Biggest Canadian Fast Food Chains: The Fast Food Companies Shaking Up Canada

From classic burger joints to iconic coffee stops, the largest Canadian fast food chains have become part of the nation’s cultural fabric. These brands cater to every craving—burgers, fried chicken, pizza, fries, and everything in between—making them the best fast food chains in Canada for millions of on-the-go diners. Below, we rank ten major players by their Canadian location count, starting from the smallest footprint to the chain with the most restaurants. Along the way, we’ll see how each brand’s local marketing, product innovation, and commitment to Canadian tastes help them compete as some of the biggest fast food chains in Canada.

(10) Mary Brown’s (Almost 300 Restaurants)

Mary Brown’s, a well-known Canadian fried chicken chain, generates annual revenue of $35 million CAD. Though smaller in scale compared to other big names, Mary Brown’s has built a strong regional following, focusing on fresh chicken and homestyle recipes and having around 300 locations. Over the years, the chain has steadily expanded its footprint beyond Atlantic Canada into various provinces, enhancing recognition. Its consistent growth strategy—opening new franchises each year—has led it to top various “fastest-growing” brand lists in the chicken segment.

The chain leverages its Canadian roots, marketing its signature “Big Mary” chicken sandwich and emphasizing quality and community engagement. Traditional advertising via radio and local TV is supplemented with digital promotions to strengthen regional loyalty. Mary Brown’s commonly sponsors local events, reflecting a “for the neighborhood” ethos that resonates with families seeking comfort food. Social media campaigns often highlight homemade-style cooking, reinforcing the idea that Mary Brown’s is a reliable, hearty choice among the best fast food chains in Canada offering fried chicken.

(9) New York Fries (Around 250+ Locations)

As a niche player specializing in fries and poutine, New York Fries is estimated to generate revenue at $169 million a year. You’ll often find this brand in shopping malls and food courts, where it capitalizes on foot traffic. Despite not offering a wide variety of items beyond fries, hot dogs, and poutine, New York Fries maintains a consistent following—particularly among snackers who appreciate premium hand-cut fries and indulgent toppings. The chain’s modest but loyal customer base sustains steady performance in a market filled with broader-menu competitors.

New York Fries embraces a bold, urban identity, frequently using social media and viral content to promote its “New York” aesthetic—think edgy signage and street-food-inspired marketing. The brand’s localized campaigns partner with city events or pop-up collaborations, appealing to young adults and teens looking for a trendy snack option. By focusing on a singular product done well (fries), it stands out in the biggest fast food chains in Canada lineup as a dedicated specialty brand, reinforcing its artisanal approach to quick-service comfort food.

(8) Harvey’s (Approximately 300 Locations)

Harvey’s is a Canadian burger chain that’s known for its “build-your-own” burger concept. With around 300 locations nationwide, Harvey’s is smaller than some giants but maintains a devoted fan base—especially among Canadians who appreciate its fresh toppings bar and signature flame-grilled taste. The chain has been around since the 1950s, making it a familiar name that holds its own despite stiff burger competition.

Harvey’s positions itself around fresh, customizable burgers and local engagement. Customers order at the counter, then pick and choose toppings from a visible array, which fosters a sense of personal touch. In terms of marketing, Harvey’s frequently spotlights its Canadian heritage through regionally focused TV or radio ads, along with community sponsorships (e.g., minor hockey, local festivals). Taglines often highlight the phrase “Harvey’s makes your hamburger a beautiful thing,” reinforcing the chain’s unique topping station approach. This personal, transparent style differentiates Harvey’s from other largest Canadian fast food chains offering standard pre-built burgers.

(7) Pizza Pizza (Over 500 Restaurants)

Pizza Pizza is a major player in Canada’s pizza segment, with system-wide sales estimated at around CAD $600 million annually. Concentrated mainly in Ontario, the chain has over 500 locations, including both standalone stores and mall kiosks. By focusing on budget-friendly combos, quick delivery, and strong brand recognition—bolstered by that catchy “967-11-11” jingle—Pizza Pizza drives high transaction volumes from families and students. While competition from international pizza chains and local pizzerias is fierce, Pizza Pizza’s local partnerships and marketing help it stay top-of-mind for everyday pizza cravings.

Its marketing is youth-oriented, featuring bright orange branding, pop-culture tie-ins, and social media promotions that emphasize fun, accessibility, and frequent deals. Pizza Pizza regularly sponsors sports teams and events, tapping into Canada’s love for hockey and community gatherings. The brand’s promotional offers, from discounted slices to group deals, encourage large-volume orders. Meanwhile, limited-time menus or product twists (like specialty dipping sauces) keep loyal customers engaged. This blend of approachable marketing, consistent deals, and aggressive local sponsorships helps Pizza Pizza remain among the best fast food chains in Canada for quick and affordable pizza.

(6) KFC Canada (Approximately 650 Locations)

KFC Canada, part of Yum! Brands, contributes several hundred million CAD in system-wide sales annually, making it a leading chicken chain in the country. It operates around 650 Canadian outlets, relying heavily on drive-thrus and takeout to generate consistent revenue. Despite competition from homegrown chicken brands (like Mary Brown’s) and broader QSR alternatives, KFC’s long legacy and signature “Original Recipe” continue to hold appeal. While it’s a fraction of KFC’s global presence, the Canadian network remains profitable and invests in modernizing older stores to keep pace with consumer expectations.

KFC Canada leverages its famous “finger lickin’ good” heritage through a mix of nostalgic, family-oriented ads, as well as modern digital promotions. Seasonal pushes highlight innovations like spicy chicken items, limited-time sandwich specials, or poutine variants that play well with Canadian tastes. The chain also uses local ads to integrate bilingual messaging in regions like Quebec, reflecting cultural sensitivity. Occasional comedic campaigns—like portraying Colonel Sanders in different comedic contexts—freshen the brand’s old-fashioned image. Overall, KFC banks on comfort food nostalgia while introducing timely menu twists to stay relevant among the biggest fast food chains in Canada.

(5) Dairy Queen Canada (Approximately 600+ Locations)

Dairy Queen in Canada contributes several hundred million CAD in system-wide sales annually, thanks to its blend of dessert-focused stores and grill & chill locations. With over 600 restaurants across the country, and 191 just in Ontario, it has cultivated a sweet spot in the QSR market—literally—by specializing in treats like Blizzards and soft-serve cones. Though the brand also serves burgers and fries, most Canadians view Dairy Queen as a go-to for ice cream indulgences, particularly in summer. The chain’s robust franchising network ensures widespread presence from small towns to big suburbs.

Dairy Queen uses its iconic Blizzard desserts and treat-oriented menu to drive marketing. Ads often highlight the swirl of candies or cookies blended into Blizzard flavors, which keeps the brand playful and nostalgic. DQ’s campaigns typically rely on TV ads, local radio spots, and seasonal promotions—like limited-edition summer Blizzard flavors or holiday-themed ice cream cakes. By positioning itself as a fun, family-friendly stop (especially after sports games or on hot afternoons), Dairy Queen maintains a best fast food chains in Canada vibe, despite offering less emphasis on savory meals than other chains.

(4) A&W Canada (Approximately 1,000 Restaurants)

A&W Canada is a leading burger chain nationwide, known for its dedication to quality ingredients and sustainability. It reportedly generates around CAD $2 billion in system-wide sales. With about 1,000 restaurants spanning coast to coast, A&W has carved out a loyal audience that appreciates hormone-free beef, real cheddar cheese, and its classic root beer served in frosty mugs. Though it competes with global giants, A&W Canada has proven resilient, opening new stores annually—often in smaller towns or suburban spots. Over time, it’s become a recognized favorite among Canadians seeking a more “wholesome” burger fast-food option.

A&W Canada’s branding emphasizes tradition and natural ingredients. Campaigns highlight that it sources beef with no added hormones or steroids, resonating with health-minded or eco-conscious customers. The chain frequently rolls out retro-inspired advertising—reminiscent of the midcentury era when A&W drive-ins were iconic—while also embracing social media and digital ads to reach younger demographics. A classic example is referencing the “Burger Family” lineup (Papa Burger, Mama Burger, etc.) in commercials, giving A&W a nostalgic, family-friendly identity. By focusing on both heritage (famous root beer in a glass mug) and modern quality standards, A&W carves out a distinct niche among the largest Canadian fast food chains.

(3) McDonald’s Canada (Approximately 1,400 Restaurants)

As part of the global McDonald’s system, McDonald’s Canada commands billions in annual revenue—estimates indicate around CAD $7.1 billion in nation-wide sales. It operates about 1,400 locations in Canada, making it a familiar fixture in both urban and rural areas. Over time, the brand has localized many items (offering poutine in some regions, for instance), though the core menu remains consistent with its global offerings. McDonald’s Canada invests significantly in modernization, introducing self-order kiosks, digital menu boards, and mobile ordering to keep pace with customer expectations. The brand remains a top competitor in the QSR sector, battling rivals in burgers, coffee (via McCafé), and breakfast segments.

McDonald’s leverages a blend of national advertising, local store marketing, and specialized promotions, adapting global campaigns such as “I’m Lovin’ It” to Canadian culture. The brand regularly sponsors community events, sports leagues, and children’s charities (like Ronald McDonald House), maintaining positive public perception. McDonald’s also embraces digital engagement: from the MyMcDonald’s Rewards program to app-exclusive deals that spur frequent visits. Regional marketing might spotlight local suppliers or unique Canada-only offerings (like the McLobster in Atlantic Canada or seasonal Maple-flavored items). Consistency, convenience, and local nods help McDonald’s Canada retain a strong position among the biggest fast food chains in Canada.

(2) Subway Canada (Approximately 2,900 Restaurants)

Subway, globally renowned for its customizable submarine sandwiches, holds a robust footing in Canada with an estimated 2,900 restaurants. Yet Subway’s Canadian operations mirror the brand’s global challenges: the chain has closed some underperforming units in recent years, focusing on remodeling others. Even so, its strong convenience and “build your own sub” concept keep it a formidable competitor in the sandwich segment. The chain’s success also comes from tapping into consumers’ preference for a perceived healthier fast-food alternative.

In Canada, Subway continues leveraging its global “Eat Fresh” messaging—emphasizing vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats—as a healthier QSR option. Marketing includes TV commercials, digital coupon campaigns, and local franchise-driven promotions. Subway’s broad customization resonates with cost-conscious, health-oriented consumers who can select exactly what goes into their sandwich. Localizing offers (e.g., meal deals that cater to cultural preferences or adding certain popular ingredients in each province) helps maintain relevance. The brand also invests in digital ordering and loyalty deals through the Subway MyWay Rewards program, promoting convenience and repeat visits. Though it competes with emerging rivals like Mr. Sub or fresh sandwich shops, Subway’s scale and “build-it-your-way” ethos sustain a wide customer appeal.

(1) Tim Hortons (Over 4,000 Restaurants)

Tim Hortons is undeniably the largest Canadian fast food chain by system-wide sales and number of domestic locations. With over 4,000 restaurants nationwide, Tim Hortons has an estimated CAD $8.5 billion in revenue from Canada alone. Originally founded by the hockey legend Tim Horton, the chain evolved from a simple donut shop into a national institution recognized for coffee, Timbits, and quick breakfast sandwiches. Now under the umbrella of Restaurant Brands International (along with Burger King and Popeyes), Tim Hortons continues to expand across both small towns and major cities, dominating the coffee-and-baked-goods segment.

Tim Hortons’ marketing draws heavily on its Canadian heritage, community involvement, and a “for the people” appeal. Ads often include hockey imagery, local sports sponsorships, and seasonal campaigns—like Roll Up the Rim to Win, a nationwide contest that has become a cultural event every year. The brand also frequently updates its beverage menu (specialty lattes, flavored cappuccinos) and runs limited-time holiday offerings (candy cane hot chocolates, various donut themes) to keep interest high. Emphasizing affordability, consistency, and quick service, Tim Hortons resonates across generations as a comfortable staple. By sponsoring minor hockey leagues and championing local charities, “Timmy’s” remains deeply embedded in Canadian daily life, securing its top spot among the best fast food chains in Canada.

A Tasty Tour of Canada’s Leading Fast-Food Players

From coast to coast, these biggest fast food chains in Canada have adapted menus, marketing, and values to resonate with local palates, forging strong national followings. Whether you crave a Tim Hortons double-double, a flame-grilled A&W burger, or a freshly fried Mary Brown’s chicken sandwich, each brand offers a distinctive slice of Canadian quick-service culture. Their paths to success vary—some grew through hockey sponsorships and nostalgia, others by touting natural ingredients or customizable sandwiches. Yet all reflect the evolving tastes, technology, and trends of the country’s bustling food scene. As competition intensifies and consumers demand ever more convenience and variety, these largest Canadian fast food chains will undoubtedly keep innovating to remain mainstays in Canada’s everyday dining landscape.