A hit or a miss is something that could be absolutely amazing or severely disappointing and Arby’s can fit the definition. The division between the lovers and haters is shockingly unbalanced and the distaste completely overshadows the fondness. Nevertheless the loyal customers adore those legendary cold cuts.
On July 23, 1964, 61 years ago, Arby’s was founded by the Raffel Brothers, who had a great business opportunity to start a market for a fast food franchise that didn’t revolve around just hamburgers. With this came the creation of Arby’s, a cold-cut-oriented fast-food joint, and, man, it was a hit! The fresh ingredients prepped every day made Arby’s even better. Unfortunately, all good things come to an end, as over time the quality of the food at Arby’s became mediocre at best.
Fast forward to 2026, and Arby’s still gets customers, but not nearly to the extent it had in the past. The reviews are mixed with criticism and hate, with a large majority making fun of the fast food chain. People like Enrique Anguiano, who is a student at Pahrump Valley High School, who has “beef” with the beef at Arby’s: “ Oh man, where do I even start? Arby’s is not the place you wanna eat at; it really should be a last resort; there are just so many other places to eat.” Aguiano went to Arby’s to order the secret menu item called the “meat mountain”, and boy, the aftermath was something else. “It’s crazy what they are feeding to people nowadays. Have you heard about the new chitlin sandwich? Man, chitlins in general, you gotta toss them out, and add them to a sandwich and serve it to people, man, you gotta go to jail for that.” But this is only one side of the story because there are still many people who enjoy indulging in Arby’s every once in a while.
The fans of Arby’s often gather for a meal with huge, hearty portions and bold flavors that make it feel like more than a quick meal. Maybe it is a sense of comfort to those loyal customers that just makes them come back for more each time. Kevin Chavez is one of those people; he is a student at PVHS, and Arby’s is one of his must-go places. “I’ve never really understood why people be hating on Arby’s, I personally think it is great. I’m tired of always going to burger places for the same boring thing on all the menus, with Arby’s I can order something ordinary fast food places don’t serve. I encourage people to actually go out and try Arby’s if they haven’t yet, because most of the haters haven’t even gone before they are just trying to trend hop” Chavez claims. Ultimately, Arby’s will still be around as a spot where customers can go to enjoy satisfying cold cuts in peace.
Arby’s sparks strong opinions from both loyal fans and harsh critics. While some may love it for its unique menu and hearty flavors, others may look down on it for its bolder flavors and different style compared to typical fast food joints. No matter the thoughts and opinions, Arby’s is still a very well-known food establishment that always gets attention from others. Give Arby’s a chance for yourself; do not knock it till you try it because you might find something that surprises you.
