McDonald’s is one of the most prominent symbols of modern globalization. Yet while it is possible to order a Big Mac in all corners of the world, many travelers seek out the golden arches to see what regional specialties are served in that country.

Throughout my own travels I’ve encountered many a fascinating and exquisite McDonald’s hamburger not available here in Japan. Wishing to share my findings with other potential McTravelers, I have compiled a list of my top 10 regional McDonald’s hamburgers.

Note: All links all currently Japanese only.


1. Nacho Beef Burger (Germany)
Two plain tortilla chips wedged in with a heavy dose of ketchup and mayonnaise give this hamburger a novel taste and texture. It’s like snack time in hearty hamburger form and this simple combination ranks as my favorite McDonalds hamburger in the world.


2. Grand Prime (Korea)
What surprised me the most about this burger was the beef patty: peppered to perfection and plenty of volume. Match that with taco-esque flavoring, two strips of bacon, white cheddar cheese and a fistful of veggies and you’ve got yourself a full stomach on 5 USD.


3. Winter Wonder Burger (Denmark)
This burger ditches the ketchup and boasts a surprisingly healthy and juicy taste highlighted by the tomato and mayonnaise combo, all on a cheese bun baked golden brown.


4. Maharaja Mac (India)
The Maharaja Mac is basically a chicken fillet version of the Big Mac, and it works so well that I can’t think of a reason they don’t do this in all countries. Though the bun is a little dry, the juiciness of the chicken leaves little room for complaint.


5. Chicken Legend (England)
Light, flakey chicken breast fillet accentuated with spicy tomato salsa in a firm bakehouse roll. It’s a smart combination and it works well.


6. il Mac (Italy)
This burger aims to start a McRenaissance with its rectangle-shaped beef patty on an artisan roll. The flavor is refreshingly simple – one could even say weak by Italian standards.


7. McKroket (the Netherlands)
A burger that swaps out the beef patty for a ground beef and potato croquette. Every bite is loaded with grease and juices that permeate the deep fried coating, kept in balance by the acidity of the tartar sauce spread on top.


8. Angus Third Pounder (America)
Cheese, bacon, angus beef and enough volume to stretch your mouth to its limits – this is America. 150 grams of angus beef may seem daunting, but the flavor of this juicy patty is genuinely delicious!


9. Triple Cheese Burger (Thai)
Sure it’s just a McDonald’s cheeseburger with triple the beef patty, but that extra volume makes the standard feel luxurious. As the saying goes, “If it ain’t broken, triple its size and stuff it in your mouth.”


10. Premium Grilled Thigh Fillet Burger (China)
A chicken burger with a deep taste and tender texture, complimented by a thousand island dressing sauce. The texture of the chicken patty is actually so tender – almost flabby – that those who favor the traditional chicken breast fillet may want to stay away.

Photos: RocketNews24