Hey there, hungry travelers! If you're tired of the same old fast food options, it's time to head down South for a taste of something new. From crispy chicken to mouthwatering biscuits, the South has hidden gems that will leave your taste buds singing. So buckle up and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure through the land of sweet tea and hospitality. Here are 17 Southern fast food delights you won't find up North:

Bojangles' Famous Chicken 'n Biscuits

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Did you know Bojangles was founded in Charlotte, North Carolina, in 1977? That's right. This Southern favorite has been serving up delicious chicken and biscuits for over four decades. With their secret blend of spices, every bite is packed with flavor. Trust me, you won't be able to resist the temptation to lick your fingers clean after indulging in a meal from Bojangles.

Cook Out

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With over 250 milkshake flavors to choose from, Cook Out is a milkshake lover's paradise. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can mix and match flavors to create your unique concoction. Plus, their burgers are grilled to perfection and served with a side of nostalgia. So grab a shake, sit, and prepare to be transported back to simpler times.

Whataburger

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Everything's bigger in Texas, including the burgers at Whataburger. You might not have known that Whataburger uses 100% pure beef patties cooked to order. That means you're guaranteed a fresh and juicy burger every time. And with their famous spicy ketchup on the side, you'll be in burger heaven with every bite.

Zaxby's

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Craving some chicken tenders with a kick? Look no further than Zaxby's, where you can choose from five different heat levels for your chicken. From mild to tongue-tingling, there's a flavor for every spice level. And with their signature Zax Sauce for dipping, you'll never want to eat chicken any other way again.

Waffle House

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Did you know that Waffle House serves over 145 waffles per minute? That's a whole lot of waffle goodness being dished out around the clock. And with their customizable hash browns and all-day breakfast options, you can satisfy your cravings any time of day or night. So whether you're craving breakfast for dinner or a late-night snack, Waffle House has got you covered.

Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers

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Raising Cane's is all about one thing and one thing only: chicken fingers. Each chicken finger is hand-battered and cooked to order, giving it its signature crispy texture and juicy flavor. Plus, their secret Cane's Sauce is so addictive that you'll want to put it on everything from fries to sandwiches.

Krystal

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Krystal may be small in size, but their flavor packs a big punch. It was the first fast-food chain to introduce square burgers. That's right, they've been serving up their iconic sliders since 1932. And with their famous Krystal Chiks and steamed buns, every bite is a taste of Southern comfort.

Sonic Drive-In

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Fun fact: Sonic Drive-In was the first fast-food chain to offer customizable burgers. That means you can create your dream burger with all your favorite toppings, from bacon to jalapenos. And with their extensive drink menu, featuring over 1.3 million flavor combinations, you'll never run out of options to quench your thirst.

Chick-fil-A

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Chick-fil-A has been named America's favorite fast-food restaurant for six years in a row. It's no wonder, with their delicious chicken sandwiches and top-notch customer service. And with locations in 47 states, it's easier than ever to get your Chick-fil-A fix wherever you are.

Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen

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Founded in New Orleans in 1972, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen brings the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine to the fast-food world. Known for its spicy fried chicken, Popeyes also offers delicious sides like red beans and rice, Cajun fries, and buttermilk biscuits. And don’t forget their signature sauces, like the tangy Bayou Buffalo or the creamy Mardi Gras Mustard.

Biscuitville

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Biscuitville is all about biscuits done right. Each biscuit is made from scratch every morning. They use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. This means you're not only getting a delicious meal but also supporting local farmers and producers. So, next time you're in the South, be sure to stop by Biscuitville for a taste of Southern hospitality.

Church's Chicken

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Church's Chicken has been serving up Southern classics since 1952. Did you know that their chicken is marinated for at least 12 hours before being hand-battered and fried to perfection? That's what gives it its signature flavor and crispy texture. With locations in over 25 countries, Church's Chicken is spreading the love of Southern cuisine around the world.

Chester's Chicken

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Chester's Chicken is known for its crispy fried chicken and secret blend of herbs and spices. They offer catering options for parties and events, so you can bring the taste of Southern comfort food to your next gathering. So whether you're feeding a crowd or just craving some chicken on the go, Chester's Chicken has got you covered.

Cajun Market Donut Company

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Craving something sweet with a spicy twist? Cajun Market Donut Company offers a delightful range of Cajun-inspired treats that will leave you craving more. From beignets dusted in powdered sugar to their signature Cajun-spiced donuts, every bite is a unique fusion of sweet and savory flavors. Founded in Lafayette, Louisiana, this donut haven embraces the rich culinary traditions of Cajun cuisine. 

Jack's

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Jack's has been a Southern favorite since 1960, with their focus on serving quality food at affordable prices. And did you know that they offer breakfast all day long? That means you can satisfy your breakfast cravings any time of day or night. So whether you're in the mood for a crispy chicken sandwich or a hearty breakfast platter, Jack's has got something for everyone.

Pal's Sudden Service

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Hailing from Tennessee, Pal's Sudden Service is known for its speedy drive-thru service and delicious burgers. It has won numerous awards for its innovative approach to fast food, including being named one of the top 10 drive-thru chains in America by QSR Magazine. And with their iconic hot dogs and hand-dipped milkshakes, Pal's is a must-visit for any fast food enthusiast.

Guthrie's

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If you're in the mood for some crispy golden chicken fingers, look no further than Guthrie's. Founded in Alabama in 1965, Guthrie's is famous for its signature chicken fingers and special Guthrie's sauce. Each chicken finger is made from whole chicken breasts, hand-battered, and cooked to perfection, which gives them their juicy flavor and crunchy texture.