Whether you’re a Grammy Award-winning singer, an NFL star, or a home cook, everyone has a favorite chain restaurant. From Applebee’s to Olive Garden, chain restaurants hold a special place in our dining routines—even celebrity chefs indulge from time to time.
While the choice of a go-to restaurant often depends on mood and location, many Americans have their favorites. Each year, Technomic releases its “America’s Favorite Chains” study, highlighting the top 10 franchise brands based on customer feedback. The 2024 results are in, and the top spot might surprise you.
Nothing Bundt Cakes Takes the No. 1 Spot
According to Nation’s Restaurant News, Nothing Bundt Cakes has been crowned America’s favorite restaurant chain for 2024. Specializing in Bundt cakes of various flavors and sizes, the bakery chain is renowned for its moist cakes and signature icing. Popular flavors include Red Velvet, Chocolate Chocolate Chip, Carrot, Confetti, and White Chocolate Raspberry. The chain also introduces limited-time featured flavors every month.
Founded in 1997 in Dallas, Texas, Nothing Bundt Cakes has grown into the nation’s largest specialty cake retailer, boasting over 660 locations across 40 states, with further expansion plans in the pipeline.
What Sets Nothing Bundt Cakes Apart?
In the 2024 survey, Nothing Bundt Cakes achieved the highest overall score based on several key categories: Service & Hospitality, Unit Appearance & Ambiance, Food & Beverage, Convenience & Takeout, and Value. The bakery chain dethroned the 2023 champion, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, which took second place this year.
The top 10 favorite chains for 2024 are:
- Nothing Bundt Cakes
- Ruth’s Chris Steak House
- Dutch Bros Coffee
- Seasons 52
- Tropical Smoothie Cafe
- The Capital Grille
- Fogo de Chão
- Smoothie King
- Bahama Breeze Island Grille
- Texas Roadhouse
Despite the growing popularity of dessert chains like Crumbl Cookies, Nothing Bundt Cakes is the only bakery to break into the top 10, a distinction the company is proud of.
“We are committed to remaining the nation’s premier destination for group celebrations and individual treats. Every new flavor and bakery opening is a step toward spreading more joy among families and friends,” said Nothing Bundt Cakes CEO Dolf Berle.
A Sweet Surprise for Customers
While a bakery chain topping the list was unexpected, it’s easy to see why. Fans have raved about the cakes for years.
“The BEST!! The icing isn’t too sweet, and the cake is always MOIST,” commented one Instagram user.
If you haven’t yet tried their iced Bundt cakes, perhaps this recognition will inspire a visit to your local Nothing Bundt Cakes store.
