Which McDonald’s franchisee created the Filet-O-Fish in 1962?

Lou Groen created the Filet-O-Fish in 1962 as a McDonald’s franchisee in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Groen’s restaurant served a neighborhood with many Catholic customers who traditionally avoided meat on Fridays, especially during Lent. He developed a fish sandwich to attract customers during that period while keeping the product compatible with McDonald’s fast-service format.

The sandwich was tested alongside a competing ham-based idea associated with Ray Kroc. The Filet-O-Fish performed better in the test and was added to the national menu. Its branding gave McDonald’s a seafood option without abandoning the familiar bun, cheese, and quick-service presentation.

The product is often dated to 1963 because that was when it received broader national availability. Its creation, however, is generally credited to Groen in 1962. This distinction explains why sources may mention both years when discussing the sandwich’s history.