Much like the inventors of the drive-thru and the value meal, the pioneers of fast food truly grasped a universal craving. Towson offers a deliciously diverse landscape of quick-service classics, from crispy fried chicken sandwiches that defy their humble origins to burritos so generously stuffed they require strategic eating. Here are the best fast food spots in town. And if you’re craving something beyond a burger, you’re in luck.
Subway
$ | (410) 825-7827 | WEBSITE
It’s not that hard to make a decent sandwich. But creating one that makes you want to return again and again? That’s an achievement—and no place does it like this Subway. The Towson location serves up generous sandwiches that are well-loaded with everything from turkey to bacon and fresh vegetables. Whatever you choose from their standard menu will be satisfying, but get the Turkey Cali Club when in doubt. And always appreciate the spotless facility and friendly service from staff like Padma.
MOD Pizza
$ | (443) 901-3669 | WEBSITE
MOD Pizza’s generous customizable pies—about the size of a large dinner plate—will satisfy you until your next pizza craving hits. There’s no wrong choice, but the classic cheese pizza, topped with their signature tomato sauce and thin hand-tossed crust, is our favorite. Or, swing by before the dinner rush and try their garlic cheese bread. It doesn’t have a flashy name, but it’s delicious and straightforward with just garlic, cheese, and a lot of buttery goodness.
Shake Shack Towson
$ | (410) 498-4790 | WEBSITE
The bacon cheeseburger from this Towson spot is more effective at satisfying our cravings than any other fast food joint. That’s because of the fresh beef, melted cheese, and crispy bacon that comes together to create a mix of savory, juicy goodness. Shake Shack also has other classic menu items that we’ll always make a detour for, like the cheese fries loaded with melty cheese sauce and the rich milkshakes that balance out the meal perfectly.
McDonald’s
$ | (410) 823-6760 | WEBSITE
The fries are a highlight at this McDonald’s in Towson, but don’t sleep on the Bacon Quarter Pounder. There are some quality issues reported, but we especially love the warm fries and available seating. You do also have some timing considerations: the drive-thru isn’t 24/7 and staff can be overwhelmed at night. And it’s worth noting the varied customer experience, which, unless you’re willing to wait through long lines or incorrect orders, is something to consider—this location has mixed reviews.
New York Fried Chicken Fish & Grill
$ | (410) 616-9059 | WEBSITE
There are a lot of controversial questions in Towson. Should the university expand its campus? Is the mall really haunted? But one debate we’re happy to weigh in on is who makes the area’s best fried chicken. It’s clearly New York Fried Chicken Fish & Grill. The spot focuses on just a few fantastic dishes that, despite being packed with flavor, are so balanced they should join the circus and do tightrope walks.
Classic items aren’t just fine-tuned, they get bonuses of perfect breading and a crispy texture, which is even crunchier after a trip in the fryer and still maintains a satisfying tenderness.
Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers
$ | (410) 246-0939 | WEBSITE
At Raising Cane’s in downtown Towson, chicken fingers sizzle in the fryer, college kids crowd the bright red booths, and friendly staff calls out names for pickup orders over the lively chatter. The menu is straightforward fast food, from hot and crispy chicken fingers to golden fries and creamy coleslaw. We’re always drawn to the classic combo. Getting the basket with perfectly juicy chicken, crinkle-cut fries, and that signature Cane’s sauce for dipping is the best decision you’ll make today.
QDOBA Mexican Eats
$ | (410) 296-2787 | WEBSITE
QDOBA Mexican Eats is a fast-casual spot in Towson that also happens to serve a phenomenal birria as a protein option. It’s so great, in fact, that we actually refer to QDOBA Mexican Eats as The Birria Destination. Their menu also has plenty of other fresh and ready items catering to various dietary needs. Get whatever looks good, and don’t leave without trying their dairy-free and gluten-free options.
Chick-fil-A
$ | (410) 816-3598 | WEBSITE
The chicken at this fast-food spot in Towson lives up to Chick-fil-A’s well-earned reputation. Menu items here come in various sizes (like the classic 8-count or 12-count nuggets) and all are consistently satisfying. Don’t believe us? Just try the classic chicken sandwich, a reliable favorite featuring a perfectly seasoned filet on a buttery bun that’s substantial enough to make a complete meal.
Enjoy it quickly at a table inside the bright, clean dining area, or grab it to go from the efficient curbside pickup.
Kerb restaurant
$ | (443) 900-9656 | WEBSITE
The aroma of sizzling cheesesteaks will pull you into Kerb restaurant in Towson like a hungry student to a late-night food truck. Follow the scent straight to the modest counter for your prize: the classic cheesesteak, featuring that perfect blend of thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and grilled onions. And, like all the other sandwiches here, it’s piled high with toppings and substantial enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetite.
Also be sure to try the daily specials, which might include variations like the spicy jalapeño cheesesteak or the mushroom-swiss version with caramelized onions.
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
$ | (443) 901-4178 | WEBSITE
We head to the reliable Popeyes in Towson Mall for crispy chicken that costs just $8 for a classic meal—a.k.a. less than it takes to circle the parking garage twice. More specifically, we’re here for the chicken sandwich, loaded with hot, moist chicken, pickles, and mayo. Your taste buds might tingle from the Cajun spices, in the best way.
Whatever you do, get the chicken fingers—the ones served here are golden brown, perfectly crispy, and have a tender interior that won’t leave you chewing endlessly. The bright, clean dining area with its simple booths and cheerful lighting makes for a quick, satisfying stop, especially when the friendly staff keeps things moving smoothly.