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Florida isn’t just home to sunshine and palm trees, it’s also hiding some fast food gems that most Northerners have never even heard of.
These local and regional chains have built a cult following among Floridians, offering everything from Latin inspired flavors to seafood done right. Whether you’re a snowbird or a curious traveler, these are the fast food spots that’ll have you wondering why they aren’t everywhere yet.
Pollo Tropical
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Born in Miami, Pollo Tropical is all about bold Caribbean flavors. With citrus marinated grilled chicken, black beans, plantains, and signature sauces like guava BBQ and cilantro garlic, it’s a tropical escape in every bite.
PDQ
Short for People Dedicated to Quality, PDQ is a Tampa based chain serving fresh, never frozen chicken tenders, sandwiches, and hand-spun milkshakes. It’s like Chick-fil-A’s cool, local cousin, with its own signature sauce.
Beef O Brady’s
This casual sports pub started in Brandon, Florida, and now has locations throughout the state. It’s known for wings, burgers, and neighborhood vibes, blending fast service with sit down comfort food.
BurgerFi
Founded in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, BurgerFi is all about quality ingredients, think grass-fed beef, hand-cut fries, and craft beer. While it’s expanded a bit nationally, it’s still a hometown favorite with major Florida flair.
Miami Grill
Originally co-founded by rapper Pitbull, this South Florida staple serves up a wild mix of gyros, wings, cheesesteaks, and more. The menu is eclectic, the vibe is pure 305, and Northerners are seriously missing out.
Tijuana Flats
Headquartered in Orlando, Tijuana Flats is a Tex-Mex spot with attitude. Their spicy food, colorful murals, and infamous “hot bar” of sauces make it a must for fans of burritos, tacos, and bold flavors.
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Zaxby’s
While Zaxby’s originated in Georgia, it’s taken hold in Florida with full force. Known for chicken fingers, crinkle fries, and creamy dipping sauces, it’s a Southern comfort staple that hasn’t made much noise up north.
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Checkers
Sure, it’s technically a national chain, but Checkers also known as Rally’s in other regions, feels like a Florida institution. With its double drive-thru, seasoned fries, and wild burger creations, it hits different down here.
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La Granja
This Peruvian-style chain is huge in South Florida, especially around Broward and Miami-Dade. Their roasted chicken, fried rice, and spicy green sauce are legendary with locals, and barely known outside the region.
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Huey Magoo’s
Another Florida original, Huey Magoo’s specializes in hand-breaded chicken tenders and salads. It’s fast food with a slightly healthier, fresher vibe, and it’s quickly growing, but still mostly a Florida secret.
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Florida’s fast food scene is more than just your typical drive-thru fare. From Latin flair to Southern staples, these under-the-radar chains are beloved by locals and completely off the radar for most Northerners.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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