If you’ve noticed some of your favorite burger spots just aren’t hitting the same anymore, you’re not alone. A few once-popular chains have recently faced dips in customer satisfaction and even closed locations. This has left many fans wondering which burger chains have seen the biggest drop in quality or appeal.
You might be surprised by which chains are feeling the most heat from changing tastes, rising prices, and increased competition. Whether it’s food quality, service, or menu options, these declines are enough for customers to start looking elsewhere. This article breaks down six burger chains that fans say have taken a noticeable hit recently.
Burger King
If you’ve been to Burger King recently, you might have noticed some changes, and not all for the better. The chain has closed a significant number of locations across major regions, which has caught customers off guard.
Prices jumped around 21% in 2022, making your usual meal more expensive. On top of that, many fans say the food and service quality hasn’t kept up, which is frustrating if you’re used to something better.
Burger King also ranks low in customer satisfaction compared to competitors. So, if you’re thinking about grabbing a quick burger there, your experience might not be what you expect.
BurgerFi
If you’ve noticed BurgerFi lately, you’re not alone. The chain has faced a tough year with declining sales and several closures.
You might remember it for using 100% natural Angus beef, but high prices and mixed reviews about the food quality have hurt its reputation.
BurgerFi even closed 14 locations and is dealing with financial struggles that have fans worried about its future. If you’re a fan, things have definitely changed in recent times.
Shake Shack
If you’ve noticed Shake Shack feeling a bit off lately, you’re not alone. Many fans say the prices have gone up without the quality or experience keeping pace.
You might expect a premium burger for what you pay, but some customers feel it’s just not worth it anymore. The menu keeps getting pricier, and the value just doesn’t match up.
That said, Shake Shack still has those signature flavors you recognize. But if you’re watching your wallet, you might hesitate before ordering.
Whataburger
You might have noticed that Whataburger doesn’t quite feel the same as it used to. Some longtime fans say the quality has dipped since a Chicago venture firm took over.
It seems like Whataburger leans more on marketing and its loyal base than the food standing out. If you’ve been ordering regularly, you might feel the taste or service isn’t quite up to the old standards.
Still, plenty of people stick with it for the nostalgia and convenience, but it’s clear some fans are wondering if the golden years are behind the chain.
Carl’s Jr.
If you’ve been a Carl’s Jr. fan, you might have noticed the quality slipping. What used to be juicy and flavorful burgers now often feel dry and less satisfying. Many people say the taste isn’t what it used to be.
Prices have also gone up, with basic menu items costing significantly more. That makes you wonder if the value is still there. The company tried to stand out with menu items like the “Six Dollar Burger,” but it didn’t convince everyone.
You might also have spotted fewer locations lately. Carl’s Jr. has quietly closed some restaurants, reflecting challenges in keeping customers coming back.
Jack in the Box
If you’re a fan of Jack in the Box, you might have noticed things haven’t been quite the same lately. The chain is closing up to 200 locations by the end of 2025, mainly those that haven’t been performing well.
Sales have dropped quite a bit, with a 7% decline in recent quarters, which is rough for a big burger chain. These changes might be affecting your experience, from slower service to menu shifts.
The company is trying to turn things around, but if you’ve been feeling let down by your visits, you’re not alone.
