Jersey Mike's Surpasses Chick-fil-A in Customer Satisfaction Rankings: ACSI Study 2026
A popular fast-food chicken chain in America has been surpassed in customer satisfaction rankings. Chick-fil-A, which held the top spot in the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) in 2025, has now been edged out by Jersey Mike's, with a score of 84 out of 100 compared to Chick-fil-A's 83.
This shift marks the first time in over a decade that a new chain has taken the lead in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) category according to the latest ACSI study. The study, based on over 16,000 completed surveys conducted between April 2025 and March 2026, highlighted Jersey Mike's as a new leader in the QSR category.
Jersey Mike's success was attributed to its high customer satisfaction levels and rapid expansion of restaurant locations. The chain's business model, focused on throughput and off-premise convenience, has contributed to its positive performance.
Jersey Mike's, founded in 1956 in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, has over 4,000 locations across the United States and Canada. Known for its made-to-order subs and signature "Mike's Way" sandwiches, the chain has garnered praise for its menu offerings and franchisee-friendly model.
Despite being dethroned by Jersey Mike's, Chick-fil-A remains a top contender in the chicken category, according to the ACSI. Following Chick-fil-A in the rankings were Jimmy John's and Panda Express, tied for third place with scores of 81.
Other notable chains in the rankings included KFC, Papa John's, Pizza Hut, Domino's, Raising Cane's, Starbucks, and Subway, each earning varying scores. Burger King, Culver's, Dunkin', Little Caesars, and Panera Bread rounded out the rankings with scores of 78.
On the lower end of the rankings were Dairy Queen and McDonald's, tying for last place among major quick-service chains with scores of 72. Jersey Mike's and Chick-fil-A were contacted for comment by Fox News Digital regarding the rankings.