By Hollie Mann

Alabama’s fast food industry is full of a diverse selection and avid fans. Jack’s, Milo’s, Guthries, Taco Casa, and Foosackly’s are five originally founded across the state. These restaurants have five or more locations and have an open drive-through.

After posting a survey in early November, 100 people across the state of Alabama weighed in on their drive-through opinions. Fast Food Survey to Alabamians

Jack’s

The first Jack’s was founded in Homewood on Nov. 21st, 1960. This location still operates after several remodels. After surveying, Jack’s seems to win for their breakfast menu with 97.6% choosing it. With 264 locations, Jack’s is well known to many.

First Jacks resturant, Photo from eatatjacks.com

Brody Frost, a Locust Fork native and Birmingham real estate agent, commented in our survey on jacks breakfast being an avid memory in his upbringing.

“I grew up with Jack’s, if you did not walk into school with Jack ‘s iced coffee in your hand, you were not cool.” said Frost. 

Jack’s story

Milos

Founded in North Birmingham, Milos Burgers was founded by Milo Carlton, a mess cook in the U.S. Army. In our Survey most said they would choose Milo’s for a lunch option.

Original resturant, Photo from Miloshamburgers.com

Bella Colburn a University of Montevallo student, hailing from Gadsden, AL stated her loyalty to this burger joint when taking part in the survey.

“growing up Milos was always a must stop place when going to Birmingham. It has always been a comfort food for me, especially their sweet tea.” said Colburn

Milos History

Gutherie’s

In the smallest founding town, Guthries started in Haleyville, in 1965. The restaurant was rebranded in 1978 to focus on a more chicken-based menu. Functioning with 48 locations, most people in the survey said they would choose Guthries as a dinner option. 

Original store front. Photo from guthrieschicken.com

Avery Ford a University of Montevallo student from Leeds, AL has a special idea of this drive-through. Growing up around something can make it mean more to those it’s around.

“Guthries is full of nostalgia for me. From the tenders to the delicious Guthries sauce, I know I am back home when I am eating Guthries!”. Said Avery Ford. 

Guthries chicken about-us

Taco Casa

The most unique of these options has to be Taco Casa. The Tex-Mex restaurant was founded in Tuscaloosa in August of 1974. With six locations around the Tuscaloosa and North Port area, a newly opened location will be in Homewood. Popular items on the menu include the taco burger and a sweet tea. 

The original sign of the restaurant. Photo from tacocasa.com

Marcus Bennett a Troy University student from Birmingham, AL has a positive opinion on Taco Casa.

Many have yet to try this fast foot delight due to proximity. “I like taco casa for good food when I don’t want to sit at a restaurant.” said Bennet.

Taco casa about page

Foosackly’s

A popular south option was founded in Moblie and named Foosackly’s. In 2000, Foosackly opened its doors and soon became known for its chicken fingers. Operating 14 locations, this establishment has not passed into central Alabama. Popular to college towns and beach gowers many say it is an affordable option with many delicious items. 

Bigger Box, Photo from eatingexpired.com

Gracie Spann an artist in the Montgomery area was open about her present experiences with Foosackly’s.

“Foosackly is one of the most underrated places to eat. My go-to order is the bigger box with foo sauce! I would compare it to Jacks or Zaxbys but I think Foosacklys has more of a homemade feel to it. Said Spann. 

Foosackly’s Foo Crew

Next time you drive through Alabama think of these franchises as their local start. Every restaurant has something to offer depending on their fans and hungry passengers. With Many menu options from each location there is something for everyone in the great state to try.