A&W Restaurants Unveils New Design Inspired by 1919 Original
A&W Restaurants, America's oldest franchised restaurant chain, is introducing a new restaurant design inspired by its original 1919 root beer stands.

Portland, OR, August 18, 2026 — A&W Restaurants, recognized as America’s oldest franchised restaurant chain, is rolling out a new restaurant design that pays homage to its roots. The updated aesthetic draws inspiration from the company’s very first root beer stands, established in 1919.
This new design aims to connect modern customers with the brand’s historic beginnings. The architecture and interior styling of the new locations are intended to evoke the nostalgic feel of the early 20th-century roadside stands that first popularized A&W’s signature root beer and other classic offerings.
The initiative marks a significant step for the nearly century-old brand as it seeks to blend its rich heritage with contemporary dining experiences. Further details regarding the rollout of these new designs, including specific locations or a timeline for implementation, have not yet been provided.
Story summarized from the original created by Brandon Champion on www.oregonlive.com, see more information here.