30 Vintage Photos of Fast Food Restaurants Over the Years

McDonald’s

McDonald’s launched its first outlet way back in 1940. Hamburgers were one of their fastest-selling items. The fast-food chain started gaining popularity in the early 1960s, although it didn’t launch its first TV commercial until 1963.

McDonald’s was once a hot-dog stand, and it has come quite far in all these years. At one point, the fast-food chain was the largest distributor of toys in the world, all thanks to its kid-focused Happy Meals.

KFC

Founded by a person named Harland Sanders — aka Colonel Sanders — KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken) has become one of the most popular fast-food chains across the globe.

KFC first began serving fried chicken at a petrol station that Sanders owned, which he later converted to a fast-food outlet. KFC’s first official outlet was opened in Salt Lake City in 1952. The KFC recipe is still a top secret and so, it’s locked up safely in the vault of its headquarters.

Taco Bell

Taco Bell came into existence in 1962. The chain was named after its founder, Glen Bell. The first location had no indoor seating, but rather was just a kitchen with a window to take customer’s orders. The tacos were originally sold for 19 cents.

The 400-square-foot property featured fire pits and a Mariachi band, earning the chain a reputation of being relaxed and laid-back. It’s no wonder people love it so much.

Burger King

Burger King is often compared to McDonald’s — and it’s, in fact, actually inspired by it in several different aspects. Started by Keith G. Cramer, BK lost money in its first year.

Luckily, it recovered and has since become one of the most popular and recognized fast-food chains in the US and beyond. In this old pic, a group of customers can be seen coming and going from the chain, relishing about the infamous Whopper Burger.

Wendy’s

Wendy’s was started by Dave Thomas in 1969. It opened up its first outlet in Colombus, Ohio (as seen in the image.) During the ’80s, Wendy’s had an immensely popular salad bar.

The fast-food outlet was also known for its training videos (which you can binge-watch on YouTube). In no time, the quick-service chain became known for its square beef patties — made from fresh beef — and iconic Frosty shakes.