Concord might not have a bodega on every corner, but it’s got something better: fast food joints that make pulling off the highway worth it. These aren’t just pit stops—they’re destinations where the drive-thru delivers more than convenience.
Patty’s Original Cheese Zombies
$ | (925) 446-6377 | WEBSITE
Aside from being packed with nostalgic charm, this retro fast-food spot in Concord also has some fantastic zombies, especially their breakfast zombie. Their fresh cookies are incredible—they’re so soft and chewy that biting into one feels like sinking your teeth into a warm pillow.
But we also need to give credit to its excellent supporting lineup: the biscuits and gravy zombie, which is a customer favorite, along with the cheesy zombies and sweet treats that make this place perfect for a cheat food day or a quick stop on the way to work. The staff is friendly and helpful, making each visit enjoyable, and with kid-friendly seating, wheelchair accessibility, and convenient parking right out front, it’s a great spot to relive old memories.
Chowking
$ | (925) 969-1403 | WEBSITE
Chowking is a popular Concord spot for Filipino Chinese food, from local chain Chowking. They have crispy chicken and various noodle dishes, but they also have great wintermelon fruit tea. The Wintermelon Fruit Tea uses a sweet tea base as a foundation for all sorts of things—ice, boba, or fruit jelly: their blend of tea and wintermelon. Go as refreshing or as sweet as you want, but our order is the regular wintermelon fruit tea with boba and less ice.
Be sure to try the Bundle Feast 3 during promotions, which includes Siomai and Pancit Canton perfect for sharing.
Lisa’s V’s
$ | (925) 687-7527 | WEBSITE
The chili dog is the standout item at Lisa’s V’s in Concord (everything else is solid but standard). And as the flagship offering of this family spot, it carries significant weight. But it doesn’t disappoint under scrutiny. The snap of the premium hot dog and the hearty chili are enhanced by fresh toppings and a soft bun, while the homemade potato salad with its creamy texture balances out the other robust flavors.
Uncle Jay Burger House
$ | (925) 822-3313 | WEBSITE
With so many excellent options, picking a favorite burger from this Todos Santos Park-adjacent spot is tough. But at the risk of hurting some burger’s feelings, we’ll tell you which one has captured our burger-loving hearts: their Fire Burger. It’s a combination of juicy beef with fresh ingredients and crispy fries, all served with that signature quality focus. And it’s the suped-up classic burger we all need in our lives.
KOKO Fried Chicken & Hotdog
$ | (707) 724-9855 | WEBSITE
Every aspect of the potato mozzarella corn dog from KOKO Fried Chicken & Hotdog is so perfectly executed, it’s the platonic ideal of a Korean-inspired treat. This Sunvalley food court spot’s hot and crunchy exterior and amazing cheese pull balance out the generous portion and well-seasoned potato coating.
Seating is fairly limited in this bustling shopping center location, but whether you’re eating there or getting it to go, the corn dog will seize 100% of your attention the minute you take a bite.
Five Guys
$ | (925) 672-6030 | WEBSITE
Tucked away in Concord, Five Guys is a reliable choice for families craving burgers and fries. But whether you’re stopping by for a quick meal or letting the kids color while you wait, you should try their sweet potato fries. The fries are crispy and come in generous portions. But our favorite part is the burger—it’s fresh and fully customizable to your liking.
88 BaoBao
$ | (925) 349-9088 | WEBSITE
Not only does 88 BaoBao in Concord have some of the best dumplings in the area, but it’s also one of the best places to grab a quick lunch. This Chinese spot functions as a fast-food counter in a mall setting, and that’s when you can get their Pork XLB. It comes with their signature pork filling, giving each bite plenty of savory, rich, and satisfying flavor. It’s complemented by the hot broth inside, a thin wrapper, and a quick service. Add a side of Cucumber Salad for extra freshness.
Burger King
$ | (925) 524-0544 | WEBSITE
The Whopper Junior with Cheese from this fast food spot in Concord looks straightforward: a flame-grilled patty, cheese, and a soft sesame seed bun. But don’t let its simplicity deceive you. The beef has a satisfying char and is loaded with plenty of flavor from fresh lettuce, tomato, and pickles layered between its pillowy buns.
Melted American cheese adds creaminess and richness, and the toasted sesame seeds provide just the right amount of crunch, making each bite a consistently enjoyable experience.
Taco Bell
$ | (925) 691-9500 | WEBSITE
Taco Bell is a convenient fast-food spot in Concord, which happens to have some of the most reliable service around, and one of the friendliest drive-thru staff members. Blanca is on Taco Bell’s drive-thru team—and she must be special since she consistently delivers orders with cheerful professionalism and patient accuracy.
The food of your choosing comes with fresh ingredients prepared thoroughly, vegetarian options for those who want them, kid-friendly items for families, and hot sauce packets to customize each bite. It’s a quick stop, especially for those near the 4, where customers appreciate the clean bathrooms and accessible parking.
Frickin Fried!
$ | (925) 349-9230 | WEBSITE
Unless you can unhinge your jaw like an anaconda, plan to use some utensils when eating the large plate of catfish, fries, corn, and bread from Frickin Fried!. This meal is a generous portion of crispy catfish, golden fries, sweet corn, and soft bread. There’s plenty of savoriness, but the perfectly seasoned chicken wings and friendly southern hospitality help keep things balanced.
Tortilleria El Molino
$ | (925) 687-7066 | WEBSITE
Tortilleria El Molino is best known for their homemade corn tortillas, but this fantastic spot in Concord is also home to an excellent chicharrón taco. Their carne asada plate is substantial, a protein-packed feast that could satisfy your whole appetite. Fresh, flavorful grilled steak gets served with warm corn tortillas, along with rice and beans. Pico de gallo and house green salsa add some zest, while the attentive staff and efficient service make each visit smooth.
This dine-in or takeout situation is something you should grab a meal for.
KFC
$ | (925) 680-7969 | WEBSITE
KFC’s buttery biscuit is available all week long, and is worth navigating the steady flow of Concord locals grabbing it and other classic items. Along with the signature crispy chicken, it comes with that perfect flaky texture. Oh, and the service? It’s delivered with the genuine warmth of staff like Adriana and Hannah, who remember regulars and keep the drive-thru moving at a satisfying clip.
Kasper’s Hot Dogs
$ | (925) 687-1651 | WEBSITE
Though it’s called a hot dog, that name downplays everything that’s going on here. The Cajun hot dog at Kasper’s Hot Dogs in Concord is a bold combination of spicy sausage, melted cheese, tangy mustard, and crisp pickles tucked into a soft bun. The friendly atmosphere feels like a time capsule, making each bite a special experience. The fluffy bread is the ideal sponge to soak everything up.
