Cult US burger chain Wendy’s opens its first store in Australia

A popular American fast-food joint is finally opening its doors in Australia in an “exciting milestone” for burger lovers.

A popular cult burger chain from the United States is finally opening its first store in Australia.

Wendy’s, known for its square burger patties, will open its first Australian restaurant on Cavill Avenue in Surfer’s Paradise on Wednesday.

The Gold Coast diner will mark the “first of many” of Wendy’s restaurants opening in Australia.

There are plans of 200 in the market by 2034. Each will generate 30 to 40 jobs.

The American chain is not to be confused with Wendy’s Milk Bar, which sold ice cream and hot dogs in Australia

Aussies will finally be able to indulge in the brand, which has the motto “fresh, never frozen”, with menu items including the brand’s Classic Double and Spicy Chicken Sandwich.

It also includes the Baconmator, which has two square burger patties, a bun, bacon, American cheese slices, mayonnaise and ketchup.

Wendy's is coming to Australia. Picture: Supplied

The hand-breaded chicken tenders are also a real draw card. The tenders are made with 100 per cent Australian chicken. The item was tested over and over again after feedback from Aussie diners, as the brand wanted to “specifically craft” them for the market.

The chicken can be had in versions such as “homestyle” or a new spicy recipe that can come in a three-piece, five-piece, burger or wrap.

Aussies can also get their hands on the Wendy’s Frosty dessert, which comes in chocolate or vanilla. The hand cut fries will also be available. People can get them regular, loaded with cheese, chilli and cheese or bacon and cheese.

The brand started to tease its opening on social media at the end of 2024. Questions flooded in since.

“When is the first store opening,” one demanded.

Another said: “Where is the store opening? Say Canberra.”

“Please bring the chili con carne sides,” one begged.

Another said: “You’re just making me hungry.”

Aussies can also get their hands on the Wendy’s Frosty dessert. Picture: Supplied

The move was labelled an “exciting milestone” by the brand.

“The opening of the first Wendy’s restaurant on Australia’s Gold Coast is an exciting milestone, showcasing the brand’s global relevance and proven ability to travel around the world,” E.J. Wunsch, the international president at The Wendy’s Company, said.

“With Flynn Group’s expertise and passion, we have crafted a restaurant experience that blends Wendy’s iconic square hamburgers and craveable chicken offerings with bold menu innovation crafted with Aussies in mind. This is the start of a journey to bring Wendy’s unique fresh, famous food to fans across Australia as we continue our expansion throughout the Asia Pacific region.”

Chicken tenders have also been tested specifically for an Aussie market. Picture: Supplied

The Flynn Group, which also acquired the master franchise license for Pizza Hut in Australia in June 2023, is responsible for Wendy’s being brought to Australia. Its portfolio includes 2900 restaurants across seven brands.

“We’re proud to bring a fresh approach to the Australian food scene. The Wendy’s brand was built on doing things differently, from square hamburgers to being one of the most talked about brands on social media,” Lauren Leahy, chief transformation officer at Flynn Group, said.

“Wendy’s embraces a challenger mindset, and we think Australians do too. We’ve put our guests in the centre of every detail from a vibrant new restaurant design with a laser focus on delivering the best chicken and hamburger experience.”

Originally published as Cult US burger chain Wendy’s opens its first store in Australia