Wendy's Chili and White Castle Slider Ranked Among America's Favorite Fast-Food Items

Wendy's chili, a beloved wintertime staple, has been ranked among America's favorite fast-food side dishes by USA TODAY readers. The chili secured the sixth spot in the 10 Best Readers' Choice Awards, the only Wendy's item on the list. White Castle's 1921 slider also ranked in the top 10.

Wendy's Chili and White Castle's 1921 Slider Earn Top Spots in USA TODAY's Fast-Food Rankings

Wendy's Chili, the subject of numerous wintertime drive-thru runs, is receiving widespread recognition.

USA TODAY readers have selected the chili of the Dublin-based hamburger behemoth as one of their preferred fast-food side dishes. It was ranked sixth in the most recent vote of the newspaper's ongoing 10 Best Readers' Choice Awards. Chili was the sole item on Wendy's menu chosen by fast-food enthusiasts.

White Castle's 1921 slider, a seared patty with more than steamed onions, was the voting's 10th most popular fast-food burger. The company is based in Columbus.

Del Taco, a single location in Whitehall, Ohio, at 4720 E. Main St., was the preferred fast-food restaurant among USA TODAY readers. The Habit Burger Grill, a chain primarily located on the East and West coastlines, was the preferred burger. Del Taco's potatoes were the most popular.

QDOBA, Jollibee, and Biscuitville Among Top Fast-Food Winners in USA TODAY Awards, Highlighting Industry Excellence

According to The Columbus Dispatch report, QDOBA Mexican Eats was recognized as the best fast-casual restaurant, Biscuitville, the best fast-food breakfast, Jollibee, the best fast-food fried chicken, the Habit Burger Grill's tempura green beans, the best fast-food side, El Pollo Loco, the best quick, healthy food, and PrimoHoagies, the best sandwich or sub shop, were all celebrated as top finishers, showcasing the diversity and excellence of the fast-food industry.

Since its establishment in 1969, Wendy's has included chili.

Skyline Chili in Cincinnati was selected as the most outstanding regional fast-food establishment.

Dave Thomas established his initial Wendy's on East Broad Street in downtown Columbus in 1969, while Skyline provided chili for two decades. From the outset, Wendy's set itself apart by including chili on the menu to utilize excess minced beef, a practice that reflected its commitment to quality and freshness.

In 2023, Wendy's was the fifth largest fast-food chain in the United States, and according to a survey conducted by the YouGov market research firm, it was the third favorite of Americans.