Segment Information Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 04, 2021	Mar. 29, 2020
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	$ 460,203	$ 404,960
Wendy's U.S.
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	381,954	331,041
Wendy's International
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	18,250	15,472
Global Real Estate & Development
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	$ 59,999	$ 58,447