International McDonald's: 25 Unique Menu Items from Around the World to Try in 2025

International McDonald's has become a global phenomenon, adapting its menu to diverse cultures while maintaining its iconic American identity. Through a strategy of globalization and the vast network of international McDonald’s locations, the fast-food giant has won over some of the toughest markets in the world by balancing consistency with adaptability.

Have you ever wondered how a classic American chain reinvents itself to fit culinary traditions as rich as those of France, Japan or India? Well, international McDonald’s menus vary according to the cultural, religious and economic forces in each market. From Japan’s Teriyaki Burger to Canada’s McLobster, each dish showcases how local palates have forced fast food to evolve while still introducing a brand new audience to American classics.

If you have ever wondered what a McDonald’s burger infused with regional spices tastes like or what is considered a classic menu in other countries, let’s find out with this culinary tour of 25 of the best international McDonald’s menu items. 

Jump to Section

• 25 Must-Try International McDonald's Menu Items
• How to Try McDonald's Global Menu Without Leaving the U.S.

25 Must-Try International McDonald's Menu Items

1. McSpicy Paneer, India

The McSpicy Paneer is an international McDonald’s special item introduced in India. The company had to think on its feet to cater to a country with a large vegetarian population along with several other dietary restrictions (such as no beef and pork). To broaden its appeal, McDonald's developed this unique offering: a burger made with a paneer (Indian cottage cheese) patty.

Known as the McSpicy Paneer, the burger comes with a batter-coated fried patty topped with a tandoori sauce along with cheese, onions and lettuce. This tasty burger proved to be an instant hit and continues to be one of the most popular McDonald's items in India.

2. McCurrywurst, Germany

At international McDonald’s locations in Germany, the McCurrywurst brought a fast-food twist to a beloved local favorite. This global McDonald's menu item featured steamed and grilled sausages coated in a ketchup-based curry sauce and served with bread or fries.

This item, alongside other sausage-based dishes, proved to be a popular addition to the classic menu. However, despite its initial success, the McCurrywurst has since been discontinued, though avid fans continue to fight for its return.

3. Teriyaki Chicken Filet-O, Japan 

A distinctive item on the Japanese international McDonald’s menu is the Teriyaki Chicken Filet-O. A crispy fried chicken patty is generously slathered with a sweet and spicy teriyaki sauce along with lettuce and mayonnaise and sandwiched between soft bread buns. A fan favorite in international McDonald’s outlets all over Japan, this popular burger also comes in a two-patty version for those craving a bigger bite.

4. Stroopwafel McFlurry, Netherlands

The Stroopwafel McFlurry is a much-loved dessert from the international McDonald’s menu in the Netherlands. It celebrates one of the country's most famous treats: the stroopwafel — two crisp waffle cookies sandwiching a layer of gooey caramel. The McFlurry version combines the iconic vanilla soft serve ice cream with crunchy stroopwafel pieces mixed through.

It was briefly available in the U.S. nationwide in 2019 as part of the “Worldwide Favorites” promotion, letting Americans sample this Dutch classic. If you love caramel, it’s a must-try.

5. Chocolate Croissant, Canada, Brazil and France 

The chocolate croissant introduced by international McDonald’s in France, Canada and Brazil is the best McDonald's breakfast one could ask for. While they amp up the indulgence in Canada with a chocolate hazelnut filling, the French and Brazilian versions keep it classic with creamy, molten chocolate stuffed within the flaky, buttery croissant layers. It is an irresistible combination that would be worth a petition to include in a McDonald's secret menu near you.

6. Ham Croquettes, Spain 

It seems inconceivable that a Spaniard would enjoy a meal without some form of pork. Embracing this passion for all things porcine, the international McDonald's in Spain introduced ham croquettes. Inspired by the country’s love for tapas, these crispy, golden bites feature chunks of ham smothered in a creamy cheese sauce, then breaded and fried to perfection. Served as a snack or as a side to a burger meal, these croquettes quickly became a popular choice, offering a fast-food twist on a beloved Spanish classic.

7. McKroket, The Netherlands 

In the Netherlands, you can get bitterballen or krokets in nearly all snack bars. International McDonald’s has borrowed from these distinctive Dutch snacks to create the McKroket. A deep-fried beef ragout croquette in the shape of a burger patty is sandwiched between two buns and topped with mustard. You could also ask for the “Fritessaus,” a mayonnaise-like sauce that goes well with this burger or with fries.

8. Black and White Burger, China 

International McDonald’s in China and Hong Kong introduced this unique burger duo. One part of the combo uses a black bun made with squid ink and topped with white sesame seeds, while the other boasts a soft white bun filled with chicken, bacon and peppercorn mushroom sauce.

Placed together, they resemble a black-and-white photograph, making them a popular item both for its flavor and Instagrammable aesthetics. While the verdict on taste may be varied, the burger has garnered quite a following, if only for its looks.

9. McArabia, Middle East  

The McArabia is a popular offering at international McDonald’s outlets throughout the Middle East. Known as the McArabia in the Saudi Kingdom, McKebab in Israel and McTurco in Turkey, it can also be ordered as a pita sandwich with grilled chicken, beef or lamb meatballs, also known as kofta.

Other versions that are periodically available come with extras such as halloumi cheese, sujuk sausage and eggplant. The McArabia's unique blend of spices and flavors makes it a favorite and is one item many would love to see on the McDonald’s global menu, bringing its Mediterranean-inspired flavors to more locations worldwide.

10. Kiwiburger, New Zealand 

A Kiwiburger, as the name suggests, is a unique offering from McDonald's in New Zealand. As burgers go, this one is a whopper consisting of a 4-ounce (113-gram) beef patty, an egg fried on a griddle, beetroot, tomato, onions, mustard and lettuce between a toasted bun. The burger was created by a franchisee as a throwback to the local New Zealander burgers.

It returns periodically to the menu as a limited-time dish. While it may not make the list of the healthiest items at McDonald's, it sure is one of the more tasty and satisfying burgers available from the international McDonald’s menu.

11. Maharaja Mac, India 

International McDonald’s calls the Maharaja Mac India’s answer to the Big Mac. They say that imitation is the best form of flattery, and this burger sure does try to recreate the iconic original as far as possible. With three buns and two patties made of chicken, not beef, the burger comes with habanero sauce along with spicy jalapeños, layered with crispy lettuce and melted cheddar cheese.

The taste is decidedly Indian with plenty of bite and flavorful spices. A vegetarian option with cheese and corn patties is also available.

12. Beer, Europe  

At many international McDonald’s outlets across Europe, beer is usually on offer. While this may seem incredible to an American audience where alcohol is usually absent from fast food menus, this difference largely stems from the fact that liquor licensing laws vary across the states and can be quite complicated.

While the beer served in international McDonald's locations in Europe may not be high-end or artisanal, it often comes from local breweries and does offer a welcome respite from the typical soda menu. Countries like Germany and the Czech Republic, renowned for their beer culture, offer particularly refreshing and flavorful options at McDonald’s, adding an enjoyable local touch to the fast food experience.

13. Buffalo Chicken Poutine, Canada

Poutine is a popular Canadian dish made by topping French fries with gravy and melted cheese curds. Its immense popularity made it a natural addition to the menu at international McDonald’s outlets in Canada. With crispy chicken pieces added and topped with green onions and a spicy buffalo sauce, this mouthwatering creation was a winner from day one.

With its perfect balance of textures and bold flavors, this version of poutine is a standout offering that we’d love to see added to the global McDonald’s menu, bringing a taste of Canada’s culinary culture to McDonald’s fans around the world.

14. Crab Croquette Burger, Japan 

A limited menu offering from the international McDonald's in Japan is the Crab Croquette burger. Croquettes or koroke are very popular in Japan and this international McDonald’s favorite combined a patty made from snow crab and mushrooms, both very popular Japanese ingredients.

The patty along with lettuce and a tomato-based sauce is sandwiched between ciabatta rolls. And while some say it isn’t the tastiest burger on the block, it has garnered a loyal following among those who can't get enough of the flavor combination on offer.

15. Bacon Roll, England 

The genius of this offering from international McDonald’s in England lies in its simplicity. Served with either ketchup or brown sauce, this simple bread roll with crispy bacon is a great way to start the day. The savory, salty flavors of the English bacon are a perfect option for those looking for a familiar breakfast dish. Available throughout the U.K. and Ireland, this humble yet satisfying roll has become a favorite for locals and travelers alike.

16. Mashed Potato Burger, China

Introduced in 2012 by international McDonald's China, the Mashed Potato burger was an unusual offering that quickly gained attention for its unexpected combination of ingredients. Topped with a generous portion of mashed potatoes, fresh lettuce and crispy bacon, this burger was the fast-food giant's attempt to cater to a very specific audience.

The advertising campaign for the mashed potato burger made its target audience clear, emphasizing that it was designed for the “manly man” — young, urban and meat-loving individuals. Though the concept was considered quite eccentric, it did prove to be a hit with many who wanted something more than the usual fast food fare.

17. Big Brekkie Burger, Australia 

This burger, introduced by international McDonald’s Australia, is the epitome of a big hearty breakfast and its name says it all. Typically featuring one beef patty (sometimes two in special promos), bacon, hash browns, a fried egg and cheese, all packed between soft buns, it is a complete meal in itself.

Also available in New Zealand, the burger is proudly made with only Australian or New Zealand beef, ensuring a high-quality experience. Enjoy it for breakfast, lunch or dinner, just don't count the calories of this indulgent treat.

18. McRice Burger, Philippines

The McRice burger was introduced by international McDonald’s in the Philippines, offering a special twist on the classic fast food burger. What sets this burger apart is the use of dried rice cakes instead of the regular bread buns, giving it a local flavor and familiar taste. The McRice burger comes with both beef and chicken variations and is available at Filipino and Taiwanese McDonald's outlets. A similar rice cake chicken sandwich called the Kao Fan burger is also available in Hong Kong. 

19. Pizza McPuff, India 

Things get innovative when it comes to tailoring the McDonald’s menu to Indian tastes. In a country that values vegetarian options yet clamors for Western fast-food classics, international McDonald’s operations knocked it out of the park with the genius Pizza McPuff.

This unique creation blends ingredients such as carrots, peppers, onions, peas and beans enveloped in a familiar tomato-based pizza sauce. The filling is then tucked into a dough pocket and baked to golden perfection. It’s a brilliant example of menu innovation catering to local preferences.

20. McLobster, Canada 

The McLobster is a standout offering by international McDonald’s Canada, and it occasionally makes an appearance in some parts of New England. This is McDonald’s take on the Atlantic lobster roll and is served on a grilled hot dog bun. The filling is a blend of fresh lobster meat seasoned with butter, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Some variations use mayonnaise instead of butter for a creamier texture. It is best enjoyed with a side of French fries or potato chips for a complete meal.

21. McChicken Mozzarella, South Korea

You wouldn’t expect a mozzarella stick-laden burger to be a runaway hit in South Korea but that’s exactly what the McChicken Mozzarella did. Featuring a traditional crispy chicken patty and layered with crunchy lettuce and mayonnaise, the burger is pimped out with a topping of gooey fried mozzarella sticks and a spicy Arabian-inspired sauce. While currently exclusive to McDonald’s South Korea, one hopes it makes its way to other international McDonald’s locations soon.  

22. Big Arch, Canada and Portugal 

There are plans to include the Big Arch as a permanent item in its global menu, but for now, this massive double-patty sandwich debuted in Canada and Portugal. The burger was created in response to customer requests for a bigger, more satisfying meal option and on this front, it sure delivers with two beef patties weighing in at a quarter pound each, cheese slices, crispy onions, pickles, lettuce and a new tangy Big Arch sauce. The company is gathering feedback from its initial launch before expanding worldwide. International McDonald’s fans are ready and willing to take on this taste test. 

23. McVegan, Sweden

A recent poll showed that one in ten Swedes identify as vegans or vegetarians. McDonald’s in Sweden, in keeping with the trend, swooped in and launched its super popular McVegan burger. The burger was developed in Malmö and is recognized as a big step towards more accessible vegan fast food.

Unlike regular vegetarian burgers, the soy patty from Orkla Foods offers a smoky, umami-filled bite with the perfect weighty texture. Served in a bun, this international McDonald’s favorite is accompanied by a vegan version of the McFeast sauce, lettuce, tomato and pickles. 

24. McExtreme Pulled Pork, Spain

The McExtreme range is currently available in Spain are like burgers on steroids. Packed with ingredients such as barbecue sauce, smoked mayonnaise, smoked cheese, bacon, fried onions, a beef patty AND a healthy serving of pulled pork, this is not a meal for small eaters. Be prepared for a messy, delicious experience that takes indulgence to the next level. Right now it's only available as an international McDonald’s specialty in Spain, so, you know where to head for a treat that combines a comfort classic with the best local ingredients.

25. Chicken Paprika, Switzerland

For our last unique international McDonald’s experience, let’s head over to Switzerland. The Chicken Paprika burger is available exclusively here and offers a welcome break from the other fast-food options offered. Reminiscent of a chicken nugget nestled in a burger bun, this is a breaded and fried chicken patty (in Swiss rapeseed oil, mind you) slathered with a creamy paprika sauce and a slice of cheese.

The bun used is not an ordinary one either but rather made from high-quality IP-Suisse flour. It’s no wonder then, that McDonald’s in Switzerland regularly stars on the list of most expensive locations worldwide.

How to Try McDonald's Global Menu Without Leaving the U.S.

In Chicago, there is a very special McDonald’s that any avid fan needs to visit. A one-of-a-kind location, this restaurant specializes in a rotating menu of items from various international McDonald's locations. Located in the West Loop neighborhood, conveniently beneath the famous Hamburger University and the company’s global headquarters, is a destination for curious foodies. 

Unlike a typical McDonald’s with its cheerful colors and lively atmosphere, the McDonald’s Global Menu Restaurant surprises visitors with its modern design, wooden accents and leather booths, suggesting a more upscale dining experience. For the fans, there’s even a world map where the iconic golden arches mark the international McDonald's countries currently being highlighted on the menu.

Contrary to the high-end look and feel of the place, ordering is streamlined with counter service, digital kiosks and table-side QR codes, thereby ensuring the quick and friendly service that McDonald’s customers have come to expect. And speaking of the global menu — it updates every 12 weeks — ensuring new goodies to look forward to.

These could include items such as Japan’s matcha McFlurry, Spain’s Grand McExtreme Bacon Burger or the cheesy bacon fries from Australia. And never fear, all the American classics are available as well, appealing to both tourists and local fans. So, if you are looking to try international McDonald's favorites without leaving the country, the McDonald’s global menu restaurant is a must-visit for sure. 

Usually known for classics like its Big Macs and fries, international McDonald's locations are proving that the iconic chain is gaining a reputation for dishes customized to local tastes and preferences. From India’s Pizza McPuff to beer being served in European McD’s, these unique menu items showcase the creativity and adaptability of the brand across cultures. Whether you're traveling abroad or visiting Chicago’s Global Menu Restaurant, exploring McDonald’s international offerings is a fun and delicious way to experience the world — one bite at a time.

For even more ways to explore your favorite foods, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.