Technomic Announces 2016 Consumers' Choice Awards for Chain Restaurants

As part of its comprehensive Consumer Brand Metrics program, Technomic, a research and consulting firm servicing the food industry, asked consumers to rate more than 120 leading U.S. restaurant chains on more than 60 different attributes, such as the quality of the food and the overall brand reputation.

“It’s important to point out that it’s the consumers who rated the chains and selected winners,” said Darren Tristano, president of Technomic, in a press release. “In essence, the award is from the customers themselves.”

In the Quick Service category, the take-and-bake pizzeria Papa Murphy’s was top for Food Quality, while Chick-fil-A provided the best perceived Value Through Service. The Vermont-based ice cream parlor, Ben & Jerry’s, was deemed the most Socially Responsible while In-N-Out Burger customers showed the greatest Intent to Return.

Moving up the scale, Firehouse Subs won Food Quality in the Fast Casual category. The freaky-fast sandwich connoisseurs, Jimmy John’s, had the best Value Through Service, Chipotle’s “food with integrity” was ranked most Socially Responsible and Rubio’s customers expressed the most Intent to Return to this "Fresh Mex" restaurant.

And in the Full Service category, Bonefish Grill, a casual seafood joint, came out on top with best Food Quality, while Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen prompted the highest Intent to Return. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store was best Value Through Service, and Seasons 52, an upscale wine bar and grill, emerged top of the Socially Responsible metric.