Is Wendy's opening in Whitby a controversial arrival or a welcome addition? We want to know what you think!
There's a new American Diner in town! But can it rival Whitby's well-loved restaurants and chippies that have stood the test of time? Wendy's made a grand entrance into the town, attracting residents and tourists with a striking red and white balloon arch and a prize wheel outside the main entrance to the old Papa's restaurant. With more national chains and brands creeping into Whitby, what do you think about Wendy's opening in Whitby?
What is Wendy's?
Wendy's is an American international fast-food restaurant chain founded by Dave Thomas in 1969 in Columbus, Ohio. It serves square hamburgers and Frosty desserts. Wendy's menu shows off various items served quickly, such as burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, and fries!
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The chain's logo features a young girl with red pigtails based on the founder's daughter, Melinda Lou “Wendy” Thomas. Check out their social media for clever and often humorous advertising campaigns.
Wendy's has expanded globally, with thousands of locations worldwide, and now it has reached Whitby!
There were mixed opinions among the locals!
The opening of Wendy's has stirred mixed reactions among locals. While some are excited about the new dining option, others are concerned about the increasing presence of national chains in a town known for its unique, independent eateries.
This sentiment was echoed by a local review of Wendy's opening day. It highlighted the restaurant's attempt to rival the town's beloved chippies.
This marks yet another national brand setting up shop in Whitby, joining the likes of Wetherspoons, Domino's, Greggs, Costa Coffee, and Roly's Fudge.
Wendy's Whitby review
At Wendy's, you order your food at double-sided screens and collect it quickly from the till area. You refill your drinks at drink stations. Service is very quick if that's what you're after.
There is plenty of seating, and the upstairs seating area has a lovely view of Whitby Harbour.
Samantha Teasdale at Yorkshire Live visited Wendy's on opening day and said they were “Impressed by the burger, I finished it within minutes – becoming sad that it didn't last longer. It was seasoned perfectly, crispy as a burger should be and cooked beautifully.”
They said it was a nice treat, priced at £11.95 for a burger, medium fries and a drink.
If you love American-style fast food, we'd say it's worth a try!
Wendy's is settling into its new home in Whitby. The presence of such national chains raises important questions about preserving local culture and supporting independent businesses.
While many take it for what it is, embrace and enjoy these chains' variety and job opportunities, others fear the loss of Whitby's unique charm.
One thing is sure: the food scene in Whitby is evolving! What do you think about Wendy's opening in Whitby?
If the photograph of the burger is the standard of food served at Wendy’s – I’ll give it a miss and stick to the uniquely Whitby eateries, thank you.
Another fast food outlet of this nature further erodes the character of the town in my opinion.
Blot on the landscape
No Whitby should not allow any chains. They will undercut independent businesses until they go under then people are left with no choice. Visitors can choose. If they choose they don’t like chains they will go elsewhere and the whole of Whitby will change. Please resist and fight the chains
By a visitor of many years