Segment Information Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2024	Apr. 02, 2023
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	$ 534,753	$ 528,807
Wendy's U.S.
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	442,847	440,988
Wendy's International
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	32,815	29,280
Global Real Estate & Development
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	$ 59,091	$ 58,539