It began operating in 1954 in Indianapolis, Indiana, expanded throughout the United States, and at its peak in 1973 had 1,050 locations, including some in Canada.

[2] In 1954, Frank and Donald Thomas patented the flame broiler in their parent company General Equipment Corporation and started their restaurant in Indianapolis, Indiana.

[3] Burger Chef spread across the United States, following a strategy of opening outlets in smaller towns.

[6] By 1969, international expansion was underway with General Foods building ten Burger Chef outlets in Australia.

It was stated that Australians disliked the limited burger menu compared to varied options available from milk bars.