Top 10 Things to Order at Wendy’s (2026 Guide)

Wendy’s continues to hold a unique place in the fast-food landscape in 2026. While other chains chase trends, Wendy’s quietly wins by doing a few things exceptionally well: fresh beef, customizable value items, and comfort foods that actually taste indulgent. This guide ranks the top 10 things to order at Wendy’s, based on taste, value, popularity, and real-world ordering hacks.

This is not a paid list, not a “healthy menu” fantasy, and definitely not a corporate ranking. It’s a realistic, honest breakdown of what’s actually worth ordering at Wendy’s in 2026—and what you should skip.

1. Baconator (Best Overall Wendy’s Order)

The Baconator remains Wendy’s most iconic item, and in 2026, it still earns the top spot. Its simplicity is exactly why it works: two fresh beef patties, applewood smoked bacon, cheese, ketchup, and mayonnaise. No distractions, no gimmicks.

It’s expensive and unapologetically indulgent, but if you’re going to Wendy’s for flavor, this is the benchmark. The Baconator delivers consistent quality across locations and is one of the few fast-food burgers that tastes exactly like what it promises.

Item	Price (Avg)	Calories
Baconator	$7.29	960

2. Classic Chocolate Frosty

You don’t go to Wendy’s without ordering a Frosty. That’s not nostalgia—that’s logic. The classic chocolate Frosty remains unmatched in texture and balance, sitting perfectly between ice cream and a milkshake.

Pro tip for 2026: the Wendy’s Frosty Key Tag still exists in many regions, allowing repeat customers to score free junior Frosties year-round. Vanilla Frosty fans exist—but chocolate remains the universal favorite.

Item	Price	Calories
Small Chocolate Frosty	$1.89	350

3. Baconator Fries

Baconator Fries are proof that Wendy’s understands indulgence better than most fast-food chains. Crispy fries loaded with warm cheese sauce and crumbled bacon consistently outperform Wendy’s baked potato options.

If you’re deciding between sides, this is the clear winner in both satisfaction and flavor.

Item	Price	Calories
Baconator Fries	$3.29	460

4. Spicy Chicken Nuggets

The return of spicy chicken nuggets was one of Wendy’s smartest moves, and by 2026, they’ve secured permanent fan-favorite status. Unlike many “spicy” fast-food items, these actually deliver heat.

They’re affordable, bold, and pair perfectly with a Frosty afterward to cool things down.

Item	Price	Calories
4-Piece Spicy Nuggets	$1.49	190

5. Big Bacon Cheddar Cheeseburger

This is Wendy’s most underrated premium burger in 2026. The Big Bacon Cheddar Cheeseburger combines crispy onions, bacon jam, a cheddar bun, and a creamy cheddar sauce that surprisingly works well together.

It’s rich, salty, and textured—ideal if you want something heavier than a Double Stack but not as extreme as a Baconator.

Item	Price	Calories
Big Bacon Cheddar Cheeseburger	$5.79	810

6. Double Stack (Best Value Burger)

If value matters, the Double Stack is unbeatable. Two beef patties, basic toppings, and full customization through the Wendy’s app make this one of the smartest orders on the menu.

You can add lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise for free, turning it into a near-premium burger for a fraction of the price.

Item	Price	Calories
Double Stack	$2.39	410

7. Wendy’s Chili

Wendy’s Chili is a divisive item, but it earns its spot for consistency and value. It’s filling, customizable, and works especially well in colder months. Crackers, hot sauce, and onions are free add-ons that improve the experience.

It’s not gourmet chili, but for fast food, it does its job well.

Item	Price	Calories
Wendy’s Chili	$2.49	310

8. Loaded Baked Potato (With Smart Customization)

Wendy’s baked potatoes are unique in fast food, but customization matters. Overloading it with chili and cheese can overwhelm the base flavor. The best version remains sour cream and chives, with bacon as an optional add-on.

Done right, it’s comforting and surprisingly filling.

Item	Price	Calories
Loaded Baked Potato	$3.99	~500

9. Junior Bacon Cheeseburger

Once a legendary value item, the Junior Bacon Cheeseburger has crept up in price, but it still deserves recognition. It’s flavorful, balanced, and benefits greatly from app-based customizations.

It’s no longer the steal it once was—but it’s still solid.

Item	Price	Calories
Junior Bacon Cheeseburger	$2.39	370

10. Classic Cheeseburger (Bottom of the Top 10)

This barely makes the list, but it earns its place due to affordability and familiarity. It’s nothing special—but it’s dependable. With customization (adding an egg or extra toppings), it can improve significantly.

Item	Price	Calories
Classic Cheeseburger	~$1.99	~300

Items to Skip at Wendy’s in 2026

Some menu items simply don’t justify the price or calories. The crispy chicken sandwich lacks flavor compared to competitors, and novelty drinks like specialty Frosty beverages are inconsistent. Bakery items like oatmeal bars are fine—but they don’t belong on a must-order list.

Final Ranking Summary

Rank	Item
1	Baconator
2	Chocolate Frosty
3	Baconator Fries
4	Spicy Chicken Nuggets
5	Big Bacon Cheddar Cheeseburger
6	Double Stack
7	Wendy’s Chili
8	Loaded Baked Potato
9	Junior Bacon Cheeseburger
10	Classic Cheeseburger

Final Thoughts

Wendy’s menu in 2026 rewards customers who know how to order smart. App customizations, value hacks, and sticking to proven classics make all the difference. If you build your order around the top five items on this list, you’ll consistently get the best Wendy’s experience possible.