Pizza Hut Tops Pizza Survey, Gaining Edge Over Domino’s

Pizza Hut has been named America’s favorite pizza chain, according to a YouGov survey of over 44,000 diners. The survey placed Pizza Hut ahead of Domino’s, with 19.1% of respondents choosing it for the best-tasting fast-food pizza. Domino’s followed with 17.1%, while Papa John’s, Little Caesars, and Marco’s Pizza completed the top five.

The survey, part of YouGov’s annual restaurant rankings report, was conducted between March 2025 and February 2026. Kenton Barello, a senior vice president at YouGov, noted that Pizza Hut enjoys strong long-term customer loyalty, especially among older Americans. This may be due to a nostalgia factor, as Pizza Hut is a well-known name in American dining.

Despite evolving restaurant habits and economic pressures, legacy pizza chains like Pizza Hut continue to appeal to consumers. The demand for value, convenience, and familiarity plays a role in their sustained popularity. However, frozen pizza sales are also rising. In 2024, sales hit approximately $7 billion, as more consumers cut back on takeout spending.

Interesting survey results reveal that 20% of respondents prefer local or regional pizza brands over national chains. This highlights the strength of independent pizzerias and the importance of emotional connection and consistency in the competitive pizza sector.

YouGov’s assessment included over 44,000 U.S. consumers’ opinions on restaurant quality, value, and preferences. It emphasized how national chain visibility matters, but so do familiarity and emotional connections.

Pizza Hut was founded in 1958 in Wichita, Kansas, and began franchising shortly after. Headquartered in Plano, Texas, the chain has nearly 20,000 locations in over 100 countries. Domino’s started in Ypsilanti, Michigan, and has since expanded to more than 22,300 locations worldwide.