Quite a few of these 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
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.
McSalad Shakers
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.
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.
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.
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.
The McJordan
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 on a sesame seed bun, complete with raw onions, pickles, circular bacon, and tangy, delicious barbecue sauce.
Fruit and Walnut Salad
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.
Pumpkin Spice Latte
The pumpkin spice latte of course is more of a seasonal item, but when it’s available, its an easy top 5 beverage of the month.
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, you find yourself near a golden arches, and are craving something pumpkin-flavored, the McDonald’s take on it is a great way to go.
Mighty Wings
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.
CBO (Chicken, Bacon, and Onion)
The CBO is a classic sandwich of McDonald’s that has actually even returned to some locations! However it deserves acknowledgement here too.
Chicken and bacon go together beautifully. The cooked onions bring everything together and provide a sweet edge to each bite.
This sandwich may not always be around but when you can get one, you should take the opportunity- it’s a special sandwich.
Fish McBites
If the Fish O’Filet doesn’t sound appetizing to you, then you probably wouldn’t enjoy Fish McBites — and, apparently, a lot customers weren’t, either.
They 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?
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.
The Big ‘N Tasty
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.
The Arch Deluxe
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.
It 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.
Chopped Beefsteak Sandwich
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, which is a cheeseburger on a hoagie roll and a New York classic.
The McHotDog
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 discontinued items go. It’s a hot dog, after all. Hot dogs are awesome!
The Triple-Double Burger
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.
McGratin Croquette
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.
Filled with a savory white, the Croquette is a patty with shrimp, macaroni, a white sauce and is topped with cabbage, spicy sauce, and put between a buttered bun.
The burger is one that many people call to have come back. It’s around sometimes but also can be seasonal, it’s seldom a
Supersizing
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.
Onion Nuggets
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…
The Angus Burger
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.”
McPizza
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.
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!
Cheddar Melt
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.
Mulan Szechuan Sauce
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.
Spanish Omelette Bagel
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.
McStuffins
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!?
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!
Hula Burger
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!
Strawberry Shortcake McFlurry
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 a “creamy vanilla soft serve topped with sliced strawberries in a sweet and tart strawberry topping.” Bring this one back, and bring it back now!
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).
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!
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.
The McFeast
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’s still a hit there. The deluxe sauce is what people seem to enjoy.
The Hot ‘N Spicy McChicken
This simple-but-delicious spicy chicken sandwich was pulled from the menu back in 2006. 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? McDonald’s described the sandwich as “tender chicken seasoned with…spices, topped with shredded lettuce, mayonnaise, and served on a perfectly toasted bun.” Sounds good to us.
Artisan Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Introduced in 2015, this 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, and 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.
Bubblegum McFlurry
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.
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!
McLean Deluxe
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.
