There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of a McDonald’s after a night out with mates.
But with McDonald’s often refreshing their menu, choosing what to order can be a dilemma, especially when scrolling through the app – the variety is immense.
Today (October 16), the start of the Halloween menu, including the buzzed-about McRib, has seen fans flocking to their apps to order, prompted by a lookout alert from Maccies cautioning, ‘once it’s gone, it’s gone’.
I couldn’t resist diving into the new offerings to see if the McRib lives up to its social media fame – and naturally, I had a go at the other treats as well. My haul included the McRib, McCrispy Deluxe, Cheese Share Box, Halloween M&M’s McFlurry, Galaxy Caramel McFlurry, and Toffee Apple Pie.
Regrettably, the two new beverages (which sound heavenly – Toasted Marshmallow Latte and Hot Chocolate) weren’t up for grabs at my local branch, leaving me to merely fantasise about their potential deliciousness.
Digging in first to the McRib it’s caused absolute mayhem on social media, with users on X, once known as Twitter, exclaiming: “Wake up babe, it’s McRib day”, “I’m so excited”, and “Oh my God it’s finally here”.
After the buzz on social media, I was keen to sample the McRib, having missed its release nine years prior. However, my anticipation turned to disappointment – the burger fell short of its promotional allure and tasted notably inferior to McDonald’s usual fare.
A user on an unspecified forum encapsulated my feelings well, commenting: “All the people getting excited over the McRib”, paired with a laughing emoji, only to conclude: “As I thought, it’s c**p, a Rustlers one would be better.”
Another chimed in, expressing similar dismay: “I’ve just had one. I’m massively disappointed. The patty tastes like the sausage breakfast one.”
While I can’t speak for Rustlers comparison, the McRib certainly wasn’t the McDonald’s quality Ive come to expect – you know, the type that delivers a satisfying burger (think the Chicken Big Mac, which is just superb). But this was a letdown through and through, not helped by the fact it turned up cold.
Switching gears to the McCrispy Deluxe, while my preferences lie with the McSpicy, the McCrispy holds its own among the chain’s chicken burgers. It was tasty, although the Caramelised Onion and Balsamic Relish seemed a touch too dominant – I rather fancy the Black Pepper Mayo found in the McSpicy.
Still, its a solid choice and one I’d probably go for again.
The Cheese Bites Share Box was a hit, even when they’re cold. They’re ideal for sharing with friends, but be prepared for some friendly squabbles over the last one.
The Halloween M&M’s McFlurry and Galaxy Caramel McFlurry were typical of what we’ve come to expect from McFlurry’s – a bit too much ice cream and not enough topping. This was particularly ‘true’ for the caramel one, which was lacking in sauce, leaving me somewhat let down.
However, if you’re lucky enough to get a generous server, it could really hit the spot. The Halloween McFlurry certainly looked festive with sugar bats and pumpkins aplenty, but it would’ve been nice to have some sauce running throughout as it became a bit monotonous quite quickly.
Lastly, I sampled the Toffee Apple Pie, and despite the warning on the box about it being ‘extra hot’ being unnecessary this time, I genuinely really enjoyed it. It was the perfect autumnal dessert to make you feel cosy, and would score a solid 10/10 if it was served hot.
It’s the perfect season to indulge in a sweet treat after your meal, so if you’re looking for something comforting and tasty in equal measure, go for this. It’s crunchy, generously filled, and I think it might even surpass last year’s Christmas offering – the Double Chocolate Pie.
In general, the Halloween menu was satisfactory, but I am (and will continue to be) let down that I didn’t enjoy the McRib. Despite all the buzz around it, I thought it would be a sure hit for me, even though I was apprehensive about trying it, but it simply wasn’t my cup of tea.
I believe I echo the sentiments of most of the UK when I plead, Maccies, please reintroduce the Chicken Legend.