15 Fast Food Restaurants with the Most Worldwide Locations

If you’re curious about which fast food franchises have the most outlets worldwide, you’re in the right place. There are plenty of reasons why these brands keep expanding: a loyal fan base, constant menu innovation, and some really clever marketing. From massive burger empires to pizza powerhouses, these chains have managed to establish themselves as the biggest fast food brands globally. Let’s explore each one and see what makes it stand out in a fiercely competitive industry that’s expected to keep growing well into 2025. You might even find a few names you didn’t expect!

15. Chick-fil-A

• Number of locations: ~2,800 (mostly in the U.S.)

Chick-fil-A may rank lower in store counts compared to some global competitors, but it’s still considered one of the most popular fast food franchises in the United States. Founded in 1946, it has earned a loyal following for its classic chicken sandwich recipe and exceptional customer service. The brand keeps expanding steadily, especially in the southern and mid-Atlantic states. It might not have a giant worldwide presence, but Chick-fil-A often outperforms other restaurants in revenue per location, a testament to its devoted fan base. This chain also embraces a community-focused ethos, drawing praise for staff courtesy, which is something many patrons find refreshing in the often hurried fast-food setting.

14. Little Caesars

• Number of locations: ~5,500 worldwide

Little Caesars is best recognized for its “Hot-N-Ready” pizza concept, which changed how we think about grabbing a quick, budget-friendly meal. Started in 1959 by Mike Ilitch and his wife Marian, the brand has flourished by focusing on efficiency and keeping prices low. You’ll find many of its stores in the United States, but it has grown its reach into Canada, Latin America, and parts of Asia and the Middle East. Its straightforward approach—fast service, limited seating, and a narrower menu—helps it remain one of the most successful fast food franchises for budget-conscious folks. After all, many customers appreciate the simplicity of walking in, picking up a pizza, and heading straight home without any extra fuss.

13. Papa John’s Pizza

• Number of locations: ~5,650 worldwide

Papa John’s built its name on the idea of “better ingredients,” introducing a pizza that aimed to taste fresher than some competitors. Founded in 1984, this chain grew rapidly in the U.S. before branching out to other countries, including the UK and markets across Asia and the Middle East. Today, it’s a familiar brand worldwide, especially among those who love ordering pizza via app or website. Papa John’s invests in technology to boost customer convenience, staying relevant among the fast food expansion trends that prize quick online ordering. You’ll see it in sports sponsorships and global partnerships, reinforcing its ambition to keep climbing the global fast food market share rankings.

12. Wendy’s

• Number of locations: ~7,000 worldwide

Wendy’s, established in 1969, is the home of fresh, never-frozen beef patties and that famously square-shaped burger. With a solid presence in the U.S. and increasing footholds overseas, Wendy’s is often part of the debate when it comes to Burger King vs Wendy’s number of stores. While Burger King might have more total outlets, Wendy’s tries to differentiate itself with a focus on quality and a unique social media style that resonates with younger crowds. You’ll also find hearty items like the Frosty—its signature frozen treat—and a variety of chicken sandwiches. Stepping into a Wendy’s can feel a bit like stepping into a slightly more laid-back version of a traditional burger joint, thanks to its casual decor and friendly service.

11. Taco Bell

• Number of locations: ~7,200 worldwide

Taco Bell specialized in quick-service Mexican-inspired dishes long before other big brands caught on. Founded in 1962 by Glen Bell, the chain grew across the United States and began stretching internationally with a focus on local flavors. While it remains strongest in North America, Taco Bell also has a presence in Asia, Europe, and parts of the Middle East, often tailoring menu items to regional tastes. Younger diners love Taco Bell’s knack for playful marketing campaigns and its knack for budget-friendly value meals. You’ll see everything from tacos to burritos (plus some experimental creations) that keep loyal fans coming back for more.

10. Dairy Queen

• Number of locations: ~7,500 worldwide

Dairy Queen, often shortened to DQ, brings a classic blend of fast-food meals and sweet treats. Originating in 1940, it’s especially beloved for its soft-serve ice cream, sundaes, and the famous Blizzard. You’ll spot Dairy Queen mostly in North America, but it also has outlets scattered across Europe and Asia, showing how strong its brand appeal can be. It may not be the first thing you think of when chatting about the fast food industry size 2025, yet Dairy Queen’s longevity proves that mixing savory menu items with desserts can be a winning formula. Families often gravitate toward DQ for a slice of nostalgia, and that sense of tradition helps maintain a loyal customer base year after year.

9. Hunt Brothers Pizza

• Number of locations: ~10,000+ (mostly in the U.S.)

Hunt Brothers Pizza might not always come to mind when you think of the biggest fast food brands globally, yet it’s quietly expanded to more than 10,000 spots. Launched in the early 1990s, this pizza-focused franchise typically appears in convenience stores, gas stations, and other small retail venues across the United States. Its mission is all about affordability and no-frills simplicity, offering grab-and-go pizzas that fit right into busy lifestyles. While it doesn’t have the flashy global footprint of some competitors, Hunt Brothers has quickly spread in suburban and rural areas thanks to an easy-to-run business model and consistent flavors. It might surprise you how deeply rooted it is in local communities—often, you’ll find a Hunt Brothers kiosk in places where other pizza giants rarely venture.

8. Dunkin’

• Number of locations: ~13,000 worldwide

Dunkin’—formerly known as Dunkin’ Donuts—started in 1950, and it’s been fueling mornings ever since. Focused on coffee, donuts, and quick breakfast bites, this chain has become a staple in many folks’ daily routines, particularly in the northeastern United States. Dunkin’ also expanded internationally, including Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, though it’s most well-known for its dominance in American suburbs. While the brand has stiff competition in the coffee space, its loyal base appreciates the no-nonsense lineup of beverages and pastries. Add to that the convenience of speedy service and drive-thru lanes, and you’ve got a chain that retains its spot as one of the best fast food chains for franchising in the morning-meal category.

7. Domino’s Pizza

• Number of locations: ~20,000 worldwide

Domino’s is a global pizza powerhouse, growing from a single Michigan pizza joint in 1960 to a titan known for its robust delivery operation. It has a major presence in the United States but also runs thousands of stores across Europe, Latin America, and Asia. Thanks to cutting-edge technology—like real-time pizza trackers and easy mobile ordering—Domino’s leads the pack in convenience. Its willingness to embrace digital innovations keeps it competitive in the fast food industry size 2025, especially as more people lean on apps for quick meals. Whether you’re up for a classic pepperoni or want a specialty pie, Domino’s typically has a streamlined process to get it to your door fast.

6. Pizza Hut

• Number of locations: ~19,000 worldwide

Pizza Hut, founded in 1958, is known for its trademark red roof and menu variety, offering everything from pan pizzas to stuffed-crust creations. While its most concentrated market is the United States, Pizza Hut also has a large presence in Asia, with unique regional recipes that reflect local flavors. Over the years, the chain has played with new concepts, including family-style dining rooms and fast-delivery options, aiming to keep pace with evolving consumer habits. This adaptability, along with a well-known brand identity, positions Pizza Hut as a big player in the global fast food market share for pizza. It’s also consistently near the top when folks chat about the largest fast food chains in Europe for pizza lovers.

5. Burger King

• Number of locations: ~19,500 worldwide

Burger King launched in 1954, introducing its signature flame-grilled taste with the Whopper at the forefront. This chain’s broad international reach includes outlets in North America, Latin America, Europe, and Asia, making it one of the biggest fast food brands globally. A large chunk of these restaurants are run by franchisees, which has allowed the brand to keep growing in diverse markets. Its advertising is known for edgy campaigns, often stirring up friendly rivalries—think Burger King vs Wendy’s number of stores and brand identity battles. That said, the Whopper’s enduring appeal proves that sometimes a simple but distinctive burger can hold its ground for decades.

4. KFC

• Number of locations: ~30,000 worldwide

KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken) is known for its crispy fried chicken infused with Colonel Harland Sanders’ proprietary blend of 11 herbs and spices. With a history dating back to the 1930s, KFC has achieved a massive reach, making it a frontrunner in KFC global restaurant count discussions. The brand’s strongest international presence is in Asia, notably in China, where it’s adapted to local tastes with items like congee and specialized menu offerings. KFC’s unique blend of tradition and experimentation has helped it climb the ranks of most popular fast food franchises, ensuring that fried chicken enthusiasts around the globe get the flavors they crave.

3. Starbucks

• Number of locations: ~38,000 worldwide

Starbucks began in 1971 as a single coffee shop in Seattle, eventually revolutionizing cafe culture around the world. Its inviting atmosphere, Wi-Fi access, and wide range of espresso-based drinks made it the standard bearer for coffeehouse experiences. Nowadays, you can find Starbucks across North America, Europe, Asia, and beyond. The brand’s approach to premium coffee and comfortable spaces resonates strongly with urban consumers, and Starbucks continues to fine-tune its menu by adding teas, refreshers, and pastries to appeal to local tastes. Whether you’re in Tokyo or Toronto, there’s a good chance you’ll stumble upon that familiar mermaid logo.

2. McDonald’s

• Number of locations: ~41,000 worldwide

McDonald’s is basically synonymous with fast food. Founded in 1940, it has since grown into a global phenomenon, with an ever-expanding footprint that leads to chatter about McDonald's total locations worldwide surpassing 40,000. Its core menu items—like the Big Mac, fries, and the Egg McMuffin—have remained iconic, even as it experiments with healthier or localized choices in different countries. The brand runs outlets in over 100 nations, making it one of the fast food brands with most US locations and a heavyweight in largest fast food chains in Europe and Asia, too. While the golden arches might evoke comfort for some and draw criticism from others, there’s no denying that McDonald’s set the bar for franchising success and brand recognition across the globe.

1. Subway

• Number of locations: ~42,000 worldwide

Subway wins the crown when it comes to the top fast food chains by number of locations, with more than 42,000 restaurants in over 100 countries. It was founded in 1965 by Fred DeLuca and has become famous for its customizable submarine sandwiches. Many outlets are in the United States, but Subway also has an extensive international presence, adapting its sandwich lineup to regional palates. People seeking a slightly lighter fast-food choice often gravitate toward Subway, largely because you can pick and choose your toppings and sauces. It’s even sparking forecasts about Subway number of locations 2025, suggesting it’ll remain a key player for hungry folks who prefer their meals topped with fresh veggies and served on freshly baked bread.

And the Numbers Just Keep Growing

There you have it—a detailed look at the fast food franchises with most location, rolling from smaller or more niche pizza spots all the way up to some of the most popular fast food franchises known around the globe. Each chain rose through the ranks by blending consistent flavors, strategic franchising, and a knack for connecting with customers in different cultures. Whether you’re seeking a quick coffee fix, a slice of pizza, or a fried chicken meal, chances are high you’ll find at least one of these brands wherever you happen to be roaming. Many of them will keep dominating the fast food expansion trends for years to come, so don’t be surprised if they’re still the ones topping the charts when folks talk about fast food restaurant rankings 2025. Bon appétit!