
How Fast-Food Franchising Actually Works
Almost every restaurant you think of as a chain is owned by someone else entirely. What the franchisee actually buys, and why it explains the price on the board.
27 chains tracked in Canada, priced in CAD (C$). Every menu below is the full local board, not a global template.
The cheapest priced item we hold in each dish category across every Canada menu - A rough floor for what each kind of food costs here.
| Dish type | Items tracked | Cheapest we found | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sides & Fries | 160 | C$0.25 | Fries, onion rings, dips, slaw and the upsell economy. |
| Fried Chicken | 151 | C$2.29 | Buckets, tenders, wings, nuggets and rotisserie birds. |
| Soft Drinks, Tea & Juice | 133 | C$1.59 | Colas, teas, juices, water and the mark-up on all of them. |
| Burgers | 110 | C$2 | Beef, chicken and plant-based burgers priced side by side. |
| Pizza | 94 | C$1.25 | Every pizza on every menu we track, from margherita to meat feast. |
| Sandwiches & Wraps | 82 | C$0.49 | Subs, wraps, melts, toasties and hand-held everything else. |
| Combos & Meal Deals | 81 | C$1 | Bundles, family boxes, promotions and value platters. |
| Bakery & Pretzels | 74 | C$1.29 | Pretzels, cinnamon rolls, croissants and counter bakes. |
| Desserts & Bakes | 74 | C$1.09 | Cakes, cookies, pies, brownies and the sweet end of the board. |
| Tacos & Burritos | 56 | C$1.19 | Tex-Mex counters: tacos, burritos, quesadillas and nachos. |
| Coffee | 47 | C$1.39 | Espresso, latte, cappuccino and cold brew, market by market. |
| Salads | 43 | C$2.19 | Side salads, mains and the price of eating light. |
| Ice Cream & Frozen Treats | 41 | C$1.79 | Scoops, sundaes, blizzards, soft serve and ice-cream cakes. |
| Breakfast | 38 | C$1.59 | Muffins, pancakes, all-day eggs and breakfast cut-off times. |
Cheapest priced option on any Canada menu in that category, including small sizes and single-item promos.
27 brands, 27 full menus.
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 1.19 | 0.86 |
| Average | 5.61 | 4.06 |
| Dearest | 17.99 | 13.01 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 0.60 | 0.43 |
| Average | 22.44 | 16.22 |
| Dearest | 71.99 | 52.05 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 2 | 1.45 |
| Average | 6.39 | 4.62 |
| Dearest | 16.59 | 11.99 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 1.19 | 0.86 |
| Average | 5.92 | 4.28 |
| Dearest | 11.99 | 8.67 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 1 | 0.72 |
| Average | 25.38 | 18.35 |
| Dearest | 50 | 36.15 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 1.09 | 0.79 |
| Average | 11.64 | 8.42 |
| Dearest | 42 | 30.37 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 0.99 | 0.72 |
| Average | 13.96 | 10.09 |
| Dearest | 28.49 | 20.60 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 3.49 | 2.52 |
| Average | 26.22 | 18.96 |
| Dearest | 99.99 | 72.30 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 1.99 | 1.44 |
| Average | 7.56 | 5.47 |
| Dearest | 30.99 | 22.41 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 0.40 | 0.29 |
| Average | 6.94 | 5.02 |
| Dearest | 17.29 | 12.50 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 2.25 | 1.63 |
| Average | 5.41 | 3.91 |
| Dearest | 9.45 | 6.83 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 1.79 | 1.29 |
| Average | 11.03 | 7.97 |
| Dearest | 59.99 | 43.37 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 1.59 | 1.15 |
| Average | 3.10 | 2.24 |
| Dearest | 15.99 | 11.56 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 4.99 | 3.61 |
| Average | 24.29 | 17.56 |
| Dearest | 64.99 | 46.99 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 2 | 1.45 |
| Average | 14.15 | 10.23 |
| Dearest | 43.09 | 31.16 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 3.79 | 2.74 |
| Average | 16.19 | 11.71 |
| Dearest | 40 | 28.92 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 11.24 | 8.13 |
| Average | 20.50 | 14.82 |
| Dearest | 56.24 | 40.66 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 0.25 | 0.18 |
| Average | 6.72 | 4.86 |
| Dearest | 26 | 18.80 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 2.03 | 1.47 |
| Average | 11.43 | 8.26 |
| Dearest | 29.99 | 21.68 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 2.09 | 1.51 |
| Average | 8.05 | 5.82 |
| Dearest | 14.99 | 10.84 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 1.39 | 1.01 |
| Average | 20.35 | 14.71 |
| Dearest | 139.99 | 101 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 2.80 | 2.02 |
| Average | 17.98 | 13.00 |
| Dearest | 59.99 | 43.37 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 3.59 | 2.60 |
| Average | 8.50 | 6.15 |
| Dearest | 17.29 | 12.50 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 3.56 | 2.57 |
| Average | 16.77 | 12.13 |
| Dearest | 95.19 | 68.82 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 2.29 | 1.66 |
| Average | 24.40 | 17.64 |
| Dearest | 80.49 | 58.20 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 0.70 | 0.51 |
| Average | 17.91 | 12.95 |
| Dearest | 45.99 | 33.25 |
| CAD | USD | |
|---|---|---|
| From | 3.25 | 2.35 |
| Average | 9.22 | 6.67 |
| Dearest | 18.99 | 13.73 |
Products Canada shares with the most other markets we track, so you can see where it sits.
| Product | Brand | Markets | Cheapest | Priciest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Big Mac McDonald's price by country | McDonald's | 16 | $2.85 | $7.89 |
| Little Hamburger Five Guys price by country | Five Guys | 11 | $1.90 | $11.89 |
| Cheese Dog Five Guys price by country | Five Guys | 11 | $1.99 | $12.23 |
| Little Cheeseburger Five Guys price by country | Five Guys | 11 | $2.20 | $13.33 |
| Veggie Sandwich Five Guys price by country | Five Guys | 11 | $1.50 | $8.68 |
| Hamburger Five Guys price by country | Five Guys | 11 | $2.69 | $14.98 |
| Cheeseburger Five Guys price by country | Five Guys | 11 | $3.19 | $16.37 |
| Filet-O-Fish™ McDonald's price by country | McDonald's | 11 | $1.79 | $5.88 |
Hey there! Ready to eat your way across Canada? From the snowy mountains to the maple forests, this country is full of tasty surprises. Whether you're into gooey cheese, crispy fries, sweet syrup, or fresh fish, Canada has something just for you. So grab a fork (or maybe a mitten if it's cold out), and let’s start this delicious journey!
Canada’s food story is like a big stew - Lots of stuff mixed together, and somehow, it just works. Long ago, Indigenous peoples were the first amazing chefs here. They used berries, game, fish, and wild plants. No grocery stores - Just nature and know-how. Smoked salmon, bannock, and corn were some of their big hits.
Then, folks came from places like France, England, China, and India. They brought spices, dumplings, tea, and ideas. French grandmas had secret recipes, and new neighbors added their own twist. That’s how poutine was born - Fries, cheese curds, and gravy? Yes, please!
Canada's food got even more fun when people started cooking with what grew around them. Maple syrup from trees. Blueberries from bushes. Lobsters from the sea. Yum and more yum!
Ever heard of a lumberjack breakfast? It’s a giant meal with eggs, pancakes, bacon, and more. Back in the day, real lumberjacks (people who chopped down trees) ate these to get through a long, cold workday. Now, you don’t have to swing an axe to enjoy one - Just show up hungry!
There’s also the tale of butter tarts. Some say they were made by moms in Ontario who just wanted to use up leftover syrup and sugar. These sweet, gooey little pies became famous fast. People now argue over whether they should be runny or firm. Either way, they’re sticky and awesome.
And don’t forget Nanaimo bars. They’re no-bake treats from a city called Nanaimo in British Columbia. A little kid once said, “They taste like happiness,” and honestly? That’s pretty spot on.
Cooking in Canada is kinda like hanging out with your best friend. It’s chill, it’s warm, and it’s always full of flavor. People love to cook with fresh stuff - Like berries in summer and squash in the fall. They also believe in eating together, even if it’s just soup and toast.
You’ll find kitchens full of laughter, smells of cinnamon or campfire smoke, and someone always offering seconds. The rule? Keep it real, keep it kind, and always pass the maple syrup.
Poutine Quebec Warm fries, squeaky cheese curds, and rich gravy that melts it all together. It’s messy and perfect.
Tourtière Quebec and other French-speaking spots A meat pie with flaky crust and cozy spice. It tastes like holidays and hugs.
Bannock Indigenous communities across Canada A simple bread - Crusty outside, soft inside. Eat it plain or with jam. So good, so easy.
Maple Taffy (Tire d’érable) Sugar shacks in Quebec and Ontario Hot maple syrup poured on snow, then rolled up on a stick. Sweet, chewy, and a little sticky.
Jiggs’ Dinner Newfoundland and Labrador A big Sunday meal with salt beef, boiled veggies, and peas pudding. It’s old-school comfort food.
Here in Canada, food isn’t just about eating - It’s about caring, teaching, and sharing.
The Good Food Box: People can buy fresh fruits and veggies at low prices, no matter how much money they have.
Junior Chef Clubs: Kids learn to cook at school or in community centers - Plus they get to eat what they make!
Farm Visits: Families visit farms to see where food comes from. You might even meet a chicken or two!
Community Fridges: In some cities, fridges are set up on sidewalks with free food anyone can take or give.
Breakfast Clubs: Schools serve free morning meals so kids can start the day full and focused.
Newcomer Cooking Circles: People new to Canada share recipes from their home countries and make new friends too.
So, what do you think? Hungry yet? Whether you’re sitting by a snowy window or watching the northern lights dance, there’s always room for one more at the table.
Canada’s food is more than just delicious. It’s warm, friendly, and full of surprises - Just like the people who make it. So come on over, bring your appetite, and help write the next tasty chapter.
Pick any brand that trades in both and see every shared item priced side by side.

Almost every restaurant you think of as a chain is owned by someone else entirely. What the franchisee actually buys, and why it explains the price on the board.

Localisation is not adding a novelty item. It is a staged process with a predictable sequence, and the menu data shows exactly how far each market has travelled.

Menu boards are designed documents, not lists. Where the money items sit, what the ordering of panels is doing, and how to find the price you actually want.

Menu calorie labelling is mandatory in some markets, voluntary in others and absent in most. What our data shows about how little of it reaches a published menu.
Price reports are signed, reviewed by a person, and earn points when accepted - So they need an account. Signing in takes one tap and brings you straight back to the report.
Continue with GoogleYour email is never published. How reports work.
Discussion
Prices move and menus differ by branch - What people have seen on the ground is part of the record. Be useful, be civil.
No comments yet - Yours starts it.