, with staff members showing patience and attentiveness even during busy times. Orders are handled efficiently, and items such as the bobites and bo-berry biscuits are served hot and fresh. The team, particularly the manager, demonstrates a clear effort to accommodate customer preferences and maintain a welcoming atmosphere.
Despite the positive service and consistently fresh food, some experiences have raised concerns about quality. While presentation is generally appealing, reports of overcooked items and rare incidents of foodborne illness cannot be ignored. Staff courtesy remains a highlight, but consistency in food preparation is an area for improvement.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Suburban
- Lunch
8. Subway
Consistent classics with plenty of topping choices and friendly staff members who aim to please.
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After a sizable order of five sandwiches costing $60, every single sandwich packed was incorrect and one was missing entirely. Paid extras such as avocado were overlooked, and a lengthy drive home only added to the frustration. Despite having a coupon, staff declined to honor it, claiming signage that wasn't visible. The interaction left a sour impression, with employees appearing irritated by incoming orders and careless sandwich assembly further compounding the disappointment.
Contrastingly, another experience highlighted attentive customer service in an inviting atmosphere. A wide selection of products elevated the overall visit, while a staff member demonstrated patience and commitment by resolving issues tied to a purchase from a different vendor. The willingness to go the extra mile for a customer’s satisfaction made for a truly positive and memorable stop.
After a sizable order of five sandwiches costing $60, every single sandwich packed was incorrect and one was missing entirely. Paid extras such as avocado were overlooked, and a lengthy drive home only added to the frustration. Despite having a coupon, staff declined to honor it, claiming signage that wasn't visible. The interaction left a sour impression, with employees appearing irritated by incoming orders and careless sandwich assembly further compounding the disappointment.
Contrastingly, another experience highlighted attentive customer service in an inviting atmosphere. A wide selection of products elevated the overall visit, while a staff member demonstrated patience and commitment by resolving issues tied to a purchase from a different vendor. The willingness to go the extra mile for a customer’s satisfaction made for a truly positive and memorable stop.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Suburban
- Lunch
9. Sonic Drive-In
Classic American drive-in vibes with happy hour deals and a massive menu of fun eats.
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Online ordering here proves frustrating, requiring multiple transactions for orders over $75, which complicates things for families or groups. Pickup logistics are equally inconvenient, sometimes making customers move between stalls. Even with the effort, order errors are frequent, and when food does arrive, burgers often appear soggy and unappetizing, indicating a lack of attention to quality.
Service at this location is consistently slow, with staff showing little urgency or engagement. Orders must be repeated several times, both at the intercom and in person, which only adds to the wait. The location also closes early and has a track record of not fulfilling even simple drink orders near closing time. Overall, expect disappointment and inefficient service.
Online ordering here proves frustrating, requiring multiple transactions for orders over $75, which complicates things for families or groups. Pickup logistics are equally inconvenient, sometimes making customers move between stalls. Even with the effort, order errors are frequent, and when food does arrive, burgers often appear soggy and unappetizing, indicating a lack of attention to quality.
Service at this location is consistently slow, with staff showing little urgency or engagement. Orders must be repeated several times, both at the intercom and in person, which only adds to the wait. The location also closes early and has a track record of not fulfilling even simple drink orders near closing time. Overall, expect disappointment and inefficient service.
TOPICS
- Cheap Eats
- Suburban
- Breakfast
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
10. Taco Bell
Friendly staff, late hours, and classic Taco Bell flavors keep regulars coming back.
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This Taco Bell location demonstrates consistent service with friendly staff who often bring a positive atmosphere to the experience. Guests frequently find their orders correct, with food that arrives hot and properly wrapped. The interior maintains a clean standard, contributing to a welcoming environment even during busy hours.
However, occasional inconsistencies are notable, such as cold menu items and occasional reliance on automated ordering, which may detract from the personal interaction some expect. Despite these drawbacks, staff adaptability shows through—for example, allowing walk-up customers through the drive-thru and making extra efforts to accommodate special situations.
This Taco Bell location demonstrates consistent service with friendly staff who often bring a positive atmosphere to the experience. Guests frequently find their orders correct, with food that arrives hot and properly wrapped. The interior maintains a clean standard, contributing to a welcoming environment even during busy hours.
However, occasional inconsistencies are notable, such as cold menu items and occasional reliance on automated ordering, which may detract from the personal interaction some expect. Despite these drawbacks, staff adaptability shows through—for example, allowing walk-up customers through the drive-thru and making extra efforts to accommodate special situations.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Suburban
- Lunch