Is There a Wendy’s in France? (2025 Travel Guide)

Quick answer: No, there is currently no Wendy’s in France. If you're craving a square burger and a Frosty while wandering through Paris or Marseille, you won’t find a Wendy’s location. But don’t worry—we’ll show you where to get similar food and why Wendy’s hasn’t taken root (yet).

Has Wendy’s Ever Been in France?
Not officially. While Wendy’s has made strides in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and parts of Asia, it has never opened a permanent restaurant in France.

The brand has hinted at broader international expansion, but as of 2025:
- France is not on the active list
- No locations exist
- No official announcements have been made

Closest Wendy’s Locations to France
If you're truly determined, here are the nearest options:
- London, UK – Multiple permanent locations
- Ireland – A few major cities like Dublin
- Middle East & Eastern Europe – Occasional airport or mall spots
- U.S. East Coast – If you're heading home soon

But in France itself? Still a no-go.

What About the Frosty?
Sorry, no Frosty in France. But France does frozen desserts better. Here's what to try instead:
- Gelato-style ice cream at street cafés
- Churros with chocolate at food trucks
- Affogato – vanilla ice cream drowned in espresso
- Granité – slushy fruit-based iced drinks, popular in warmer regions

Why Wendy’s Hasn’t Expanded to France
Wendy’s would face some tough competition in France—and even tougher cultural hurdles.

Here’s why:
- Strong local food culture: French people trust boulangeries and bistros more than foreign burger chains.
- High operating costs: Real estate, labor laws, and regulations make it expensive to run U.S.-style fast food franchises.
- Brand unfamiliarity: Wendy’s isn’t as well known in Europe as McDonald’s or Burger King.

Unless Wendy’s rebrands itself with a French-friendly identity and menu, it won’t gain traction here.

What You Can Find Instead
You won’t find Wendy’s, but you will find excellent fast food. Here are some options with that Wendy’s vibe:

French Chains:
- Quick – A Belgian-born chain that offers unique burgers and spicy sauces
- Big Fernand – Gourmet burgers with a French twist
- La Mie Câline – Hot sandwiches and pastries, casual and fast

U.S. Chains:
- McDonald’s (McDo) – Widespread and highly localized menus
- Burger King – Cleaner and trendier than many U.S. BKs
- Five Guys – Found in major cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille

Want a Wendy’s-Style Burger in France?
Try this order:
- From McDonald’s: Ask for a “Signature Classique” with cheddar
- From Quick: Go for the “Long Bacon” or “Giant” burger
- From a French bistro: Look for “Burger Maison” (house burger) on the menu

And if you want to DIY it…

Build Your Own Wendy’s Meal
At a supermarket like Carrefour, Franprix, or Monoprix, you’ll find:
- Ground beef (“steak haché”) – often fresh and high quality
- Burger buns – including brioche-style
- Cheddar or raclette cheese
- Pickles, lettuce, tomato, onion
- Frozen fries or potato wedges

Cook it up in your Airbnb kitchen, toast the bun, and voilà—French Wendy’s.

Local Alternatives to Wendy’s Combo Meals
You can still get a filling meal in France for under €10. Try:
- Croque Monsieur + fries at a corner brasserie
- Rotisserie chicken + baguette from a market stall
- Kebab frites – popular across France and super filling
- Poke bowl or burger bar menus with a drink and dessert

Fast Food Ordering Tips in France
- Many fast food places use self-service kiosks (with English options)
- Combo = menu (“un menu” gets you fries + drink)
- "À emporter" = to go | "Sur place" = dine-in
- Use delivery apps like Uber Eats, Deliveroo, or Just Eat for major chains

Will Wendy’s Ever Come to France?
Wendy’s has announced intentions to expand in Europe, and success in the U.K. might encourage entry into France eventually. But unless there's a major cultural shift or local partnership, France likely won’t see Wendy’s in the near future.

Don’t hold your breath—but don’t lose hope either.

Final Verdict
Is there a Wendy’s in France?
No. Not yet—and possibly not soon.

But you can still find gourmet burgers, loaded fries, cold desserts, and even square patties (if you squint). Whether you go local, try another U.S. brand, or grill your own, France will keep your fast food cravings satisfied—even without the red-haired mascot.