McDonald’s has been a staple in fast food for decades, but not all of its menu items have stood the test of time. Over the years, McDonald’s has introduced a variety of unique and interesting menu options, some of which have gained a cult following despite their eventual discontinuation.
From specialty burgers to unique sides and beverages, these items have left a lasting impression on McDonald’s fans worldwide. Let’s take a nostalgic journey through 40 beloved McDonald’s menu items that have been retired from the golden arches.
1. McDLT
Ever wondered how to keep a burger’s lettuce crisp while the patty remains piping hot? The McDLT was McDonald’s innovative answer to that question. Served in a dual-compartment packaging, it kept the hot and cold elements separate until you were ready to eat.
This unique presentation not only promised a fresh taste but also a fun eating experience. While it was discontinued in the early ’90s, the McDLT remains a fond memory for those who cherished the playful concept.
2. Arch Deluxe
Designed for a more mature palate, the Arch Deluxe was marketed as the ‘adult’ burger. It featured a quarter-pound beef patty, topped with a special mustard-mayo sauce, leaf lettuce, and circular peppered bacon. Introduced in the mid-1990s, it was McDonald’s attempt to appeal to grown-up tastes.
Despite its flavorful profile, the Arch Deluxe didn’t resonate with customers and was eventually phased out, yet it still holds a certain charm for those who experienced its unique offering.
3. McPizza
In the late 1980s, McDonald’s ventured into Italian cuisine with the introduction of McPizza. Aimed at diversifying their menu, these personal-sized pizzas were available with various toppings.
Despite the effort to capture pizza lovers’ hearts, the wait time was considerably longer than typical fast-food items, leading to its downfall. The McPizza is remembered as a bold but ultimately unsuccessful attempt to broaden McDonald’s culinary horizons beyond burgers and fries.
4. McSpaghetti
McDonald’s McSpaghetti was an ambitious foray into pasta, aiming to offer something different from the typical burger fare. Introduced in various markets, including the Philippines where it still exists, this dish combined spaghetti noodles with a sweet tomato sauce and a sprinkling of cheese.
Although it never became a staple in the US, the McSpaghetti holds a place in fast-food history as an example of McDonald’s experimental spirit and remains a quirky nostalgic item for many.
5. Hula Burger
Among McDonald’s more unconventional menu experiments, the Hula Burger holds a unique place in its history. Designed as a meatless option for Catholic patrons observing Friday dietary restrictions, this burger swapped the traditional beef patty for a thick slice of grilled pineapple, paired with melted cheese on a classic hamburger bun.
Though imaginative, the Hula Burger struggled to win over customers and was quickly overshadowed by the more popular Filet-O-Fish. While short-lived, it remains a quirky and memorable chapter in the evolution of McDonald’s offerings.
6. Onion Nuggets
Before the widespread popularity of Chicken McNuggets, McDonald’s tested the market with Onion Nuggets. These were small, battered, and fried onion pieces, resembling their chicken counterparts in shape and size.
Released in the 1970s, Onion Nuggets offered a savory, crunchy snack that intrigued customers. However, they didn’t quite achieve the same level of success, leading to their eventual phase-out. They remain a quirky yet fondly remembered part of McDonald’s experimental era.
7. Mighty Wings
Mighty Wings, introduced in the 1990s, were McDonald’s attempt to capture the wing craze sweeping the nation. These spicy, crispy chicken wings offered a bold flavor that stood apart from traditional nuggets.
Despite their initial popularity, the high price point and limited market appeal led to their discontinuation. Yet, for those who enjoyed their fiery kick, Mighty Wings remain a cherished memory of McDonald’s more adventurous menu offerings.
8. Snack Wraps
Once a staple for busy diners seeking something lighter, McDonald’s Snack Wraps offered a convenient blend of flavor and portability.
With a choice of crispy or grilled chicken, shredded lettuce, cheese, and either ranch or honey mustard sauce, all wrapped in a soft tortilla, they became a go-to option in the 2000s. Their balanced size and ease made them especially appealing for on-the-go meals.
Despite their popularity, Snack Wraps were eventually removed from U.S. menus, leaving devoted fans craving their return. Their absence is still felt by those who appreciated this simple yet satisfying offering.
9. Chicken Selects
Chicken Selects were McDonald’s bid to offer a more premium chicken option. Launched in the early 2000s, these strips were larger and more substantial than the classic nuggets, boasting a distinct seasoning and crispy coating.
Despite their appeal to those seeking a meatier option, they were eventually discontinued due to inconsistent demand. Chicken Selects are remembered fondly by fans who appreciated their quality and flavor.
10. Big N’ Tasty
In the late 1990s, McDonald’s rolled out the Big N’ Tasty to compete with the heartier burgers offered by rival chains. Built around a quarter-pound beef patty, it was topped with crisp lettuce, fresh tomato, onions, pickles, and a signature sauce—all nestled in a sesame seed bun.
Designed to appeal to those craving a more robust burger experience, it found a loyal following for a time. However, as the menu evolved and new items gained traction, the Big N’ Tasty quietly disappeared. Today, it lives on as a fond memory for fans who still recall its bold flavor and satisfying bite.
11. McLean Deluxe
In the early ’90s, health-conscious trends led to the creation of the McLean Deluxe. It featured a 91% fat-free beef patty, made possible by the use of seaweed extract, topped with lettuce and tomato on a whole wheat bun.
Despite its healthy promise, the McLean Deluxe struggled to win over customers accustomed to richer flavors. It was eventually discontinued, but it stands as an interesting chapter in McDonald’s attempts to cater to changing dietary preferences.
12. Cheddar Melt
Crafted with cheese enthusiasts in mind, the Cheddar Melt was McDonald’s indulgent twist on the classic burger. It paired a seasoned beef patty with a generous helping of creamy cheddar cheese sauce and savory grilled onions, all served on a distinctive rye bun.
First introduced in the late 1980s as a limited-time offering, it quickly developed a devoted fan base thanks to its bold, comforting flavors. Despite its popularity, the Cheddar Melt eventually disappeared from the menu, but it remains a cherished favorite in the memories of those who once savored its rich, melty goodness.
13. McSalad Shakers
McSalad Shakers were McDonald’s innovative take on salads, introduced in the early 2000s. These portable salads came in a cup, allowing customers to shake their choice of dressing with fresh ingredients like lettuce, cheese, and tomatoes.
Despite their convenience and novelty, they were eventually discontinued, likely due to the rise of more substantial salad options. McSalad Shakers are still remembered by fans who appreciated their fun and practical design.
14. Fruit and Walnut Salad
In an effort to cater to health-conscious diners, McDonald’s introduced the Fruit and Walnut Salad in the mid-2000s as a refreshing alternative to traditional fast food fare.
The snack-sized dish featured crisp apple slices, juicy grapes, and candied walnuts, all paired with a creamy yogurt dressing. It offered a sweet, satisfying balance of flavor and nutrition, appealing to those looking for a lighter option on the go.
Although it eventually disappeared from the menu, the Fruit and Walnut Salad remains a nostalgic favorite for fans who appreciated its fresh, wholesome twist.
15. McLobster
The McLobster was McDonald’s attempt to capture the essence of a New England lobster roll. Available seasonally in select locations, this sandwich featured lobster meat mixed with lettuce, tucked into a toasted roll.
While it offered a taste of the coast, it struggled to compete with traditional lobster rolls and was eventually phased out. Despite its limited success, the McLobster remains a quirky chapter in McDonald’s menu history.
16. McHotDog
In a bid to expand beyond its signature burgers, McDonald’s experimented with the McHotDog during the 1990s, introducing it in select markets.
This straightforward take on a classic featured a traditional hotdog nestled in a bun, usually dressed with mustard and ketchup. While the item aligned with familiar American tastes, it never gained significant traction among McDonald’s core customers and was eventually phased out.
Though short-lived, the McHotDog remains a quirky and memorable chapter in the brand’s history for those who had a chance to try it.
17. Super Size Fries and Drinks
Super Sizing once allowed McDonald’s customers to indulge in extra-large portions of fries and drinks for a small additional cost. This option, popular in the 1990s and early 2000s, catered to those with big appetites.
However, growing health concerns and the documentary “Super Size Me” spotlighted its drawbacks, leading to the discontinuation of Super Sizing in 2004. Despite its controversial nature, it remains a memorable aspect of McDonald’s past offerings.
18. Triple Double Burger
Designed for those with an appetite for the extreme, the Triple Double Burger was McDonald’s bold entry into the oversized burger trend. Stacked with three beef patties and two layers of cheese, it delivered a hefty dose of indulgence in every bite.
While it certainly appealed to burger lovers craving something substantial, its towering size and calorie-heavy profile made it less practical for the average diner. As a result, it enjoyed only a brief run before being retired.
Still, the Triple Double Burger stands out as a symbol of fast food’s flirtation with excess—and a memorable moment for fans of over-the-top creations.
19. McStuffins
McStuffins were McDonald’s playful take on the stuffed pastry concept. Launched in the early 1990s, these hand-held snacks featured a pastry shell filled with various savory ingredients, resembling fast-food empanadas.
Despite their convenience and novelty, McStuffins didn’t gain the traction needed to remain on the menu and were eventually discontinued. They are fondly recalled by those who enjoyed their quirky and portable nature.
20. McSoup
In an effort to expand into heartier, comfort-focused fare, McDonald’s introduced the McSoup at select locations. Offering familiar varieties like chicken noodle, it was served in easy-to-carry cups—ideal for a quick, warming bite during colder months.
While the concept added a homey touch to the menu, it struggled to find a lasting place among McDonald’s more iconic fast-food offerings. Ultimately, the McSoup was quietly phased out, but it remains a nostalgic oddity for those who appreciated its brief, cozy presence.
21. McJordan Special
Named after basketball legend Michael Jordan, the McJordan Special was a unique and exclusive offering. It featured a quarter-pound beef patty topped with barbecue sauce, pickles, onions, and bacon. Released in the early ’90s, it capitalized on Jordan’s immense popularity.
Although it was a limited-time item, it left a lasting impression on fans of both McDonald’s and the basketball icon. The McJordan Special is remembered as a brilliant marketing collaboration.
22. Son of Mac
A scaled-down take on a classic, the Son of Mac—also known as the “Mac Jr.”—offered the signature Big Mac experience in a more manageable size.
With a single beef patty layered with the iconic special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, and onions on a sesame seed bun, it aimed to satisfy those craving the Big Mac flavor without the heft. Though it appealed to fans of a lighter option, the Son of Mac never secured a lasting spot on the menu.
Still, it remains a fond memory for those who appreciated its simpler, well-balanced take on a beloved favorite.
23. Angus Third Pounder
The Angus Third Pounder was McDonald’s attempt to provide a more upscale burger experience. With a third-pound Angus beef patty, it was topped with premium ingredients like lettuce, tomato, and cheese.
Launched in the late 2000s, it aimed to attract burger enthusiasts looking for quality. Despite its premium positioning, it was eventually discontinued due to high costs and inconsistent demand. The Angus Third Pounder is remembered for its rich, satisfying taste.
24. Fish McBites
In the early 2010s, McDonald’s added a whimsical twist to its seafood lineup with the introduction of Fish McBites. These crispy, bite-sized pieces of fish were served with a side of tartar sauce, offering a fun and shareable alternative to the classic Filet-O-Fish.
Popular during seasonal promotions—especially around Lent—they quickly found a fan base thanks to their crunchy coating and savory flavor. Despite their initial success, Fish McBites were ultimately retired from the menu. Today, they’re remembered as a playful and flavorful detour in McDonald’s fast-food journey.
25. Spanish Omelette Bagel
The Spanish Omelette Bagel was part of McDonald’s breakfast menu, offering a flavorful start to the day. It featured a fluffy omelette filled with peppers, onions, cheese, and a slice of ham, all sandwiched in a toasted bagel. Despite its unique taste, it was overshadowed by more traditional options and eventually discontinued. Those who enjoyed its savory kick still remember it as a distinctive breakfast offering from McDonald’s.
26. Eggs Benedict McMuffin
McDonald’s put a gourmet spin on its breakfast lineup with the Eggs Benedict McMuffin—a refined take on a brunch favorite.
This inventive item featured a toasted English muffin layered with ham, a poached-style egg, and a drizzle of rich hollandaise sauce, channeling the elegance of classic Eggs Benedict in a fast-food format.
While it added an upscale flair to the morning menu, it ultimately couldn’t rival the enduring appeal of the simpler, more familiar Egg McMuffin. Though short-lived, it remains a cherished memory for those who enjoyed its elevated take on breakfast.
27. Orange Hi-C (temporarily discontinued)
Orange Hi-C was a beloved beverage option for McDonald’s customers, offering a sweet and tangy flavor that complemented their meals. It was temporarily discontinued, causing a wave of disappointment among fans who cherished its citrusy refreshment.
Although it has made a return, the period of absence has rendered it an iconic “lost” item in McDonald’s history. Orange Hi-C remains a nostalgic drink for those who grew up enjoying its vibrant taste.
28. Chopped Beefsteak Sandwich
As part of its effort to expand into heartier fare, McDonald’s introduced the Chopped Beefsteak Sandwich—a more substantial, diner-style offering. This savory creation featured chopped beefsteak mixed with onions and smothered in barbecue sauce, served on a toasted bun for a robust, flavorful bite.
While it delivered on richness and comfort, the sandwich ultimately didn’t align with the expectations of McDonald’s fast-paced clientele and was eventually discontinued. Still, it stands out as a notable chapter in the brand’s ongoing exploration of diverse menu options.
29. Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Introduced as part of McDonald’s move towards more health-conscious offerings, the Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich featured a grilled chicken breast with lettuce and tomato, served on a ciabatta roll. It aimed to provide a flavorful yet nutritious option for those seeking lighter fare.
Despite its appeal, it was eventually phased out in favor of other chicken sandwiches. The Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich is fondly remembered for its quality ingredients and wholesome taste.
30. Bubblegum McFlurry
Bright, bold, and bursting with nostalgia, the Bubblegum McFlurry was one of McDonald’s more whimsical dessert experiments. Blending creamy vanilla soft serve with vibrant pink bubblegum-flavored candy pieces, it offered a playful twist that appealed to adventurous sweet tooths.
Released as a limited-time treat, it stood out for its eye-catching color and sugary charm. Though it never earned a permanent place on the menu, the Bubblegum McFlurry lives on in the memories of those who delighted in its fun, candy-inspired flavor.
31. Strawberry Shortcake McFlurry
The Strawberry Shortcake McFlurry was a delicious fusion of dessert favorites, featuring McDonald’s vanilla soft serve mixed with chunks of strawberry and cake pieces. This indulgent treat aimed to mimic the classic strawberry shortcake experience in a cup.
Although it was well-received during its limited run, it didn’t secure a permanent place on the menu. The Strawberry Shortcake McFlurry is fondly remembered for its rich, fruity flavor and creamy texture.
32. McWrap
Introduced as a modern, healthier alternative to traditional fast food, the McWrap featured grilled or crispy chicken, lettuce, tomato, and cheese wrapped in a soft tortilla. This item was part of McDonald’s effort to appeal to health-conscious customers.
While it gained a dedicated following, it was removed from the U.S. menu due to declining sales. The McWrap is remembered as a symbol of McDonald’s attempt to adapt to changing dietary trends.
33. Buttermilk Crispy Tenders
Buttermilk Crispy Tenders were introduced to offer a premium chicken experience, featuring chicken tenders marinated in buttermilk and coated in a crispy breading. These tenders catered to those seeking a quality, flavorful chicken option outside of the typical nugget.
Despite their initial popularity, they were eventually phased out due to operational complexities. Buttermilk Crispy Tenders are fondly remembered by fans who appreciated their rich, satisfying crunch.
34. Sweet Chili Sauce
Among McDonald’s array of dipping sauces, the Sweet Chili Sauce stood out for its vibrant blend of sweet heat and tangy spice. Perfectly paired with chicken nuggets, it delivered a zesty kick that elevated the traditional dipping experience.
Its balanced flavor profile made it a fan favorite, offering a touch of exotic flair amid familiar favorites. Despite its strong following, the sauce was eventually discontinued, much to the disappointment of loyal fans.
Today, the Sweet Chili Sauce is fondly remembered as a bold and tasty highlight of McDonald’s condiment lineup.
35. Hot Mustard Sauce
Hot Mustard Sauce was a beloved condiment choice for McDonald’s customers, providing a bold kick to their meals. Known for its spicy mustard flavor, it became a favorite pairing with chicken nuggets and fries. Despite its popularity, it was eventually discontinued, leaving fans disappointed. The Hot Mustard Sauce remains a nostalgic choice for those who appreciated its zesty, flavorful punch.
36. Donut Sticks
McDonald’s added a touch of sweetness to its breakfast menu with the introduction of Donut Sticks. Served warm and golden, these light, airy sticks were dusted in cinnamon sugar and often paired with a rich chocolate dipping sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
Their crispy exterior and soft interior made them a delightful morning treat for those craving something sweet on the go. Although they were only available for a limited time, Donut Sticks left a lasting impression on fans who still recall their comforting flavor and satisfying crunch.
37. Cinnamon Melts
Cinnamon Melts were a decadent addition to McDonald’s breakfast lineup, featuring gooey cinnamon rolls drizzled with icing and served warm in a convenient cup. These sticky, sweet treats were popular among those seeking an indulgent start to their day.
However, they were eventually phased out, much to the disappointment of their fans. Cinnamon Melts remain a cherished memory for those who enjoyed their rich, sugary flavor and comforting aroma.
38. Fried Apple Pie (replaced by baked version)
McDonald’s Fried Apple Pie was a beloved dessert item, known for its crispy, golden-brown crust and warm apple filling. Unlike the current baked version, it was deep-fried to perfection, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Due to health concerns, it was replaced by the baked version, leaving fans yearning for its original taste. The Fried Apple Pie remains a fond memory for those who enjoyed its delightful texture and flavor.
39. McSkillet Burrito
Hearty and flavorful, the McSkillet Burrito was McDonald’s bold entry into the savory breakfast scene. Packed with scrambled eggs, sausage, sautéed peppers and onions, and melty cheese—all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla—it delivered a satisfying, on-the-go morning meal.
Its rich blend of textures and flavors quickly made it a favorite among those looking for more than a standard breakfast sandwich. Despite its popularity, the McSkillet Burrito was eventually phased out, but it remains a fond memory for fans who appreciated its robust and comforting start to the day.
40. Fruit ‘n Yogurt Parfait
The Fruit ‘n Yogurt Parfait was McDonald’s take on a healthier dessert option, featuring creamy yogurt layered with fresh berries and granola. This refreshing treat was popular among those seeking a lighter, nutritious choice.
Despite its initial success, it was eventually phased out, much to the disappointment of its health-conscious fans. The Fruit ‘n Yogurt Parfait remains a fond memory for those who enjoyed its balance of sweet and wholesome flavors.
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