Who are the world’s best chains that keep Starbucks out of the top three?

By / MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team

 

When global chain stores expand into other countries, beyond just taste and service, their brand images also deeply resonate with local people, sometimes even evoking a sense of “seeing the store and thinking of the country.” For example, McDonald’s and MOS Burger carry the images of the United States and Japan, respectively. More importantly, these chains offer great convenience to travelers—whether you’re looking to cure homesickness, enjoy a rich cup of coffee, grab a late-night snack at 3 AM, or simply need to use a restroom, just spotting the logo means your problem is solved. Recently, CNN released a ranking of the world’s 20 best chain stores, and the results showed that not only did Starbucks fail to make the top three, but McDonald’s only ranked third. Taiwan’s Din Tai Fung came in second, while 7-Eleven claimed the top spot.

In this ranking, the top three are 7-Eleven from the United States, Din Tai Fung from Taiwan, and McDonald’s from the United States. The biggest reason 7-Eleven claimed the top spot is its sheer number of outlets, which can be found even in the most tucked-away corners of cities, easily fulfilling travelers’ needs for buying a bottle of water or picking up small items.

 

As for second-place Din Tai Fung, it forms a stark contrast with 7-Eleven. With only 88 outlets worldwide, Din Tai Fung’s thin-skinned, juicy xiao long bao left a deep impression on CNN reporters. Once listed among the world’s top ten restaurants, Din Tai Fung’s strict quality control is its most reassuring feature—no dish ever falls below expectations. Aside from xiao long bao, steamed dumplings, egg fried rice, and beef noodles are also highly favored by Japanese customers, while high-quality service ensures a pleasant dining experience. McDonald’s took third place.

 

Fourth place goes to the well-known coffee chain Starbucks. Ranks five through ten are Four Seasons Hotels, MOS Burger, Muji, KFC, Dunkin' Donuts, and KidZania. Places 11 to 20 are DFS Galleria, Hilton Hotels, Subway, Tim Hortons, Wagamama, Marks & Spencer, Panda Express, Outback Steakhouse, Europcar, and Cinnabon.

 

 

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