A&W Restaurant near Arnold, MO

A&W Restaurants is an American fast-food brand known for its signature root beer, burgers, and classic drive-in style dining. The brand traces its origins back to 1919 in Lodi, California, when entrepreneur Roy W. Allen opened a roadside stand serving freshly made root beer in frosty mugs during a homecoming celebration for World War I veterans. Shortly afterward, Allen partnered with Frank Wright, and the business adopted the name A&W, using the initials of their last names. Through the 1920s the concept expanded rapidly, and A&W began franchising its root beer stands—making it one of the first restaurant franchise chains in the United States. Over time the menu evolved to include burgers, hot dogs, and other classic American fast-food items while maintaining its traditional root beer served in chilled mugs. Today, A&W Restaurants operates locations across the United States and internationally, continuing a brand heritage that dates back more than a century.