Segment Information Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 03, 2022	Apr. 04, 2021
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	$ 488,643	$ 460,203
Wendy's U.S.
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	407,311	381,954
Wendy's International
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	22,906	18,250
Global Real Estate & Development
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	$ 58,426	$ 59,999