Top 10+ Reasons People Hate Arby's & 10 Reasons It's Actually Good

Arby's Has The Meats

Arby's is a deeply polarizing restaurant that tends to split opinions more than most fast-food joints. Some folks can't get on board, while others defend it fiercely. It's a brand that sparks serious debate among fast-food lovers. So, let's start by looking at why it rubs some people the wrong way.

1. Confusing Menu And Strange Beef Texture

The menu's 25+ items, from sliders to gyros, can overwhelm newbies. Limited-time oddities like the Diablo Dare add to the chaos that can overwhelm customers with options. Thin-sliced, oven-roasted beef often feels slick or deli-like, turning off folks craving a grilled burger vibe.

2. Branding Alienates Health-Focused Diners

The slogan "We Have The Meats" became an internet meme magnet, inspiring parodies from TikTok to SNL. While it boosted brand recall, it alienated health nuts. Sandwiches can hit 2,110 mg of sodium, with lighter ones starting at 360 calories. Vegetarian options are basically salads and fries, leaving plant-based eaters high and dry.

3. No Breakfast At Most Locations

Only a select number of Arby's stores serve breakfast, losing out on a huge fast-food morning market. And where breakfast is available, the menu is minimal, featuring basic items like sausage biscuits and sliders. Competitors like McDonald's generate over 25% of their revenue from breakfast alone.

4. Drive-Thru Is Slower Than Rivals

A 2023 QSR Drive-Thru Study by Intouch Insight found that Arby’s drive-thru is slower than competitors like McDonald’s and Taco Bell. The delay is mainly due to Arby’s focus on preparing specialty sandwiches with freshly sliced meats. However, long wait times can frustrate customers expecting quick service.

5. Horseradish Sauce Is Too Strong

The Horsey Sauce blends horseradish and mayo for a sharp, spicy kick. Though popular with some fans, others find it overpowering. Many people raise complaints across social media platforms. This sauce divides customers and occasionally deters new visitors who are unfamiliar with its intense flavor.

6. Franchise Quality Varies Widely

With over 3,300 franchises, the quality of ownership fluctuates dramatically. Some locations maintain spotless dining areas and friendly staff, but others have inconsistent service or cleanliness issues. Online reviews speak of this disparity, with regional differences often shaping customer loyalty or disappointment.

7. Curly Fries Feel Too Greasy

Arby's curly fries are deep-fried in vegetable oil and contain roughly 550 calories per serving. Their spiral shape absorbs more oil, resulting in a greasy mess. Despite being a signature side, many customers report feeling heavy and that it is overly oily, which contrasts with the growing demand for lighter options.

8. Kids' Meals Lack Variety And Fun

Their kids' meals typically include a small sandwich, fries, and a drink without toys or themed packaging. Competitors, on the other hand, include collectible toys or interactive packaging to engage children. Such a minimal approach reduces family appeal and limits marketing opportunities toward younger customers.

9. Dated Interiors Hurt The Experience

Many outlets still feature early 2000s decor with muted colors and worn-out furniture. Renovation costs and franchise hesitancy slow down upgrades. It results in interiors that feel outdated compared to rivals investing in modern, vibrant designs to attract younger guests. 

10. Expensive For A Fast-Food Setup

Arby's combo meals cost $8–$12, higher than many competitors' value menus. Customer reviews on Yelp and X cite that portion sizes don't match the price. The premium pricing paired with a casual setting creates tension in the brand’s perceived value.

Don't write Arby’s off just yet—here's why some love it.

1. Uses Real USDA Roast Beef

Arby's prides itself on using 100% USDA Choice roast beef, sliced fresh daily, a rarity in fast food. Since launching in 1964, they've built their brand around high-quality meat, differentiating from frozen patties and earning praise online for their authentic texture and taste.

2. Curly Fries Have Unique Seasoning

The iconic curly fries (though greasy) feature a proprietary blend of paprika, garlic, and salt, creating a spicy, crispy crunch that's become a viral favorite. These fries are cooked in canola oil, which gives a distinct taste that drives the franchise's devoted social media fan base.

3. Jamocha Shake Is A Classic Favorite

This mocha coffee shake has been part of Arby's menu since the '80s. It blends ice cream with a rich coffee flavor. Fans rave about its smooth texture and vintage appeal, making it a popular indulgence, especially during late-night hunger pangs and nostalgic social media posts.

4. Smoked Turkey Sandwich Is A Rare Find

They slow-smoke turkey for hours, creating a tender, flavorful sandwich uncommon at fast-food chains. Turkey's mild taste appeals to health-conscious customers seeking alternatives to beef. Due to this, Arby's stands out in a market dominated by burgers and fried chicken sandwiches.

5. Deli Sandwiches With Fresh Bread Options

Offering choices like rye and croissants, the bread is fresh-baked daily in many locations, leveling up their deli-style sandwiches. The variety caters to different tastes and textures. It’s a strategic move that responds to customer demand for gourmet fast-casual experiences.

6. Brisket Is Smoked For 13 Hours

Arby's brisket, smoked for 13 hours using traditional Texas-style techniques, has rich flavor and tenderness rare in fast food. Their slow-smoking process, combined with limited regional availability, appeals to barbecue enthusiasts who long for authentic meat in a fast-paced environment.

7. Mozzarella Sticks Beat Pizza Chains

Their mozzarella sticks use whole milk mozzarella and a crunchy seasoned coating that outperforms many pizza chains' offerings. These sticks have gained praise in online food communities for their perfect cheese pull and crispy texture. It’s an underrated menu highlight!

8. The Pollock In The Fish Sandwich

Arby's fish sandwich features wild-caught Alaskan Pollock, which provides a flaky texture and clean flavor. Wild sourcing meets consumer demand for sustainable seafood, distinguishing Arby’s from chains that rely on farmed fish. It aligns the brand with growing environmental needs.

9. Fried Mac ‘N Cheese Bites Are Gourmet-Level

The Fried Mac ‘N Cheese Bites combine creamy, aged cheddar mac with a crunchy, golden breading, mimicking gourmet recipes but in a handheld form. This item taps into comfort food trends, which fuel popularity in digital reviews and influencer challenges.

10. Rewards App Offers Frequent Deals

Arby's app features targeted rewards, exclusive discounts, and easy mobile ordering. Launched in 2018, the app also includes nutritional information and allergen filters for those who need to be aware of these details. Mobile ordering via the app tends to reduce wait times, which fixes the complaints about drive-thru speed.