McDonald’s UK has been making headlines lately with the return of the McRib and new twists on classic items like hash browns. But there’s one trend the company seems to be missing: adult Happy Meals. These grown-up versions of the childhood favorite have been popping up around the world, with a recent collector’s edition launching in the US.
The UK, however, is particularly excited about the latest adult Happy Meal offering: a ‘Friends’ themed collaboration launched by McDonald’s Spain to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the iconic 90s sitcom. This is the ultimate nostalgia trip for millennials! The boxes feature a ‘Friends’-themed design, and the toys are based on all the beloved characters: Rachel, Phoebe, Monica, Chandler, Joey, and Ross. You can even collect little figurines of each one!
The food options are just as tempting, offering a choice of burgers, fries, and drinks. Spain has some unique burger options not available in the UK, like the CBO (chicken burger with crispy bacon, onions, cheese, lettuce, and creamy sauce) and the McRoyal Delux (the only beef burger on the menu with tomato). Of course, classic options like the Big Mac and Quarter Pounder are also available. And to top it all off, the meal comes with a limited-edition sauce: ‘Monica’s Marinara.’ While the exact recipe is a mystery, it’s likely a delicious tomato-based sauce with garlic, herbs, and onions.
McDonald’s Spain has gone all out with the marketing, creating a fun advertisement that transforms a McDonald’s restaurant into Central Perk, the coffee shop from the show. The iconic orange sofa is there, and the stars of the ad recreate some of the show’s most memorable moments, complete with Ross’s signature hand gestures, Rachel’s wedding dress escapades, and even a “How you doin’?” for good measure.
Unsurprisingly, ‘Friends’ and McDonald’s fans alike are going crazy for this news, with many expressing their desire for a similar offering in the UK. Some even suggested a Disney collab next! While there are those who wish the adult Happy Meals included dessert, overall, the response has been overwhelmingly positive.
If you happen to be in Spain, you can grab one of these nostalgic treats for €9.50 (£7.96). However, it’s unknown how long they’ll be available. McDonald’s tends to release limited-time offers that only last a few weeks, and sometimes even just days! The Grimace Shake was a hot commodity in the UK, selling out in just two days, and the McRib is expected to sell out quickly when it returns on October 16th.
While the UK might not get these ‘Friends’ Happy Meals, McDonald’s has launched a new £5 meal deal that offers great value for money. Available from October 9th, you can choose between a Cheeseburger or Mayo Chicken, along with Medium Fries, a Medium Carbonated Soft Drink, and a side of four Chicken McNuggets – all for just £5! This deal is a great way to enjoy your favorite McDonald’s items at a reduced price, especially since the Chicken McNuggets aren’t typically sold separately. So, while we wait and hope for news about those adult Happy Meals in the UK, this new meal deal is a great alternative for enjoying some Maccies goodness.