White Castle is considered the first Quick Service Restaurant (QSR). It opened in Wichita, Kansas in 1921.
Explanation
- White Castle was the first to standardize the look, food production, and operations of fast-food restaurants.
- White Castle’s supply chain provided meat, buns, paper goods, and other supplies to their restaurants.
- White Castle’s open kitchen area allowed customers to see their food being prepared.
Other early QSRs
- McDonald’s: The first McDonald’s franchise opened in Des Plaines, Illinois in 1955.
- Burger King: Burger King began in the franchise food business in 1954.
- Taco Bell: Taco Bell got started in the 1950s.