Checkers/Rally's

Checkers/Rally's is a prominent American fast-food chain specializing in burgers, hot dogs, chicken, fish, hot wings, french fries, shakes, and soft drinks. Operating under two distinct brand names—Checkers and Rally's—the company has established a significant presence across the United States.

Founded in 1986 in Mobile, Alabama, by Jim Mattei, Checkers began as a single drive-in restaurant. Rally's was established a year earlier in Louisville, Kentucky, by Jim Patterson. The two chains merged in 1999, combining their strengths to create a unified brand.

Today, the company operates in 28 states and the District of Columbia.

Menu and Offerings

The company's menu features a variety of items designed to appeal to a broad customer base.

Signature offerings include the Big Buford® and Baconzilla!® burgers, Fry-Seasoned Chicken Tenders, Classic Wings®, and indulgent milkshakes.

Known for their Famous Seasoned Fries, Checkers and Rally's have built a reputation for delivering flavorful and satisfying meals.

Operations and Service Model

Checkers and Rally's primarily focus on drive-through and walk-up service models, with limited indoor seating.

This approach has been particularly advantageous during the COVID-19 pandemic, as it aligns with increased demand for contactless dining options.

The company has also introduced new menu items, such as chicken tenders, to cater to evolving customer preferences.

Locations

As of April 2025, Checkers and Rally's operates 761 locations across 29 states and territories, with Florida having the highest concentration of restaurants.

In California, the company has 33 locations, including cities like Chula Vista, San Diego, and Spring Valley.

Additional key location:

• Cincinnati, OH, USA

Headquarters

Headquartered in Tampa, Florida, Checkers and Rally's continues to focus on growth and innovation, aiming to provide quality fast food to a diverse customer base across the nation.