Quite a few of these McDonald’s discontinued items were discontinued for very good reason, but still, there are several we miss! (No, we’re not talking about the Hula Burger).

The McLobster

McLobster Sandwich, from YouTube video posted by Betamax King

McDonald’s introduced their version of the lobster roll in 1993. After some supply issues and the fact that it wasn’t profitable, they discontinued it.

Apparently, it is sometimes still available in the Atlantic Canada and the New England region during the summer, if you really want to try it.

This definitely would not be a top choice, but give it a try….and don’t forget the butter sauce. It is an absolutely bizarre McDonalds creation.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

The McLobster, McDonald’s lobster roll, faced criticism for using pre-frozen, North Atlantic lobster meat rather than fresh lobster! The roll was not considered a proper New England lobster roll, with some reviews noting a limp bun and a lack of succulence in the lobster meat. 

McSalad Shakers

McSalad Shakers, from 2000 McDonald's commercial, posted to YouTube by Rewind Me

Back in 2000, before they introduced their Premium Salads, McDonald’s tried out something a little bit more unique: McSalad Shakers. These guys were popular and convenient.

Yes, they were basically just a salad in a cup. After three years of poor sales, they were discontinued. It’s safe to say this was doomed.

They came in Garden, Chef, and Grilled Chicken Caesar options. All were filled with meats, veggies, and topped with delicious and savory dressings. Yum.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

McDonald’s McSalad Shakers were discontinued partly due to customers accidentally spilling dressing everywhere, turning quick salads into unexpected messes—fast food’s funniest fail!

McDLT

The McDLT was first introduced in 1984. It had its own custom-made container designed to separate the hot and cold parts of the burger.

A good idea in theory, but there were environmental concerns about the polystyrene packaging. Plus, shouldn’t McDonalds be the ones to make their burgers?

So, one section held the lettuce and tomato, and the other the patty and cheese. It got discontinued in 1991. Many McDonald’s “tester” items do.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

Jason Alexander, best known as George Costanza on Seinfeld, starred in a cheesy, now-infamous 1985 McDLT commercial, enthusiastically promoting the burger’s unique hot-and-cold packaging.

Chicken Selects

In 2004, McDonald’s basically decided to try out chicken tenders with Chicken Selects. Everyone loved them! It’s hard not to love their crispy goodness.

Since then, they’ve briefly returned, but never stuck around long. Other countries have their takes, but in the US, they’re hard to find.

The sauces were essential to the Chicken Selects success. That sweet and sour, the zesty buffalo, or the classic honey mustard…they all are delicious.

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McDonald’s Chicken Selects were originally marketed as a premium alternative to nuggets, but their longer cooking time slowed down drive-thru lines, contributing to their eventual menu demise.

Eggs Benedict McMuffin

In 2016, McDonald’s brought an Eggs Benedict McMuffin to the menu, except it wasn’t really eggs Benedict. This was a marketing stunt gone wrong.

According to Eater, there was no poached egg. Although, it did have hollandaise sauce on the round egg. Understandably, it didn’t last very long.

How can you make Eggs Benedict with no poached egg! That makes the meal. It’s no wonder that this particular one didn’t last very long.

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The Hollandaise sauce is definitely real, but the sauce’s short shelf life and tricky storage made it a logistical nightmare for McDonald’s kitchens—sinking the item before it could go nationwide.

The McJordan

McJordan Special 1991 commercial, posted to YouTube by Chi-Town TV Fan

Michael Jordan, the iconic 80s and 90s basketball superstar, had his own sandwich at McDonalds. As you’ve probably guessed, this was exclusive to Chicagoland.

Much like him, this was a slam dunk! However, it didn’t last for very long. The marketing stunt just didn’t have enough to it.

Dubbed the McJordan, the sandwich was a cheeseburger. It was served on a sesame seed bun, complete with raw onions, pickles, circular bacon, and tangy, delicious barbecue sauce.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

The McJordan was the first McDonald’s meal named after a celebrity, paving the way for today’s star-studded collabs!

Fruit and Walnut Salad

Mcdonald's fruit and walnut salad, from 2005 commercial posted to YouTube

In an attempt to bring on healthier options in 2005, McDonald’s introduced the Fruit and Walnut Salad. This popular combination had many coming back for more.

It was apples slices and grapes with candied walnuts and yogurt. Regardless of its potential, it was eventually discontinued in 2013 when its popularity dwindled

After all, people don’t exactly go to McDonald’s for fancy schmancy salads, they want the burgers!!! The burgers are what make McDonald’s…not the salad bowls.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

McDonald’s Fruit and Walnut Salad quietly vanished after a few years—reportedly because it was more popular with parents than kids. McDonald’s, who are you made for? Huh?

Pumpkin Spice Latte

An Autumn favorite hot drink, the pumpkin spice flavored coffee, tea, or chai, complete with fresh pumpkins and whipped cream topping.  Cinnamon sticks, ginger, cloves, and allspice surround the mug of spicy warm goodness.  Rustic wood table.

The pumpkin spice latte, of course, is more of a seasonal item. However, when it’s available, it’s an easy top 5 beverage of the month.

Thankfully, it’s not fully discontinued. Usually served in the Autumn, this delicious beverage takes in a fantastic pumpkin flavor while offering the same latte experience.

If it’s the fall and you find yourself near a golden arches, try this latte. McDonald’s pumpkin spice is great if you’re craving something pumpkin-flavored.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

McDonald’s Pumpkin Spice Latte once rivaled Starbucks in fall flavor wars, but its inconsistent seasonal returns and regional availability frustrated fans—some didn’t even know McDonald’s had one to begin with!

Mighty Wings

McDonald's might wings, from 2010s commercial, posted to YouTube

In 2013, McDonald’s introduced Mighty Wings, which were chicken wings covered in a spicy breading. McDonald’s had to significantly drop their prices to sell them.

They were discontinued shortly afterwards. Definitely not the most popular of McDonald’s chicken items. Probably the furthest from it. They’re nowhere near the McNugget.

McDonald’s could not find a way to make it work. Thankfully for us, they do know their way around other chicken dishes! We know that.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

McDonald’s Mighty Wings also flopped in the same year after it was introduced because the chain overestimated demand, leaving 10 million pounds of unsold spicy wings in storage and forcing massive discounts to clear the freezer shelves!

CBO (Chicken, Bacon, and Onion)

McDonald's CBO, from 2000s commercial posted to YouTube

The CBO is a classic sandwich of McDonald’s that has actually even returned to some locations! However it deserves acknowledgement here too.

It goes without saying — chicken and bacon go together beautifully. The cooked onions bring everything together and provide a sweet edge to each bite.

We’re happy to say that this McDonald’s discontinued item isn’t fully gone. When you can get one, you should take the opportunity. It’s definitely a special sandwich.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

McDonald’s CBO (Chicken, Bacon, Onion) sandwich was discontinued in Brazil in 2017 after the specialized ingredients, like bacon-topped buns and peppered cheese, ceased production. The fan outcry was so intense that McDonald’s brought it back for a limited time in 2019, using the meme-worthy slogan: “Nunca mais vou sorrir novamente enquanto o CBO não voltar” (“I’ll never smile again until the CBO returns”)

Fish McBites

Beer Battered Fish Bites with Tarter Sauce and a Beer - Photographed on Hasselblad H3D2-39mb Camera

If the Fish O’Filet doesn’t sound appetizing to you, then you probably wouldn’t enjoy this discontinued McDonald’s item. Apparently, a lot customers didn’t, either.

Fish McBites didn’t last long before they were discontinued in 2013. In general, seafood at fast food restaurants isn’t popular, so it’s not too surprising.

This was flaky whitefish dipped in batter and fried, then served with tartar sauce for dipping. Maybe people weren’t into them because they were bite-sized?

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McDonald’s Fish McBites were pulled just months later after poor sales—despite launching during Lent, the one season when fish usually flies off fast food menus. Hmm, suspicious!

Chicken Fajitas

Why did McDonald’s try selling Chicken Fajitas? This is a great mystery. We’ve wondered this ourselves, and have come to a number of conclusions.

They introduced chicken fajitas and breakfast burritos in the ’90s, then discontinued them soon after. That was probably the right move. They have other hits.

Really, who isn’t craving a burger when stopping by McD’s? When thinking of McDonald’s, chicken fajitas are probably the last thing on your mind.

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Despite their catchy slogan, which says, “a taste of Mexico… without the sunburn,” they quietly vanished due to low sales and customer confusion over the unexpected menu item. This is not you, McDonald’s! Just be yourself.

The Big ‘N Tasty

McDonald's Big n tasty, from 2011 commercial posted to youtube

Introduced in 1997, the Big ‘N Tasty was McDonald’s way of competing with the Whopper. It was a seasoned quarter-pounder. People still miss this one.

It also included ketchup, mayonnaise, onions, pickle slices, lettuce, and a tomato. This was honestly just about being a classic burger. Doesn’t sound bad.

It was discontinued in American locations in 2011, but is still sold outside the U.S. People loved this, and always advocate for it to return.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

The Big ‘N Tasty was originally created for California taste buds—because apparently, Californians needed a burger that screamed “casual beach day” and “corporate strategy” at the same time.

The Arch Deluxe

mcdonald's arch deluxe, from 2010s commercial posted to youtube

In 1996, McDonald’s introduced the Arch Deluxe, a “gourmet” version of their regular hamburger. It was supposed to be more “adult,” but it’s unclear why.

This McDonald’s item was quickly discontinued after its release. People aren’t drawn to anything “gourmet,” viewing it as inherently more expensive than other, cheaper options.

People were already loyal to the classic, anyway. Even if it wasn’t “gourmet,” it wouldn’t stick. The chain had the right idea in mind, though.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

McDonald’s spent a jaw-dropping $100 million marketing the Arch Deluxe—only for it to flop harder than a soggy fry at the bottom of the bag. Talk about a deluxe disaster!

Chopped Beefsteak Sandwich

mcdonald's chopped beefsteak sandwich, from 1980s commercial posted to youtube

Back in 1979, McDonald’s tried something different. The Chopped Beefsteak Sandwich was basically a long burger on a roll, topped with onions and steak sauce.

It never took off and was discontinued in the ’80s. This one just couldn’t get the momentum, probably because it was pricier than other items.

It has eventually come back to life as a chopped cheese sandwich. For the uninitiated, that’s a cheeseburger on a hoagie roll and a New York classic.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

Chopped Beefsteak Sandwich is only served exclusively after 4 pm! Despite its hearty appeal, it was discontinued within a year due to its higher price point compared to regular burgers. Interestingly, some locations even provided branded steak knives with the sandwich to emphasize its upscale positioning.​

The McHotDog

mcdonald's hot dog from old commercial posted to youtube

McDonald’s founder, Ray Kroc, wouldn’t have approved. In 1995, McDonald’s introduced the McHotDog. It was sold in the Midwest, and is still available in Japan.

According to Mental Floss, Kroc disliked hotdogs: “Our standard of quality…wouldn’t permit that kind of item,” he said, because you can’t tell what’s in them.

That being said, the McHotdog is, understandably, pretty widely-loved, as far as McDonald’s discontinued items go. It’s a hot dog, after all. Hot dogs are awesome!

Did You Know? 🤓💡

Despite being discontinued in the U.S., McDonald’s McHotDog found lasting popularity in Japan, where it remained on the breakfast menu until at least 2004 and was reintroduced in 2009. This longevity starkly contrasts with its brief U.S. stint, highlighting how regional tastes can defy corporate expectations.

The Triple-Double Burger

mcdonald's superhero burger, from 1995 commercial posted to youtube

Also known as the Superhero Burger, it joined the menu in 1995, coordinated with Batman Forever‘s release. This meaty wonder was filled with toppings.

It included three beef patties and two slices of cheese. This sandwich was definitely superhero strong. Though, we’re not exactly sure how it relates to Batman…

That legacy proved hard to live up to, and it was removed from the menu. Despite its protein, the triple-double wasn’t considered a staple.

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In certain markets, Triple-Double Burger was rebranded with local flair, such as the “Boselli Burger” in Jacksonville, Florida, named after NFL player Tony Boselli. ​

McGratin Croquette

old japanese mcgratin croquette commercial posted to youtube

The McGratin Croquette was first introduced in Japan and was absolutely beloved by all. The idea of a shrimp burger does sound pretty amazing, especially with macaroni.

The Croquette is a patty with shrimp, macaroni, and a white sauce. It’s topped with cabbage, spicy sauce, and put between a buttered bun.

The burger is one McDonald’s discontinued item that many people call to have come back. It’s around sometimes, but also can be seasonal.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

In 2021, its nickname “Gurakoro” was officially adopted as its official name. Despite its popularity in Japan, the Gurakoro has never been offered in U.S. McDonald’s locations. ​

Supersizing

Newcastle upon Tyne, England - March 5, 2011: McDonald\'s Big Mac value meal isolated on a white background.  A Big Mac, fries and a coke sitting on a reflective surface.

Supersizing is a phenomenon that is missed by many. It would give your meal that extra bit to keep you fed and full for hours on end.

The health benefits (or risks) associated with supersizing were plentiful. It’s not always a good idea to eat this kind of food in such excess.

That being said, in moderation, it’s totally fine. Why not supersize it? You will probably have some leftover fries and your drink to take home.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

McDonald’s Supersize option was quietly discontinued in 2004. While the company cited menu simplification and low demand—Supersize items accounted for just 0.1% of sales—as reasons, the move closely followed the release of the documentary “Super Size Me“, which scrutinized the health impacts of oversized fast food portions. Despite McDonald’s denial of a direct connection, the timing suggests that the film may have influenced the decision.

Onion Nuggets

mcdonald's onion bites from 90s commercial posted to youtube

Onion Nuggets don’t sound too bad! Onions always taste good, and nuggets are really good as the multiple foods you can make into that shape.

They were introduced along with the Chopped Beefsteak Sandwich, and they were basically just chunks of fried onions. So, onion rings without the circle shape.

They were discontinued along with the sandwich. Perhaps because onion rings are just too fun and perfect as-is? These ones definitely could use a comeback…

Did You Know? 🤓💡

McDonald’s Onion Nuggets debuted in the late 1970s but flopped—yet they inspired Chicken McNuggets, after chefs reimagined the bite-sized concept with chicken instead of onions

The Angus Burger

three mcdonald's angus burgers, from 2011 commercial posted to youtube

In 2013, McDonald’s tried to make fancy burgers. We don’t know why, but they felt this venture was important, so they tried to elevate their foods.

They did this by introducing the Angus Burger. It didn’t work out. It was discontinued not long after its introduction. It didn’t last a year.

Time wrote, “One reason for dropping the item…would seem to be the ever-rising price of beef… according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.”

Did You Know? 🤓💡

McDonald’s Angus Third Pounder, introduced in 2009 as a premium burger option, was discontinued in 2013 due to high beef prices and low demand—customers preferred multiple Dollar Menu items over a single $5 burger.

McPizza

three mcdonald's pizzas, from 1980s commercial posted to youtube

Yes, it’s true: McDonald’s actually tried selling pizza at one point. The McPizza was introduced back in the 1980s, and it actually lasted a while.

It was originally a family-sized pizza, later scaled down to personal-size. Preparation took 11 minutes. Pretty wild, considering how quickly they make their other foods.

That was way too long for the chain’s fast service. They discontinued it pretty much everywhere by 2000. At least Pizza Hut is still here.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

McDonald’s spent millions redesigning kitchens to make the McPizza faster, only to realize customers didn’t want pizza from a place famous for burgers, fries, and questionable life choices. Shocking, right?

Hot Mustard Sauce

This popular sauce was discontinued in 2005. This angered many customers. People loved it! It reminded them of what you’d find at a Chinese restaurant.

The chain said it had poor sales, but since it’s been gone, fans have been begging for it back. Maybe one day. Why not?

In 2014, McDonald’s told Consumerist, “McDonald’s is removing Hot Mustard sauce from our lineup due to its slow moving performance.” We want our hot mustard though!

Did You Know? 🤓💡

It remains available in select international markets and certain U.S. regions, depending on local franchise decisions. Fans have resorted to stocking up during travels or recreating the sauce at home using copycat recipes. ​

Cheddar Melt

mcdonald's cheddar melt burger, from 1987 commercial posted to youtube

Another burger variation that didn’t pan out was the Cheddar Melt. Everyone thought this one would go well, because everyone loves cheddar, but no such luck.

It debuted in 1988 and was made of a burger, cheddar cheese sauce, and grilled onions, on a rye bun. Sounds pretty good. Well, for some people.

Although it’s made a few small comebacks, it’s never stuck around. People just couldn’t get around the idea of this one. Oh, well.

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These small comebacks occurred in 2004 and 2014, and they are sometimes unannounced! Suspense effect, huh. But still… it never secured a permanent spot on the menu.

Mulan Szechuan Sauce

Schezwan Sauce in black bowl at dark background. Schezwan Sauce is Indo-chinese or Sichuan cuisine hot sauce with red chilli, garlic and ginger.

In 1998, McDonald’s released Szechuan Sauce as a promotion for Disney’s Mulan. The movie is iconic, and people thought it would sell well. It didn’t.

It was only available for a limited time around the movie’s release, and was then promptly discontinued. People are kind of obsessed with it, though.

They’ve brought it back in small quantities, but it’s never become a permanent fixture. It’s a timeless movie/food reference, but not an iconic McDonald’s sauce.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

Mulan Szechuan Sauce became more famous after it disappeared! It became a cult sensation nearly two decades later after Rick and Morty featured it in 2017. Is it safe to call this a posthumous popularity? Kidding aside.

Spanish Omelette Bagel

mcdonald's breakfast sandwich, from old commercial posted to youtube

In the early 2000s, McDonald’s started selling a Spanish Omelette Bagel, consisting of a bagel, ham, cheese, egg, and spices. They thought its creativity would popularize it.

It didn’t work out well. People were not at all into the Spanish omelette, finding it tasteless. People did, however, like the look of it.

Even a year ago, users on Reddit were lamenting the loss of these bagel sandwiches. Alas. We move on without the Spanish Omelette Bagel.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

Despite the McDonald’s Spanish Omelette Bagel’s unique flavor, it was discontinued due to low sales and customer preference for classic breakfast items, such as the Egg McMuffin.

McStuffins

mcdonald's mcstuffins 1993 commercial posted to youtube

In 1993, this was a McDonald’s hot pocket. It was French bread stuffed with a variety of toppings, like pepperoni pizza and teriyaki chicken.

Which sound a bit like fancy fast food calzones? Everyone likes the Starbucks ham and cheese croissant, it could have been something like that.

It just didn’t work out well and was discontinued shortly after it was released. But honestly, these sound good! Who doesn’t like cheesy pastries!?

Did You Know? 🤓💡

Sure, they resemble Hot Pockets, but they were discontinued the same year due to poor sales and customer confusion over the non-traditional menu item. It’s as if people don’t want McDonald’s to take a little bit of a rebellious approach to their menus.

McSpaghetti

We’re not sure how you would eat this on-the-go. In the 1980s, McDonald’s tried to get into the Italian food market by serving McSpaghetti. Yep — spaghetti.

They also had a lasagna and fettuccine Alfredo option, in case spaghetti wasn’t your bag. Really though, would either be your bag at McDonald’s?

The dish flopped in the U.S., but is still available elsewhere. People love noodles. Some fast food places make their bread and butter on them!

Did You Know? 🤓💡

If you visit the Philippines, McSpaghetti remains relevant and is strongly preferred, served with a sweet-style sauce, hot dog slices, and cheese. It’s also available at a unique McDonald’s location in Orlando, Florida.

Hula Burger

mcdonald's hula burger commercial from 1984 posted to youtube

Let’s just say you’re probably glad this was discontinued when it was. This one did not last and should not have lasted at any point. Here we go…

In the 1960s, the Hula Burger, a pineapple slice and cheese, was created. It was marketed to Catholics, who can’t eat meat on Fridays during Lent.

There are so many other meatless alternatives! We would have never recommended this one. Go for literally anything else. The hula burger ain’t the one!

Did You Know? 🤓💡

When Hula Burger tested against franchisee Lou Groen’s Filet-O-Fish, customers overwhelmingly preferred the fish sandwich, with sales of 350 to just 6 Hula Burgers. Consequently, the Hula Burger was discontinued, and the Filet-O-Fish became a permanent menu item.

Strawberry Shortcake McFlurry

mcdonald's strawberry shortcake mcflurry, from commercial posted to mcdonald's south africa youtube

This McFlurry was strawberry mixed with vanilla soft serve. It was released in the U.S. for a limited time. Customers loved it, but it was removed.

However, McDonald’s has since introduced the Strawberry Shortcake Sundae. And this one was also incredibly beloved. It’s strawberry shortcake after all. How could you not?

This is like other McFlurries, made with vanilla soft serve. It’s topped with sliced strawberries and a strawberry-flavored topping. Bring this one back, and bring it back now!

Did You Know? 🤓💡

The McDonald’s Strawberry Shortcake McFlurry, which debuted in April 2023, was discontinued after just one month. Just. one. month. We can’t believe this. Hello, McDonald’s?! Fans are craving for it!

McMozzarella Sticks

mcdonald's mozzarella sticks commercial, posted to youtube

Mozzarella sticks were once an available side at McDonald’s. It however was not a side that lasted very long.

The problem was, the sticks weren’t great if they sat out for a bit, they were only good for a few minutes after coming out of the fryer.

That being said, variations of mozzarella sticks can sometimes be found at the golden arches, not so much in the US but globally.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

McDonald’s Mozzarella Sticks, introduced in 2015, were discontinued after a lawsuit alleged they contained filler ingredients instead of 100% mozzarella! Oh geez!

McSoup

Can you imagine ordering soup at McDonald’s? Apparently, some people can! I guess if Wendy’s can do chili, then why can’t McDonald’s do soup?

The McSoup was basically Campbell’s chicken noodle soup poured into a McDonald’s cup and renamed McSoup. It was eventually discontinued, to the surprise of no one.

Most likely because people could just buy a regular old can of chicken noodle themselves (and not have to worry about it spilling all over their car).

Did You Know? 🤓💡

McSoup was discontinued due to low demand and operational challenges, such as maintaining soup quality and temperature in a fast-paced environment. Interestingly, some international McDonald’s locations, such as those in Hong Kong and Portugal, continue to offer soup options.

Sweet Chili Sauce

Another favorite was the Sweet Chili Sauce. Despite customers’ love for it, it was discontinued. This sauce seems to do well elsewhere, so we’re a little surprised it didn’t sell.

Serious Eats described it as a duck sauce with red pepper flakes mixed in — a little sweet, a little hot. That sounds fantastic. It’s too bad it didn’t stick.

We can only hope they decide to bring it back one day! Considering the popularity of a flavor like this, its likely it will return!

Did You Know? 🤓💡

McDonald’s Sweet Chili Sauce, introduced in 2010, was discontinued in 2014 due to declining demand. However, it made a brief comeback in 2021 as part of the BTS Meal promotion. Bangtan Sonyeondan! 방탄소년단! K-pop rules!

Son of Mac

This smaller take on the McDonald’s classic was first introduced around 2007. Any version of it was bound for success — this still exists in many countries.

It had all the same ingredients as a Big Mac, which is a fast food staple. We wonder how something like this failed to sell.

The only difference? It had one patty instead of two. You can’t order it by name, but you could ask for a burger with Mac sauce.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

This is introduced to offer the Big Mac flavor in a smaller size (actually, kinda obvious), but it was discontinued in the U.S. due to lukewarm reception. However, it remains available in select international markets, such as Canada, where it’s known as the “Kid’s Mac.”

The McFeast

1980 australian mcdonald's mcfeast commercial posted to youtube

You’d think that with a name like “The McFeast,” this would be a pretty impressive meal, right? Well, you’d be wrong. It’s just a sandwich.

Turns out, it’s your standard McDonald’s burger with lettuce, tomato, picks, mustard, ketchup, and a special McFeast Deluxe sauce. Nothing’s unique about it, other than the sauce.

The sandwich made a comeback in Australia in 2014, and it remains a hit there and in other international communities. The deluxe sauce is what people seem to enjoy.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

In Australia, the McFeast features a single beef patty, tomato, lettuce, and a unique sauce blend of ketchup, mustard, and McChicken sauce. In contrast, South Africa’s version includes two beef patties, cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, and a distinctive “braai” sauce, reflecting local tastes.

The Hot ‘N Spicy McChicken

2013 hot n spicy mcchicken commercial posted to youtube

This simple-but-delicious spicy chicken sandwich was pulled from the menu back in 2006 (per The Takeout). People love this taste, but there just wasn’t enough flavor to it.

It stayed in some regional markets, though not for long. Some places must do it better than others, but it was never really that iconic.

Why? On their website, McDonald’s described the sandwich as tender and seasoned with spices, topped with lettuce, mayonnaise, and served on a toasted bun. Sounds good to us.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

McDonald’s Hot ‘n Spicy McChicken debuted in 2002, was discontinued in 2006 due to low sales, and returned in 2013 on the Dollar Menu. It had its time and is now staying lowkey, available only in select U.S. markets.

Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich 

Introduced in 2015, this discontinued McDonald’s item was taken down in 2020 due to the pandemic. This one should’ve done better, but people love the classic McChicken.

It was a great sandwich, loved by many, but McDonald’s decided to focus more on its trademark burgers. Unfortunately, this was left this by the wayside.

Chicken is not known as the chain’s main staple, after all. They have plenty of good chicken menu items, but it is not their trademark.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

McDonald’s Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich marketed as the healthier option than the regular burgers, but despite that, Former McDonald’s corporate chef Mike Haracz explained that the sandwich didn’t meet sales expectations, leading to its removal from the menu.

Bubblegum McFlurry

mcdonald's ad found on twitter/x

McDonald’s introduced a yummy, super bizarre McFlurry a while ago: the Bubblegum McFlurry. This was tasty and especially loved by bubblegum lovers. So, what happened?

Honestly, nothing too crazy. Like many other McFlurry flavors, this flavor was canceled, but there are many who still want it to make a comeback.

People are signing petitions to bring this back. There are also plenty of limited edition McFlurries, so it’s not out of the realm of possibilities.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

Although Americans disapproved of bubblegum-flavored McFlurries, they were a cult favorite in Australia and Indonesia, but were discontinued nonetheless; however, fans still petition for their return.

Beef Tallow Fries

For a while, McDonald’s used beef tallow as a part of their French fries. It offers an entirely different flavor, but is widely loved.

The beef tallow is really just beef fat, which was hard for vegetarians. Now, they are made with vegetable oil, and can be enjoyed by everyone.

Why was beef tallow replaced? Over the decades, it was taken away from fries because of health concerns. Thankfully the substitute wasn’t too bad, either!

Did You Know? 🤓💡

Until 1990, McDonald’s fries were cooked in 93% beef tallow, giving them their iconic flavor. Health concerns led to a switch to vegetable oil, altering the taste forever.

McLean Deluxe

mclean deluxe commercial from 1991 posted to youtube

This was a lean burger made with less fat, resulting in less grease. Some believe it was way too dry, but some preferred that.

The burger included ketchup, mustard, lettuce, pickles, tomato, and a slice of cheese. A lot of people didn’t get why this burger wasn’t juicy.

The sandwich included seaweed extract, and the combination of it with water helped eliminate fat. The McLean Deluxe was discontinued due to poor sales.

Did You Know? 🤓💡

The McDonald’s McLean Deluxe, introduced in 1991, was marketed as a healthier alternative to their regular burgers, boasting a “91% fat-free” patty. However, to achieve this low-fat content, McDonald’s replaced much of the fat with water and used carrageenan, a seaweed extract, as a binder. Its dry texture and lack of flavor led to its discontinuation.