Vintage Photos of Fast Food Restaurants Over the Years

McDonald’s, Taco Bell, KFC, Burger King and Wendy’s. They’re worldwide names today, but each brand once started off as unknowns. There’s bits of history that has gotten lost over the years, as each restaurant chain continues to evolve. The “Golden Arches” of McDonald’s held a strong meaning in the 1970’s as each location’s architecture were in fact, golden arches -- something the new locations lack today. Most restaurants have stayed true to their brand all these years later which makes us love them even more. Here are vintage photos of fast food restaurants that give us retro nostalgia, yet remind us how far our favorite brands have come.

Ray Kroc is seen outside of McDonald’s in this 1960 shot. While he was the Founder and Chairman of McDonald’s, his relationship with the McDonald’s brothers wasn’t all hugs and smiles.

This Kentucky Fried Chicken Takeaway Restaurant seen in London in 1975 didn’t even have indoor dining yet -- or the iconic abbreviated ‘KFC’ logo.

The true meaning of the iconic “Golden Arches” can be seen at the “Speedee” McDonald’s in Downey, California in this 1970 photo. This location has been designated as a national landmark and was the third establishment built by the original McDonald’s brothers.

You may recognize Wendy Morse because she is the Wendy, even depicted in the chain’s illustrative logo. Daughter of Founder Dave Thomas, she’s seen here posing in front of the sign in 1989.

Presidents love their fast food -- just like President Ronald Reagan seen here at the Daytona International Speedway in 1984.

An employee wearing the McDonald’s uniform with stripes and a white hat takes down an order in 1978, long before automated technology.

With a Spanish style roof and stucco siding, this Taco Bell restaurant seen in 1994 was the authentic foundation of the brand millions love today.

While many people might not recognize Fred DeLuca on the left, he’s the founder of Subway and took a visit to work at an Anaheim Subway location in 1997.

With foot traffic all day, Burger King remains quite the food spot seen here in 1994.

Fun Fact: A Burger King in New York City introduced table service in 1992. Some ideas don’t always work out.

This White Castle, seen on Queens Boulevard in New York in 1980 was the place to be with their crowded outdoor patio during lunchtime.

Opened in 1996, this McDonald’s with two enthusiastic employees was the first McDonald’s in India. Menu items included Maharaja Macs and Vegetable Burgers with Cheese.

Dairy Queen arguably invented the Banana Shake -- equipped with mascots Banana Burt and Banana Lil standing outside the restaurant with the memorable slogan “Drink a Banana” in 1950.

The first Wendy’s is seen here in Columbus, Ohio in 1969 -- in original retro fashion. Even from day one, the soon-to-be household name was known for their Frosty desserts.

The Home of the Whopper seen here in 1976 was the go-to spot for a date night or after school hangout.