Segment Information Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jul. 02, 2023	Jul. 03, 2022	Jul. 02, 2023	Jul. 03, 2022
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	$ 561,565	$ 537,783	$ 1,090,372	$ 1,026,426
Wendy's U.S.
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	468,753	450,440	909,741	857,751
Wendy's International
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	32,715	27,463	61,995	50,369
Global Real Estate & Development
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	$ 60,097	$ 59,880	$ 118,636	$ 118,306