Which fast food burger chain celebrated its 86th birthday in 2007?

White Castle celebrated its 86th birthday in 2007. The chain opened its first restaurant in Wichita, Kansas, on September 13, 1921, founded by Walter Anderson and Billy Ingram. That makes 2007 the 86th anniversary year of the company’s founding.

White Castle is widely regarded as America’s first fast-food hamburger chain. Its small, square hamburgers—later known as “Slyders”—were designed to be inexpensive, quick to prepare, and consistent from one location to the next. The company’s distinctive white porcelain-steel buildings also helped create a recognizable national brand during the early development of modern fast food.

A common mix-up is confusing White Castle’s anniversary with the birthday of a particular menu item. The chain’s sliders have their own product history, while the 86th birthday refers to White Castle itself. Another neighbouring fact readers often ask about is McDonald’s: although its modern corporation and restaurant history are different, McDonald’s was founded decades after White Castle, which had already pioneered standardized hamburger service.