"Where's the Beef?" is a catchphrase originating from a 1984 Wendy's advertisement that captivated public attention. The commercial featured three elderly women scrutinizing a large hamburger bun with a disproportionately small patty, causing one to exclaim the now-iconic line. This phrase became a popular cultural reference used to humorously critique anything deemed lacking substance. The ad significantly boosted Wendy's brand recognition and was frequently referenced in media and discussions during the 1980s.