Fast food is one of those things people get real passionate about. Whether it’s your hometown burger joint or a regional chain you swear by, everyone thinks their go-to is the best—and they’ll fight about it online. But what about the places that are all hype and no flavor?

On a recent episode of MZNOW, the crew took a hilarious deep dive into what they consider the most overrated fast food chains in America. And yes, some beloved classics got roasted.

In-N-Out: Great Burger or Just “Fine”?

California’s pride and joy, In-N-Out Burger, was the first to take a hit.

“I love In-N-Out, but it’s 100% overrated,” said host Michael Zavala. “It’s a great burger, but it’s not as good as everyone makes it out to be.”

This one stings for a lot of people. The West Coast staple is known for its fresh ingredients, minimalist menu, and cult following. But for some, that love is more about nostalgia than flavor.

“If your burger needs all that animal-style sauce to taste good, maybe it’s not a good burger to begin with,” Michael added.

Harsh. But fair?

Whataburger: A Texas Favorite That’s… Meh?

Next on the chopping block? Whataburger—Texas’ golden child.

“Whataburger has always been inconsistent,” Michael said. “Even before they sold it to a Chicago company, it was never great.”

The panel recounted late-night visits to a specific Whataburger location that always served the same thing—regardless of your order.

“We could order anything and still get a sausage, egg, and cheese,” added Clark. “It didn’t matter.”

Even more frustrating? The wait time.

“How are you calling yourself fast food when it takes 30 minutes to get through the drive-thru?” Michael said.

Ouch.

Portillo’s: Chicagoans, Please Don’t Come for Us

But the chain that really got dragged was Portillo’s, the Chicago-based chain known for its Italian beef sandwiches and hot dogs.

“That’s the worst restaurant I’ve ever been to,” said Michael. “It’s like fair food. Like something you’d get in a parking lot carnival.”

He went on to say he’s given it multiple chances—at different locations, including the original in Chicago.

“I’ve tried everything on their menu. Every time, it’s been garbage,” he said. “I think it’s a joke Chicagoans tell tourists—like, ‘Let’s see if they actually go to Portillo’s.’”

If you’re from Chicago, you might feel personally attacked. But the crew was united in their verdict: Portillo’s doesn’t live up to the hype.

Honorable Mention: Waffle House

To round out the list, Waffle House also got a side-eye.

“It’s not even about the greasy food—there’s no flavor,” said Zavala “It’s just bad.”

Still, some admitted Waffle House has its place—mostly at 2 a.m. after a night out.

“Who’s going there sober?” Lola joked. “You gotta be a little drunk to enjoy it.”

The Takeaway

Everyone has their favorites when it comes to fast food. And just because a place is overrated doesn’t mean it’s bad—it just might not deserve all the hype. 

Whether it’s In-N-Out, Whataburger, or Portillo’s, the real test is this: Would you still eat it if no one was posting about it on Instagram?

So next time someone tells you to try that “must-have” local chain, maybe lower your expectations—or bring some backup fries.