Get ready to take a delicious trip down memory lane! From catchy jingles to quirky mascots, fast food commercials have served up unforgettable moments that defined generations. Here are the most iconic ads that made us crave fries, burgers, and a bit of nostalgia.
Taco Bell – Yo Quiero Taco Bell
In 1997, Taco Bell introduced Gidget, the chihuahua who hilariously proclaimed, “Yo Quiero Taco Bell.” The dog became an overnight pop-culture sensation.
Gidget’s Taco Bell obsession was comical and relatable, making viewers laugh and remember the brand.
The ad became iconic because it was fun, catchy, and cute. Gidget didn’t just sell tacos; it created a cultural moment, proving that even a chihuahua could move products.
Domino’s – The Noid
Domino’s introduced “The Noid” in the 1980s, a quirky character symbolizing delivery challenges. The Noid became both a mascot and a cultural symbol of fast-food fun.
This ad took a risk but it worked, making The Noid a beloved character. Its memorable catchphrase, “Avoid the Noid,” quickly took off.
The Noid reappeared in future ads, proving its staying power. It’s rare for a mascot to transcend its role, but The Noid achieved that.
That’s What a Hamburger’s All About – In-N-Out
In 1987, In-N-Out aired an ad that made you feel like you were right by the California coast. A catchy jingle made everyone feel like they were living the burger dream.
The jingle, “In-N-Out, that’s what it’s aaaaall abouuut,” has become an earworm, one that people still hum today.
While In-N-Out doesn’t advertise much now, this ad showcased the brand’s identity with warmth and a little melody. It’s pure, simple advertising at its best.
Ring Pops
Ring Pop was the ring you wore on your finger—a juicy gem of flavor you could lick, like a lollipop without the stick. That catchy jingle? It’s burned into everyone’s memory.
We didn’t even need to rewatch those old commercials; the Ring Pop song is stuck in our head for life.
The Ring Pop song? That’s unforgettable, a true classic of ‘90s candy culture.
Dunkin’ – Time to Make the Donuts!
In 1984, Dunkin’ debuted an ad with Fred, the donut maker, who became a mascot for daily dedication.
His iconic line, “Time to make the donuts,” became a cultural catchphrase. The ad shows Fred’s relentless commitment to make fresh donuts.
Fred became an icon, reminding everyone that Dunkin’ donuts were always made fresh.
McDonald’s – The Showdown: Bird vs. Jordan
In 1993, McDonald’s pitted basketball legends Larry Bird and Michael Jordan against each other in “The Showdown.”
They challenged each other to trick shots for a Big Mac. The ad’s playful competition between these sports icons captivated audiences.
This iconic ad set the stage for future sports collaborations, proving McDonald’s knew how to use star power. It’s classic entertainment with the right dash of brand placement!
Sprite – Kobe Bryant Obey Your Thirst
The 1997 Sprite “Obey Your Thirst” ad featured a young Kobe Bryant, highlighting his passion for basketball and authenticity.
Unlike traditional endorsements, the ad didn’t focus on glamour or fame but instead showed Kobe playing the game he loved and sharing insights into his journey.
By showcasing Kobe’s genuine drive and dedication, Sprite positioned itself as a brand that valued real ambition over image, resonating with young audiences.
Bubble Tape – For You, Not Them
The 1990s introduced Bubble Tape, a unique six-foot roll of bubble gum that came in a coiled dispenser. This wasn’t just any gum—it was made for the cool kids, not the adults.
Every commercial drove this home, wrapping up with the catchy line, “Six feet of bubble gum. For you! Not them!” “Them” meant the grown-ups.
Bubble Tape became iconic, not just for its flavor and length, but for its playful attitude that perfectly captured ’90s kid culture.
Pizza Hut – Pizza to Go
In 1984, Pizza Hut took on its delivery rivals with a catchy “Pizza to Go” jingle. The memorable tune made sure customers knew who to call.
The ad cleverly used technology sounds of the time to create a memorable tune, helping customers link Pizza Hut with convenience and fast delivery.
During peak competition with Domino’s, this ad gave Pizza Hut a solid foothold in the delivery race. Its creativity and catchy rhythm helped make Pizza Hut a delivery favorite.
Quiznos – SpongMonkeys
In the 2000s, Quiznos launched one of the decade’s most bizarre yet memorable ad campaigns featuring the SpongMonkeys.
These quirky, unsettling characters sang a jingle declaring, “We love the subs!” and celebrated Quiznos’ toasty sandwiches with odd lyrics and offbeat humor.
The SpongMonkeys’ unusual look and weirdly catchy song left a lasting impression, captivating some viewers while confusing others.
Dairy Queen’s – Something Different
Dairy Queen’s “DQ Something Different” campaign embraced the brand’s unique position in the fast food world, focusing on sundaes, and soft-serve treats.
The ads were playful and memorable, inviting customers to break from the usual fast-food choices and explore Dairy Queen’s fun, dessert-centric menu.
Slogans and visuals in the campaign highlighted the joy of indulging in Blizzards and other DQ favorites.
Carl’s Jr. – Dennis Rodman Ad
In 1996, Carl’s Jr. teamed up with NBA star Dennis Rodman for a bold, memorable ad that played into the brand’s edgy image.
The commercial showcased Rodman’s larger-than-life personality as he indulged in a messy, oversized Carl’s Jr. burger, aligning with the slogan,
“If it doesn’t get all over the place, it doesn’t belong in your face.” Known for his wild style, Rodman was the perfect match for the campaign’s rebellious vibe!
Sprite – Sun Fizz Ad
Sprite’s “Sun Fizz” ad from 2000 cleverly parodied classic soda ads by featuring a cartoon sun mascot that unexpectedly comes to life, much to the horror of a family.
With its bizarre, creepy twist, the ad humorously subverted traditional advertising tropes, aligning with Sprite’s “Obey Your Thirst” mantra.
The ad’s unusual, memorable approach made it a standout, resonating with audiences who appreciated Sprite’s self-aware, humorous take on the over-the-top marketing style.
Arby’s – “It’s Better Out Here”
Let’s dive into Arby’s branding. Over the years, Arby’s has gone through several slogans but hasn’t always seemed focused on a specific target audience.
One example is the slogan “It’s Better Out Here,” which ran from 1994 to 1998 but left some people wondering about its meaning and appeal.
By contrast, the later slogan “We Have The Meats” was a bold, visually striking choice that clearly resonated with millennials, focusing on Arby’s hearty, meat-heavy offerings
Taco Bell introduced the – Viva Gorditas
In the late 1990s, Taco Bell introduced the “Viva Gorditas” campaign with a playful, humorous approach to highlight its Gordita menu.
At its center was a charismatic Chihuahua, who quickly became famous with his memorable line, “Yo Quiero Taco Bell,” expressing his love for the brand.
This catchy, quirky marketing helped solidify Taco Bell’s image for fun, creative ads, making “Viva Gorditas” one of the era’s most successful fast-food campaigns.
Pizza Hut – “Makin’ It Great!”
Most people today probably recognize Pizza Hut’s slogan “Gather Round The Good Stuff,” but long before that, from the ’80s until 1995,
Pizza Hut used the catchy phrase “Makin’ It Great!” This slogan was all about Pizza Hut’s dedication to quality and enjoyable dining experiences.
It seems they had a soft spot for this theme, as they revisited it years later with a refreshed version, “Make It Great,” from 2012 to 2016.
Sprite – Thirst Is Everything
In the 2000s, Sprite refreshed its iconic “Obey Your Thirst” campaign with the new slogan “Thirst Is Everything,” blending it with elements of hip-hop and rap culture.
Ads featured prominent artists and scenes from urban life, emphasizing creativity, self-expression, and authenticity, aligning.
By embracing the music and culture of the streets, the campaign strengthened Sprite’s connection with urban youth.
Mountain Dew – Cheetah Chase
Mountain Dew’s “Cheetah Chase” Super Bowl ad in 1996 was unforgettable for its humor and wild energy.
The commercial showed a guy going to extreme lengths to get his Dew back after a cheetah swipes it.
He bolts through rugged terrain, catching up to the cheetah and prying his Mountain Dew from its mouth just to show just how far Dew fans will go for their drink.
Burger King – Have it Your Way
Burger King’s 1974 “Have it Your Way” ad gave customers the power to choose exactly what they wanted, it was an instant marketing genius move.
The ad’s catchy jingle encouraged customization, from “no pickles” to “extra lettuce,” capturing customers’ desires for a personal touch.
Burger King made it clear: your order, your rules. With a charming counter lady singing her heart out, this commercial became timeless.
Mountain Dew – Bohemian Rhapsody
Mountain Dew’s 1999 “Bohemian Rhapsody” parody commercial was a fun twist on the Queen classic, with fans enthusiastically belting out a Dew-themed version of the song.
The ad showcased the brand’s playful, unconventional side, capturing the humor and energy that defined its “Do the Dew” spirit.
With a mix of dramatic and silly moments, the parody celebrated the bold, irreverent attitude of Mountain Dew fans.
Klondike Bar – What Would You Do for a Klondike Bar?
The Klondike Bar’s “What Would You Do for a Klondike Bar?” campaign became an instant classic with its playful, anything-goes spirit. In each commercial.
The challenge was simple but funny, making audiences think, “Would I do that, too?” The campaign’s catchy jingle and quirky scenarios turned the Klondike Bar into more than just a snac.
It was the ultimate reward for stepping a little outside your comfort zone.
McDonald’s – Olympic Hopefuls
For the 1992 Olympics, McDonald’s released a heartfelt ad featuring young kids imagining themselves as future Olympians.
The message was wholesome, encouraging dreams while promoting Happy Meals. It linked McDonald’s with inspiration, fueling young viewers’ dreams.
This campaign showcased McDonald’s as a brand that supports youth and ambition. By associating with the Olympics, it inspired and connected with families.
Wendy’s – Where’s the Beef?
Wendy’s 1984 “Where’s the Beef?” commercial became an instant classic. The sight of a sassy grandma demanding more beef put Wendy’s on the map.
The ad humorously poked fun at competitors with skimpy patties, creating a phrase that quickly entered pop culture. “Where’s the Beef?”
This commercial didn’t just sell burgers; it made Wendy’s a brand with personality. It’s one of those rare ads that left a lasting impression, far beyond its original purpose.
Pizza Hut – Bigfoot Pizza
In 1993, Pizza Hut introduced the “Bigfoot Pizza,” a huge, rectangular pizza with 21 slices, specifically designed for large gatherings
. Marketed with the catchy slogan “Feed a Herd,” the campaign focused on Bigfoot’s impressive size and affordability, making it ideal for families and parties.
Ads emphasized its value, positioning Bigfoot Pizza as a fun, shareable meal perfect for celebrations and casual get-togethers.
McDonald’s – McNuggets Buddies
In the 1980s, McDonald’s introduced the McNuggets Buddies, animated characters that made chicken nuggets look like cute, lovable friends.
The ads showed the McNuggets Buddies on silly adventures, capturing kids’ imaginations. It wasn’t just about food.
McNuggets Buddies proved that McDonald’s knew how to appeal to kids with adorable, relatable mascots. It’s a nostalgic campaign that many still remember fondly.
Jack in the Box’s – “Jack’s Back”
Following a serious food safety incident in the early ’90s, Jack in the Box sought to recover its reputation by reintroducing “Jack,”
The campaign poked fun at fast food norms and sometimes even Jack’s competitors, showing Jack taking “charge” of the brand with a blend of humor and charm.
This refresh succeeded in revitalizing Jack in the Box’s image and appeal.
Pizza Hut- Dennis Rodman and David Robinson Ad
In the 1990s, Pizza Hut featured basketball stars Dennis Rodman and David Robinson in a memorable ad for their “Stuffed Crust” pizza.
The playful commercial highlighted the pizza’s unique cheese-filled crust, encouraging viewers to eat it backward, starting from the crust.
Rodman, known for his flashy personality, added humor and flair, while Robinson’s contrasting calm demeanor balanced the dynamic.
Coca-Cola – Holidays Are Coming
The “Holidays Are Coming” campaign, launched in 1995, featured Coca-Cola’s now-iconic red trucks adorned with festive lights traveling through snowy landscapes.
Paired with the jingle “Holidays are coming,” the ad became instantly recognizable and captured the warmth and excitement of the holiday season.
The campaign helped solidify Coca-Cola’s role in Christmas tradition, with the glowing trucks symbolizing the start of holiday celebrations for many.
McDonald’s – Mac Tonight
McDonald’s “Mac Tonight” campaign introduced a unique character: a smooth, moon-headed singer in a suit and sunglasses, who played the piano.
Designed to appeal to a late-night audience, Mac Tonight exuded a cool, jazzy vibe that distinguished him from other fast-food mascots.
He sang about McDonald’s being the perfect place for evening dining, attracting customers outside regular meal hours.
Bagel Bites – Pizza Anytime
If there’s one thing to remember about ‘90s commercials, it’s that their jingles were unforgettable.
Take the one for Bagel Bites: “Pizza in the morning, pizza in the evening, pizza at suppertime. When pizza’s on a bagel, you can eat pizza anytime!”
That tune was so catchy, the lyrics almost didn’t matter. Really, eating pizza at any time just because it’s on a bagel?
Pepsi – The Joy of Cola
In 2001, Pepsi launched a memorable ad featuring Britney Spears, who was at the height of her pop career.
The commercial showcased Britney performing a lively, catchy jingle called “The Joy of Pepsi,” dancing through various scenes that highlighted Pepsi’s fun, youthful vibe.
The ad captured Britney’s star power and appealed to a young audience, effectively merging pop culture with the Pepsi brand.
Subway – The Way a Sandwich Should Be
Subway’s “The Way a Sandwich Should Be” campaign in the 90s brought freshness front and center, showcasing the joy of a made-to-order sub piled high with crisp veggies and freshly sliced ingredients.
The ads showed off the customization, letting customers build their perfect sandwich just the way they like it—something other fast-food places weren’t offering.
With its focus on fresh and personal, this slogan reminded everyone that a good sandwich doesn’t come pre-made. Instead, it’s built fresh, just for you.
Wendy’s – Biggie Size It
Wendy’s “Biggie Size It” campaign encouraged customers to upgrade their meals to larger portions of fries and drinks, tapping into the growing trend of meal upsizing.
The ads highlighted the value and satisfaction of getting more for your money, making “Biggie Size It” a popular phrase that resonated with hungry customers.
This campaign helped establish Wendy’s as a go-to for generous portions and solidified upsizing as a memorable part of fast food culture in the late 90s and early 2000s.
Taco John’s – “Feliz Navidad”
Each Christmas in the 2000s, Taco John’s aired its memorable “Feliz Navidad” commercial. The ad featured the classic tune and sent warm holiday wishes to everyone.
Taco John’s uniquely blended festive cheer with Tex-Mex, reminding viewers that the holiday spirit could include a stop at the drive-thru.
Unexpectedly, the ad’s catchy tune and friendly message added a spicy twist to traditional Christmas festivities.
Burger King – The Best Food For Fast Times
Burger King’s “The Best Food for Fast Times” campaign in the late 1980s and early 1990s highlighted the brand’s appeal for people on the go who still wanted tasty, quality food.
The slogan captured Burger King’s emphasis on serving fast, satisfying meals without compromising on flavor, contrasting with its competitors’ more standard offerings.
Ads featured upbeat, energetic scenes of people enjoying their favorite Burger King items while on the move, reinforcing the idea that Burger King was the top choice.
KFC – Sunday Dinner
In 1968, KFC’s “Sunday Dinner” ad highlighted the convenience of Colonel Sanders’ fried chicken, perfect for any gathering.
The commercial paints a picture of Sunday dinners without the stress of cooking, with fried chicken ready for “church socials, parties, or ball games.”
Colonel Sanders became the friendly face of home-cooked goodness, and the ad cemented KFC’s place in American culture.
Pizza Hut – Entitled to Half
The “Entitled to Half” commercial featuring Donald Trump was a memorable 1995 Pizza Hut ad promoting their new Stuffed Crust Pizza.
In the ad, Trump sits with his then-wife, Ivana Trump, and the two humorously negotiate who gets the last slice. Ivana declares,
“You’re only entitled to half,” playing on their recent high-profile divorce. The ad combined humor and celebrity appeal, with both Trumps eating the pizza “backwards”.
KFC – It’s Nice To Feel So Good About A Meal
KFC’s “It’s Nice to Feel So Good About a Meal” campaign focused on presenting its fried chicken as a comforting, quality meal that families could enjoy without guilt.
Launched in the early 1990s, this campaign emphasized KFC’s commitment to taste and quality, making it a meal parents could feel good about serving to their families.
The ads highlighted the wholesome aspects of the meal, showcasing smiling families gathered around a KFC spread, enjoying time together.
Coca-Cola – You Can’t Beat the Feeling
The “You Can’t Beat the Feeling” campaign, launched in 1989 and lasting into the early ’90s, showcased Coca-Cola as a universal source of joy and refreshment.
The ads featured people from diverse backgrounds, all sharing moments of happiness with a Coke in hand, reinforcing the brand’s message of togetherness.
The campaign became iconic for its optimistic tone and celebration of life’s little moments. It resonated with audiences,
McDonald’s – Introducing…The Happy Meal
In 1979, McDonald’s launched the Happy Meal, a historic moment for kids and parents alike. The ad kept it simple but effective-
This ad emphasized the joy of a special meal just for kids, a concept that instantly resonated.
With the tagline, “Nobody can do it like McDonald’s can,” the commercial cemented Happy Meals in history. Kids across the globe were hooked!
Burger King – Simpsonize Me
Burger King’s “Simpsonize Me” ad brought The Simpsons into its marketing with humor and a surreal twist. Mixing animation with reality, it created a hilarious crossover.
The one-minute spot had everything: spot-on jokes, flawless animation, and a fun storyline. It was like a mini-Simpsons episode, drawing fans from both worlds into the BK experience.
This clever crossover elevated Burger King’s brand, showing that they could align with pop culture in creative ways. It’s a fast-food ad that still stands out in memory.
McDonald’s – Big Mac Introduction
In 1967, McDonald’s introduced the Big Mac with a dramatic, layer-by-layer reveal. Each ingredient is showcased to make your mouth water, showing the burger’s appeal.
The narrator’s classic voice adds a sense of sophistication to this simple, satisfying burger, proving that elegance can be found in something as everyday as a Big Mac. It
This ad doesn’t oversell or overhype; it just delivers the essentials with style. With this debut, the Big Mac quickly became a staple.
McDonald’s – Breakfast
McDonald’s 1975 breakfast ad feels like a cozy hug, inviting viewers to start the day right. It’s all about simplicity, offering a warm, no-fuss morning meal that feels genuine.
The ad avoids flashy gimmicks, creating a scene that’s calming and inviting. The message is simple: McDonald’s breakfast is here to start your day on the right note.
With the iconic tagline, “We do it all for you,” it’s hard not to feel special. This ad doesn’t just sell breakfast; it sells a warm, nostalgic feeling.
Subway – 7 Under 6 Grams of Fat
Subway’s “7 Under 6 Grams of Fat” campaign in the 1990s positioned the brand as a go-to choice for health-conscious customers.
Highlighting seven sandwiches with 6 grams of fat or less, the ads featured people searching for lighter, guilt-free meals in a fast-food landscape filled with heavier options.
This focus on low-fat choices set Subway apart, appealing to customers aiming to eat better without giving up convenience.
Subway – Subway’s Jared Fogle Campaign
Subway’s Jared Fogle campaign began in 2000, centered on Fogle’s personal story of losing over 200 pounds by incorporating Subway sandwiches into his diet.
His “Subway diet” featured low-fat menu options, making Fogle a symbol of healthy eating and weight loss.
The campaign presented Subway as a healthier fast-food choice, setting it apart from its competitors and attracting customers looking for low-calorie options.