Segment Information Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jul. 04, 2021	Jun. 28, 2020	Jul. 04, 2021	Jun. 28, 2020
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	$ 493,337	$ 402,306	$ 953,540	$ 807,266
Wendy's U.S.
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	409,843	331,258	791,797	662,299
Wendy's International
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	21,316	14,003	39,566	29,475
Global Real Estate & Development
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	$ 62,178	$ 57,045	$ 122,177	$ 115,492