Chick-fil-A is one of America’s most popular fast-food chains, known for its famous chicken sandwiches and friendly customer service. But have you ever wondered when Chick-fil-A was founded? Let’s take a look at how this iconic restaurant got started and grew into what it is today.
Chick Fil A History
Before Chick-fil-A became a household name, its story began in 1946 when S. Truett Cathy opened a small diner called The Dwarf Grill in Hapeville, Georgia, near Atlanta. Truett and his brother Ben Cathy started the business after World War II, and the diner quickly became a local favorite for its delicious food and warm atmosphere.
It was at The Dwarf Grill that Truett Cathy created the original chicken sandwich recipe that would later become the star of Chick-fil-A’s menu. The success of this small diner set the stage for the big idea that would come years later.
Chick-fil-A is Born (1967)
The first official Chick-fil-A restaurant opened in 1967 in the Greenbriar Shopping Center in Atlanta, Georgia. Truett Cathy’s idea was simple: serve a high-quality chicken sandwich in a fast-food setting. At a time when most fast-food places focused on burgers, Chick-fil-A stood out by offering a chicken-centered menu.
The restaurant’s signature item, the pressure-cooked chicken sandwich, quickly became a hit. With the success of this first location, Cathy knew he had something special and began expanding the business.
Growth and Family Leadership
As Chick-fil-A grew, so did its reputation for excellent food and outstanding customer service. One of the things that made Chick-fil-A unique was its decision to close on Sundays, giving employees a day off for rest or worship. This tradition, started by Truett Cathy, continues to this day.
In 2013, Truett’s son, Dan Cathy, took over as CEO, and in 2021, his grandson Andrew Cathy became the company’s CEO. The Cathy family has played a huge role in Chick-fil-A’s continued success, passing down the values and vision from one generation to the next.
Chick-fil-A Today
Since opening that first location in 1967, Chick-fil-A has grown to more than 2,700 locations across the U.S. and even internationally. The company’s focus on quality food and friendly service has never wavered, and it remains one of the most popular fast-food chains in the country.
Chick-fil-A was founded in 1967 when Truett Cathy opened the first restaurant in Atlanta, but its roots go back to 1946 with the opening of The Dwarf Grill. Today, Chick-fil-A is known for more than just its chicken sandwiches—it’s a brand built on quality, family values, and great service.
