18 Arby’s Facts You Need To Know
Here are 18 Arby’s facts you need to know—covering its origins, menu trivia, and a few surprising tidbits that even seasoned fans might not expect.
1. Arby’s Name Origin
The name “Arby’s” doesn’t stand for roast beef, as many mistakenly believe. Instead, it comes from the initials “R.B.” of the Raffel Brothers, Leroy and Forrest, who founded the chain. These brothers opened the first Arby’s in 1964 in Boardman, Ohio, introducing a new fast-food concept.
They aimed to serve higher-quality roast beef sandwiches instead of the usual hamburgers. For them, creating an upscale fast food experience was key. This naming story highlights their initial vision and entrepreneurial spirit.
2. First Arby’s Location
The first Arby’s opened its doors in 1964 in Boardman, Ohio. It was a novel venture, focusing on serving roast beef sandwiches instead of the traditional burger offerings. The founders wanted a more refined fast-food experience, complete with sandwiches and cloth napkins.
This location marked the beginning of what would become a national chain favorite. The emphasis on quality set Arby’s apart, drawing in customers looking for something different from the typical fast-food fare.
3. Menu Innovation
Arby’s was a pioneer in the fast-food industry by offering alternatives to burgers. Its menu initially featured roast beef sandwiches, potato chips, and soft drinks, catering to those wanting a unique dining option. The focus on roast beef was a significant departure from the norm.
This innovative approach helped Arby’s carve out a niche in the food industry. By staying true to their original concept, they attracted a loyal customer base seeking variety and quality in fast food.
4. Arby’s Signature Sauces
Arby’s is known for its signature sauces, particularly Arby’s Sauce and Horsey Sauce, which have developed a devoted fan base over the years. These sauces are so beloved that they’re available for purchase in bottles at some retailers.
The tangy and spicy flavors add a unique twist to the classic roast beef sandwiches, making them a must-try for any Arby’s enthusiast.
This culinary innovation highlights the brand’s commitment to offering distinctive and flavorful dining experiences.
5. Famous Curly Fries
Arby’s seasoned curly fries have achieved cult status among fast-food lovers. Their unique spiral shape and seasoned coating make them one of the most iconic items on the menu. Fans often order these crispy fries as a standalone snack or a perfect complement to a sandwich.
The fries’ irresistible flavor has become synonymous with the Arby’s brand, drawing praise from customers who crave something more exciting than ordinary fries. They continue to be a standout favorite for regulars and newcomers alike.
6. Baked Potato Bar Era
In the 1980s and 1990s, some Arby’s locations offered a baked potato bar. This unique feature included toppings such as broccoli cheese and bacon, providing a hearty alternative to fries. It was a novel idea that catered to those seeking more variety.
The baked potato bar added a touch of creativity to the Arby’s menu, demonstrating the chain’s willingness to experiment. Though it’s no longer available, this concept remains a nostalgic memory for those who experienced it.
7. Venison and Elk Sandwiches
As part of a limited-time promotion, Arby’s introduced venison and elk sandwiches in select markets. This bold move attracted adventurous eaters looking for something new.
The sandwiches featured tender, flavorful meat that appealed to those with a taste for wild game. This promotion showcased Arby’s willingness to push culinary boundaries and offer unique menu items that stand out in the fast-food landscape.
8. Acquisition of Buffalo Wild Wings
In 2018, Arby’s made headlines by acquiring Buffalo Wild Wings, under the umbrella of parent company Inspire Brands. This acquisition helped form one of the largest restaurant groups in the U.S.
By joining forces, Arby’s expanded its reach and influence in the restaurant industry. This strategic move was part of Inspire Brands’ vision to create a diverse portfolio of popular restaurant chains. It marked a significant milestone in Arby’s history.
9. “We Have the Meats” Campaign
Launched in 2014, the “We Have the Meats” campaign revitalized Arby’s brand image. It positioned the chain as a bold voice in fast-food advertising, emphasizing their wide variety of meats. This slogan resonated with meat lovers, enhancing Arby’s appeal.
The campaign’s success helped differentiate Arby’s from competitors, reinforcing its identity as a meat-centric destination. Its memorable catchphrase remains a key part of Arby’s marketing strategy, drawing in customers with its straightforward promise of hearty offerings.
10. The Meat Mountain Sandwich
The Meat Mountain sandwich at Arby’s is a legendary off-menu creation. Stacked high with every type of meat Arby’s offers, it includes roast beef, chicken tenders, and bacon, among others. This colossal sandwich appeals to those with an appetite for an epic meal.
The Meat Mountain showcases Arby’s playful side, offering an indulgent experience for meat enthusiasts. It’s a testament to the chain’s willingness to create over-the-top menu items that cater to adventurous diners looking for a unique challenge.
11. Plant-Based Experimentation
Known for its meat offerings, Arby’s ventured into plant-based experimentation with a playful twist. They tested a “marrot”—a meat-based carrot—for April Fool’s, showcasing their creativity and humor. While they haven’t fully launched plant-based items, these trials show their openness to innovation.
Arby’s exploration into plant-forward concepts reflects the growing demand for vegetarian options. By adding humor to their experiments, they keep their brand fresh and engaging, appealing to both meat lovers and the curious alike.
12. Gyros on the Menu
Arby’s offers a taste of Greece with their Greek-style gyros. Available with lamb or chicken, these gyros come complete with tzatziki sauce and pita bread, providing a flavorful alternative to their traditional sandwiches.
This menu addition reflects Arby’s commitment to variety and quality. Their gyros appeal to those seeking something different, broadening Arby’s appeal to a wider audience. The successful integration of international flavors showcases their culinary adaptability.
13. Arby’s Beer and Vodka Collaborations
Arby’s has ventured beyond food, collaborating with craft breweries and distilleries to create limited-edition items like curly fry-flavored vodka and smoked porter beer. These unique offerings highlight Arby’s experimental side.
By expanding into the beverage market, Arby’s attracts adventurous consumers looking for novelty. These collaborations demonstrate their willingness to explore new territory, adding an unexpected twist to their brand identity.
14. The Arby’s Hat Logo
The iconic Arby’s logo isn’t just an abstract design—it’s a 10-gallon hat, reflecting the chain’s original Wild West-themed branding. This logo has become synonymous with the brand, instantly recognizable to fans nationwide.
The hat’s design pays homage to the chain’s roots, emphasizing their unique identity in the fast-food landscape. Its enduring presence highlights Arby’s ability to maintain a consistent and distinctive brand image over the years.
15. Global Presence
While predominantly based in the U.S., Arby’s has expanded its presence internationally. With over 3,400 locations worldwide, the chain has reached countries like Canada, Turkey, and the Middle East.
This global expansion showcases Arby’s ability to adapt and thrive in diverse markets. Their international success underscores the universal appeal of their menu offerings, attracting a wide range of customers seeking a taste of Arby’s abroad.
16. High Average Check Total
Thanks to premium items and combo upsells, Arby’s boasts one of the highest average check totals in the fast-food industry. This financial success is attributed to their focus on quality and diverse menu offerings.
By encouraging customers to try various items, Arby’s ensures a satisfying dining experience. Their strategic pricing approach sets them apart from burger-based chains, highlighting their commitment to providing value through variety.
17. Breakfast Offerings at Arby’s
In select locations, particularly near airports and travel hubs, Arby’s offers breakfast options. These include breakfast sandwiches, hash browns, and coffee, catering to early-morning travelers and commuters.
The breakfast menu reflects Arby’s flexibility in meeting customer needs. By expanding their offerings, they capture a broader audience seeking convenient and satisfying breakfast choices. This initiative highlights their adaptability and commitment to customer satisfaction.
18. Oven Mitt Mascot Era
In the early 2000s, Arby’s introduced a mascot named Oven Mitt, voiced by Tom Arnold. This talking oven mitt brought a playful touch to their advertising, though the campaign was short-lived.
The Oven Mitt era showcased Arby’s willingness to experiment with marketing approaches, adding a humorous element to their brand. While the mascot is no longer in use, it remains a memorable part of Arby’s advertising history.