All of these restaurants went through an identity crisis and changed their names. How many did you know about before looking through this list? I was a solid zero for nine.
Domino's
Opened as DomiNick’s Pizza after it’s owner, Dominick DiVarti. He sold it to some friends who changed it to Domino’s.
Popeye's Louisiana Kitchen
Opened as “Chicken On the Run” and did awwwwfffuuuullll business. Changed to Popeye’s (not named after the sailor man BTW) and kaching!!!
Panera
When it opened it was known as “Saint Louis Bread Company” but as the company went for world domination they opted for a more universally appealing name.
Red Robin
YUM!! It was known as “Sam’s Tavern” back in the 1940’s, then “Sam’s Red Robin,” and eventually just “Red Robin” (YUM) as we know it today.
Dunkin'
Obviously you know it was previously Dunkin’ Donuts… BUT…. did you know when it first opened it was known as “Open Kettle?” 2 years after opening “Dunkin’ Donuts” was born after a little rebranding.
McDonald's
When it first opened in California in 1940, McDonald’s was known as “McDonald’s Bar-B-Q.” The McRib must not be pleased with the change.
Denny's
Opened as Danny’s Donuts. One of the co-owners left after a few years and the name changed. I’m guessing the co-owner who left was named Danny?
Jack In the Box
Started as Topsy’s Drive-In. Changed to a drive-through concept and Jack In the Box was born.
Sonic Drive-In
Sonic opened in the 1950’s under the name “Top Hat.” WTH? Owners realized the name made zero sense and little cents so they changed it to Sonic Drive-In in 1959.