5 More Regional Chains That We Wish Were National Slideshow

5. B Spot Burgers: Ohio

B Spot Burgers is an Ohio burger chain by chef Michael Symon, an Iron Chef on Food Network. He has four restaurants, all of which have won numerous awards, and B Spot Burgers serves burgers that are made of custom-blended beef just for the restaurant. The menu is extensive and features everything from simple burgers like the "Plain Jane" to gourmet creations like the "French Onion," a burger with bacon, Gruyère horseradish fondue, caramelized onions, "Sha Sha sauce," and crispy onions.

4. Squeeze Inn: California

The original Squeeze Inn burger joint was given its name for obvious reasons — patrons literally had to squeeze to fit into the tiny restaurant. The location was originally in the entrance of a Waffle House, where coats and hats were hung, but since then the chain has expanded to many California locations. Their famous Squeezeburger with Cheese is a burger that is grilled, topped with cheese and a bun, and then cooked under a hood with ice chips.

3. Pal’s Sudden Service: Tennessee and Virginia

Affectionately called Pal's by fans, this chain prides itself on customer satisfaction and retention. The menu features standard fast-food favorites, like burgers, hot dogs, and fries. Their namesake burger, the Big Pal, is a 1/3-pound burger on a large bun with mayonnaise, onion, lettuce, and tomato. Their most popular item is actually a beverage, the Pal's Tea, a quart-sized cup of sweet tea served open to close.

2. Cook-Out: North Carolina

This privately owned chain based in North Carolina has now spread to the neighboring states of Tennessee, Virginia, and South Carolina with more than 100 locations. The restaurant specialty is grilled hamburgers and hot dogs "cook-out style," as well as their premium milkshakes with flavors like Banana Pudding and Chocolate Cherry. The menu also includes some Carolina-style barbecue. Most of the locations have a drive-thru as well as outdoor seating.

1. The Varsity: Atlanta

The original Varsity was opened in 1928, and since then the fast-food chain has grown to be one of the most beloved and iconic restaurants in Atlanta. The original location in downtown Atlanta is the world's largest drive-in — on its two acres, it can accommodate 600 cars and more than 800 people! Their menu is filled with fan favorites, like chili cheese dogs, burgers (some of the best around, too), the Frosted Orange shake, and fried pies, and the company boasts of using the freshest ingredients.