Fear of missing out on fast food? 7 popular restaurant chains we wish we had in Louisville

Whether you’re picking up a pizza or talking about tacos, there’s no shortage of dining options in Louisville to fit any mood. That is unless you’re craving a chain without a nearby location. With that in mind, here’s a list of eateries we wish would launch in Louisville, as determined by a few of us at the Courier Journal.

What are other spots you’d like to have in the area? Let us know at ahancock@courier-journal.com.

1. In-N-Out Burger

In-n-out.com; Nearest Location: Tucson, Arizona 

As the California staple celebrates its 75th anniversary, residents of only a handful of states can get their hands on a “Double Double,” or other popular options, from In-N-Out. The famous burger chain is also known for preparing orders with fresh ingredients.

2. Del Taco

Deltaco.com; Nearest Location: Circleville, Ohio

This California-founded chain with nearly 600 locations has not yet made it to Kentucky. Del Taco is the place to go for tortas, burritos, and quesadillas as well as burgers, loaded fries, and doughnut bites.

3. Whataburger

Whataburger.com; Nearest location: Gallatin, Tennessee

Where in the world is Whataburger? Not Louisville. Or Kentucky. The 70-year-old chain has more than 700 locations in Texas and dozens across a few other states. Whataburger is known for its orange-and-white striped design and for that Fancy Ketchup.

4. Tim Hortons

Timhortons.com; Nearest Location: Ashland, Kentucky

It’s like Canada in a cup. Tim Hortons, a beloved stop for doughnuts and coffee, has been expanding beyond Canada for years, with help from fans such as Justin Bieber. If you’re up for a drive, there are locations in Ashland, Kentucky, and in Ohio.

5. Shake Shack

Shakeshack.com; Nearest Location: Lexington, Kentucky

What are we to do without this other popular burger chain? We could just shake it off. Luckily, Shake Shack isn’t too far away. The joint is known for its gourmet take on fast-food burgers and frozen custard.

6. Jeni’s Ice Cream

Jenis.com; Nearest Location: Cincinnati, Ohio

Founded in Columbus, Ohio, Jeni’s Ice Cream opened its first store in 2002. The ice cream empire offers unique flavors such as Brambleberry Crisp, Brown Butter Almond Brittle, and Salted Peanut Butter with Chocolate Flecks.

7. Portillo’s

Portillos.com; nearest location: Indianapolis, Indiana

You no longer have to venture all the way to Chicago for the quintessential Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef and burgers served at Portillo’s. The chain might be slightly out of reach for Louisville residents, but it has locations in Illinois, Indiana, Arizona, California, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan.

Reach food and dining reporter Amanda Hancock at ahancock@courier-journal.com.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: 7 restaurants we wish we had in Louisville: In-N-Out Burger, Del Taco