Food Chains We Can't Believe Aren't National... Yet (PHOTOS) | HuffPost Life

We demand greater chaindom.

By

Screenwriter and freelance writer

We would argue that one of the most disappointing feelings is moving and subsequently realizing your favorite go-to food chains no longer exist in your new neighborhood. Aren't food chains supposed to be everywhere?!

Unfortunately for those who choose to ever leave their hometown, this phenomenon is one you're likely to experience at some point. Or, unfortunately, at many points. It turns out that some of the most regionally-beloved food chains haven't quite gone national… at least not yet. Check out the slideshow for some favorites that we can't wait to reach McDonald's-level chaindom.

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11 Chains That Aren't National...Yet

Dunkin' Donuts(01 of11)

Ironic since their tagline is "America runs on Dunkin'"...but California (and the entire Pacific Northwest) is currently missing out on the donut and coffee love. Yet there are locations in Mexico, the Cayman Islands, and Peru? Seems unfair.Thankfully, this is being fixed in 2015. (credit:Getty)

Steak n' Shake(02 of11)

This chain is missing from some of the country's most populous states: there are none in California, and only one in New York. (credit:Getty)

Bojangles' Famous Chicken n' Biscuits(03 of11)

Renowned in the Southeast for its traditional fried chicken and buttermilk biscuits, the westmost location is Mississippi. But good news for the people of Honduras -- they can get in on the homestyle cooking! (credit:Bojangles' Famous Chicken n' Biscuits)

Whataburger(04 of11)

This chain's signature A-shaped, orange-and-white roofs can only be found in the South. (credit:Whataburger)

Wawa(05 of11)

Wawa, a mini mart known for its hoagies and coffee, only has locations in Delaware, Florida, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. (credit:Getty)

In-N-Out Burger(06 of11)

This notorious burger joint only has locations in California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, and Texas. According to the company's no-franchising policy and use of fresh ingredients cited in the OC Register's interview with CEO Lynsi Torres, this isn't likely to change anytime soon. Sorry, East Coast. (credit:Getty)

Shake Shack(07 of11)

This New York favorite started with only one location in Madison Square Park in 2004, but has since expanded to a few states on the East Coast and even has some international locations. Everywhere else is still waiting, but we bet they won't have to wait too long. (credit:Getty)

Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles(08 of11)

This chain is a favorite of Snoop Lion (back in the days of 'Snoop Dogg'), is referenced in Notorious B.I.G's song "Going Back to Cali," and was even visited by President Barack Obama. Unfortunately, the restaurant that made this unusual combo famous only has locations in the Los Angeles area. (credit:Getty)

Cracker Barrel(09 of11)

This "Old Country Store" is absent from most of the West Coast as well as New York City. We're guessing this has something to do with the fact that most locations offer bus and RV parking...not exactly big city friendly. (credit:Cracker Barrel)

Waffle House(10 of11)

A native of Georgia, this southern staple hasn't made it to most of the West Coast yet -- despite being around since 1955. (credit:Getty)

Chick Fil-A(11 of11)

This Atlanta-based chain only has one location in New York, and is similarly missing from many of the country's major metropolitans. However, this may have to do with the notorious backlash surrounding President Dan Cathy's controversial comments on gay marriage. (credit:JPI)

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