Fast food used to be the quick fix for a cheap, speedy meala value-priced solution for hunger or a family dinner on the run. Those days are disappearing rapidly as the price at quick-service chains rises to match casual dining menus. Inflation, supply chain woes, and increased labor costs are taking their toll on consumers, while multiple chains post record profits. It is the fuel for frustration with consumers complaining on Reddit, TikTok, and elsewhere about shelling out premium prices for diminishing value. In this expose, we take a look at ten fast food behemoths raking in the most criticism for overcharging, examining what’s driving costs higher and why consumers feel they’re being shortchanged. Buckle upthese prices may make you think twice about your next drive-thru run.
1. Panera
Panera’s fast-casual reputation guarantees better quality, yet most customers complain that it’s not living up to its promise. Brandished “overpriced hospital food” on Reddit, its tiny portionsa $15-$18 grilled cheese and soup combo that hardly fillsenrage. Staff members disclose regular price increases, with one saying, “They’ve raised prices every three months for years,” attributing them to corporate strategies and increasing ingredient prices. Customers even complain about “shrinkflation,” such as the Chicken Frontega sandwich stingily using little chicken. A Ciabatta Cheesesteak with chips is more than $12, and throwing in a $3 drink or $2-$5 pastry puts a meal at $17. Customers believe Panera’s value is no longer commensurate with its high price point.
2. Chipotle
Chipotle’s build-your-own burritos and bowls have long been beloved, but prices are putting loyalty to the test. A burrito bowl, which was $7.65 in 2020, now costs over $10a 20% increase. A viral TikTok revealed a $21 bowl, sparking outrage over stingy portions and pricey add-ons such as guacamole or double meat. One Redditor itemized a $19 purchase: a double steak burrito with queso, guacamole, chips, and Mexican Coke. Add-ons can cost $10, making a full meal seem extravagant. Even after October’s 2-3% price increases, Chipotle sales remain steady, but some say it’s testing consumer patience too much.
3. Five Guys
Five Guys exploded onto the fast-casual market with fresh, hand-smashed burgers and overflowing fries, but high prices cause eyebrows to raise. A cheeseburger, regular fry, and beverage can cost $20, more akin to sit-down dining prices. The company justifies this with never-frozen ingredients, unlimited toppings, and peanut oil frying. But patrons flincha shared receipt was for a $22 bacon cheeseburger meal. Even the most inexpensive burger begins at $8, and the new $13.99 combo (mini burger, fry, beverage) leaps with add-ons. Customers wonder if quality is worth the high price.
4. Shake Shack
Shake Shack’s “fine-casual” image, using antibiotic-free beef and sustainable sourcing, raises the bar. But inflation14-20% meat price increases in one yearprompted several 2022 price increases, some items increasing 10%. A single-patty burger begins at $7.49, and a Triple Smoke Shack Burger reaches $15.49. Fries ($4.99) and a beverage add costs, with a $1 app-based beverage discount seeming insufficient. A Redditor named Culver’s a better value, and Preply’s research reveals Shake Shack prices ahead of value, having customers wonder whether the premium experience is worth it.
5. Dave’s Hot Chicken
Dave’s Hot Chicken introduces loud flavors, but its pricing takes away. A 10-tender Hot Box costs $45, excluding sides or drinks, which add $3-$4 each. Fans praise the large tenders, claiming two can satisfy, but many reject this as justification. Reddit rants highlight frustration, with diners vowing to find cheaper chicken elsewhere. The high price for an over-the-top fast-food staple seems too much, dividing customers into those willing to accept the value of gargantuan portions and those who deem the price unreasonable.
6. Raising Cane’s
Raising Cane’s finger-lickin’ good chicken fingers are a favorite, but prices are a letdown. “The Caniac” (six tenders, fries, coleslaw, toast, drink) is over $15, and some accuse tenders of being smaller, contributing to “shrinkflation” complaints. Customers perceive that the value is not worth the price versus years ago. One Redditor recommended Sam’s Club for bulk tenders and fries at $18, a budget saver. Though not as expensive as Dave’s, Raising Cane’s increasing prices cause diners to wonder if it is still worth the visit.
7. Buffalo Wild Wings
Buffalo Wild Wings (B-Dubs) is a wing paradise, but its prices hurt. A standard order can approach $15, with add-ons such as onion rings or cheese curds almost doubling fries’ price, sending bills into the realm of sit-down restaurant fare. Reddit and Facebook threads bemoan the change, with customers feeling ripped off. The Value Bundle menu provides some relief, but even these “deals” seem expensive compared to conventional fast food. B-Dubs’ increasing prices test its thrifty image, with fans pining for wings without the wallet blow.
8. Starbucks
Starbucks, never a place for bargains on coffee, continues to shock with prices. Add-ons such as extra syrup, espresso shots, or toppings inflate prices, with one staff member creating a $45 drink through the app. The grande coffee by itself is expensive, but add-ons turn a quick visit into an extravagance. Social media customers declare they cannot afford to pay for their daily coffee, securing Starbucks’ position as an overpriced chain leader. The power to customize is expensive, so each receipt is a surprise waiting to happen.
9. KFC
KFC’s retro 1990s $5 two-piece meal is a distant memory; current combos cost between $9-$13, with a side, biscuit, and drink. Although more inclusive than certain chains, consumers lament lost affordability. Reddit forums are missing sound explanations for the increases, leaving customers upset. The disparity between days gone by and today, with not-so-perceptible quality improvements, sustains discontent. KFC’s evolution from budget brand to more expensive choice has devoted fans wistfully sighing over lost value.
10. Arby’s
Arby’s curly fries and roast beef sandwiches are popular, but even fans refer to prices as “outrageous.” A Kid’s Roast Beef Meal increased 40%, and a Half Pound Beef and Cheddar Sandwich is $8before side dishes or beverages, which bring a meal to over $12. Reddit commenters are surprised at the price for so-called “greasy” fare. Whether Arby’s unique flavors are worth the price is a matter of taste, but most think it does not compare with other fast food or casual dining establishments.
The Vanishing Value of Fast Food
The era of low-cost, hassle-free fast food is fading. From Panera’s small portions to Starbucks’ money-sucking customizations, these chains emphasize an increasing divergence between cost and value. Not only are people paying more, they’re receiving less, with “shrinkflation” and high extras wearing down trust. As fast-food prices creep into casual dining range, consumers are reconsidering their options, looking for places where their dollars go the furthest. Remaining value-conscious is the name of the game in today’s expensive fast-food world.
