Craving something quick and easy in Huntington? You’re definitely not alone! The allure of fast food, with its promise of convenience, affordability, and those familiar, comforting flavors, is a powerful draw, especially when you’re on the go. Huntington, West Virginia, home to Marshall University and a vibrant community, is no exception. Whether you’re a student pulling an all-nighter, a busy professional grabbing lunch, or just passing through and needing a quick refuel, Huntington has a diverse range of fast food options to satisfy your hunger. This guide highlights some of the best and most popular fast food choices in Huntington, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. We’ll dive into the national chains you know and love, explore any unique local offerings, and provide some tips for making the most of your fast food experience in the heart of Almost Heaven.
National Fast Food Chains a Huntington Staple
Huntington boasts a comprehensive selection of national fast food chains, ensuring that no matter your craving, you’re likely to find something to hit the spot. Let’s explore some of the most popular categories and the restaurants that dominate the scene.
Burger Joints: Classic American Fare
No fast food discussion is complete without mentioning the titans of the burger world. Huntington has its fair share of these classic establishments.
McDonald’s, an icon of the fast food industry, has multiple locations in Huntington, making it incredibly accessible. You’ll find one near Marshall University’s campus, perfect for students needing a quick study break. From the legendary Big Mac to the crispy and irresistible french fries, McDonald’s offers a familiar and comforting menu. Whether you’re in the mood for a breakfast sandwich, a classic burger, or just a quick sweet treat, McDonald’s is a reliable option. They have expanded options such as chicken and salads.
Burger King, another heavyweight in the burger arena, also has a presence in Huntington. Known for its flame-broiled burgers, Burger King’s signature item is undoubtedly the Whopper. Its distinctive taste and customizable toppings make it a popular choice. Keep an eye out for special promotions and limited-time offers that Burger King frequently introduces. The chain offers chicken fries.
Wendy’s, known for its square-shaped burger patties and the creamy Frosty dessert, rounds out the big three burger chains in Huntington. Wendy’s takes pride in using fresh, never-frozen beef, setting it apart from some of its competitors. Their spicy chicken sandwich is also a fan favorite. Don’t forget to check out their value menu for budget-friendly options. With options from burgers, chicken, and salads Wendy’s is sure to deliver what you may want.
If you crave a more gourmet burger experience, you might find a Five Guys location in Huntington. Five Guys is known for its fresh, made-to-order burgers with a wide array of toppings and generous portions of fries.
Chicken Restaurants: Finger-Licking Goodness
When the craving for crispy, juicy chicken strikes, Huntington has several excellent choices.
KFC, the undisputed king of fried chicken, has a location in Huntington. Colonel Sanders’ secret recipe of herbs and spices has been captivating taste buds for decades. In addition to their famous fried chicken, KFC also offers a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and biscuits. KFC is sure to satisfy any chicken craving.
Chick-fil-A, with its devoted following, is a popular choice for chicken sandwiches. Their signature chicken sandwich, made with a perfectly breaded and seasoned chicken breast, is a true delight. Chick-fil-A also offers waffle fries, lemonade, and a variety of sauces. Be aware of their operating hours, as they are closed on Sundays. They also offer salads and shakes for the health conscious.
Popeyes, known for its spicy Louisiana-style fried chicken, is another excellent option in Huntington. Popeyes’ chicken is marinated in a unique blend of spices, giving it a distinct and flavorful kick. Their biscuits are also a must-try. They have now expanded their menu options.
Sandwich Shops: A Quick and Customizable Meal
For a lighter and more customizable meal, sandwich shops offer a plethora of options.
Subway, the world’s largest sandwich chain, has a location in Huntington. Subway allows you to create your own sandwich from a wide variety of breads, meats, cheeses, vegetables, and sauces. It’s a great option for those looking for a healthier fast food choice.
Jimmy John’s, known for its “Freaky Fast” delivery, is another popular sandwich shop in Huntington. Jimmy John’s offers a variety of classic subs, made with fresh ingredients. Their sandwiches are simple, yet satisfying.
You might find a Quiznos location in Huntington, offering toasted subs with unique flavor combinations.
Pizza Places: A Slice of Heaven on the Go
When you’re craving a cheesy and satisfying pizza, Huntington has several fast food pizza chains to choose from.
Pizza Hut, a household name in the pizza industry, has a presence in Huntington. Pizza Hut offers a variety of pizza styles, including their famous pan pizza. They also offer delivery services, making it a convenient option for a quick and easy meal.
Domino’s, another major player in the pizza world, also has a location in Huntington. Domino’s is known for its online ordering system and a wide variety of pizza toppings and crust options.
Little Caesars, with its Hot-N-Ready pizzas, is a budget-friendly option for a quick and easy pizza fix. Little Caesars offers a simple menu of pizzas and sides, perfect for feeding a crowd.
Taco Mexican: A Fiesta in Your Mouth
When you’re looking for something south-of-the-border, these restaurants provide convenient and flavorful options.
Taco Bell, known for its value menu and innovative creations, has a location in Huntington. Taco Bell offers a variety of tacos, burritos, and other Mexican-inspired dishes at affordable prices. Their Crunchwrap Supreme is a unique and popular menu item.
You might find a Chipotle in Huntington, offering customizable burritos, bowls, and tacos with fresh ingredients.
Local and Regional Fast Food Flair
While national chains dominate the fast food landscape, Huntington may offer some unique local or regional fast food options. Checking for any restaurants that may be in this sector of food is recommended. Huntington has several restaurants that do not fit the label of “fast food” that are local and offer great options.
Hidden Gems and Unique Fast Food Experiences
Huntington offers a handful of unique restaurants that offer quick food options to eat inside, to-go, or delivery that deserve recognition.
Fast Food Restaurants with a Specific Type of Food
Located on 3rd avenue, Black Sheep Burrito and Brews offers multiple styles of tacos and burritos. They offer a wide variety of options that you may not find in other restaurants in the area.
The grill, located in Huntington, offers gyros, kabobs and other Greek food items. They boast that their food is fast and fresh. The grill is a great option if you are looking for something different in the fast food industry.
Combination Restaurants: Two in One
In Huntington, you can find restaurants that combine different brands or themes into one place. This allows you to have different food options in one location. Make sure you check to see if this exists if you are in Huntington.
Delivery Only Restaurants: Straight to your Door
In Huntington, some restaurants operate solely through delivery services. These restaurants do not have physical storefronts for dine-in or takeout. Look for restaurant options in the area through third party delivery apps.
Small, Family-Owned Fast Food: Huntington’s Hidden Gems
Support local! Huntington is home to numerous family-owned restaurants that offer fast and delicious food. These places often have unique menus and a special local flavor. They deserve checking out if you want to support Huntington.
Tips for Navigating Huntington’s Fast Food Scene
To make the most of your fast food adventures in Huntington, consider these helpful tips.
Best Time to Go: Avoiding the Rush
To avoid long lines and crowded dining rooms, try to visit fast food restaurants during off-peak hours. The lunch rush near Marshall University can be particularly busy, so consider grabbing your food before or after the typical lunch hour.
Deals and Specials: Saving Money
Many fast food restaurants offer special deals and promotions to attract customers. Check for coupons, discounts, and loyalty programs to save money on your meals. Download the restaurant’s app or visit their website to stay up-to-date on the latest offers.
Dietary Considerations: Options for Everyone
If you have dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, be sure to check the menu for suitable options. Many fast food restaurants now offer a variety of plant-based and gluten-free choices. Make sure you know what your dietary needs are before purchasing any food.
Navigating the City: Finding Your Way
Huntington is a relatively easy city to navigate. Most of the major fast food chains are located along main thoroughfares and near the university. Use a map app to find the closest location to you and get directions.
A Bite of Huntington: A Quick Food Tour
Huntington, West Virginia is the perfect place for some quick food options. With national chains and maybe even some local spots, you can enjoy everything. Be sure to be mindful of the time you go to avoid rush hours.
Conclusion: Huntington’s Fast Food Feast Awaits
Huntington, WV, offers a satisfying array of fast food options, from classic national chains to potential local gems. Whether you’re a student needing a quick bite between classes, a busy professional grabbing lunch on the go, or a visitor exploring the city, Huntington’s fast food scene has something to satisfy every craving. So, embrace the convenience, explore the options, and discover your favorite fast food experiences in this vibrant West Virginia city. Grab a bite and enjoy!
