Segment Information Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 02, 2023	Apr. 03, 2022
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	$ 528,807	$ 488,643
Wendy's U.S.
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	440,988	407,311
Wendy's International
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	29,280	22,906
Global Real Estate & Development
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	$ 58,539	$ 58,426