The United States is full of long-standing fast food joints and many of them have a fascinating story to tell. 

McDonald’s, the most famous fast food chain on the planet, is steadily taking over the world, one burger flipping franchise at a time.

The first – McDonald’s Bar-B-Q – was opened in San Bernardino in the 1940s by the McDonald brothers. While this is sadly out of service, you can get a sense of the chain’s past at Downey’s location.

If you're in Kentucky, you can also visit Harland Sanders Cafe, the predecessor of KFC, a restaurant run by Col. from 1940 to 1956.

Sanders moved on to this brick-and-mortar spot after serving his chicken to hungry passengers at the gas station across the street.

Pat Olivieri is credited with inventing the revered Philly cheesesteak: sautéed rib-eye beef, onions, and Cheez Whiz in a white roll. 

In 1930, Pat’s King of Steaks opened in South Philadelphia and the city was enamored with the meaty creations.

The idea of ​​an all-American diner is thought to date back to 1872, when a "lunch wagon" opened in Providence, the capital of Rhode Island.

Casey’s Diner, Natick, Massachusetts

Today, the down-to-earth diner is still a steadfast part of the American fast food scene and many of the historic locations remain. 

One such venue is Casey’s Diner in Natick, whose roots date back to the 1890s, when Fred Casey began serving punters in a wagon drawn by four mule horses.