The only thing I can think of that might have inspired these remakes, is the need to have something a little fancy and not much money. I've never thought to do anything like this to fast food, but when I was growing up I had this fancy old wine glass that I just loved. I think I ate probably some of the oddest things you would think out of that glass.
I still think the way you present food & drink lends a lot to make it "fancier."