Hello, McDonald’s fans. We all adore and know the Golden Arches. It’s that iconic American multinational fast-food restaurant chain that has been a global symbol, selling everything from French fries to Big Macs to millions of people every day. McDonald’s operates over 40,000 restaurant locations in the globe as of 2024, of which a quarter are located in the U.S. Safe to say McDonald’s is a part of our lives to an enormous degree, whether it’s to take something on the run or to sit down and eat.
But even with such a familiar place as McDonald’s, there are a few common mistakes that we make when we order. They’re not small oversights these can affect your wallet, your experience, or even what tasty things you get to eat. Nobody wants to miss out on a special offer or pay more than they need to.
So here we go with 14 frequent faux pas made when placing orders at McDonald’s and how you can steer clear of them to get the most out of every trip.
1. Thinking All-Day Breakfast Still Exits
Do you remember when you could always get a Sausage McMuffin when you wanted one? Those days are over since 2020 when McDonald’s suspended all-day breakfast during the pandemic. With business shifting so heavily to drive-thru and delivery, breakfast hours returned to morning only. Many customers still try ordering hotcakes at lunchtime, only to be disappointed. Save yourself the hassle check the app or store hours before relying on breakfast items later in the day.
2. Expecting Dropped Bakery Items
The McDonald’s bakery case previously featured such items as apple fritters, blueberry muffins, and cinnamon rolls. But in 2023, all three were formally dropped in the U.S. Counting on that they’ll somehow magically return is a common mistake. The same goes for seasonal items like the Shamrock Shake or the McRib items that appear for a short time, stir up a flurry of interest, and then disappear until next year (or sometime thereafter). Enjoy them while they’re around, but don’t count on them always being there.
3. Believing the Menu is Always the Same Everywhere
The Big Mac may be international, but there is considerable variation on local menus. McDonald’s adapts to cultural taste and dietary restraint. Millet buns and paneer are the options in India. Japan offers the Ebi Burger stuffed with shrimp. France offers the croissant and even macarons. And in America, regional specialties like New Mexico’s Hatch Green Chile Burger make an appearance. Don’t seek consistency enjoy the local flavors and try new things when traveling.
4. Ignoring Ingredient Upgrades and Healthier Options
McDonald’s had been criticized on the nutrition front for years, especially after the 2004 documentary Super Size Me. In recent times, however, the menu has been drastically different. Since 2015, the chain has removed artificial preservatives from Chicken McNuggets, cut high-fructose corn syrup out of buns, and replaced fries with trans-fat-free oil. Seven of its iconic burgers Big Mac and Quarter Pounder among them contained no artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors by 2018 (with the exception of pickles, which you can request without). McDonald’s also vowed to go cage-free on 2 billion eggs it purchases every year. Don’t be fooled into believing that nothing is different the menu has really changed.
5. Forgetting the McValue Meal
With rising food prices, it’s easy to think fast food bargain days are over. McDonald’s itself cut some of its bargain items in 2021, leaving some feeling the pinch. But in 2024, the chain introduced the McValue Meal four items for $5. If you miss this value opportunity, you may be paying more than necessary. Always ask what value opportunities are available before you order you might save some cash.
6. Ignoring Plant-Based Options
McDonald’s is no longer just about the beef. The McPlant burger, which debuted in 2020, marked the company’s first serious foray into plant-based dining. In Ireland and the UK, you can even order a Double McPlant, and some of its locations have tested out vegan ice cream flavors. If vegetarian, vegan, or just curious, don’t count out these options. They’re tasty, filling, and signal that McDonald’s is serious about going beyond traditional meat.
7. Wasting Time in Long Lines
Still waiting in a long line? McDonald’s has invested heavily in technology to streamline ordering. McDonald’s has tried kiosks since the late 1990s, and by 2017 its app allowed mobile ordering with drive-thru pickup. In 2019, McDonald’s even acquired an AI start-up to automate drive-thru orders. In 2023, the first highly automated McDonald’s opened in Texas. Skip the wait order through the app or kiosks for convenience and speed.
8. Forgetting You Can Customize
You’re stuck with the menu, right? Think again. Just ask for modifications like no pickles if you must steer clear of preservatives. Customizing isn’t only for burgers; you can customize most foods to your liking. Don’t take what you don’t adore have it your way.
9. Skipping the “Create Your Taste” Kiosks
Interactive kiosks enable you to make your burgers exactly as you want them double cheese, no sauce, or extra toppings. These have been traveling around the world since 2016, and they’re perfect for when you don’t want to be rushed up to the counter. If you speed on past them, you’re missing a one-on-one, fun way to order.
10. Not Knowing About Various Store Formats
Not every McDonald’s is the same. Some locations are McDrive (drive-thru only), while urban areas may feature Walk-Thru windows or McExpress setups with limited seating. Highway stops often include McStop restaurants for travelers, and international airports may have unique layouts. Understanding the type of store you’re at saves time and prevents confusion especially when you’re in a hurry.
11. Passing on the “McDonald’s Next” Experience
Rolling out in Hong Kong in 2015, McDonald’s Next is an open-architecture, minimalist design with table service after 6 p.m. and features like free device charging. They promote customization with digital ordering. If you spot one of these tech-savvy locations, don’t write it off it’s a new McDonald’s experience.
12. Expecting a Complete Menu at CosMc’s
In 2023, McDonald’s tested a spinoff called CosMc’s, focused on drinks and coffee, not full meals. The first store opened in Illinois, with a smaller footprint designed for quick beverage runs. By 2025, McDonald’s shut them down, testing some drinks in regular stores instead. Customers who showed up craving fries or burgers were often let down. The lesson? Always know what kind of McDonald’s concept you’re visiting.
13. Global Events Forgetting Operations
McDonald’s is a global brand, and global events may change the manner and location in which it operates. In 2022, McDonald’s closed and divested 850 restaurants in Russia after invading Ukraine, regionally rebranded Vkusno i tochka. McDonald’s was boycotted in Muslim countries during the Gaza war when its Israeli franchise openly supported the IDF, prompting corporate modifications. Even if it doesn’t affect your local outlet, these developments speak to how far-reaching international politics can be in affecting the brand.
14. Assuming Everything Went Back to Pre-Pandemic Normal
COVID-19 transformed some McDonald’s restaurants dramatically. Indoor dining and PlayPlaces, once a staple, were closed by the pandemic and didn’t reopen for most. The company emphasized drive-thru, delivery, and curbside more than ever. If you’re planning a family visit expecting an expansive play area, you could be disappointed. Call ahead so your visit is what you expect.
Wrapping Up
And there you have it 14 mistakes to avoid while ordering at McDonald’s. From remaining up-to-date on menu changes and order changes to embracing new technology and acknowledging global influences, being an informed customer does pay off. McDonald’s isn’t just a burger joint; it’s a constantly changing company that’s affected by trends, technology, and global events.
Next time you’re under the Golden Arches, skip the missteps and order like a pro. Happy eating.
