The rise of fast food revolutionized the way we eat, and the earliest fast food restaurants laid the foundation for a global industry. From humble beginnings in the mid-20th century to the iconic establishments we recognize today, these early diners and drive-ins were the first to bring convenience and speed to the dining experience. The simple idea of serving quick, affordable meals, quickly became a cultural shift, influencing everything from the design of our cities to the way we think about food. With their bold marketing, efficient service, and irresistible offerings, these first fast-food pioneers changed the landscape of dining forever. Take a look with us at 20 photos of old fast-food restaurants.
1. The McDonald’s brothers in 1948.
Before Ray Kroc stole everything they had, including their name.
2. Fast food like this didn’t make it to China until the late 1900s.
Fast food was so abnormal this man took a photo next to the menu.
3. The oldest McDonald’s restaurant.
If you haven’t seen the movie The Founder, it gives a great backstory on this shop.
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4. The first Burger King, 1960s.
The building is a motor shop now.
5. The first KFC in New Zealand.
Just 9 years later, there were almost 40 restaurants throughout the country.
6. The first original Wendy’s, 1969.
Sadly, it isn’t there anymore.
7. We miss the old Arby’s sign.
They no longer have the meats.
8. One of the oldest Taco Bells in California.
This looks a lot more like a Mexican restaurant than a new-age Taco Bell.
9. The original Subway.
You should have left your name on the sign Pete.
10. Dunkin Donuts original location.
The first image is from 1950, the second is from 2022 after a remodel.
11. The oldest Dairy Queen, 1940.
Did you know Dairy Queen was one of the first fast-food restaurants?
12. Did you know Whataburger started like this?
13. The first In-N-Out burger.
Who knew this business would become a staple among families across the South West?
14. One of the first White Castles ever made.
Did you know White Castle opened in 1921?
15. One of Staten Island’s first McDonalds.
Ronald will forever be one of the creepiest mascots ever.
