Location
San Diego, California
School
San Diego State University
Expertise
Fast food, Mexican cuisine, Grocery store deals
- Despite traveling far and wide, Fred still thinks that torta de tamal from an Oaxaca street vendor is the best thing he's ever eaten.
- He has a habit of scanning Grocery Outlet Bargain Market shelves for sleeper hits.
- He regularly tests new meals on the toughest food critic in the house: his toddler.
Experience
Fred Hernandez is a freelance food writer based in San Diego, California. His work has appeared in Tasting Table, Men's Journal, Parade, and Luxe Beat Magazine, where he covers restaurant trends, grocery finds, and the best fast food and chain restaurant items to order. As a seasoned journalist with a specialization in food culture and consumption, he regularly researches and reports on fast food hacks, fan-favorite menu items, and underrated menu picks.
Education
Fred holds a bachelor's degree in English from San Diego State University.
Tasting Table’s editorial coverage hails from a veteran group of writers and editors with expertise in their respective fields in the food and drink, hospitality, and agriculture industries. Outside experts are also consulted to help deliver factual, up-to-date information and original recipes.
We strive to publish knowledgeable, engaging articles to give readers the information they're looking for, whether that is the news of the day; cooking tips, tricks, and trends; or reviews and recommendations. In an effort to provide the most comprehensive, current, and accurate content, our team is constantly reviewing and updating articles as necessary. Click here for more information on our editorial process.
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Fast Food
By Fred Hernandez
It's no secret that international McDonald's locations can offer exciting menu items. Here's how to simulate this Mexican offering stateside.
By Fred Hernandez
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Shopping Tips
By Fred Hernandez
Shoppers love this nostalgic frozen pizza for its nostalgic appeal and affordable price compared to higher-priced competitors.
By Fred Hernandez
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Fast Food
By Fred Hernandez
Looking for some fast food discounts that will add up, download these fan-favorite fast food apps for the most value before you order.
By Fred Hernandez
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Fast Food
By Fred Hernandez
Between the three frontrunners in fast food — Wendy’s, McDonald’s, and Burger King — which double cheeseburger came out on top in our taste test?
By Fred Hernandez
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Trader Joe's
By Fred Hernandez
Trader Joe's is home to many products that make breakfast a breeze, and with just a bit of chorizo, this one freezer item is your base for a delicious hash.
By Fred Hernandez
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Fast Food
By Fred Hernandez
There have been some wacky fast food creations over the years, but perhaps the most (literally) unhinged was the result of a Burger King and Microsoft collab.
By Fred Hernandez
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Kitchen Tools
By Fred Hernandez
If you're looking to splurge on some heavy-duty kitchenware that will likely last a lifetime, then Caraway might have what you're looking for.
By Fred Hernandez
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Stores And Chains
By Fred Hernandez
Hearing "Code Brown" at Walmart can be confusing, but here's what the store code means and how employees should respond to it behind the scenes.
By Fred Hernandez
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Fast Food
By Fred Hernandez
Destined to be a reality or just a distant dream? That's what fans of In-N-Out are wondering in lieu of the chain's recent expansion plans.
By Fred Hernandez
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Fast Food
By Fred Hernandez
Some chains struggle to keep customer service at a high level despite getting that crispy breading and juicy chicken just right.
By Fred Hernandez
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Don't forget to add these Sam's Club snacks to your shopping list before this summer is over. 2026 won't be complete without them.
By Fred Hernandez
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Fast Food
By Fred Hernandez
For an underrated West Coast chain that you likely had no idea existed in the first place, head to the Pacific Northwest.
By Fred Hernandez
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Non-Alcoholic
By Fred Hernandez
While Crumbl is best known for its decadent cookies, the chain has recently expanded into the drink game, and the response has been mixed.
By Fred Hernandez
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Shopping Tips
By Fred Hernandez
A quality container doesn't need to break the bank, at least that's what Consumer Reports (and a myriad of customers) have determined.
By Fred Hernandez
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Restaurants
By Fred Hernandez
Celebrate the Fourth of July with these best food and drink freebies, discounts, and limited-time deals from your favorite restaurants and food retailers.
By Fred Hernandez
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Fast Food
By Fred Hernandez
McDonald's may be the go-to fast food breakfast option for many people, but Burger King's eggs actually make its breakfast sandwiches a compelling alternative.
By Fred Hernandez
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Fast Food
By Fred Hernandez
In-N-Out and Five Guys have both built devoted followings thanks to their burgers, fries, and customizable menus, but which has the better combo deal?
By Fred Hernandez
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Casual Dining
By Fred Hernandez
Inflation is everywhere, but some diners have taken issue with a particular restaurant chain which serves up food that customers say isn't worth the price.
By Fred Hernandez
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One of Consumer Reports’ best discounts currently is this highly rated air fryer, known for its performance, quality, and savings, and available on Amazon.
By Fred Hernandez
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Buying in bulk can be costly when it comes to freezer space, but we believe these 15 products are worth making room for.
By Fred Hernandez
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If you're after the most succulent chicken thighs yet, pay attention to the temperature of your grill and make sure values are within this heat range.
By Fred Hernandez
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Shopping Tips
By Fred Hernandez
Hobby Lobby is known for crafts and home décor, not kitchen gadgets. Here's why you may want to shop elsewhere for small appliances.
By Fred Hernandez
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Casual Dining
By Fred Hernandez
With fast food prices soaring, many customers are turning to casual dining chains. Discover which chain offers one of the best meal deals on the market.
By Fred Hernandez
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Costco offers an array of delicious pre-made meals, but only one rules over the rest for its classic meat and potatoes offering.
By Fred Hernandez
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2026 has seen some truly great burgers, but this spicy take on a BLT might just stand above everything we’ve seen so far this year.
By Fred Hernandez
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Stores And Chains
By Fred Hernandez
Both Costco and Trader Joe’s are known for quality groceries and how they treat shoppers. But which one has better customer service?
By Fred Hernandez
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Fast Food
By Fred Hernandez
There's a better way to enjoy Popeyes' classic chicken sandwich -- one that takes it to the next level from the very first bite.
By Fred Hernandez
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