Carl's Jr. is a fast-food chain known for its charbroiled burgers and expansive menu, including sandwiches, breakfast items, and hand-scooped shakes. Founded in 1941 by Carl Karcher in Los Angeles, California, the chain began as a hot dog cart and quickly grew into a popular regional burger joint. In 1956, Carl opened his first Carl’s Jr. location, with the "Jr." signifying smaller, fast-service versions of his full-size restaurants. The chain is famous for its signature burgers, such as the Western Bacon Cheeseburger and The Famous Star, made with fresh, charbroiled beef. Over time, Carl's Jr. has expanded its menu to include chicken sandwiches, salads, and breakfast options like the Breakfast Burger and Made from Scratch Biscuits. Carl’s Jr. is part of CKE Restaurants, which also owns Hardee’s. While both brands have a similar menu, Carl’s Jr. is more prominent in the western U.S., while Hardee’s dominates in the east. The two chains are known for bold advertising campaigns, often focusing on the indulgent and hearty nature of their food. With over 1,000 locations across the U.S. and several international markets, Carl's Jr. has maintained a reputation for quality fast food, appealing to those looking for large, flavorful burgers and all-day breakfast options.