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

Quick answer: No, there isn’t a Wendy’s in Italy (yet). But if you’re craving a square burger and a Frosty while strolling the streets of Rome or Florence, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with alternatives, workarounds, and travel-friendly fast food tips.

Why Wendy’s Isn’t in Italy
Despite Wendy’s being one of the biggest burger chains in the U.S., it has yet to plant its flag in Italy. While the company has made moves into the U.K., its presence in continental Europe is still basically nonexistent.

Reasons Wendy’s hasn't arrived:
- Cultural resistance to American fast food: Italians value tradition and slow food.
- Operational challenges: Sourcing square beef patties and U.S.-style buns would mean major supply chain adjustments.
- Fierce competition: With McDonald’s and Burger King already entrenched, a new burger brand would need to be exceptional (and uniquely Italianized) to survive.

Closest Wendy’s to Italy
If you're desperate, the nearest Wendy’s options would require travel. As of 2025, Wendy’s has opened a few European locations in:
- United Kingdom (e.g., London)
- Ireland
- Georgia (the country, not the U.S. state) – random, we know

What to Eat Instead in Italy
While there’s no Dave’s Double or Baconator on Italian menus, you’ll find plenty of food that hits the same savory, satisfying notes.

Here are your Wendy’s-alternative options:

American Chains in Italy:
- McDonald’s – Italy’s largest U.S. fast food presence
- Burger King – Known as “BK Italia”
- KFC – Especially common in Milan and Northern Italy
- Five Guys – You’ll find it in major cities like Rome and Milan
- Hard Rock Café – Not fast food, but very American

McDonald’s and Burger King even localize their menus. Think: Parmesan burgers, focaccia buns, and tiramisu desserts.

Any Chance of a Frosty?
Nope. But if it’s a cold dessert you’re after, Italy is literally the place.

Try these instead:
- Gelato – Find a gelateria on nearly every corner. It’s smoother, richer, and better than any fast food milkshake.
- Granita – A semi-frozen slush (try lemon or coffee flavors)
- Affogato – Vanilla gelato “drowned” in espresso

Pro tip: Gelato is often cheaper than a U.S. Frosty and way better.

Italian Fast Food You’ll Actually Love
Fast food in Italy doesn’t always come in paper bags. Try these popular options that are fast, flavorful, and often cheaper than their American counterparts:

- Piadina – Grilled flatbread stuffed with meats, cheese, or veggies
- Arancini – Sicilian fried rice balls with ragù and cheese
- Panini – Served hot or cold with salami, mozzarella, and fresh veggies
- Porchetta Sandwich – Roast pork seasoned with garlic and herbs
- Trapizzino – A pizza-sandwich hybrid found in Roman food stalls

Most are made to order and cost less than a Wendy’s meal.

Grocery Store “Wendy’s Kits”
If you’re in an Airbnb and want to play chef, go to a grocery store like Carrefour or Conad and grab:
- Ground beef patties (“hamburger di manzo”)
- Buns (“panini” or “pane da hamburger”)
- Cheese slices (“formaggio fuso”)
- Frozen fries (“patatine fritte surgelate”)

They even sell air fryers at some stores, so you can make your own Wendy’s-style meal on the go.

Where Locals Go for a Burger Fix
Don’t overlook Italian burger joints—they’ve come a long way.

Top Italian Burger Chains & Spots:
- Old Wild West – A Western-themed chain that’s kind of like if Wendy’s and a saloon had a baby
- Burger Italy – Local franchises with gourmet-style burgers
- Flower Burger – If you’re into plant-based alternatives
- Misc. Paninotecas – “Panino” shops often do surprisingly great burgers with Italian flair

Navigating Fast Food Cravings Abroad
Let’s be honest—traveling without your comfort food can be tough. But it’s also a chance to explore new flavors and reset your relationship with food.

If you’re homesick:
- Try familiar snacks: Lays, Coca-Cola, even Pringles are widely available
- Visit an American-style diner: Often listed as “Burger Bar” or “American Pub”
- Use Google Maps to search “hamburger near me” – it works

Will Wendy’s Ever Come to Italy?
Wendy’s has stated that it wants to expand its global footprint. Europe is on the radar, and if U.K. stores perform well, Italy could make the shortlist.

However, don’t expect it in the next year or two. The Italian market requires serious localization—and Wendy’s has yet to test that.

Final Verdict
Is there a Wendy’s in Italy?
No. Not yet.

But you can still find juicy burgers, crispy fries, and even better desserts across the country. Whether you DIY it, go local, or chase the American-style experience, you’ll stay full and happy.

Just don’t ask for a Frosty unless you’re near a gelato stand—then you’ll forget Wendy’s ever existed.