How many of Iowa’s best fast food chains can you find? Check out the results from 10Best

With the rising prices of fast food, getting a drive-thru meal is more of a special treat than a regular occurrence for those on a budget.

So when you decide to spend money on a fast food joint, make sure it’s the best place. USA TODAY 10Best has released a list of the best fast food restaurants in the country, whether you’re looking for classic fast food or healthy fast food.

A panel of experts submitted nominations for the ranking. 10Best editors narrowed the list down to finalists, and the final ranking was determined by a reader vote.

Here’s a look at some of the top categories and their locations in Iowa. You can learn more at 10best.usatoday.com.

What are the best fast food restaurants?

For years, social media has been competing for the best fast food locations. Luckily, two of the top three fast food restaurants have locations in Iowa. There are at least 10 KFC locations in Iowa. There are 16 Chick-fil-A locations, including four in the Des Moines metro area.

• First place: Taco

• Second place: KFC

• Third place: Chick-fil-A

Best fast-casual restaurant

If you’re looking to sit down at a restaurant but need a quick meal, Iowa is home to the nation’s top fast casual restaurant chain. QDOBA was voted the nation’s top fast casual restaurant, according to 10Best. You can find the Mexican fast food joint in nine different Iowa cities. The other two winners don’t have any locations in Iowa.

An honorable mention that can’t be overlooked in the list is the Midwest’s fast food champion: Culver’s. The home of the butter burger was ranked seventh out of 10 on 10Best’s list.

The best restaurants for fast and healthy cooking

For those looking for a nutritious yet quick option to eat, 10Best has ranked the best restaurants for quick but healthy meals. Only one of the top three restaurants is in Iowa. Tropical Smoothie Cafe is located in nine different cities across Iowa.

• First place: The Crazy Chicken

• Second place: Mediterranean Taziki Coffee

• Third place: Tropical Smoothie Coffee

Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Des Moines Register. Contact her at kkealey@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter at @kkealey17.

This article was originally published on the Des Moines Register: How many of the best fast food chains can you find in Iowa?