You love it. We love it. Heck, even their slogan is "I'm lovin' it", so you know it's gotta be good. But did you know that the menu at McDonald's is not the same in every country? Obviously, there are different traditional foods all over the world and people tend to have different tastes. That's why McDonald's tailors their menus to the varying tastes of its customers when they set up shop somewhere else. If you were curious as to what they have to offer outside of your own country, take a look at the different offerings we found in other McDonald's locations.
Turkey: Apricot Sundae
The apricot sundae is a perfectly refreshing option for those in Turkey looking for a simple option at the local McDonald's. Although the advertising seems a bit weird ("Try the Turkish twist with our garlic mayo sauce" is a bit misleading) we think that this could be the perfect dessert to hit the spot. That is, as long as you haven't also read the suggestion over on the McDonald's Arabia Facebook page:
"You probably tried dipping Chicken McNuggets in garlic mayo sauce already, but have you tried our new Apricot Sundae yet?" It really seems like they're trying to push you into eating these two things at the same time.
Colombia: Pineapple Oreo McFlurry
One of the more intriguing Mcflurry choices on this list, this soft-serve treat is exactly what it sounds like: oreo and pineapples blended together to create a truly unique taste experience. It's actually a pretty simple idea, so a bit surprising to see that this is a region-exclusive item. Then again, this isn't exactly the most common flavor combination.
That isn't to say that we wouldn't want to try this because we think this could be a pretty interesting twist on the Oreo flavor profile. Bring this to us, please!
China: Mashed Potato Burger
This burger is honestly one of the most delicious-looking burgers we have seen from McDonald's. It's a really good way to add volume to pretty empty-feeling burgers, albeit a bit messy. That said, it is already on a double patty, so maybe it makes the burger a bit more heavy than it should be. But there are also crispy bacon bits scattered throughout which makes it even better.
This was part of McDonald's “Beef 2012 Manly Campaign in China”. What better way to prove your manliness than eating a big, all-American-style burger?
Australia/New Zealand: Bubblegum Squash McFlurry
Don't worry; there's no actual squash in this McFlurry, though we bet someone could find a good way to implement squash into a dessert. "Squash" is actually the Australian term for Marshmallows. This McFlurry is really just a bubblegum flavored ice cream with a bright blue swirl and marshmallows to top it all off. It actually sounds pretty good to us, if not too childish a flavor.
We think that maybe the biggest reason this wouldn't be implemented in America is the use of food coloring, which might not go so well in a popular food chain... though it's already unhealthy enough.
Peru: Chicha Purple Temptation
Let's be honest, this does not look like something you would expect to find at a McDonald's. This looks like some artisan bakery treat that takes a lot of time and care to make. Maybe it does. Well, it is a McDonald's item and it is perhaps one of the more interesting items they have to offer. This fruity dessert actually gets its color from the use of blue corn, a Peruvian specialty.
We would love to get our hands on this one. It looks like something we might go back every week to try out. Hopefully, it's as good as it looks.
China: Sausage and Egg Twisty Pasta Breakfast
It doesn't take a genius to figure out what this is: It's a delicious combination of twisty pasta, sausage, and that classic egg that we're used to seeing from McDonald's. It's not exactly the most interesting option, but it definitely hits all the different cravings you might be having. Breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this is one of the best options if you have a hankering for the right meal at the wrong time.
Not only does this work for whenever you want, but it also looks pretty good as well. It's also surprisingly American, so if we could see this come around sometime soon, we'd be pretty happy.
Australia: Pineapple Coconut Loaf With Butter
As if the promise of a pina colada loaf wasn't good enough, they also slapped some butter in it! If you like pound cakes then you're sure to love this one. That is, of course, if you're able to make it all the way to Australia to try one out. This is yet another treat that we think needs to be implemented in all of the stores around the world. We think this is a flavor anyone can enjoy.
Either way, it's just good enough that this exists at all. It makes the value of finding it abroad more worth it and there are probably recipes that replicate it online.
Italy: Spinach And Parmesan Nuggets
It figures that this would only be available in Italy. After all, they do make the best parmesan cheese in the world. Though to be fair, they probably aren't using the authentic parmesan that is made by artisan cheesemakers. Still, this is a really interesting alternative to the typically non-vegetarian options available for McDonald's fries.
We think we might like this a bit better, but also there isn't really a comparison here. If you like chicken nuggets, these are just nuggets of spinach and cheese.
UK: Bacon Roll
This one is pretty straightforward: it's a few slices of bacon on a roll with some sauce. Although it's typically found in the UK, this sandwich would probably do tremendously well if it were in other countries obsessed with bacon, such as the US. We're not quite sure why this is a specialty item in the UK, but all the power to them for this addictive sandwich.
We do have to say, however, that it does seem particularly bland. If it were to maybe have a bit more substance to it it could be more popular, but it's probably meant to be a cheaper option.
Denmark: Kylling & Hummus
Translated as Chicken & Hummus on their website, this distinctly regional salad seems like quite a surprisingly healthy option on a McDonald's menu. This salad is a pretty popular local treat, though, so it makes sense that they would want to capitalize on this and create an option that will feel familiar to customers. We aren't going to argue though, as this seems like a great menu item for a fast-food chain.
As the name suggests, it comes with chicken and hummus in addition to cabbage, black rice, and edamame as well as something that looks like Kale. Yum!
The Netherlands: McKroket
This is one of the more interesting options you wouldn't think you'd ever see at a McDonald's. The patty is actually a deep-fried chunk of beef ragout. Weird right? It also comes topped with a slathering of a mayonnaise and mustard mix (the mustard has real mustard seed in it as well, which is exciting). This is actually a pretty common dish in The Netherlands called a broodje kroket.
Have you ever had deep-fried beef ragout? We certainly haven't, although we definitely want to try it. Maybe we'll make this at home as a DIY food project.
South Korea: Oreo Affogato
This is probably one of the best desserts on a McDonald's menu. The only problem is that it is only available in South Korea. That being said, it is available at every outlet. If you aren't sure what an affogato is, it's a shot of espresso that has been poured over the soft-serve ice cream that they offer. If you love coffee and you love soft serve, then this is truly the perfect treat.
The idea sounds so good that we are thinking of trying it out for ourselves here. We just need to find some way to obtain soft-serve ice cream...next stop: McDonald's.
Japan: Shaka Shaka Chicken
If you've ever had shaker fries, this is basically the same concept. It's a piece of fried chicken cutlet placed in a bag with a seasoning mix. You take the bag with the piece of chicken still inside it and shake it up to add some extra oomph to the fowl. There is the regular flavor as well as a cheddar cheese powder version and a red pepper seasoning variation.
We aren't sure why they don't just shake it up for us, but thinking about it that would take all the fun away from getting an otherwise regular chicken cutlet.
india: Chicken Maharaja Burger
This burger has been dubbed the tallest McDonald's menu. It is only available in India, but what better place to serve a vegetarian-friendly version of a Big Mac. That's probably the biggest draw for it in India. That and the fact that it is stacked with delicious food. It is luckily available at all the McDonald's outlets in India, but why wouldn't it be considering it's basically the Big Mac?
Would you ever try a Vegetarian Big MAc, or is it just too good to not have with the meat patties? We think we could go either way.
USA: Fruit And Maple Oatmeal
What better thing to be native to North America than a good hearty part-of-a-balanced-breakfast bowl of oatmeal? No, we don't get anything super fancy like all the other countries seem to, but this at least is something very traditional for us in the United States. It may not be everyone's favorite either, but we sure think this is a great option for when you're in a hurry and need a quick breakfast.
This is not only available in the US, but also in Canada. It's available everywhere that there's a McDonald's, so if this makes your mouth water go, ahead and pick one up for yourself.
UK: Cadbury Creme Egg McFlurry
The UK has access to a few things on their menu. One of those happens to be a collaboration with one of the most popular chocolate treats over on the other side of the pond. The Cadbury Creme Egg isn't typically available for purchase in the United States, so it's no wonder we don't see this anywhere around here. IT must be a real treat to be able to get a special McFlurry like this one.
We hope that one day they are able to bring other flavors of McFlurry to the US. We love Oreo, but maybe that can make a Butterfinger McFlurry or something.
Mexico: McMollettes
This is basically the Mexican version of the McMuffin. These open-faced sandwiches consist of a slathering of refried beans, a slice of white American cheese, and a small helping of tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers. It also has a wonderful Mexican sauce on it as well. All in all, this looks like one of the most refreshing options McDonald's had to offer. Too bad you have to go elsewhere to get it.
For those of you who are lucky enough to live near the border, you should try these out for yourself. They are available on McDonald's breakfast menu.
China: Honey Chicken Rice Bowl
One of the staples in Asian countries is rice. It's basically the equivalent of having bread at every meal in America. As such, McDonald's in China has come out with a portion of rice and some chicken to shake things up. It's a bowl of rice and honey glazed chicken breast cut up and served on a blanket of lettuce. This sounds perfect for a quick pick-me-up.
We think this would actually do pretty well here. There are times when a sandwich just doesn't cut it and being able to get a cheap bowl of rice and honey chicken would sure be a treat.
Norway: Chili Cheese Tops
These are very similar to jalapeno poppers. These are a perfect side to eat alongside anything you might get at McDonald's. They are nuggets of super gooey cheese-filled with chopped-up chilis. What's not to love about them? If you're bored of the standard fries that come with your meal, you might want to consider switching over to these delicious things. Your stomach will thank you.
Thankfully, even though we aren't able to get these specifically, we do have something that can sort of satisfying the craving we get just by looking at them.
Singapore: Samurai Burger
This sounds like a meal perfect for any real man... or woman, for that matter. This burger is so popular in Singapore that it causes quite the stir when it comes back into their stores. It sounds like the McRib we all know and love. It's usually available from October to November and comes in a chicken or beef version. It also comes with limited edition curly twister fries.
The way this burger oozes juice makes our mouth water so bad that we just might have to get on a plane to Singapore ASAP.
Portugal: Peasant Soup
With a name like "Peasant Soup", you might be wary about getting it the first tie around. You don't want to be labeled a "peasant", do you? Well, it may have gotten its name from the poor who made this because they couldn't afford meat, but these days it's become quite a staple dish. It's made with kidney beans, ham, and pasta, so it really hits a different note than the rest of the menu.
We're sure this is perfect for those cold winter days when you want some soup to cuddle up with. Although it typically doesn't snow there, we're sure this is a nice treat for the winter months.
Canada: Poutine
Considering this is a staple food in the country, it's no surprise that McDonald's would replicate it in some fashion at its own restaurants. For the uninitiated, this is a combination of fries, barbecue sauce, and melty cheese. As far as food goes, this could definitely become a popular option in America and we're sure there are some bars out there that feature this menu item.
That being said, we're not sure why they can't make this in the USA. It probably has something to do with exclusivity so there probably won't be any here any time soon.
Australia: Ham And Cheese Pockets
Need we say more? These are exactly what they sound like: ham and cheese wrapped up nice and snug in a tortilla. Although it isn't something you can't just make at home, we're sure that these come in real handy when you have a craving for a nice hot pocket and you're already out. We wish this would become available here as well since hot pockets are a pretty popular snack.
We can only hope and pray. Maybe one day McDonald's will understand that we will be just as happy as any other country to have the food we find comfort in.
Austria: McNoodles
This is something you might expect to cater to a more traditionally Asian culture, but instead, this McDonald's menu item has made its home in Austria. These stir-fried noodles come in two different flavors; sweet and sour and chicken curry. They both sound deliciously satisfying and are certainly not something we would expect to find in a McDonald's restaurant.
We'd love to try out this dish one day and see how well the stir-fried noodles over at Mickey D's fares against its authentic counterparts.
Japan: Ebi Filet-O Shrimp Burger
Due to helping promote this food item, Japanese model Yuri Ebihara had her name slapped onto this one. The Ebi Filet-O Shrimp Burger smashes a bunch of cooked shrimp into one battered burger. Other than that, it's pretty much a regular burger that you would find at McDonald's. Although, maybe calling it regular is a bit of an understatement.
This Japanese special tries to capture the essence of seafood that Japan has to offer. Some say it does the trick, but we have to taste it to believe it/
India: McCurry Pan
The McCurry pan is a totally vegetarian option for all of those in India who avoid eating meat or would prefer something other than chicken. The "pan" is completely edible, too, since it's made from bread. This also gives you the perfect thing to dip into your curry if you like that sort of thing. All in all, this is a really elaborate dish for the McDonald's menu and we love it.
If you were hoping to find some really good vegetarian options in McDonald's then you should definitely consider this one. Of course, you're going to have to be in India, so it won't be that easy to get to it if you're not already there.
German: Nurnburger
This is the Nurnburger, a specialty of McDonald's Germany. It's made by sandwiching three Bratwurst, fried onions, and mustard on a roll and we have to say that this looks like the most appetizing thing on this list. While you may not agree with us, the thought of three hot dogs and mustard on a bun with some onions really gets our tastebuds working.
Though, considering that Germany is well known for its sausages, we think this is going to have to be our first meal so we can get something quick off of the plane and set the bar low for the rest of the trip.
Brazil: Ovomaltine McFlurry
You might be more familiar with the name this treat has in America: Ovaltine. It's the same delicious stuff that makes your chocolate milk a delicious malty drink. This is yet another interesting twist on the classic McFlurry that America seems so afraid to make. We just want a specialty item! We were the place McDonald's was founded after all. Though, to be fair, we could just mix in some store-bought Ovaltine.
Honestly, this sounds so good that we might go and get one tonight. We already have some Ovaltine in the cupboard, so you should do like us and try this out for yourself.
Japan: McChoco Potato
Do you love McDonald's fries? Do you love chocolate? If you answered yes to both of those things, you might be as interested as the people over at McDonald's Japan were to combine the two together. yes, that's right, you get a box full of fries with a drizzle of both milk chocolate and white chocolate. If you don't like the usual condiments then maybe you'd prefer this instead.
We think this is weird, but it could be pretty good. After all, there are plenty of treats out there that combine the sweet and salty things we love into one beautiful dessert. Though calling this a dessert might be a stretch.
China: Taro Pie
These are pretty much exactly like the apple pies you can find in a traditional McDonald's except with a fun new twist on flavor. Instead of being packed with apple filling, it's packed with sweet taro filling Other than that, this is pretty much the same non-pie-shaped dessert that they offer at the chain. It's even in the same crispy crust that you get anywhere else.
Considering the number of food items that McDonald's offers that are frozen, shipped, and reheated at the restaurant, we wonder if they'll ever consider sending some out to us Americans.
Russia: McShrimp
Why is it that everyone else gets the shrimp? Everyone loves shrimp all around the world, yet somehow you can't find even the simple McShrimp in America. This menu item comes as a side and is a pretty easy decision to make. If you're hankering for some seafood but were also hoping to get yourself a burger and you also happen to live in Russia, then you're in luck.
These shrimp are battered and fried and made to perfection. If you want to get your hands on these delicious things, then you better find yourself a plane ticket on out of here.
The Philippines: Chicken McDo with Spaghetti
This value meal is perfect for your kid who wants something a little different than the kid's meal they offer. It comes with a big piece of fried chicken as well as some spaghetti with tomato sauce and some cheese on top. If you want some chicken and pasta then this might just be the perfect meal for you, and it's cheap to boot! Sounds like a good deal to us.
That being said, it is a pretty simple meal and may not be to everyone's liking. It is pretty exclusive, though, so only people in The Philippines will be able to satisfy their cravings.
Malaysia: Prosperity Burger
With a name like this, we hope the burger can bring us wealth and good fortune. It looks pretty much like a McRib. The thing is that the burger is made from either chicken or beef and not ribs, and is also covered in a black pepper sauce with onions. This is most certainly not any McRib we've ever heard of. Still, it looks way to good for us to pass up an offer on this.
Too bad it's only available in Malaysia. For now, we're just going to have to settle for the other options available to us at our local restaurant.
France: Croque McDo
The Croque McDo is a take on the French Croque Monsieur and seems to be a hidden item on the McDonald's menu. This item appeared on menus during the peak of mad cow disease in Paris as an alternative meal. This beef-free sandwich is made up of a slice of ham between two slices of Emmental cheese all sandwiched within a couple of pancakes. A traditional Croque Monsieur is similar but made with béchamel cheese instead.
The idea of shoving meat and cheese between pancakes makes our mouths water hard. We think we would love to have this available in our own home town.