McReview
September 1, 2003
by Chelan David

The giant yellow "M" caught my attention. Located just blocks from my apartment and with reasonable prices plastered on the exterior windows I decided to give McDonald’s a shot.

McDonald’s has an extensive selection of items but surprisingly they do not have individual menus; there is just one large menu conveniently posted behind the waiters. The entrees include several types of hamburgers, a variety of salads and chicken - served grilled, breaded with Cajun seasoning or in nugget shapes. In addition to the main courses, several appetizers are available including French fries and a garden salad.

This diner markets its products quite cleverly. In addition to the yellow emblazoned M, other unique characteristics include the restaurant incorporating its name into such items as Big Mac, McChicken and Chicken McNuggets and targeting a Happy Meal specifically for children. On my visit the kids were devouring meals that certainly made them happy. The delicacies seemed to be an afterthought but they enjoyed the "Finding Nemo" fish shaped squirt guns that were supplied with each Happy Meal.

Rather than being seated prior to placing an order, customers are expected to place their order and wait for their number to be called. On the day I visited, the line to place an order was long and my waiter did not want to engage in conversation. Ignoring my questions about the special of the day and what his favorite dish is he pressed for an order.

I finally chose a combination meal which consists of two cheeseburgers, one serving of fries and a soft drink while my companion opted for a "premium" bacon ranch grilled chicken salad. Rather than complimenting us on our fine choices the waiter once again refused to make small talk while asking if we would like to order larger portions before having me prepay for my food.

Upon placing my order the service was quick, although there was some confusion. They did not heed my request for a glass of ice water with a lemon twist and I had advised the waiter that I wanted to dine inside the restaurant but was handed a paper sack rather than a tray. After receiving my order I asked for utensils and condiments and the exasperated waiter gruffly pointed to a self-service area which I slinked to on my way to find a table.

Although it was a Saturday evening there was still plenty of seating available. The tables can be described as sparse at best. No tablecloths, no napkins, no candles; not much of an atmosphere in general. The only entertainment to speak of was a security camera looming over the dining area.

Each of my cheeseburgers were individually wrapped and the first thing I noticed upon opening my meal was that each side of the bun was significantly larger than the patty. No lettuce or tomatoes covered my slice of meat. The only garnishings were a stale-Velveeta-looking slice of cheese, a pickle slice and a dab of ketchup and mustard accompanied by a couple of onion droppings. Taking my first bite I was actually pleasantly surprised. It wasn’t the best burger I’ve ever had but it tasted much better than a soy patty from the high school cafeteria - which it closely resembled. The French fries were even better. Although not piping hot or even remotely warm, they tasted good cold.

My companion’s salad seemed fairly healthy with the exception of the bacon bits. Upon closer inspection however she noticed the Newman’s ranch dressing that accompanied the salad in a pouch packed about as many calories as a deep-fried candy bar.

Overall I enjoyed my experience at McDonald’s. I tried something new, fed my date and myself for under $10 and although the service was lackluster at least the waiters didn’t seem to expect any tips; there wasn’t even a plastic cup on the counter to throw coins into. Even if this restaurant doesn’t improve anything and relies on their clever marketing, fast service and their tasty fries I think they might do OK.


(Chelan David is a volunteer staff writer for 2 Walls Webzine)