"Opened in 1978 in Norcross, Georgia, D'Lites was the premier fast food chain for burgers made with extra lean ground beef, low calorie options, salad bars, soup made from fresh ingredients, baked potatoes ( which taste better in restaurants than at home), and a whole slew of other health-conscious food options. It was inspired by the workout craze of the era, which had customers showing up in shiny leotards and tube socks,"
"D'Lites was founded by Doug Sheley, an Iowa native with experience as a successful Wendy's franchise owner. When D'Lites opened its doors, the restaurant was a hit, expanding quickly to over 100 locations in 19 states by 1983 with plans for even further expansion. Sheley opened up the business for franchise opportunities, which caught the attention of famous football stars Joe Montana and Herschel Walker."
D'Lites opened in Norcross, Georgia, in 1978 as a health-focused fast food chain offering extra-lean beef burgers, low-calorie entrees, salad bars, fresh-ingredient soups, and baked potatoes. The concept rode the late-1970s workout craze and targeted health-conscious customers. Growth was rapid: franchising led to over 100 locations in 19 states by 1983 and attracted celebrity interest from athletes Joe Montana and Herschel Walker. Founder Doug Sheley emphasized loyalty to franchisees and employees, and early sales eclipsed major chains. As larger competitors introduced healthier menu items and consumer interest shifted, D'Lites lost momentum and filed for bankruptcy in 1986.
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