Welcome to PDQ, your go-to fast-casual restaurant chain born in the beautiful state of Florida. In this post, we will explore the vibrant food culture of the Sunshine State and delve into fast food chains that are unique to Florida. As a home-grown chain, PDQ embodies the essence of Florida's vibrant food culture, offering delicious and distinctive menu options. Join us as we explore the diverse and delectable offerings that make Florida a haven for fast food
Fast Food Chains Unique to Florida
Florida is renowned for its diverse and vibrant food culture, influenced by its rich history and multicultural communities. From fresh seafood to tropical fruits, Florida's culinary landscape is a melting pot of flavors and traditions. Fast food chains have become an integral part of this food culture, offering locals and visitors alike a taste of the Sunshine State's unique culinary offerings.
PDQ: A Home-Grown Gem

At the forefront of Florida's unique fast food chains is PDQ, a home-grown sensation that has captured the hearts and taste buds of locals. PDQ is proud of delivering fresh, high-quality ingredients in every dish. Our commitment to using hormone-free chicken ensures that our guests enjoy not only great taste but also peace of mind about the quality of our meal. PDQ's dedication to freshness and quality has solidified its position as a Florida favorite.
LaSpada's Original Philly Cheese Steaks
For those craving an authentic taste of Philadelphia in the heart of Florida, LaSpada's Original Philly Cheese Steaks is the go-to fast food chain. Known for their mouthwatering cheese steaks, LaSpada's uses thinly sliced ribeye steak, grilled onions, and melted cheese, all piled high on a fresh Italian roll. Each bite transports you to the streets of Philadelphia, right in the Sunshine State.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Florida's coastal location makes it the perfect home for seafood-inspired fast food chains. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is a prime example, bringing the flavors of the sea to its customers. Inspired by the movie "Forrest Gump," this chain offers an array of shrimp dishes, from classic fried shrimp to tangy coconut shrimp and savory shrimp gumbo.
Pollo Tropical
With its vibrant Caribbean-inspired menu, Pollo Tropical brings a taste of the tropics to Florida. Known for their flame-grilled chicken marinated in signature spices, Pollo Tropical offers a refreshing twist on traditional fast food. The menu also features delicious sides like black beans, yellow rice, and sweet plantains, transporting diners to the sun-soaked beaches of the Caribbean with every bite.
Tijuana Flats
Tijuana Flats combines the flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine with a fun and vibrant atmosphere. This fast-casual chain serves up a variety of tasty dishes, including build-your-own burritos, tacos, and quesadillas.
PDQ's Florida Roots
PDQ's story begins in Florida, where the chain first opened its doors in Tampa. With a focus on fresh ingredients and exceptional flavor, PDQ quickly gained popularity. Let's delve into the story behind PDQ's creation and what sets us apart from other florida-based fast food chains:
PDQ's Journey from Concept to Reality

PDQ, which stands for "People Dedicated to Quality," was founded by Bob Basham and Nick Reader, two entrepreneurs with a passion for delivering a fast food experience that exceeded expectations. Drawing inspiration from our personal culinary adventures and experiences, we set out to create a fast-casual restaurant chain that embraced the values of quality ingredients, made-from-scratch recipes, and genuine hospitality.
A Focus on Freshness and Quality
At the heart of PDQ's philosophy is a commitment to fresh ingredients. We take pride in sourcing the finest produce and proteins to ensure that every dish served is of the highest quality. One of our standout features is the use of hormone-free chicken, ensuring that guests can indulge in our favorite chicken dishes without any concerns about additives or artificial ingredients. From hand-breaded chicken tenders to grilled chicken sandwiches, the emphasis on freshness shines through in every bite.
Customer Service as a Priority
PDQ goes above and beyond to deliver exceptional customer service. From the moment you step into a PDQ restaurant, you are greeted by friendly and attentive staff who strive to create a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in dedication to ensuring that each guest leaves with a smile. The staff is trained to embody the PDQ values of warmth, efficiency, and genuine care for our guests.
Supporting Local Communities

At PDQ, we take great pride in our commitment to supporting and uplifting the local communities we serve. We believe that giving back is essential, and we actively engage in various initiatives to make a positive impact. It's not just about being a Florida exclusive fast food chain; it's about our dedication to creating a lasting difference in the lives of our community members.
Involvement in Local Charity Events and Fundraisers
We understand the importance of community involvement and actively participates in local charity events and fundraisers. Whether it's partnering with local organizations or sponsoring community initiatives, we are dedicated to making a difference. By supporting these events, we contribute to causes that align with its values and help create a positive change in the community.
Providing Job Opportunities and Career Development
At PDQ, we take pride in not only serving our guests but also providing valuable job opportunities and fostering career development within the local communities we operate in. By offering employment opportunities, we contribute to the economic growth and stability of these areas. Our commitment to giving back extends beyond specific events and initiatives; it is deeply ingrained in our company's culture and values.
Giving Back to the Communities
We understand that the success of our business is closely tied with the well-being of the communities we serve. That's why we are dedicated to making a positive impact by actively supporting local schools, sports teams, and organizations. Whether it's through sponsorships, donations, or volunteer work, we actively contribute to the betterment of the communities we proudly call home. We believe that by coming together and supporting each other, we can build a brighter future. It's through these collaborative efforts that we aim to create positive change and make a meaningful impact in the lives of those around us.
PDQ's Expansion Beyond Florida
Due to our success in Florida, PDQ has expanded beyond the state, captivating taste buds across the nation. Our guests rave about PDQ's unique fast food offerings, praising the quality, flavor, and attentive service they experience. As PDQ grows, we remain dedicated to maintaining our high standards and delivering an exceptional dining experience.

Growing Popularity and Feedback
At PDQ, we take pride in our unique fast food offerings, and it brings us immense joy to see the overwhelmingly positive feedback and reviews from our valued guests. Our unwavering focus on using fresh, high-quality ingredients has allowed us to win over the taste buds of guests from various regions. The growing popularity of PDQ stands as a testament to the exceptional dining experience we provide and the deliciousness of our food. We are grateful to our loyal guests who continue to support us and spread the word about the PDQ difference.
Commitment to Quality and Service
PDQ understands the importance of upholding our commitment to quality and service as it expands. With every new location, PDQ ensures that the same high standards are maintained. From sourcing fresh ingredients to delivering outstanding customer service, PDQ's expansion is rooted in our dedication to excellence.
Wrap Up
Florida is home to a myriad of fast food chains, each offering their own distinctive flavors and experiences. However, when it comes to a must-try choice for both locals and tourists, PDQ takes the spotlight. As we expand beyond Florida, PDQ remains dedicated to captivating taste buds with our fresh, quality food and unwavering commitment to exceptional customer service. We invite you to visit PDQ and savor the flavors that have made us a favorite among fast food enthusiasts. Indulge in a memorable dining experience and discover why PDQ standmens out among the unique fast food chains in Florida.