Before I discuss the Best Fast Food list in Miami, a few things need to be explained. This Best Fast Food in Miami is all about sandwiches and sides that are delicious when executed properly.
I’m starting slow with 5 things you need to try if you haven’t, and I’m totally open to hearing what you believe should be added. There are some intentional omissions, like McDonald’s French Fries and Arby’s Double Beef ‘N Cheddar, but don’t you worry your little hearts. We will get to the perfect list.
One last thing: Only fast food chains with drive-thrus will be included.
The Best Fast Food Dishes in Miami
I expect that you will visit your favorite fast food location or use one of the ones I’ve listed below.
Burger King – Double Cheeseburger
Burger King and I have one thing in common: Our hometown is Miami, Florida. Growing up, my favorite Burger King sandwich was the Double Cheeseburger; nothing else came close. Finding a Burger King that can execute the Double Cheeseburger seems to be becoming increasingly difficult.
But, I have a solution! Go to Burger King #17 in North Miami. Since its opening in 1959, Burger King #17 has never changed owners. The service is friendly, and the food is great. Got it? Good!
Burger King #17
12790 NW 7th Avenue
North Miami, FL
(305) 681-1155
Checkers – Chili Dog
In 1997, Rally’s and Checkers restaurant announced a merger of their similar double drive-thru concepts. My Rally’s location was on the corner of Bird Road and SW 107th Avenue. It would eventually be converted into a Checkers.
I enjoy the Checkers chili dog with only raw red onions and no ketchup, mustard, or cheese sauce. It’s best to keep it simple.
It’s hard to believe that with Arbetter Hot Dogs down the street, I would do something as criminal as eat a Checkers chili dog. Yet I do, but that’s cause Checkers has a fried apple pie for dessert.
Checkers
10695 Bird Road
Miami, FL
(305) 220-2823
Miami Grill – Cheesesteak
Remember the Miami Subs of the 1990s? Well, they’re still around but now under the Miami Grill name. Back in tha day, you could always count on Miami Subs to be open for that late night after drinking meal.
The cheesesteak with Swiss-American cheese and grilled onions is solid. For those who like to break the rules, mushrooms, and green peppers are optional but not suggested. There’s also a chicken version, which, on some nights, is the right thing to eat when the mood strikes.
Miami Grill
3700 NW 42nd Avenue
Miami Springs, FL
(786) 360-2194
Extra Credit
Miami Grill does have their own seasoned fries, but any experienced french fry fan knows that the thick Nathan’s Crinkle-Cut Fries are superior. While you’re at it, ask for the nacho cheese sauce to dip the fellas.
Pollo Tropical – Cuban Sandwich
Hear me out before disagreeing; Pollo Tropical‘s Cuban Sandwich is good. Is it the best in town? No, but it’s great when you’re in a pinch and want a variation of those flavors you enjoy in a fast food environment.
Why a variation? Well, Pollo Tropical‘s Cuban Sandwich has mojo roast pork, sliced ham, Gouda cheese, pickles, and a mustard spread on pressed Cuban bread.
I listed the original Pollo Tropical location below cause it’s always nice to see the old-school logo on the building. It’s a shame it does not have a drive-thru.
Pollo Tropical
741 NW 37th Ave
Miami, FL
(305) 541-3161
Popeyes – Blackened Chicken Tenders
Breaded and fried chicken tenders are available on pretty much every fast food menu. Many folks don’t realize that blackened chicken tenders are hiding on the Popeyes‘ menu. My other go-to is the blackened chicken sandwich.
Both the blackened chicken tenders and sandwiches have no breading whatsoever. They’re just seasoned chicken that’s deep-fried; no one said anything about them being healthier, just tastier.
Popeyes
1501 NW 20th Street
Miami, FL
(305) 325-8286