"Ward's history dates all the way back to 1958 with owners Richard and Ed Ward, who started a franchise of the regional chain the Frostop in Hattiesburg. For over 20 years, it was one of the go-to destinations for locals whenever the craving for all things chili and root beer struck. It was then resold in the early '80s, a few years after the brothers opened their first Ward's restaurant branch."
"On the corner of Hardy Street and 40th Avenue, Ward's gradually built a loyal customer base with its signature line of burgers, lovingly referred to as "Big One" and "Little One", as well as house-made chili, and you guessed it, root beer. Over 50 years in business, Ward's has since expanded to 38 branches, spread across Hattiesburg, Gulfport, Brookhaven, and other Mississippi cities."
"Finding a Ward's won't be a problem, thanks to the bright red signs with yellow accents plastered across the brick storefront. Matching that exterior is retro decor inside, with yellow-faded chairs and fluorescent lights that bathe the joint in a nostalgic ambience. The chain's menu is relatively simple, but don't be fooled, that's one of the main things that has made it one of the best regional fast food chains."
Ward's is a regional fast food chain found only in Mississippi, offering southern comfort through simple menu items and nostalgic dining. The chain traces its roots to 1958, when Richard and Ed Ward began a Frostop franchise in Hattiesburg and later opened the first Ward's restaurant branch in the early 1980s. Ward's built a loyal local following with signature burgers called “Big One” and “Little One,” house-made chili, and root beer. Over more than 50 years, it expanded to 38 branches across cities including Hattiesburg, Gulfport, and Brookhaven. Bright red signage and retro interior decor create a distinctive old-school atmosphere.
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