Fries can make or break a meal sometimes.

Sure, they're the supporting actor, and don't get the respect they should. But there are some places in Maine where the fries can be the main attraction. When you start with a potato, you can't go wrong. Plus, find a human on this earth who doesn't like french fries. So now that we are all in agreement that they are amazing, who makes the best ones?

The above photo is simply a stock photo of fries. I didn't want to play favorites, although I do know a few places that stand out. This was picked as one of the top 20 spots, and it's Gilbert's Chowder House in Portland. I'm not sure what they do to their fries, but they are so crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. A standout, for sure. I also am like the rest of the world with Duckfat. There's a reason they have some of the best french fries in the country! They are just delicious with the choice of dipping sauces.

There are choices from truckstops to sit-down restaurants for your yummy fries. You won't find fast food places. Don't get me wrong, there is always a place and time for some fast-food fries. But that is a whole different category.

What makes a good french fry?

According to Alto Hartley,

Though tastes and preferences differ, the perfect French fry generally has a crunchy exterior and a light, fluffy interior. Finding the right balance is tricky, though, as making French fries that are too crispy will result in a tough exterior that goes beyond crispiness. Inside, if the fry is pasty or gummy, it was not cooked properly.

Here are 20 places that have that down! Who did we miss?