10 Arthur Treacher’s Fish & Chips: A Taste of Britain
Long before Dave Thomas founded Wendy’s, he helped launch Arthur Treacher’s Fish & Chips in Columbus, Ohio, in 1969. The founders purchased a genuine 1860s recipe from Malin’s of London to guarantee authentic British flavor. Named after English character actor Arthur Treacher, the chain served up crispy battered cod, thick-cut fries (chips), and irresistible hush puppies.
The brand exploded in popularity, peaking at over 800 restaurants nationwide by the end of the 1970s. However, the chain soon fell victim to soaring global cod prices—sparked by international fishing disputes—and ugly legal battles between the corporate office and disgruntled franchise owners.
Fast forward to today, and fewer than five standalone Arthur Treacher’s restaurants exist, all clinging to life in northeastern Ohio thanks to a dedicated local following.
