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This California chain was just named best fast-food burger

This California Chain Was Just Named the Best Fast-Food Burger—And It's Not the One You Think

In the ever-competitive world of fast-food burgers, where loyalties run deep and debates can spark heated arguments among friends and family, a surprising underdog has just claimed the crown. According to the latest USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards, the title of the best fast-food burger chain in America goes not to the iconic In-N-Out Burger, nor to the trendy Shake Shack, but to The Habit Burger Grill—a California-born chain that's been quietly grilling its way to the top since 1969. If you're scratching your head wondering how this happened, you're not alone. For many burger enthusiasts, especially those in the Golden State, In-N-Out has long been the undisputed king, with its secret menu, fresh-never-frozen patties, and that unmistakable Double-Double allure. But this poll, which gathered votes from thousands of readers across the country, suggests that tastes are evolving, and The Habit is leading the charge.

Let's start with the basics of what makes this announcement so buzzworthy. USA Today's 10Best awards are no small feat; they're determined by public voting after a panel of experts nominates contenders. This year, the fast-food burger category featured heavy hitters like Five Guys, known for its customizable burgers and endless toppings; Culver's, with its buttery ButterBurgers from the Midwest; and even national giants like Wendy's and Whataburger. Yet, it was The Habit that emerged victorious, edging out In-N-Out, which landed in second place, and Shake Shack in third. The results have sent ripples through the foodie community, prompting social media threads filled with exclamations of shock, delight, and, yes, a fair share of skepticism. "How is this possible?" one Twitter user pondered. "In-N-Out is a religion in California!" But for those who've experienced The Habit's chargrilled magic, the win feels like long-overdue recognition.

To understand why The Habit resonates so strongly, we have to go back to its roots. Founded in Santa Barbara, California, by brothers Brent and Bruce Reichard, the chain began as a humble burger stand called Hamburger Habit. It was the late 1960s, a time when California's beach culture was booming, and fast food was starting to explode nationwide with the rise of McDonald's and others. The Reichards focused on quality from the start: fresh-ground beef patties chargrilled over an open flame, giving them that smoky, caramelized exterior that's become the chain's signature. Unlike some competitors that rely on flat-top griddles, The Habit's method imparts a distinct flavor profile—juicy on the inside, with a slight char that elevates the entire burger experience. Over the decades, the chain expanded slowly at first, staying true to its West Coast vibe, but it gained momentum after being acquired by Yum! Brands (the parent company of Taco Bell and KFC) in 2020. Today, there are over 300 locations across 14 states, with a strong presence in California, Arizona, and Nevada, and even international outposts in places like China and the UAE.

What sets The Habit apart in a crowded field? For starters, their menu is a masterclass in simplicity meets sophistication. The star of the show is the Charburger, a single or double patty topped with caramelized onions, fresh lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo on a toasted bun. But it's the little details that make it sing: the beef is always fresh, never frozen, and sourced from high-quality suppliers. Add-ons like avocado, bacon, or even a tempura-fried jalapeño elevate it further. Unlike In-N-Out's streamlined menu, The Habit offers more variety, including chicken sandwiches, salads, and even ahi tuna options for those seeking lighter fare. Their fries are hand-cut and crispy, and don't sleep on the onion rings or the milkshakes, which come in flavors like strawberry and mocha. Prices are competitive too— a Charburger meal hovers around $10-12, making it accessible without skimping on portions.

Comparisons to In-N-Out are inevitable, given both chains' California heritage. In-N-Out, founded in 1948 in Baldwin Park, has built a cult following with its no-frills approach: animal-style burgers, protein-style lettuce wraps, and that famous "Not-So-Secret Menu." It's all about consistency and nostalgia, with drive-thrus that snake around blocks during peak hours. The Habit's edge, according to voters, seems to lie in its grilling technique and broader appeal. "The char gives it a backyard barbecue feel that In-N-Out's griddle just can't match," one reviewer noted on Yelp. Shake Shack, originating from a New York City hot dog cart in 2001, brings a gourmet twist with its Angus beef Smash Burgers and crinkle-cut fries, but it's often criticized for higher prices and longer wait times. Five Guys, with its peanut oil fries and free toppings, appeals to customization fans, but some say it lacks the flavor depth of The Habit's offerings.

This isn't the first time The Habit has garnered acclaim. It consistently ranks high in consumer satisfaction surveys, like those from Market Force, where it scores points for food quality and value. The chain's commitment to fresh ingredients—sourcing produce locally when possible and avoiding preservatives—aligns with modern diners' preferences for transparency and health-conscious options. During the pandemic, The Habit adapted swiftly, emphasizing drive-thru and delivery services, which helped it weather the storm better than some sit-down burger joints. Expansion plans are ambitious; the chain aims to open dozens more locations in the coming years, targeting the East Coast and Midwest to challenge regional favorites like Culver's in Wisconsin or Whataburger in Texas.

Of course, no award is without controversy. Die-hard In-N-Out fans argue that the poll might be skewed by national voters unfamiliar with the West Coast staple. "If you've never had a fresh In-N-Out burger animal-style, you don't know what you're missing," one commenter fired back. Others point out that The Habit's growth under Yum! Brands could dilute its original charm, though so far, the quality seems intact. Still, the win highlights a broader trend in fast food: consumers are craving authenticity and flavor innovation amid a sea of processed options. Burger chains are responding by emphasizing premium ingredients—think grass-fed beef or plant-based alternatives—but The Habit strikes a balance that's both nostalgic and forward-thinking.

For those yet to try it, a visit to The Habit might just convert you. Picture this: pulling up to a drive-thru in sunny Southern California, the scent of chargrilled beef wafting through the air as you order a Double Char with cheese, extra caramelized onions, and a side of tempura green beans (yes, that's a thing). It's not just a meal; it's an experience that harkens back to California's laid-back surf culture while delivering on modern expectations. As the fast-food landscape continues to evolve, with plant-based burgers from Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat making waves, The Habit's focus on classic, flame-kissed perfection reminds us why the humble hamburger remains America's favorite comfort food.

In the end, this upset victory for The Habit Burger Grill serves as a reminder that in the world of fast food, underdogs can rise to the top. Whether you're a lifelong In-N-Out devotee or a Shake Shack aficionado, it's worth giving The Habit a shot. Who knows? It might just become your new go-to. As burger wars rage on, one thing's clear: taste is subjective, but according to thousands of voters, The Habit is currently wearing the crown. If you're in a state with a location, head over and judge for yourself—your taste buds might thank you.

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Read the Full Time Out Article at:
[ https://www.timeout.com/los-angeles/news/this-california-chain-was-just-named-best-fast-food-burgerand-its-not-the-one-you-think-072325 ]