Segment Information Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2024	Jul. 02, 2023	Jun. 30, 2024	Jul. 02, 2023
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	$ 570,727	$ 561,565	$ 1,105,480	$ 1,090,372
Wendy's U.S.
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	472,591	468,753	915,438	909,741
Wendy's International
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	36,361	32,715	69,176	61,995
Global Real Estate & Development
Segment Reporting, Revenue Reconciling Item
Total revenues	$ 61,775	$ 60,097	$ 120,866	$ 118,636