(LOOTPRESS) – America’s favorite fast-food restaurant has a new leader.
For the first time in more than a decade, Chick-fil-A has been knocked from the top spot in the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) rankings, with Jersey Mike’s claiming the No. 1 position among quick-service restaurants.
According to the ACSI’s latest report released Tuesday, Jersey Mike’s earned a customer satisfaction score of 84 out of 100, narrowly edging Chick-fil-A, which scored 83.
The rankings were based on 16,464 customer surveys conducted via email between April 2025 and March 2026.
The ACSI called Jersey Mike’s “a new leader among QSRs,” noting it is the first time in more than 10 years that a different restaurant chain has topped the quick-service category.
Researchers credited the sandwich chain’s success to its ability to maintain strong customer satisfaction while rapidly expanding across North America. The report highlighted Jersey Mike’s efficient operations, strong digital pickup business and off-premise dining model as key factors behind its rise.
Founded in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, in 1956, Jersey Mike’s has grown to more than 4,000 locations across the United States and Canada. The chain is best known for its made-to-order subs and its signature “Mike’s Way” sandwich toppings.
The ACSI also noted that Jersey Mike’s benefits from a streamlined menu and a business model that supports franchise growth and consistency.
Despite losing the top overall ranking, Chick-fil-A remained the highest-rated chicken restaurant in the survey and continues to be one of the nation’s most popular fast-food brands.
Rounding out the top of the rankings were Jimmy John’s and Panda Express, which tied for third place with scores of 81. KFC, Papa Johns and Pizza Hut followed at 80.
Domino’s, Raising Cane’s, Starbucks and Subway each received scores of 79, while Burger King, Culver’s, Dunkin’, Little Caesars and Panera Bread earned 78.
Near the bottom of the rankings were Dairy Queen and McDonald’s, which tied for last place among major quick-service chains with customer satisfaction scores of 72.
The annual ACSI report is widely viewed as one of the most closely watched measures of customer satisfaction across the restaurant industry, making Jersey Mike’s rise to the top a significant milestone for the fast-growing sandwich chain.
