There’s something special about regional restaurant chains that only area locals know and love. These are the spots to take out-of-town guests, the restaurants serving up flavors that define entire childhoods, the restaurants we miss when we move away, and the first places we go when we return. Some of these chains are way too good to keep secret, though, and we’ve found some we think deserve to find fame on a national scale.
Will one of these chains be the next McDonald’s or the next Chick-fil-A? They should be, as far as we’re concerned, because we’re going to talk about some of the chains we think bring something just a little bit extra to a market that’s already chock-full of restaurant options all fighting for your business.
There are, of course, a ton of chains that are found in one or only a handful of states, so to make our picks for those worthy of expansion on a grand scale, we looked for neat restaurants that have captured the hearts of those who hail from their home states. These are the ones bringing something new or not often seen to the table, that are breathing new life into old classics, and making longtime staples really well. We’re also of the opinion they’re worthy of being a road trip destination, and who knows — maybe someday, everyone will be fortunate enough to have one of these restaurants opening in their town or city.
Mighty Taco (Buffalo/Western New York)
If you’re from Western New York, there’s a good chance Taco Bell isn’t even on your radar when you’re craving some fast food tacos or burritos. Instead, you’re going to be heading to Mighty Taco. Ask anyone who’s left the area if they miss their usual order of a Super Mighty with a Nachos Deluxe on the side, and you’re likely to get a fond sigh of nostalgia, and you can’t forget about the Mighty Cheddar-Jalapeño Crunchers. How can you not love cheesy hot peppers in a dippable, crispy roll form? Mix things up with a Buffalo wing-inspired burrito — a Buffito — then throw on an apple empanada for dessert, and it’ll take away the pain of even the most disappointing Bills game of the season…