Los Angeles is the global entertainment mecca, home to Hollywood and a paradise for surfers and skaters. But when we think of distinctive elements of local culture, we can’t overlook fast food. Combo meals, drive-throughs, bright colors, and intense flavors are a unique heritage of the city. Whether for locals or tourists, an essential part of experiencing L.A. is exploring its iconic restaurants, and that’s what we’ll do here: these are the fast food chains in Los Angeles that were originated in SoCal.
1. McDonald’s
McDonald’s was founded in San Bernardino, only an hour away from. The year was 1940 when brothers Richard and Maurice McDonald had the idea to create an outdoor food stand called “McDonald’s Bar-B-Q”.
By 1948, the McDonald brothers closed the restaurant for three months to renovate and simplify its menu, focusing on hamburgers, fries, and beverages. This relaunch marked the beginning of the fast food restaurant model we know today, emphasizing speed, efficiency, and consistent food quality. The oldest restaurant still standing at 10207 Lakewood Boulevard at Florence Av. In Downey.
2. In-N-Out
In-N-Out was founded in Baldwin Park, California, in 1948 by Harry Snyder and Esther Snyder. The chain distinguished itself by inventing the concept of the “drive-through,” introducing it at their first restaurant.
This innovation allowed customers to order and receive food without leaving their cars, revolutionizing the fast food industry. In-N-Out has remained true to its philosophy of offering fresh, quality burgers, becoming one of the most beloved and recognizable fast food chains in Los Angeles and beyond.
3. Taco Bell
Taco Bell was founded in Downey, California, in 1962 by Glen Bell. The chain quickly gained popularity for its innovative approach to Mexican-inspired fast food, catering to American tastes with items like the legendary crunchy taco and the bean burrito. Taco Bell expanded its menu and footprint across the US, becoming a prominent fast food chain in Los Angeles and beyond.
4. Monty’s
Monty’s Good Burger kicked off in the city, opening its first spot in Koreatown back in 2018. Founded by Nicole and Jeff Paterakis, this burger joint quickly won over fans with its plant-based burgers and strong commitment to sustainability.
They’re all about using locally sourced ingredients and eco-friendly packaging, which appeals big-time to health-conscious customers. Now with multiple spots across L.A., Monty’s serves up a menu packed with vegan comfort foods like burgers, fries, and shakes. It’s known for its cool vibe and ethical approach to dining, making Monty’s Good Burger a top pick among fast food chains in Los Angeles.
5. Bob’s Big Boy
AKA Bob’s, was originally founded in Glendale, California, in 1936 by Bob Wian. The restaurant gained fame with its double-decker hamburger, known as the “Big Boy.” Its big innovation was the pioneer introduction to the drive-in dining concept, where carhops served meals to customers in their vehicles, introducing car side service.
Maintaining its nostalgic charm, Bob’s Big Boy hosts weekly classic car meet-ups, paying homage to its historic roots and the heyday of drive-in restaurants. The delicious meals and its historical significance to the culinary scene, made it one of the most iconic fast food chains in L.A.
6. Carl’s Jr
Carl’s Jr. was founded in Anaheim, in 1941 by the truck driver Carl Karcher and his wife Margaret. Together they managed to escalate a single hod-dog cart to an actual restaurant that later on became a chain.
Carl’s Jr, gained popularity for its charbroiled burgers and innovative menu offerings, but became known not only for its delicious food but also for its massive and sometimes controversial advertising campaigns. It has grown to become a California icon, expanding its reach across the country.
7. Del Taco
Founded on September 16, 1964 in Yermo, by Ed Hackbarth and David Jameson, Del Taco quickly became known for its tacos, Mission burritos, Mexican-style cuisine, salads, and hamburgers.
Originally named Casa Del Taco, the first restaurant generated $169 on its opening day (equivalent to $1,660 in 2024). By the 1980s, Del Taco had expanded to operate 350 restaurants, solidifying its position as a leading fast food chain in the United States.
8. Wienerschnitzel
Founded in 1961 by John Galardi, a former Taco Bell employee, in Wilmington, Wienerschnitzel has become a staple of American fast food culture, known for its variety of hot dogs and budget-friendly prices.
Originally named “Der Wienerschnitzel,” the fast food chain quickly gained popularity for its tasty hot dogs and later expanded to offer chili dogs, burgers, and more. Today, Wienerschnitzel is the world’s largest hot dog chain, with a strong presence across the United States, especially in California.
9. Panda Express
Founded in 1983 by Andrew Cherng and Peggy Cherng in Glendale, California, Panda Express quickly became a hit in American fast food with its focus on American Chinese cuisine, and it currently one of the most popular and iconic fast-food chains in Los Angeles.
The chain became famous for dishes like orange chicken, sweet fire chicken breast, Beijing beef, grilled teriyaki chicken, and Kung Pao chicken, blending traditional Chinese flavors with fast food convenience. Panda Express is known for its quality ingredients and speedy service, expanding widely across the country.
10. Hot Dog on a Stick
Hot Dog on a Stick started in Muscle Beach, Santa Monica, in 1946 by Dave Barham. Originally called Party Puffs, it served hot dogs dipped in a special cornmeal batter and fried on sticks.
The stand quickly became popular for its unique snacks and fresh-squeezed lemonade. Hot Dog on a Stick expanded throughout California and across the country, becoming a favorite at malls, amusement parks, and festivals.