5 Best Orders at Sonic Drive-In, According to Chefs
Sonic Drive-In has long been a go-to spot for classic American fast-food favorites with a fun, retro twist. From crispy fries to ice-cold drinks, the menu is full of indulgent options—but which items are truly unmissable? Eat This, Not That! asked chefs to weigh in, and they shared five must-have orders that showcase the best Sonic has to offer.
Chili Cheese Coney
The Chili Cheese Coney is topped with rich, hearty chili and melted cheese, creating a comforting, indulgent treat. Melanie Portman, chef and recipe developer with Droolrecipes.com, says it’s a “sleeper pick” and that it “goes back to their drive-in roots from 1953.” She explains, “What makes it work is the chili — it’s beanless, finely ground beef made specifically as a topping, not a standalone stew.” Chef Melanie explains, “The texture is smooth and clingy so it wraps around the dog instead of sliding off in chunks.” She adds, “The flavor leans slightly sweet from the tomato paste base, which balances against the salty all-beef hot dog and sharp shredded cheddar. Three components, each with a clear role, none overpowering the other. Simple, done right.”
Ched’ R’ Peppers
Sonic’s Ched’R’ Peppers (breaded bite-sized jalapeños stuffed with melted cheese) always hit the spot. They’re crunchy, soft on the inside and have the right amount of kick. “Crispy on the outside with a creamy cheddar center, Sonic’s Ched’R’ Peppers deliver a satisfying balance of heat and indulgence,” says Dennis Littley, Chef and Culinary Expert at Ask Chef Dennis. “They’re snackable, nostalgic, and hit all the right comfort-food notes.”
Tater Tots
Tater tots are universally beloved for their crispy, golden exteriors and soft, fluffy interiors, creating a perfect bite every time. And Sonic’s tater tots are the gold standard, according to Ryan Allen, a home chef, food content creator, recipe developer and the founder of Slow Cooker Meals. “Fried to order, these tots are crispy and fluffy, aggressively seasoned, and never greasy,” he says. “I’ve conducted numerous blind taste tests with families across the country, and eight out of 10 times, everyone chose the tots over fries,” he explains. “Sonic is also the only chain that delivers the same perfectly consistent tots at noon and at midnight.”
SuperSonic Breakfast Burrito
The SuperSonic Breakfast Burrito is a filling, flavor-packed morning meal that hits all the right notes. “The SuperSonic Breakfast Burrito is an absolute legend,” says Chef Andrew Owens, a Michelin-trained private chef in California. “It’s exploding with sausage (or bacon), super fluffy eggs, gooey cheddar, and then BAM, it gets crispy tater tots, fresh diced tomatoes, spicy jalapeños, and onions all wrapped up for the ultimate crunch meets heat meets hearty explosion in every bite.”
Grilled Cheese
While Sonic is highly praised for its hot dogs, burgers and fries, the grilled cheese is also must-try, says Chef Andrew. Discover the five must-have orders at Sonic Drive-In, as recommended by chefs, including classic comfort food and breakfast favorites.”I just love that Sonic’s makes their grilled cheese with Texas toast and just a simple slice of American cheese; this is simplicity at its best,” he says. “The outer part of the grilled cheese is always super crispy and gooey in the center. I always add bacon for that extra bit of crunchiness, and it adds a depth of saltiness that can sometimes be needed.”