You’re not usually one for drive-thrus. But between the 101 traffic backing up past the Marin Civic Center and getting stuck behind someone meticulously counting exact change at the toll booth, you’re officially hangry with no time for a sit-down meal. Some fast food spots will leave you regretting your life choices, and others will shame you with soggy fries. So if you’re craving convenience without compromise, start with these seven Novato gems.
Chick-fil-A
$ | (415) 328-1771 | WEBSITE
One more very quick fast-food option when you’re strapped for time. Chick-fil-A is especially convenient if you’re running errands around Novato or need a reliable meal on the go. Come by yourself or with the kids and see how quickly you can enjoy a chicken wrap and an order of waffle fries. They don’t have any alcohol here, so you should just splurge on the parfait for dessert.
In-N-Out Burger
$ | (800) 786-1000 | WEBSITE
This is by no means our preferred In-N-Out Burger in the area (mostly because it’s in the Hamilton Mall, surrounded by hundreds of parking spaces and a sea of suburban traffic). But it’s still an In-N-Out Burger nonetheless, and it’ll be there for you when you need it the most. And even when the drive-thru line is longer than whatever the latest streaming series is currently running, ordering a protein-style animal-style double-double and some fries here is still a relatively quick process.
Taco Bell
$ | (415) 898-4003 | WEBSITE
From what we can tell, the staff at Taco Bell operates as if they assume everyone is on the brink of a full-blown hunger emergency. What this means is that your order at this fast food spot gets taken almost immediately and the food – like tuna tacos, truffle mac & cheese, and NY ribeye – comes out fast. We recommend the mobile app for discounts, it comes with either consistent quality or inconsistent quality depending on the day.
Jack In The Box
$ | (415) 878-0465 | WEBSITE
Jack in the Box is a consistently good option for fast food if you just want some curly fries and a few tacos. We pretty much always get the same thing when we’re here: their special where you can pick three tacos for $8. You should be aware that the space looks a little like the set of a play in its own regard. A play that takes place in a clean, relaxing fast-food joint in 2026, just after the latest app deals.
If you need further proof, keep an eye out for someone wearing a blazer and drinking a strawberry shake out of a large cup.
Pearl
$ | (415) 761-9469 | WEBSITE
The $15 lunch special at Pearl was designed with convenience (and student’s budget) in mind. A meal at this casual eatery takes just about twenty minutes, which means you can feel certain you’ll know exactly when you’ll be finished, down to the second. You’ll also know exactly what options are available – all the favorites are listed on the kiosk, and include Vietnamese sandwiches, poke bowls, and a combo with pot stickers and boba tea.
To place an order, use the contactless screen (or go to their website), and then make sure you actually arrive promptly for pickup.
Burger King
$ | (415) 883-2566 | WEBSITE
Burger King is the solution to your neverending family group text arguing about places that won’t be too loud or expensive before you all see a movie at the local theater (the kids’ favorite). The fast food at this restaurant is simple and delicious, and everyone can get their own charbroiled burger or a nicely prepared order of BK fries with some soda. You won’t have to wait for parking, and the space feels clean and removed from highway stress despite being right off the exit.
Panda Express
$ | (415) 892-2163 | WEBSITE
Panda Express is a bit more polished than some of the other spots on this list, so if you need to grab a decent meal in about the time it takes to watch a sitcom, make it this clean and welcoming restaurant. The dishes cost around $8-12 per plate (with some combos running a bit higher). And since everything’s prepared fast-casual style, your food comes out quickly. Although their variety of meats is definitely their thing, there are plenty of meatless options like excellent salad choices.
And, in the event that there’s a line, you could always swing by later – this place stays open until 10pm during the week and 11pm on the weekends.