 The "McDowells" restaurant was actually a Wendys on Queens Blvd.  that was scheduled to be closed for a complete renovation. Although  the production had approval from McDonalds corporate headquarters,  they apparently didnt pass the word down to their local outlets. On  the day the "McDowells" sign was erected, the manager of the  McDonalds 1/2 mile further up the road arrived with his lawyer and  proceeded to take photographs while telling the set dressing crew  they were going to be sued for everything they were worth.