South Africa’s fast-food scene is as diverse and vibrant as the country itself, offering a fusion of traditional and international flavours. From juicy burgers to crispy chicken and indulgent sides, fast food is a beloved part of many South Africans’ daily lives. Here’s a list of 50 popular fast-food items you have to try at least once to experience the best the local and global fast-food chains have to offer.
1. Steers’ Flame-Grilled Burger
Steers is famous for its flame-grilled burgers that boast a smoky, chargrilled taste. The Steers Ultimate Burger is a must-try for meat lovers.
2. KFC’s Zinger Burger
KFC’s Zinger Burger is a spicy, crispy chicken burger that packs a punch with its delicious flavour and crispy coating.
3. Wimpy’s Breakfast Platter
Wimpy is a go-to spot for breakfast. Their Full Breakfast Platter, featuring eggs, bacon, sausage, and hash browns, is perfect to start the day.
4. McDonald’s Big Mac
The iconic Big Mac, with its signature three-bun stack and special sauce, is a fast-food classic that every South African should try.
5. Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken
Nando’s peri-peri chicken, especially their famous quarter chicken with sides like corn on the cob and rice, is a South African favourite.
6. Burger King’s Whopper
The Whopper from Burger King, with its flame-grilled beef patty, lettuce, tomato, and pickles, is an essential burger for fast-food fans.
7. Roman’s Pizza Classic Margherita
Roman’s Pizza offers fantastic value, and their Classic Margherita is a delicious, simple pizza that showcases the quality of their ingredients.
8. Chicken Licken’s Soulfire Wings
Known for their unique flavour, Chicken Licken’s Soulfire Wings are both spicy and tangy—perfect for anyone who loves bold tastes.
9. Panarotti’s Margherita Pizza
If you’re a fan of pizza, Panarotti’s Margherita pizza is a must-try with its fresh, quality ingredients and mouth-watering flavours.
10. Debonairs Pizza’s Triple-Decker Pizza
For a pizza experience unlike any other, try the Triple-Decker pizza from Debonairs—three layers of toppings for a deliciously indulgent meal.
11. The Fish & Chips Co’s Hake and Chips
The Fish & Chips Co offers some of the best fried fish in the country. Their battered hake with crispy chips is the perfect comfort food.
12. Café Riva’s Biltong and Avo Wrap
A unique South African twist on a fast-food wrap, Café Riva’s Biltong and Avo Wrap offers a delicious combination of biltong, creamy avocado, and fresh veggies.
13. Rocomama’s Ribs and Chips
Rocomama’s famous ribs, served with crispy fries, offer a satisfying meal for anyone craving hearty comfort food.
14. Steers’ Loaded Fries
If you love fries, Steers’ Loaded Fries are a must-try. They are topped with melted cheese, bacon bits, and sauce, making them a meal on their own.
15. KFC’s Chicken Popcorn
Perfect for snacking or sharing, KFC’s Chicken Popcorn is a delightful, crispy bite-sized treat.
16. Kauai’s Acai Bowl
Kauai’s Acai Bowl offers a healthier yet delicious fast-food option packed with antioxidants and natural sweetness.
17. McDonald’s McChicken
The McChicken is another fan-favourite, featuring a crispy chicken patty topped with lettuce, mayo, and pickles.
18. Spur’s Ribs
Spur is a popular South African restaurant chain, and their ribs, served with steakhouse-style sides, are a must-try for anyone who loves a good BBQ.
19. King Pie’s Steak & Kidney Pie
King Pie offers a great range of pies, but the Steak & Kidney Pie is a classic that many swear by.
20. Wimpy’s Chicken Schnitzel
Wimpy’s Chicken Schnitzel, lightly breaded and perfectly fried, is a great option for anyone who enjoys a crispy, savoury meal.
21. Nando’s Peri-Peri Chips
Nando’s peri-peri chips, crispy on the outside and tender inside, are the perfect complement to any meal from the chain.
22. The Pizza Company’s BBQ Chicken Pizza
The Pizza Company’s BBQ Chicken Pizza is a crowd favourite, combining rich barbecue sauce with juicy chicken, red onions, and cheese.
23. Steers’ Chicken Wrap
Steers’ Chicken Wraps are loaded with juicy, flame-grilled chicken, fresh salad, and a tangy sauce—perfect for a lighter meal.
24. Chicken Licken’s Dip & Crunch
Chicken Licken’s Dip & Crunch combo, which includes crispy fried chicken served with a rich dipping sauce, is an indulgent treat.
25. McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish
The Filet-O-Fish is a classic for seafood lovers, featuring a crispy fish fillet topped with tartar sauce in a soft bun.
26. Debonairs’ Sweet Chilli Chicken Pizza
Debonairs’ Sweet Chilli Chicken Pizza is a sweet and spicy treat, featuring tender chicken, a sweet chilli sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
27. The Fish & Chips Co’s Fish Tacos
For a unique spin on fast food, try the Fish & Chips Co’s Fish Tacos, featuring fresh fish wrapped in a soft tortilla with crisp slaw.
28. Nando’s Burger with Extra Peri-Peri Sauce
If you’re a fan of spicy food, try the Nando’s burger with extra peri-peri sauce for an extra kick.
29. Rocomama’s Gourmet Burger
Rocomama’s offers gourmet burgers, made to your specifications. The gourmet burgers are stacked high with flavour and perfectly cooked patties.
30. Roman’s Pizza Meat Feast
Roman’s Meat Feast pizza is a meat lover’s dream, topped with a generous mix of beef, chicken, and pork for a hearty and delicious meal.
31. Spur’s Chicken Wings
Spur’s chicken wings, seasoned and served with a choice of dipping sauces, are great for sharing with friends.
32. Kauai’s Veggie Burger
For a healthier fast-food option, Kauai’s Veggie Burger is a great choice with its wholesome patty, fresh veggies, and whole-grain bun.
33. McDonald’s McFlurry
A McFlurry from McDonald’s is the perfect treat for anyone with a sweet tooth, combining creamy ice cream with a variety of toppings.
34. The Pizza Company’s Margherita Pizza
For those who love simplicity, the Margherita pizza from The Pizza Company is a classic, featuring fresh basil, mozzarella, and tomato.
35. King Pie’s Chicken Pie
A deliciously flaky pastry filled with tender chicken, King Pie’s Chicken Pie is a satisfying snack or meal option.
36. KFC’s Mighty Bucket for One
KFC’s Mighty Bucket for One offers a combination of chicken pieces, sides, and dipping sauces, perfect for a solo indulgence.
37. Debonairs’ Cheesy Crust Pizza
Debonairs’ Cheesy Crust Pizza has a cheesy, stuffed crust that takes pizza indulgence to the next level.
38. Wimpy’s Wimpy Burger
Wimpy’s classic Wimpy Burger, with a beef patty, lettuce, tomato, and sauce, is a great example of a simple, delicious fast food meal.
39. Nando’s Peri-Peri Wings
Nando’s Peri-Peri Wings are the perfect balance of spicy and smoky, served hot and fresh.
40. Spur’s Famous BBQ Ribs
Spur’s BBQ ribs are known for their tender meat and signature BBQ sauce, offering a finger-licking experience.
41. Rocomama’s Buffalo Wings
If you’re into spicy wings, Rocomama’s Buffalo Wings, drenched in hot sauce, are a must-try.
42. McDonald’s Chicken McNuggets
McDonald’s Chicken McNuggets are a popular snack option, served with your choice of dipping sauces.
43. Steers’ Sweet Chili Chicken Wrap
Steers’ Sweet Chili Chicken Wrap is a delicious, spicy option for a quick, filling meal.
44. The Fish & Chips Co’s Calamari
The Fish & Chips Co’s Calamari is a tasty, lightly battered dish that pairs perfectly with crispy fries.
45. Burger King’s Chicken Fries
Burger King’s Chicken Fries are a crispy, chicken-packed snack with a unique shape and delicious flavour.
46. Debonairs’ Chicken Tikka Pizza
Debonairs’ Chicken Tikka Pizza brings Indian flavours to pizza, with spicy chicken tikka, red onions, and tangy sauce.
47. Kauai’s Smoothies
For something refreshing, Kauai’s range of smoothies made with fresh fruit and veggies are a great choice.
48. Wimpy’s Chicken Burger
Wimpy’s Chicken Burger is a crispy chicken patty, lettuce, tomato, and mayo served in a fresh bun, perfect for a quick bite.
49. Roman’s Pizza Seafood Pizza
Roman’s Seafood Pizza, topped with prawns and other seafood, is a delightful treat for seafood lovers.
50. KFC’s Mac & Cheese
KFC’s creamy Mac & Cheese is the perfect comfort food side to complement any of their meals.
South Africa’s fast-food landscape is diverse, offering a fusion of local and international flavours. From crispy chicken to indulgent burgers and pizzas, these 50 items represent the very best fast-food has to offer. Whether you’re craving something spicy, cheesy, or hearty, these dishes will definitely satisfy your hunger and leave you wanting more!
