Suppose you’ve wanted to try McDonald’s unique international menu items, like Japan’s Teriyaki Chicken Filet-O or India’s Big Spicy Paneer Wrap. In that case, you might think an overseas trip is your only option.
But that’s not the case! You can sample these global treats without leaving the U.S., thanks to the McDonald’s Global Menu Restaurant located at their headquarters in Chicago.
Here’s everything you need to know about trying international McDonald’s menu items in the U.S., all in one place.
Discovering the McDonald’s Global Menu Restaurant in Chicago
McDonald’s fans may already know that the company’s headquarters are in Chicago, Illinois. This impressive facility houses state-of-the-art kitchens where new recipes are perfected and a training center known as Hamburger University.
But what sets it apart is a special treat hidden beneath all the action—a one-of-a-kind restaurant called the McDonald’s Global Menu Restaurant.
Opened in 2018, this unique location offers something you won’t find at your local McDonald’s: rotating international menu items worldwide. From fan-favorite burgers to unusual McFlurry flavors, the restaurant provides a chance to taste regional specialties from different countries.
And, of course, you can still order the classic American menu items, so there’s something for everyone.
What Can You Try at the McDonald’s Global Menu Restaurant?
Located in Chicago’s trendy West Loop neighborhood, the McDonald’s Global Menu Restaurant offers an ever-changing selection of international items.
The menu rotates every 12 weeks, so what’s available will depend on when you visit. You can always check the current offerings on delivery platforms like Uber Eats or the McDonald’s app (look for the store address at 1035 or 1045 Randolph Street in Chicago).
Some international items had already sold out during my visit, including the popular Biscoff McFlurry, but I still got to sample some delicious treats. Here’s a breakdown of what I tried:
- Crisscut Chips from Malaysia: These waffle-cut fries, known as “Criss Cut Fries” on some menus, are thicker than regular chips and super crispy. They have the same irresistible salty flavor as McDonald’s classic fries but with a unique texture. If you love fries, this is a must-try!
- McSpicy Chicken Sandwich from Hong Kong: If you’re a fan of spicy food, you’ll appreciate the heat in this sandwich. It’s a crispy fried chicken filet served with mayo and lettuce, but be warned—it packs some serious spice! Unfortunately, I found it lacking in flavor beyond the heat, as there wasn’t a distinct sauce or seasoning to complement the spice.
- Philly Cheese Stack from the U.K.: This was a pleasant surprise! McDonald’s take on a Philly cheese steak involves two beef patties, slices of American cheese, a gooey cheese sauce, grilled onions, pickles, and crispy fried onions. It’s a rich, indulgent burger with a perfect blend of creamy cheese, tangy pickles, and crunchy onions. A British twist on an American classic that works.
- Berry McPops: I tried these fluffy, doughnut-like treats filled with a berry jam for dessert. The soft, pillowy texture and sweet yet tart filling made these a delightful way to end the meal. The Global Menu Restaurant offers them in three flavors: berry, white chocolate, and Biscoff (though the latter was sold out when I visited).
In addition to these international items, I recommend trying the Chicken Big Mac—an American limited-time offering that’s essentially the classic Big Mac but with crispy chicken patties instead of beef. It’s juicy and flavorful and not to be missed.
What’s the McDonald’s Global Menu Restaurant Like Inside?
The restaurant itself doesn’t feel like your typical McDonald’s. Located in a sleek, modern building with high warehouse-style ceilings, natural wood decor, and leather chairs, it offers a more upscale dining experience.
One standout feature is a world map on the wall, outlined with thin white lines and dotted with glowing golden arches. Each arch represents a country that has a dish featured on the menu.
At 6,000 square feet, this location is larger than the average McDonald’s (about 4,500 square feet), giving it a spacious, relaxed vibe. You can order at the counter, from a digital kiosk, or via QR codes placed on each table. True to McDonald’s fast-food roots, your meal will likely be ready within minutes, so arrive hungry!
Can You Get International McDonald’s Items Anywhere Else in the U.S.?
If you’re wondering whether you can find these international menu items at other McDonald’s locations in the U.S., the answer is mostly no.
The Global Menu Restaurant in Chicago is the only place where you can regularly try a rotating selection of global dishes. However, McDonald’s has occasionally made popular international items available nationwide for a limited time.
For instance, in 2019, McDonald’s U.S. offered the Stroopwafel McFlurry from the Netherlands, the Grand McExtreme Bacon Burger from Spain, the Tomato Mozzarella Chicken Sandwich from Canada, and Cheesy Bacon Fries from Australia.
While these global items are rare, it’s always possible that they’ll return to the U.S. menu, so keep your eyes peeled!
How to Plan Your Visit
To experience McDonald’s international flavors, visit 1035 or 1045 Randolph Street in Chicago. With its rotating menu and sleek design, the Global Menu Restaurant offers a unique twist on the fast-food experience that’s well worth the trip.
Whether you’re craving a spicy chicken sandwich from Hong Kong or a sweet doughnut treat from Europe, you’ll find something new and exciting.
And who knows? Your favorite international McDonald’s item might just show up at a U.S. location near you one day. Until then, Chicago is the place to go for a taste of the world—no passport required!
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