5 Rockford Area Spots for Crispy Waffle Fries Better Than Chick-fil-A’s

I know it's a big ask, but who has better waffle fries than Chick-fil-A? They're pretty awesome. But they've recently changed part of their recipe and fans are unhappy. Waffle-fry lovers to the rescue! Don't sleep on these 5 Rockford area spots that serve better waffle fries.

Waffle Fries: The Crispy Grid of Happiness

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Let’s be real: waffle fries are the Michelangelo of potato art. Born in the Southern United States (allegedly), they’re the lovechild of a standard fry and a genius with a crinkle cutter.

These golden grids of joy are sliced using a mandolin with a special blade, and rotated between cuts to create their signature crisscross design.

It’s like someone thought, “How can we maximize surface area for crispiness AND sauce capture?”

Bravo, mystery potato pioneer.

Why do they taste so good? Because they’re engineered for perfection. That grid structure? It’s basically a fry trampoline for your taste buds, ensuring every bite is crispy yet fluffy, salty yet soulful.

And let’s not ignore their versatility—they pair perfectly with ketchup, ranch, or even your tears of happiness.

Face it, no one’s ever been sad eating waffle fries. They’re proof that geometry can be delicious. But when you alter a much-loved recipe, like Chik-fil-A recently did, some fans will head somewhere else for their waffle fry fix.

In the case of Chick-fil-A, the decision to alter the recipe to using "pea starch" was made in order extend the time the waffle fries will stay crispy. Not a bad reason, but many customers have tasted the change and either they don't like it or in some cases, they are allergic to peas.

If you live in the Rockford area, here are 5 spots that will more than satisfy ANY waffle fry lover.

5 Rockford Area Waffle Fries That Are Better Than Chick-fil-A's

We're always looking for food recommendations on our Facebook page. These were the 5 spots mentioned most often. I'll start with my two personal favorites, follwed by the 3 places I need to get to asap!

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Before we go any further, take a look at whatever this waffle fry masterpiece is from Ernie's.

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Now you have some new locally owned places to check out: Buddy's Burgers, Jax Pub, Ernie's Midtown Pub, Sizz N Fizz Food Truck, Prairie Fire Golf and Grill.

MORE: 5 Places in Rockford Area Serving the Best Comfort Food