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While American fast food chains didn\u2019t start to have a presence in the UK until the 1960s, there were a few chains inspired by the American model prior. But before their rapid expansion in the 70s and 80s, dining out in general was not something many families did, and was a rare treat for many families.<\/p>\n
In the 1950s, restaurant chain Berni Inn introduced post-war Britain to everything from steak and chips to Black Forest gateau. Founded by brothers Aldo and Frank Berni, who were inspired by a chain of restaurants they had seen in America, Berni Inns arguably paved the way for today\u2019s pub-restaurant chains and for many, it was the first place they experienced dining out.<\/p>\n
When it comes to fast food, many in the UK will know of burger chain Wimpy, which opened its first branch in London in 1954. It expanded in the 70s but today, there are only a few dozen left and our high streets are dominated by other big brands.<\/p>\n
The first UK KFC branch opened in Preston, Lancashire in 1965. In the following decade, McDonald’s opened its first UK restaurant in 1974, in Woolwich, London, followed by Burger King in 1976, whose first site was in London\u2019s West End.<\/p>\n
In the decades that have followed, so many sites belonging to these big brands, as well as new emerging franchises and long-standing independents, have opened. We\u2019ve seen big change, from prices to portion sizes, ingredients, menu offerings, new concepts, decor and more.<\/p>\n
New trends have come and gone, some food items were never loved to begin with, and some brands have become more inclusive, offering alternatives for vegetarians, vegans or those with a food allergy or food intolerance.<\/a><\/p>\n We recently delved into the archive to find fascinating footage from BBC Newsround Extra, originally broadcast on 8 May 1981. The news segment shows Paul McDowell and reporter John Craven looking at the influx into Britain of American fast food restaurant chains like Burger King and McDonald’s.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n