| Document and Entity Information | Sep. 09, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | Wendy's Co |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000030697 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Sep. 9, 2019 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-2207 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 38-0471180 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | One Dave Thomas Boulevard |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Dublin |
| Entity Address, State or Province | OH |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 43017 |
| City Area Code | (614) |
| Local Phone Number | 764-3100 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $.10 par value |
| Trading Symbol | WEN |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
