I’ve always been fascinated by the quirky history and fun facts behind those familiar fast food chains we all know (and sometimes love to hate). Whether you’re hosting a game night, looking to spice up a road trip, or just want to test your fast food knowledge, I’ve got you covered with this collection of over 100 fast food trivia questions!
Last summer, my family and I played fast food trivia during a cross-country road trip, and it was hilarious discovering how much my teenager knew about McDonald’s history while my husband could name every Taco Bell limited-time offering from the past decade. These questions are sure to spark some fun competition and maybe even a few cravings!
McDonald’s Trivia
McDonald’s might just be the most recognizable fast food chain globally, with those golden arches beckoning hungry travelers in over 100 countries. I’ve always been amazed by how this simple hamburger stand grew into a global empire!
- What was the original price of a McDonald’s hamburger when the chain began in 1940? Answer: 15 cents
- What famous businessman purchased McDonald’s in 1961 and transformed it into a global empire? Answer: Ray Kroc
- What year was the Big Mac introduced? Answer: 1968
- What are the two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions on in the famous Big Mac jingle? Answer: A sesame seed bun
- In what city was the first McDonald’s restaurant opened? Answer: San Bernardino, California
- What breakfast item was introduced to McDonald’s menu in 1975? Answer: Egg McMuffin
- What animal was the first McDonald’s mascot before Ronald McDonald? Answer: Speedee, a chef with a hamburger head
- How many McDonald’s restaurants exist worldwide as of 2023? Answer: Over 40,000
- In what year did McDonald’s introduce the Happy Meal? Answer: 1979
- What is the name of McDonald’s famous training program for potential franchise owners? Answer: Hamburger University
- What McDonald’s dessert item was created in 1995 and comes in a variety of flavors? Answer: McFlurry
- Which country has the only McDonald’s with turquoise arches instead of golden ones? Answer: Sedona, Arizona (USA)
- What was the name of the controversial 1993 lawsuit regarding McDonald’s coffee? Answer: Liebeck v. McDonald’s (The Hot Coffee Case)
- What fast food sandwich did McDonald’s create to compete with Burger King’s Whopper? Answer: Big Mac
- What McDonald’s menu item was introduced in 1983 and originally consisted of white meat chicken? Answer: Chicken McNuggets
- What Olympic event did McDonald’s sponsor a promotion for during the 1984 Olympics, giving away free menu items when the US won medals? Answer: Gymnastics
- In what year did McDonald’s begin serving breakfast all day in the US? Answer: 2015
- How many pounds of fresh lettuce does McDonald’s use in the US each year? Answer: Around 80 million pounds
- What was the name of the adult-focused meal that McDonald’s introduced in 2022? Answer: Adult Happy Meal (Cactus Plant Flea Market Box)
- In what city is McDonald’s corporate headquarters located? Answer: Chicago, Illinois
Looking for more engaging questions to ask at your next gathering? Check out our collection of interesting topics to talk about for inspiration!
Burger King & Wendy’s Trivia
While McDonald’s might get most of the attention, Burger King and Wendy’s have their own fascinating histories and quirky facts. My dad worked at Burger King back in the ’70s and still talks about how revolutionary their flame-broiled approach was back then!
- What is Burger King’s mascot called? Answer: The Burger King
- In what year was Burger King founded? Answer: 1954
- What was Burger King originally called when it first opened? Answer: Insta-Burger King
- Who is the founder of Wendy’s? Answer: Dave Thomas
- Who is Wendy’s named after? Answer: Dave Thomas’s daughter Melinda Lou “Wendy” Thomas
- What shape are Wendy’s hamburger patties? Answer: Square
- What Burger King slogan encouraged customers to customize their orders? Answer: “Have It Your Way”
- What item did Wendy’s introduce in 1969 that helped set it apart from competitors? Answer: The Frosty
- What year was the Whopper introduced by Burger King? Answer: 1957
- What was the name of Wendy’s famous 1984 commercial catchphrase? Answer: “Where’s the beef?”
- What two products did Burger King combine in 2018 to create a controversial sweet and savory menu item? Answer: Chocolate and Whopper (Chocolate Whopper)
- Which burger chain introduced a bacon-topped sundae in 2012? Answer: Burger King
- What is the name of Wendy’s spicy chicken sandwich? Answer: Spicy Chicken Sandwich
- What brand of french fries did Burger King introduce in 1997? Answer: King Fries
- How many Wendy’s locations were there worldwide as of 2023? Answer: About 6,500
- What color is Wendy’s iconic logo background? Answer: Red
- What is the name of Burger King’s chicken sandwich introduced to compete with Chick-fil-A? Answer: Ch’King (now called the Royal Crispy Chicken)
- What breakfast item did Wendy’s introduce in 2020? Answer: Breakfast Baconator
- What is the name of Burger King’s parent company? Answer: Restaurant Brands International
- In what country was the first international Wendy’s opened? Answer: Canada
Curious about what to talk about on your next fast food run? Explore our topics to talk about with your crush for some conversation inspiration!
Taco Bell & Mexican Fast Food Trivia
Taco Bell has always been a road trip favorite in my family, and my husband claims he can recite their entire menu from memory. The chain’s quirky marketing and constant menu innovations make for some great trivia material!
- Who founded Taco Bell? Answer: Glen Bell
- In what year was Taco Bell founded? Answer: 1962
- What was Taco Bell’s famous slogan from the 1990s? Answer: “Yo quiero Taco Bell”
- What animal mascot delivered this catchphrase? Answer: A Chihuahua
- What popular Taco Bell item combines a taco and a Doritos chip? Answer: Doritos Locos Taco
- What is the name of Taco Bell’s breakfast menu launched in 2014? Answer: Breakfast Crunchwrap
- What Mexican-inspired fast food chain was founded by the same person who created Taco Bell? Answer: Der Wienerschnitzel
- What popular item did Taco Bell bring back after fan petitions in 2012? Answer: Beefy Crunch Burrito
- Which fast food company owned Taco Bell, KFC, and Pizza Hut before spinning them off? Answer: PepsiCo
- What is the name of Taco Bell’s current parent company? Answer: Yum! Brands
- What alcoholic beverages does Taco Bell serve at its Cantina locations? Answer: Beer, wine, and specialty frozen drinks
- What discontinued Taco Bell item featured a taco-shaped waffle as the shell? Answer: Waffle Taco
- What seasonal Taco Bell dessert features cinnamon-sugar coated pieces of fried dough? Answer: Cinnamon Twists
- What Mexican fast food chain features fresh guacamole made in-restaurant daily? Answer: Chipotle
- What was the original name of Chipotle when it was founded in 1993? Answer: Chipotle Mexican Grill
- Which fast-food chain introduced the “Quesarito” – a burrito wrapped in a quesadilla? Answer: Taco Bell
- What does “Del Taco” mean in Spanish? Answer: “Of the Taco”
- What is the name of Moe’s Southwest Grill’s most popular burrito? Answer: Homewrecker
- What greeting do Moe’s employees shout when customers enter? Answer: “Welcome to Moe’s!”
- What Mexican fast food chain uses the slogan “Fresh Mex”? Answer: Baja Fresh
Want to dig deeper into conversations with friends? Our deep topics to talk about can help you move beyond fast food chat!
Pizza Chain Trivia
Pizza chains have some of the most interesting histories and quirky marketing campaigns. I’ll never forget my first job at a local pizza place where I learned just how competitive the pizza delivery world really is!
- What year was Pizza Hut founded? Answer: 1958
- In what city was the first Domino’s Pizza opened? Answer: Ypsilanti, Michigan
- What was Little Caesars’ famous advertising slogan? Answer: “Pizza! Pizza!”
- How much did Domino’s originally promise to deliver pizza in, or it would be free? Answer: 30 minutes
- What college students founded Papa John’s Pizza? Answer: John Schnatter (while he was a student at Ball State University)
- What is the name of Pizza Hut’s famous stuffed crust pizza introduced in 1995? Answer: The Original Stuffed Crust Pizza
- What former NFL quarterback became a Papa John’s franchise owner and spokesman? Answer: Peyton Manning
- What Pizza Hut menu item consists of a giant cookie cut into wedges? Answer: Cookie Dough Pizza (or Pizza Cookie)
- What technology did Domino’s introduce in 2013 to allow customers to watch their pizza being made? Answer: Domino’s Tracker
- What pizza chain is known for square pizzas called “pan pizza”? Answer: Little Caesars
- What is the name of the character that was Papa John’s mascot besides founder John Schnatter? Answer: There was no other mascot besides Schnatter himself
- What pizza delivery chain eliminated artificial ingredients from its menu in a campaign called “Pizza Turnaround”? Answer: Domino’s
- What pizza chain was founded by Mike Ilitch, who also owned the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Tigers? Answer: Little Caesars
- What specialty pizza did Pizza Hut introduce in 1983 with a thick, breadstick-like crust? Answer: Pan Pizza
- What Domino’s menu item consists of chicken, bacon, tomatoes, and ranch sauce? Answer: Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich
- What fast food innovation did Pizza Hut launch in 2020 during the pandemic? Answer: The Contactless Delivery Drop-off
- What is the name of Chuck E. Cheese’s pizza chain for adults launched in 2020? Answer: Pasqually’s Pizza & Wings
- What pizza chain originated in Chicago and is known for its deep-dish pizza? Answer: Uno Pizzeria & Grill (originally Pizzeria Uno)
- What pizza chain has a mascot named Jojo? Answer: Godfather’s Pizza
- What unusual pizza topping did Pizza Hut introduce in Australia that featured Vegemite? Answer: Vegemite Stuffed Crust
Looking for fun conversation starters for your next pizza party? Check out our two truths and a lie ideas to get the party going!
Fast Food History Trivia
The history of fast food is surprisingly fascinating and tells us a lot about American culture. My history professor in college once devoted an entire lecture to how fast food changed American eating habits forever!
- What is widely considered to be the first fast food chain in America? Answer: White Castle
- In what year was White Castle founded? Answer: 1921
- What fast food innovation did White Castle pioneer that revolutionized hamburger cooking? Answer: The assembly line system
- What fast food chain claims to have invented the drive-thru window? Answer: In-N-Out Burger
- What economic event led to the rise in popularity of fast food in America? Answer: The Great Depression
- What 1950s innovation made fast food more accessible to suburban families? Answer: The interstate highway system
- What was the first fast food chain to open in the Soviet Union? Answer: McDonald’s
- What year did the first fast food restaurant open in China? Answer: 1987 (KFC)
- What popular sandwich chain was started by a 17-year-old entrepreneur? Answer: Subway
- What was Subway originally called when it opened in 1965? Answer: Pete’s Super Submarines
- What fast food innovation did Burger King introduce in 1957 that was later widely adopted? Answer: The drive-thru speaker system
- What was the first food item sold by A&W, before they became known for root beer? Answer: Hot dogs
- What early 1950s technology contributed significantly to the rise of drive-thru restaurants? Answer: Car culture and automobile prevalence
- What fast food chain was the first to introduce a breakfast menu? Answer: McDonald’s
- What significant health controversy affected the fast food industry in the early 2000s? Answer: The “Super Size Me” documentary
- What presidential administration first allowed fast food to be served in school cafeterias? Answer: Reagan administration
- What fast food chain started as a hot dog stand in Pasadena, California? Answer: Taco Bell
- What was the first international fast food chain to open in India? Answer: KFC
- What 1980s economic concept is credited with expanding fast food into a global phenomenon? Answer: Globalization
- What fast food chain was the first to offer a plant-based meat alternative nationwide? Answer: Burger King (Impossible Whopper)
For those interested in deeper discussions about food culture and history, explore our collection of philosophical questions to stimulate your mind!
International Fast Food Trivia
My family traveled to Japan a few years ago, and I was amazed to discover how different McDonald’s and other familiar chains were there! International fast food trivia reveals fascinating cultural adaptations of familiar restaurants.
- What menu item is served at McDonald’s in India instead of beef burgers? Answer: McAloo Tikki (potato burger)
- What unique item is available at KFC in Japan during Christmas? Answer: Christmas Party Barrel (fried chicken dinner sets)
- What flavor of Kit Kat is served at McDonald’s in Japan? Answer: Sweet Potato Kit Kat McFlurry
- What pizza topping is popular at Domino’s in Brazil? Answer: Corn and peas
- What fast food chain is known as “Hungry Jack’s” in Australia? Answer: Burger King
- What special ingredient is added to McDonald’s French fries in some Asian countries? Answer: Seaweed seasoning
- In what country would you find a McDonald’s sandwich called the “Prosperity Burger”? Answer: Malaysia (during Chinese New Year)
- What meat is used in Subway sandwiches in India instead of pork? Answer: Chicken or mutton
- What is the main ingredient in a “McCurry Pan” found at McDonald’s in India? Answer: Creamy sauce with vegetables
- What unusual Pizza Hut pizza topping is popular in South Korea? Answer: Bulgogi (marinated beef)
- What alcoholic beverage can you order at McDonald’s in Germany? Answer: Beer
- What dessert pizza is offered at Pizza Hut in the Middle East? Answer: Kit Kat Pops Pizza
- What unique burger does McDonald’s serve in the Philippines? Answer: McSpaghetti
- What local fish is used in Filet-O-Fish sandwiches in New Zealand? Answer: Hoki
- What special item is on the menu at Taco Bell in India? Answer: Tikka Masala Burrito
- What fast food chain was founded in South Africa? Answer: Nando’s
- What unique burger does McDonald’s serve in France? Answer: Le Croque McDo (based on Croque Monsieur)
- What is served with fries instead of ketchup in Belgium McDonald’s? Answer: Mayonnaise
- What dish can you order at Pizza Hut in China that contains fish and seafood? Answer: Ocean Treasure Pizza
- What fast food restaurant in Vietnam serves “Banh Mi” style burgers? Answer: Burger King
Want some creative conversation starters for your next international dinner? Our random questions to ask a guy or random questions to ask a girl collections can help break the ice!
Fast Food Mascots & Marketing Trivia
The mascots and marketing campaigns of fast food chains have become cultural icons in their own right. My kids can identify Ronald McDonald from a mile away, and I still remember all the words to the “two all-beef patties” jingle!
- Who is the clown mascot of McDonald’s? Answer: Ronald McDonald
- What was the name of the hamburger-headed character who was McDonald’s original mascot? Answer: Speedee
- What is the name of the Burger King’s mascot? Answer: The King (or The Burger King)
- What breed of dog was the Taco Bell chihuahua? Answer: Chihuahua
- What was the name of the dog in Taco Bell commercials? Answer: Gidget
- What is the name of KFC’s founder and mascot? Answer: Colonel Harland Sanders
- What is the name of Domino’s Pizza mascot from the 1980s? Answer: The Noid
- What was the slogan “Avoid the Noid” meant to convey about Domino’s? Answer: That Domino’s delivers pizza quickly before it gets cold
- What is the name of the purple mascot for McDonald’s? Answer: Grimace
- What is Jack in the Box’s mascot? Answer: Jack (a businessman with a ping pong ball-shaped head)
- What is the name of McDonald’s female character with red hair? Answer: Birdie the Early Bird
- What is the name of the milkshake-loving character from McDonald’s? Answer: Grimace
- What was the name of the scandal that hit Jack in the Box in 1993? Answer: E. coli outbreak
- What was the name of Wendy’s marketing campaign featuring an elderly woman? Answer: “Where’s the beef?”
- What cartoon characters did McDonald’s use to promote Happy Meals in the 1970s-1990s? Answer: McDonaldland characters
- What is the name of the robot used in Domino’s Pizza commercials to promote technology? Answer: DRU (Domino’s Robotic Unit)
- What character did Kentucky Fried Chicken introduce as a computer-generated version of its founder? Answer: Virtual Colonel Sanders
- What famously creepy version of the Burger King mascot did the chain retire in 2011? Answer: The King (the version with the large plastic head)
- What was the name of McDonald’s campaign to introduce adult versions of Happy Meals in 2022? Answer: Cactus Plant Flea Market Box
- What is the name of the animated starfish mascot used by Carl’s Jr? Answer: Happy Star
For more fun questions to test your friends’ knowledge, try our would you rather questions at your next gathering!
Why Fast Food Trivia is Perfect for Any Gathering
Fast food trivia works brilliantly for parties, road trips, and family gatherings because it’s something nearly everyone can relate to. We’ve all grabbed a quick burger or pizza at some point! What I love most about this topic is how it bridges generations – grandparents might know the original prices of a McDonald’s hamburger, while kids can nail questions about recent viral menu items.
During our family game nights, fast food trivia always gets everyone talking and sharing memories about their favorite childhood treats or the worst fast food experience they’ve ever had. It’s not just entertaining but also surprisingly educational about American culture and business history!
Final Thoughts
Well, there you have it—over 100 fast food trivia questions to test your knowledge or challenge your friends! I hope these questions brought back some nostalgic memories of favorite meals, childhood commercials, or road trip pit stops.
Did you know all the answers? I was surprised by how many international menu items I’d never heard of, and I’m definitely curious to try that Sweet Potato Kit Kat McFlurry in Japan someday!
Next time you’re at a party, stuck in the car on a long drive, or just hanging out with friends, pull out these questions and see who really knows their fast food facts. And if all this talk about food has made you hungry, well… I can’t say I didn’t warn you!
Looking for more fun trivia topics? Check out our general knowledge trivia for questions spanning a wide variety of subjects!