Top 20 fast food restaurants in San Diego

Discover our curated list of top-ranked fast food restaurants in San Diego, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like McDonald's, Chick-fil-A, Jack in the Box, Plant Power Fast Food, Jack in the Box. Let's explore together!

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1. McDonald's

One of the most popular fast-food chains in the world, offers a rewards program

  • Rating: 3.6/5 (3604 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1280 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers a varied menu, provides drive-thru and delivery services, open for 24 hours
  • Cons:

    Some locations may not have indoor dining due to COVID-19 restrictions, may have long lines during peak hours, limited healthy food options
  • Popular Menu:

    Big Mac, Chicken McNuggets, French Fries
  • Price Range:

    $1-$10
Phone Directions Website
Embark on a culinary adventure at McDonald's, where flavors transport you to a fiesta of taste sensations. The vibrant menu offerings promise a symphony of Mexican-inspired delights expertly crafted to tantalize your taste buds. From sizzling beef burritos to zesty nachos smothered in gooey cheese, every bite is a celebration of bold and authentic flavors that will leave you craving more.
Dive into the rich tapestry of Mexican-inspired flavors with the convenience and speed of service that only McDonald's can deliver. Immerse yourself in a feast for the senses as you savor each bite of carefully prepared dishes that showcase the best of Mexican cuisine. Let your senses be your guide as you explore a world of flavor in every mouthwatering bite, only at McDonald's.

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Vegetarian Options

Relate link

Mexican restaurants in San Diego

2. Chick-fil-A

One of the few fast food chains known for its sustainability efforts and ethical treatment of animals.

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (3384 Review by google)
  • Address:

    3570 Sports Arena Blvd, San Diego, CA 92110, United States

  • Pros:

    Well-known for its delicious chicken sandwiches, fast and friendly service, commitment to using high-quality ingredients.
  • Cons:

    Limited hours on Sundays, may have longer lines during peak hours, menu options can be higher in calories.
  • Popular Menu:

    Chick-fil-A Sandwich, Chick-fil-A Nuggets, Waffle Fries
  • Price Range:

    $6-$15
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Cheap Eats

Relate link

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3. Jack in the Box

Well-known fast food chain with iconic clown mascot, offers a range of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options

  • Rating: 4.0/5 (1055 Review by google)
  • Address:

    6080 Mission Gorge Rd, San Diego, CA 92120, United States

  • Pros:

    Drive-thru and takeout options available, 24-hour service, variety of menu items
  • Cons:

    Prices can be higher than some fast food chains, reported long wait times for drive-thru, limited seating
  • Popular Menu:

    Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger, Chicken Teriyaki Bowl, Curly Fries
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website
Jack in the Box on Mission Gorge Road boasts exceptional management, radiating a winning attitude and infectious happiness that resonates throughout the neighborhood. The manager's proactive engagement with the team and the community has left a lasting, positive impact, elevating the dining experience for all. Despite a minor setback involving a particular staff member, the overall ambiance exudes warmth and satisfaction.
While the ambiance and service at Jack in the Box are top-notch, there have been occasional hiccups in the kitchen, resulting in burnt food items like eggrolls and hamburger buns. The cooking staff may benefit from refining their techniques to ensure consistency and prevent such mishaps. Customers rightfully expect a high-quality dining experience when dining out, and it's essential for the team to deliver on this promise to maintain customer satisfaction levels at this prominent location along Mission Gorge Road.

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Dinner
  • Late Night

4. Plant Power Fast Food

Sustainable, eco-friendly practices, supports local farmers and suppliers

  • Time:

    8 AM to 10 PM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (1796 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2204 Sunset Cliffs Blvd, San Diego, CA 92107, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers 100% plant-based menu, popular for its burgers, bowls, and salads, caters to various dietary preferences
  • Cons:

    Limited seating available, may have longer wait times during peak hours, price a bit higher compared to regular fast food
  • Popular Menu:

    Buffalo Bomber Burger, Global Bowl, and kale Caesar Salad
  • Price Range:

    $10 - $15
Phone Directions Website
Indulge in the delectable offerings at Plant Power Fast Food - a vegan paradise for food enthusiasts. Sink your teeth into the mouthwatering buffalo chicken sandwich paired with epic fries, an unforgettable experience that will leave you craving more. Despite the slightly higher price tag for fast food, the freshness and incredible flavors make every bite worth it. Don't miss out on the real sugar sodas, though a few sugar-free options would definitely sweeten the deal even more.
Embark on a delightful breakfast journey at Plant Power Fast Food, where even vegan options are packed with flavor. Savor the delicious "egg" muffin, a perfectly presented morning treat that will tantalize your taste buds. The quick and friendly service only adds to the enjoyable experience, while the inviting atmosphere makes every visit a memorable one. Immerse yourself in the self-care-focused ethos of this culinary gem and treat yourself to a breakfast worth savoring.

TOPICS

  • Vegetarian Options
  • Vegan Options
  • American Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats

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5. Jack in the Box

Well-known fast-food chain serving American classics with a quirky twist

  • Rating: 4.1/5 (1696 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2404 Market St, San Diego, CA 92102, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers 24/7 drive-thru and dine-in service, wide variety of menu options, and convenient mobile ordering app
  • Cons:

    Some locations may have cleanliness issues, limited healthy food options, and mixed reviews on food quality
  • Popular Menu:

    Jumbo Jack burger, curly fries, and chocolate shake
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website
At this particular Jack in the Box location, the spacious interior sets it apart from others, reminiscent of dining at a friend's house for a cozy gathering. Frequenting this spot due to work convenience, the experience is consistently pleasant with efficient service. The standout feature here is the charming house-like building that, together with the welcoming staff, creates a comforting atmosphere akin to visiting an old friend.

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Downtown Spots

Relate link

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6. Jack in the Box

Wide range of unique and indulgent menu items, offers mobile ordering

  • Rating: 4.0/5 (1116 Review by google)
  • Address:

    7170 Linda Vista Rd, San Diego, CA 92111, United States

  • Pros:

    Drive-thru and delivery options available, 24-hour service, offers a variety of menu items
  • Cons:

    Some locations may have long wait times, limited healthy options, may be more expensive than other fast food chains
  • Popular Menu:

    Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger, Chicken Teriyaki Bowl, Curly Fries
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website
My recent visit to Jack in the Box left much to be desired. The service was lackluster, with a lengthy pause after placing an order for an Oreo shake. While the food itself was satisfactory, the overall cleanliness of the restaurant was subpar. Despite the lack of crowd on a Saturday afternoon, the place looked disheveled. Perhaps opting for the drive-thru would be a better choice in the future.

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Social Gatherings

Relate link

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7. Chick-fil-A

Known for their original chicken sandwich and commitment to customer service

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (2137 Review by google)
  • Address:

    9370 Scranton Rd, San Diego, CA 92121, United States

  • Pros:

    Friendly service, clean environment, quick drive-thru experience
  • Cons:

    Limited hours on Sundays, may have long lines during peak hours, menu could be considered less healthy
  • Popular Menu:

    Chick-fil-A Sandwich, Waffle Fries, Chicken Nuggets
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website
When stumbling upon this hidden gem of a Chick-fil-A location, I couldn’t resist stopping to indulge in their exceptional food, impeccable service, and spotless store. Although my weekend visit was serene, I can imagine the bustling energy it exudes on a weekday.
Dining at Chick-fil-A transcends the typical fast food experience; it's a heartfelt journey to a compassionate eatery where shared values transcend through genuine interactions. The consistently delectable food acts as the cherry on top, making each visit a rewarding delight.

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • American Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Downtown Spots

Relate link

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8. Jack in the Box

Offers a variety of unique and unexpected menu items, including tacos and egg rolls

  • Rating: 4.2/5 (1288 Review by google)
  • Address:

    7740 Hazard Center Dr, San Diego, CA 92108, United States

  • Pros:

    Drive-thru and takeout options available, 24-hour service, wide range of menu items
  • Cons:

    Prices slightly higher than some fast food competitors, some locations may have long wait times during peak hours, interior dining area may be small
  • Popular Menu:

    Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger, Chicken Teriyaki Bowl, Curly Fries
  • Price Range:

    $6-$15
Phone Directions Website
Indulge in a delectable breakfast spread at Jack in the Box during our LA adventure. The drive-thru service was quick and efficient, offering an array of fresh and tasty breakfast options. The friendly cashier welcomed us with a warm 'good morning' that set a pleasant tone for our day. On subsequent visits, the breakfast combo deal proved to be a flavorful delight, although one visit was marred by the unfriendly demeanor of a particular staff member.

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Gluten-Free
  • Cheap Eats

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9. Jack in the Box

One of the few fast food chains with a 24/7 service

  • Rating: 3.8/5 (2660 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1619 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Drive-thru and delivery options available, 24/7 service, variety of menu items
  • Cons:

    Some locations may have long wait times, limited healthy options, inconsistent food quality
  • Popular Menu:

    Jumbo Jack burger, curly fries, chicken teriyaki bowl
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Cheap Eats
  • Downtown Spots
  • American Cuisine

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10. Sonic Drive-In

Classic American Drive-In restaurant experience

  • Time:

    9 AM to 1 AM

  • Rating: 3.8/5 (2072 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2829 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92104, United States

  • Pros:

    Quick service, numerous locations, offers a variety of meal options
  • Cons:

    Some may find it expensive for fast food, reports of inconsistent food quality, limited seating options
  • Popular Menu:

    Burgers, fries, and frozen treats
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Social Gatherings
  • Cheap Eats

Relate link

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11. Jack in the Box

Late-night food options, mobile ordering and payment available

  • Rating: 3.5/5 (2343 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1110 C St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers a variety of menu items, 24/7 drive-thru service, has a rewards program
  • Cons:

    Some locations may have limited seating, may have longer wait times during peak hours, some menu items can be high in calories
  • Popular Menu:

    Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger, Chicken Teriyaki Bowl, Curly Fries
  • Price Range:

    $1-$6
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Social Gatherings

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12. Chick-fil-A

Known for their commitment to customer service and community involvement

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (1614 Review by google)
  • Address:

    5323 Mission Center Rd, San Diego, CA 92108, United States

  • Pros:

    Friendly service, clean environment, offers delivery and catering services
  • Cons:

    May have long lines during peak hours, limited vegetarian options, closed on Sundays
  • Popular Menu:

    Chick-fil-A Sandwich, Chicken Nuggets, Waffle Fries
  • Price Range:

    $6-$15
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Cheap Eats
  • Social Gatherings

Relate link

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13. Five Guys

Famous for hand-formed burgers and fresh-cut fries

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (778 Review by google)
  • Address:

    670 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103, United States

  • Pros:

    Spacious seating, quality ingredients, customizable burgers and fries
  • Cons:

    Can get pricey for large orders, limited menu options for non-burger fans, messy to eat
  • Popular Menu:

    Hamburger, Cheeseburger, Bacon Cheeseburger
  • Price Range:

    $7-$15
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Downtown Spots
  • Vegetarian Options

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14. Wendy's

Fresh, never frozen beef served on every sandwich, Customizable menu options, Unique Frosty dessert.

  • Rating: 4.0/5 (998 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1111 Camino del Rio S, San Diego, CA 92108, United States

  • Pros:

    Drive-thru and delivery options available, 24/7 hours in some locations, Varied menu with breakfast items, burgers, chicken sandwiches, and salads.
  • Cons:

    Some locations may have limited seating, Complaints about inconsistent food quality, May not have a wide variety of vegetarian options.
  • Popular Menu:

    Baconator, Frosty, Dave's Single burger.
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Dinner
  • Late Night
  • Cheap Eats
  • Downtown Spots

15. Jack in the Box

Offers a late-night menu and mobile ordering

  • Rating: 4.0/5 (767 Review by google)
  • Address:

    3801 Murphy Canyon Rd, San Diego, CA 92123, United States

  • Pros:

    Drive-thru and delivery options available, 24/7 service, variety of menu items
  • Cons:

    Some locations may have limited seating, may have longer wait times during peak hours, some items can be high in calories
  • Popular Menu:

    Jumbo Jack cheeseburger, tacos, curly fries
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Suburban

16. Wendy's

Well-known fast-food chain with a focus on fresh, never frozen beef

  • Rating: 3.9/5 (887 Review by google)
  • Address:

    3760 Midway Dr, San Diego, CA 92110, United States

  • Pros:

    Drive-thru available, offers mobile ordering, variety of meal options
  • Cons:

    Some locations may have long lines, limited seating, mixed reviews on food quality
  • Popular Menu:

    Baconator, Frosty, Dave's Single
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Suburban

17. Carl’s Jr.

Offers a range of meal deals and a loyalty rewards program

  • Time:

    6 AM to 10 PM

  • Rating: 3.6/5 (628 Review by google)
  • Address:

    3833 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of burgers, generous portions, friendly service
  • Cons:

    Prices slightly higher than some fast food chains, limited seating, can get crowded during peak hours
  • Popular Menu:

    Western Bacon Cheeseburger, Chargrilled Chicken Club Sandwich, natural-cut fries
  • Price Range:

    $6-$15
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Downtown Spots
  • Lunch

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18. Wendy's

Fresh, never frozen beef, customizable meals

  • Rating: 4.0/5 (777 Review by google)
  • Address:

    6585 Mission Gorge Rd, San Diego, CA 92120, United States

  • Pros:

    Drive-thru available, breakfast menu, offers combo meals
  • Cons:

    Limited vegetarian options, may have long lines during peak hours, some locations have limited seating
  • Popular Menu:

    Baconator, Frosty, Dave's Single
  • Price Range:

    $5-$15
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Dinner
  • Late Night

19. Jack in the Box

Over 65 years of history, iconic mascot and advertising campaigns

  • Rating: 3.9/5 (671 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4375 Genesee Ave, San Diego, CA 92117, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers a wide variety of menu items, 24/7 drive-thru service, has breakfast menu all day
  • Cons:

    Some locations may have limited seating, may have long lines during peak hours, menu items can be high in calories
  • Popular Menu:

    Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger, Chicken Teriyaki Bowl, Curly Fries
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Dinner

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20. McDonald's

Iconic fast-food chain with global presence

  • Rating: 3.1/5 (1437 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4260 Nobel Dr, San Diego, CA 92122, United States

  • Pros:

    Large selection of menu items, convenient locations, affordable prices
  • Cons:

    Some items may contain unhealthy ingredients, service can be slow during peak hours, limited seating
  • Popular Menu:

    Big Mac, Chicken McNuggets, Fries
  • Price Range:

    $1-$10
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Suburban
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Lunch