Fast Food History

Events

The first Yoshinoya opens in Tokyo at the Tsukiji fish market

1899

The first US automat, a predecessor to fast food restaurants, is opened in Philadelphia

1902

The first A&W opens in Lodi, California

1919

A&W begins franchising

1921

Yoshinoya begins franchising

1968

Dunkin Donuts and KFC become the first American fast food restaurants to open in Japan

1970