Pizza Hut has emerged as America’s favorite pizza chain according to a new YouGov survey. The survey involved more than 44,000 diners nationwide. Pizza Hut narrowly edged out Domino’s in this ranking of national pizza brands.

Conducted between March 2025 and February 2026, the survey is part of YouGov’s annual restaurant rankings report. It highlighted Pizza Hut’s popularity, with 19.1% of respondents voting it as the best-tasting fast-food pizza. Domino’s followed closely with 17.1% of the vote. Papa Johns, Little Caesars, and Marco’s Pizza completed the top five, receiving 11.4%, 5.3%, and 4.7% respectively.

“Pizza Hut’s lead over Domino’s in our best-tasting pizza rankings suggests the brand continues to benefit from strong long-term affinity among consumers, particularly older Americans who maintain a positive impression of the chain,” said Kenton Barello, a senior vice president of YouGov.

Barello noted that nostalgia might play a role in Pizza Hut’s success, given its established presence in the American dining scene for decades. Pizza Hut’s victory over Domino’s in taste preference shows its strong consumer connection.

The survey results indicate that legacy pizza chains still hold significant appeal. This comes at a time when consumers are seeking value, convenience, and familiarity amidst rising food costs and economic uncertainties. Frozen pizza brands and independent pizzerias also present growing competition.

Frozen pizza sales reached about $7 billion in 2024, as many consumers turned to supermarket options to reduce takeout costs. Despite the global reach of national chains, many Americans still prefer local or regional brands over these large competitors.

“The single largest share of Americans selected an ‘other local or regional brand’ over the national chains we tested, highlighting the enduring strength of independent pizzerias,” Barello explained.

Preference for familiar and consistent brands remains strong in shaping consumer choices, especially in the competitive pizza market. While marketing visibility matters, the emotional connection many have with their pizza favorites plays a crucial role.

Pizza Hut, founded in Wichita, Kansas, in 1958, began franchising the following year. Currently based in Plano, Texas, it operates nearly 20,000 locations in over 100 countries.

Domino’s, which began in Ypsilanti, Michigan, two years after Pizza Hut, was initially named DomiNick’s Pizza. It became Domino’s in 1965 and started franchising in 1967, now boasting over 22,300 locations globally.