TGI Fridays began in 1965
It's 60 years since we first opened our doors to the great and the good of New York City, which makes it exactly 21,900 Fridays of serving up unforgettable cocktails, juicy burgers and mouth watering wings. The fun and the good times haven't stopped rolling since.
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The one who started it all
In March 1965, Alan Stillman opened the first TGI Fridays™ on the corner of 63rd+1st in New York, with the timeless promise of, ‘In here, it’s always Friday’.
It quickly became the meeting place for local lovers of wild nights and fun times. Within a week it was the first restaurant requiring barricades to handle the hordes of enthusiastic guests!
1986
TGI Fridays™ comes to the UK
TGI Fridays™ made its UK debut in 1986 with the opening of its first restaurant on Birmingham’s Hagley Road. Bringing the energy and excitement of the original American concept, it quickly became a hotspot for great food, handcrafted cocktails, and legendary service. From that very first location, TGI Fridays™ set the stage for a dining experience unlike any other, where every visit felt like a celebration.
This iconic opening marked the beginning of a nationwide love affair with the brand, paving the way for its expansion across the UK.
1980's - 1990's
TGI expanded in the UK
As TGI Fridays grew in popularity, it quickly expanded beyond its first UK location, bringing its signature American style dining and iconic cocktails to even more guests.
With each new opening across England, Scotland, and Wales, the brand became a go-to spot for celebrations, delicious food, and unforgettable moments.
Eventually, TGI Fridays even made its way to Jersey, spreading its fun-loving atmosphere and legendary hospitality further!
2011
Guinness World Record Holders
In 2011, TGI Fridays made history by setting a world record for the largest simultaneous bar flair routine. Held in Covent Garden, this spectacular event brought together over 100 talented bartenders, all performing a perfectly synchronised routine for two consecutive minutes.
The high-energy display of skill, precision, and showmanship showcased TGI Fridays’ legendary flair bartending expertise, solidifying its reputation as a global leader in the art of cocktail entertainment.
Our Spirit
We been celebrating and serving good food and drinks for 60 years all while proudly displaying our iconic red and white stripes that have made us so iconic.
Happy Hour
We're famous for being the first happy hour place for singles to mingle.
Did you know?
There are origins to many of the iconic items in each of our restaurants. Think you know them all?
THE PROPELLER
The propeller is mounted above the bar in every TGI Fridays restaurant. But do you know what is means, or why there is a signed dollar bill taped to it?
MYRNA'S STORY
Each TGI Fridays restaurant has a rowing scull that contains a pair of shoes and a champagne bottle. A symbol of teamwork and leadership. But do you know the backstory?
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