One of the best things about traveling is discovering new foods. While the local cuisine is often a must-try, sometimes the local fast-food offerings can surprise you. Many popular fast-food chains have unique menu items abroad, reflecting the flavors and ingredients of the region.
Here are 11 international fast-food items we wish we had in the United States!
1. McChocoNuts – McDonald’s France
France is known for its delightful pastries, and McDonald’s in France doesn’t disappoint. The McChocoNuts is a treat for any chocolate lover. Imagine a warm, soft brioche bun topped with a coconut-flavored disc, sprinkled with peanut slivers, and finished with a rich chocolate sauce. It’s a perfect combination of smooth, crunchy, and creamy.
2. Matcha Oreo McFlurry – McDonald’s Vietnam
Vietnam’s McDonald’s takes the classic Oreo McFlurry to another level by infusing it with matcha, an earthy and slightly bitter green tea powder. Unlike the mint-flavored desserts often seen in the U.S., this Matcha Oreo McFlurry is unique, with a balanced sweetness that is refreshing on a hot day.
3. Butter Chicken & Paneer Makhni Tacos – Taco Bell India
Taco Bell in India has embraced local flavors, creating Butter Chicken Tacos and Paneer Mahni Tacos. The Butter Chicken Tacos are filled with spiced chicken, inspired by the classic Indian dish. Meanwhile, the Paneer Mahni Tacos feature chunks of paneer cheese simmered in a rich, creamy sauce that perfectly complements the taco shell.
4. Spaghetti – KFC Philippines
Who knew fried chicken and spaghetti would make such a good combo? In the Philippines, KFC offers spaghetti with a sweet tomato meat sauce, a classic Filipino twist on pasta. The dish is usually served with a side of fried chicken, making for a comforting and satisfying meal.
5. Sisig Rice Bowl – KFC Philippines
Another unique item at KFC in the Philippines is the Sisig Rice Bowl. This dish features KFC’s boneless fried chicken bites topped with a sisig sauce—a tangy and savory Filipino sauce—fried chicken skin, mayo, and a perfectly cooked egg. It’s a hearty bowl that packs a lot of flavors.
6. Big Brekkie Burger – McDonald’s Australia
If you’re craving a breakfast burger, head to McDonald’s in Australia, where you can grab the Big Brekkie Burger. This epic sandwich includes a beef patty, hash browns, egg, bacon, cheese, and BBQ sauce, all on a soft burger bun. It’s a breakfast feast in every bite!
7. Poutine – McDonald’s Canada
Canada’s iconic poutine gets a fast-food makeover at McDonald’s. This dish features crispy fries, cheese curds, and a generous pour of savory gravy. It’s a simple yet decadent comfort food perfect for satisfying those late-night cravings.
8. Lucuma Crème Frappuccino – Starbucks Peru
The Lucuma Crème Frappuccino at Starbucks in Peru is a must-try for anyone visiting. Lucuma is a fruit native to Peru, often used in desserts and drinks for its sweet, maple-like flavor. The frappuccino blends lucuma with cream, resulting in a rich and refreshing beverage topped with whipped cream.
9. Tom Yum Chicken with Rice – Burger King Thailand
Burger King in Thailand offers a range of chicken and rice dishes, including Tom Yum Chicken with Rice. This dish brings the classic Thai flavors of Tom Yum soup into a satisfying fast-food meal. Other options include Spicy Chicken with Jaew Sauce and Gai Klua Kruea with Sticky Rice.
10. Taro and Corn Pie – Burger King Thailand
In addition to savory Thai dishes, Burger King Thailand has a unique dessert menu. The Taro and Corn Pie, similar in shape to the apple pie in the U.S., has a sweet and creamy filling of taro and corn, which gives it a beautiful purple hue. It’s an unexpected but delicious treat.
11. Piñacoco Yogurt Frappuccino – Starbucks Mexico
Cool off on a hot day in Mexico with the Piñacoco Yogurt Frappuccino from Starbucks. This tropical blend combines yogurt, pineapple, and coconut sauce, creating a creamy and refreshing drink with a sweet and tangy taste.
Why We’re Jealous
These international fast-food items show how chains adapt their menus to local tastes and ingredients. From sweet to savory and everything in between, these dishes add exciting twists to familiar fast-food favorites.
Hopefully, these unique menu items will one day make their way to the U.S., giving American food lovers a taste of the global fast-food experience.
So, detour to a fast-food joint the next time you’re abroad. You might find a new favorite item you can’t return home without!
READ MORE: Starbucks Reduces Prices to Emphasize ‘Community Coffeehouse’ Roots.