Fast food has become an American staple. There are over 300,000 fast food restaurants in the United States alone, making it nearly impossible to drive down the road without going by at least one fast food chain restaurant.
The concept of ready-cooked food for sale began in Ancient Roman cities that had street stands selling bread and wine. It was not until 1867 though that the first American fast food restaurant, Coney Island hot dog stand, opened in New York.
Since then, dozens of other fast food restaurants have opened and franchised throughout the United States and the rest of the world. Their popularity soared because of their convenience and low prices.
Need more proof of the popularity of fast food? In 1970 U.S. consumers spent $6 billion on fast food. Thirty years later in 2000 U.S. consumers spent $110 billion! Take part in this American tradition and enjoy National Fast Food Day!
