News Summary
In a thrilling competition, Drake’s Duck-In has been crowned the top French fry spot in Columbia, winning 49% of votes in The State’s 2025 French Fry Poll. This beloved eatery has delighted locals with its fresh-cut fries and revamped menu. With over 15,000 votes cast, the poll showcased the community’s support for local restaurants. As Drake’s Duck-In continues to serve delicious food with a mix of history and modern flair, it has solidified its position as a must-visit for fry enthusiasts.
Columbia Crowns Drake’s Duck-In as French Fry Champion
In a thrilling showdown among the best fry spots in town, Drake’s Duck-In, located in the heart of downtown Columbia at 1544 Main St., has been declared the ultimate champion of The State’s 2025 French Fry Poll. This beloved restaurant has won the coveted title with a whopping 49% of the vote, leaving other contenders in the dust.
Poll Highlights
With the competition fierce, the French Fry Poll attracted over 15,000 votes over the span of just a week. Among the 17 restaurants that participated from across the Midlands, it was quite a spectacle to see the community rally behind their favorite fry joints. Coming in second place was Rush’s with 38%, while Goat’s rounded out the top three. As diners cast their votes, the excitement in the air was palpable, especially with Rush’s recent switch from straight-cut fries to crinkle-cut, which added an unexpected twist to the game.
Drake’s Duck-In – A Legacy of Flavor
Drake’s has been a cherished fixture in Columbia for over a century, focusing on mouthwatering fried chicken and tantalizing sandwiches. Since the mid-90s, this quirky eatery has earned its stripes, but it’s the recent changes that have taken the establishment to a whole new level. A huge remodel has modernized the restaurant’s aesthetic while preserving its historic charm, creating an inviting space that complements its excellent food.
Fresh Cuts, Fresh Looks
One significant change that has wowed patrons is the shift to fresh-cut fries. Instead of frozen fries, Drake’s now serves fries that are hand-cut daily and cooked to order, ensuring that every bite is fresh and packed with flavor. This enhancement in quality is something that co-owner Daniel Boan has highlighted as a major turning point, and customer feedback has confirmed that fries are now a more popular option than ever.
Menu Updates Galore
Not only did the fry game get an upgrade, but the menu did too! Alongside their prized fries, diners can now choose from delicious smash burgers, cold beverages, and an expanded selection of breakfast options to satisfy cravings at any time of the day. This revitalized menu offers something for everyone, ensuring that Drake’s can attract new fans while keeping longtime customers happy.
A Mixed Bag of Reactions
The Results are In!
Published on February 18, 2025, at 12:04 PM, the poll results confirm what many already suspected: Columbia loves its fries! Drake’s Duck-In has taken the crown as the best spot for fries, strengthening its reputation as a local staple and a must-visit for both residents and visitors alike.
If you’re in the area, it’s high time to stop by and experience the fry phenomenon at Drake’s Duck-In. Grab a freshly cut fry, a cold drink, and enjoy a taste of local history while supporting a traditional eatery that’s just getting started!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- The State Article 1
- Wikipedia: French Fry
- The State Article 2
- Google Search: Columbia French Fry Poll
- Tri-City Herald Article
- Google Scholar: French Fries Popularity
- Your Source One Article
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fast Food
- NBC Right Now Article
- Google News: Columbia French Fry Champion
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
