Fun Facts About Arby's

Arby's may be one of the most expensive fast food restaurants, but the high quality ingredients and delicious taste makes their items well worth the higher prices. But, where did it all begin? When was Arby's founded and how did it change over the years? Here are just a few fun facts about Arby's.

Fun Facts About Arby's #1: Founded in 1964

In 1964, the first restaurant became a reality. When Arby's first opened, it wasn't offering the large menu of items customers see today. In fact, the restaurant served roast beef sandwiches, potato chips, and iced tea. Another fun fact is that the name came from the initials (R.B.) of the two bothers that opened the first restaurant.

Fun Facts About Arby's #2: First Franchise Opens in 1965

In 1965, the first Arby's restaurant opened in Akron, Ohio. While the corporation started out small, the company would soon have over 3,000 restaurant locations.

Fun Facts About Arby's #3: Original Logo Was a Ten Gallon Hat

While Arby's may be known for their cowboy hat logo, the logo originally looked a bit different. In fact, the first logo was a ten gallon hat. The logo was changed to a more normal version of the cowboy hat in 1975.

Fun Facts About Arby's #4: 1,000th Restaurant Opened in 1980

In 1980, Arby's celebrated a huge milestone by opening their 1,000th restaurant location. The restaurant was located in Loves Park, Illinois. Another fun fact is that Arby's would open their 3,000th restaurant location in Tipp City, Ohio in 1996.

Fun Facts About Arby's #5: The First International Location Was in Japan

The first international location opened 15 years after the restaurant first opened their doors in 1964. The first international location was in Japan and opened in 1981.

Fun Facts About Arby's #6: First Fast Food Chain to Release a Light Menu

While many fast food restaurants were offering salads, Arby's was the first fast food restaurant to offer a complete light menu. They started offering this light menu in 1991. The menu featured 4 salads and three sandwiches that were under 300 calories.

Fun Facts About Arby's #7: Was the First to Ban Smoking

In 1994, Arby's did what most fast food restaurants wouldn't do for a few more years. They actually banned smoking in all of their company locations. Finally, people were able to sit down and enjoy a meal without choking on cigarette smoke.

Fun Facts About Arby's #8: Created a Full Line of Deli Items in 2004

In 2004, Arby's took things one step further by creating a delicious menu of deli items. Now you can find Market Fresh salads, sandwiches, and wraps.