Fast food in Duluth is having a moment. (Yes, we checked the drive-thrus at midnight.) As the North Shore’s quick-service scene sizzles, we’ve sampled everything from crispy curds to flaky pasties to bring you this definitive guide. And before you protest that we missed your favorite fry shack, rest assured: our list celebrates everything from classic burgers to boundary-pushing fusion. Dig in or drive on. (No apologies.)
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
$ | (218) 722-0799 | WEBSITE
Burgers are part of Dairy Queen Grill & Chill’s standard fast-food lineup, which means there will often be multiple options ready for a quick pickup, whether that’s a classic cheeseburger or a salad topped with bacon, tomatoes, and crispy chicken. It’s really that consistent quality that makes a difference—the burgers deliver satisfying flavors, the salad stays fresh, and the overall experience feels reliable.
Not to mention that you’re in and out in a flash through the drive-thru, making a family meal run refreshingly straightforward.
Taco John’s
$ | (218) 624-1044 | WEBSITE
There can only be one fast-food champion: the Mexican-inspired dishes at Taco John’s in Duluth. And not only is this the best quick meal—it’s one of the most satisfying dining experiences we’ve had around here. That’s thanks to food that tastes great, a clean and comfortable dining area with ample seating, and employees like James Webster who provide friendly and excellent service.
Pair all of that good stuff with a mobile app that offers deals and promotions for ordering ahead, and you have a restaurant that absolutely delivers on convenience and customer service. Just note that the experience can be inconsistent depending on the day and time, and some might find the prices a bit high.
McDonald’s
$ | (218) 728-2091 | WEBSITE
This McDonald’s on London Road that happens to be a favorite location for many does fast food extremely well. You’ll find classics here made with consistent dedication, including fries that remain a popular choice and hot, fresh burgers. It’s all satisfying, down to every last crunch of crispy fry and perfectly melted cheese on the patties. And while parking is convenient for boats, table service is often preferred, with customers choosing their favorite booths for comfort.
Beijing Restaurant
$ | (218) 724-2627 | WEBSITE
Tucked along London Rd in Duluth, this unassuming Chinese spot dishes out generous, budget-friendly plates worth rerouting your takeout routine for. You’ll find the usual suspects done right—like a classic sweet & sour chicken with fresh, crunchy vegetables or a comforting shrimp lo mein. But Beijing Restaurant doesn’t stop at the basics.
A punchy kung pao chicken elevates the familiar, cashew shrimp is rich and satisfying, and they’re even serving cream cheese wontons that are genuinely delicious. With fast service, friendly owners, and portions big enough for leftovers, it’s become a family favorite for consistent, tasty meals.
Pizza Hut
$ | (218) 624-7000 | WEBSITE
While we’d normally dock points for a pizza that skimps on toppings, we actually appreciate that restraint in Pizza Hut’s hot honey pie. The honey drizzle shows up just when you need it between bites of tangy sauce, stretchy cheese, and crisp crust. The base here is a bit more substantial—imagine a really good diner’s buttery breadstick reinterpreted as a pizza foundation.
Jersey Mike’s Subs
$ | (218) 522-2000 | WEBSITE
From the minds behind the Rosemary Parm bread comes a hefty sub situation that isn’t a total mess to eat. Jersey Mike’s yeasty bread is crackly but soft, with a hefty layer of melted provolone, and meats piled high with just a hint of Chipotle mayo. And while the Big Kahuna has a nice spicy kick, we prefer the classic #7 Club Sub, especially drenched in their signature sauce. Just be quick—sometimes lunchtime regulars will clean out the fresh-baked loaves by early afternoon.
Erbert and Gerbert’s
$ | (218) 724-8100 | WEBSITE
The vegetarian and gluten-free options at this Duluth fast food spot trend a bit pricey and loud, so it’s a nice change of pace to experience their menu in a simpler, quieter format. Only available during off-peak hours, the service shifts up its atmosphere once the music lowers—sometimes it’s nice and you can actually hear your companion, and sometimes it’s great with genuinely attentive staff. You’ll want the latter.
Arby’s
$ | (218) 728-8918 | WEBSITE
Landing just shy of the top spot is Arby’s. The roast beef here is a prime example of tender, thinly sliced perfection, piled high on a toasted bun with just the right amount of au jus for dipping. This fast-food staple now has a location in Duluth, where you can enjoy that signature sandwich fresh off the line while sipping on fountain drinks, shakes, and iced tea.
And though the menu does have its weaker points, you can never go wrong with adding their crispy buffalo chicken sandwich to your order.
Five Guys
$ | (218) 216-1627 | WEBSITE
This fast-food joint in Duluth specializes in custom-built burgers, and their sheer simplicity is refreshing enough, ringing in at just the basics done right. But this isn’t a bare-bones deal—the burgers are actually good. The lineup includes topping choices that just work, like crisp lettuce with juicy tomatoes and tangy pickles, or grilled onions with savory mushrooms.
But don’t ignore the fries, a standout side that features fresh-cut potatoes fried in peanut oil and handfuls upon handfuls of peanuts to snack on while you wait.
Big Daddy’s Burgers
$ | (218) 720-3181 | WEBSITE
This cheerful burger joint from the Big Daddy’s crew serves hefty breakfast plates and towering burgers, among other things like roast beef and gravy and crispy cheese curds. But you’re really here for those breakfast servings, complete with a generous hash brown foundation, edges of golden crispiness, and a consistent layer of savory flavor.
Hearty ingredients impart richness to every dish, and options like the Denver omelet, Maki Meat Mountain omelette, and bacon bagel breakfast sandwich make meals fun to customize.
Taco Bell
$ | (218) 302-5031 | WEBSITE
The taco wizards at Taco Bell now offer a crave box service, and, surprising absolutely nobody, it’s all very good. The build-your-own boxes provide ample value—with vegetarian and dairy-free options here and there—and winning menu combinations involve quality ingredients with good portions, or super fast service with friendly staff like Joshua B and Christopher.
The new, clean facility with easy wheelchair accessibility makes for a positive experience, and if any issues arise, they’re fixed quickly and professionally. Overall, this location is highly recommended for its reliable service and consistent accuracy, even with complicated orders.