2100 Wootton Parkway is a common address for students. When we leave that address, we often want to grab something to eat, and there are a variety of fast food options.

Chick-fil-A: 9.5/10

Just 1.6 miles away, one of the most popular fast food chains in America resides on Research Boulevard. Chick-fil-A has been in the area for years, but in 2018 they brought another Rockville location, this time being only a five-minute drive from school. “Chick fil a is one of the most accessible fast food restaurants as it is so close to our school. It’s always a comfort food too as I can have it whenever,” senior Kasra Dokhaee said.
This location specifically is popular within the school community because of how close and fast it is to get food. For students who also can’t drive, the Ride On bus drops you right across the street from Research Row. “Chick-fil-A is a staple for students because of how close it is to school and because during lunch or after school it is easily accessible,” senior Sanjana Mudiya said.

McDonalds: 9/10

While the closest McDonalds to the school is on Frederick Road, a 12-minute drive away, it is still the most popular fast food restaurant of all time. They have locations across the United States and globally, and it is a staple for late night eats. It is also the cheapest and most affordable meal and that’s what makes it so special. “When I want something to eat late at night, McDonalds is the first place that comes to mind because it is one of the few places open late at night,” senior Omar Jobe said. The dollar menu is very popular because most students don’t work jobs, even though it is one of the most unhealthiest options it is most affordable for students.

Taco Bell: 7/10

Taco Bell is about an eight-minute drive from school on Key West Avenue. It is a joint restaurant with KFC, another fast food giant. The menu is influenced by Tex-Mex delicacies made into fast food format. This location also has a late closing time so it is another nighttime spot for people to hangout. It has a rating of 7/10 because the quality of the food is average and doesn’t have anything special. “While all these places are unhealthy, Taco Bell still doesn’t sit well with me. It would be one of the last options I would go with if I were to get food after school,” senior Anthony Johnson said.

Another area that is popular among the students is Fallsgrove, which features Chipotle, Jersey Mikes, Bethesda Bagels and more. The Ride On bus takes you straight to Fallsgrove, and if you are driving, it’s easy to get back to school in about five minutes.

In sum, Chick-fil-a is the most popular fast food restaurant in the area. If you are looking for a cheaper option then McDonalds is the go-to, and if you want something different then Taco Bell is the place for you.