Arby’s stands apart in the fast-food world, building its reputation on stacked sandwiches and slow-roasted meats instead of burgers. The brand has introduced daring ideas, some shaping its legacy while others faded into history. Record-breaking commercials and secret menu creations all add to its story. Here’s a look at ten facts that prove there’s much more going on under that big red hat.
Arby’s Was First To Introduce A Lite Menu
Arby’s made history in 1991 by introducing the first fast-food “Lite Menu,” offering items under 300 calories. This innovative move catered to health-conscious customers and proved that fast food could be both flavorful and mindful of dietary needs.
Arby’s Once Had A 10-Gallon Hat Sign
The original Arby’s locations were marked by towering neon signs shaped like a 10-gallon cowboy hat. These whimsical signs stretched over 20 feet tall and reflected the brand’s Western-themed image. Though rare today, some vintage Arby’s still preserve these eye-catching icons.
Arby’s Was Once Owned by Wendy’s
For a time, Arby’s was part of the Wendy’s corporate family. In 2008, Wendy’s merged with Triarc, Arby’s parent company at the time. But the pairing didn’t last. By 2011, Wendy’s sold Arby’s, keeping a small stake, to Roark Capital Group.
Arby’s Holds A Record For The Longest Commercial
Arby’s holds a Guinness World Record for the longest commercial—12 hours of brisket cooking. The slow-cooked footage showcased their smoked meat process in real time, turning a marathon video into a bold statement: quality meat takes time.
Some Locations Offer Secret Menu Items
Some Arby’s locations quietly serve secret menu items like the Meat Mountain. It stacks every meat they offer into one massive sandwich. Availability and price vary by location, and you’ll pay the full cost. There’s no guarantee that it is going to be available, but still ask.
Arby’s Sauces Have A Cult Following
Horsey Sauce and Arby’s Sauce are two condiments that have earned a devoted fan base. Arby’s enthusiasts swear by these signature sauces, slathering them on everything from roast beef to curly fries. For some, the meal isn’t complete without that tangy, creamy kick.
Arby’s Once Offered Duck Sandwiches
For a limited time, Arby’s went wild. The chain served duck sandwiches during hunting season, bringing gourmet game meat to its menu. Unconventional? Absolutely. But for adventurous eaters, it was a chance to bite into something rare at a fast-food joint.
Arby’s Refuses To Offer Plant-Based Meat
While many fast-food chains shifted toward plant-based options, Arby’s stuck to its meat-focused identity. Company leaders have made it clear—they’re not interested in going meatless. Instead, they continue to highlight classic proteins, staying committed to what defines their brand.
Arby’s Introduced Crinkle-Cut Fries
In 2021, Arby’s added crinkle-cut fries to its menu, complementing its iconic curly fries instead of replacing them. Fans remained loyal to the curly fries, reinforcing their status as a longstanding favorite. Despite the addition, Arby’s curly fries have always been a menu staple.
Arby’s Once Attempted A Sit-Down Restaurant Concept
Before fast-casual dining became a trend, Arby’s tried it with “Roast Town”—a sit-down concept offering plated meals and full table service. The experiment didn’t last, but it proved the brand was willing to think beyond the drive-thru window.
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