Oh, how we love to reminisce about the good old days, especially when it comes to the fast food items that have come and gone over the years. Today, let's walk down memory lane and talk about the top 20 discontinued fast-food items that people still miss. These items left a mark on our taste buds and, in some cases, our hearts. Grab a snack (or maybe a tissue) because this list is bound to stir up some cravings and nostalgia!
McPizza – McDonald's
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Ever reminisce about the times when McDonald's dabbled in Italian cuisine? In the 1980s, they introduced the McPizza, a family-sized pizza that stuck around into the early 2000s. It was scrapped due to its lengthy 11-16 minute cook time, which didn't fit McDonald's fast-serving model. Surprisingly, if you're ever in Orlando, you can still grab this nostalgic piece at the world's largest McDonald's!
Onion Nuggets – McDonald's
Credit: Reddit
Before the Chicken McNuggets became a household name, there were the Onion Nuggets. Introduced in the 1970s, these breaded onion bits were part of McDonald's dollar menu but didn't resonate well with customers. They were quickly replaced by the now-famous Chicken McNuggets, making the Onion Nuggets a delicious footnote in fast food history.
Meximelt – Taco Bell
Credit: flickr
The Meximelt was a beloved item on Taco Bell's menu for over three decades, combining the best of a soft taco and a quesadilla into one delicious package. Despite its popularity, it was removed from the menu, much to the dismay of its fans. It's a classic case of "you don't know what you've got till it's gone!"
Fire Grilled Ribs – Burger King
Credit: X
Remember when Burger King sold over 10 million fire-grilled ribs and ran out a week early? Priced at around $8, these ribs were a phenomenal success but, puzzlingly, never became a permanent menu item. It's one of those great mysteries of the fast-food world that leaves rib lovers scratching their heads.
P'Zone – Pizza Hut
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The P'Zone, a blend of pizza and calzone, was a crowd-pleaser when it debuted in 2002 but was discontinued despite the fanfare. Pizza Hut played with our emotions by teasing its return several times until its brief comeback in 2019. Sadly, it still hasn't secured a spot on the permanent menu, much to the chagrin of its fans.
Superbar – Wendy's
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Who wouldn't love a throwback to the days of Wendy's Superbar? This all-you-can-eat salad bar was launched in 1979 and became a hit, allowing diners to unleash their creativity. However, it faded out in the '90s as customer preferences shifted. With the renewed interest in dining experiences post-pandemic, it may be time for a comeback.
Pickle Juice Slush – Sonic Drive-In
Credit: Youtube
After all these greasy delights, how about something zesty to cleanse the palate? Enter Sonic's Pickle Juice Slush. This bright green concoction delivers a sweet, tangy experience, tasting like a sip straight from a pickle jar. Whether you love or hate it, it's a refreshing twist perfect for washing down a fast-food feast. Surprisingly, the Pickle Juice Slush is just what you need after a burger or two.
Mighty Wings – McDonald’s
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McDonald's ventured into the realm of chicken wings with the Mighty Wings, aiming to spice things up for Super Bowl snackers. Despite their crispy, spicy kick, they didn't fly off the shelves as expected, mainly because wing aficionados preferred established brands. The Mighty Wings is a classic case of the right product, wrong brand, leaving them to be just a tasty memory in McDonald's adventurous menu history.
Bell Beefer – Taco Bell
Credit: Youtube
Taco Bell once ventured beyond tacos and burritos with the Bell Beefer. This sloppy joe-like sandwich featured ground beef, onions, lettuce, cheese, and their mild border sauce. Launched in the mid-1970s and lasting until the 1990s, its disappearance left fans longing for its return during a brief revival in the 2010s. Despite its departure, the Bell Beefer remains a cult favorite craving among Taco Bell's nostalgic menu items.
Bacon Sundae – Burger King
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"Bacon in a sundae? Gross!" That's what many thought until they tried Burger King's Bacon Sundae. This surprising blend of salty, crispy bacon with sweet, creamy vanilla ice cream challenged our taste buds and won over skeptics. It's one of those quirky desserts that show us how exciting breaking the flavor rules can be.
Seafood Salad – Taco Bell
Credit: flickr
Who knew Taco Bell could dive deep into the ocean's bounty? Their Seafood Salad was a bold endeavor that mixed shrimp, crab, whitefish, and black olives in a crunchy taco bowl. A true gem for those who dared to try it, this salad offered a taste of the sea in the most unexpected place, making it a missed masterpiece from Taco Bell’s adventurous side.
Taco Pizza – Pizza Hut
Credit: Reddit
The late 1970s brought us the Taco Pizza from Pizza Hut, a delicious dilemma solver for those torn between tacos and pizza. This culinary hybrid was beloved to the point that a couple got engaged over a slice in 1979! Though it's been years since its disappearance, the Taco Pizza remains a legendary favorite, etched in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to experience it.
French Toaster – Sonic Drive-In
Credit: X
The French Toaster was Sonic's breakfast masterpiece, blending the sweet and savory with the delightful crunch of French toast. Introduced in 2015, it became a morning favorite until its unfortunate replacement with the Texas Toast. Though still great, the Texas Toast can't quite capture the beloved flavor symphony of the French Toaster, leaving many to reminisce about their perfect breakfast bites.
Yumbo Sandwich – Burger King
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Step back in time to when Burger King introduced the Yumbo Sandwich, a hot ham and cheese delight served on a hoagie bun. First launched 50 years ago and discontinued in 1974, it made a nostalgic return in 2014. This sandwich set itself apart with its simple yet satisfying taste, making it a memorable item many still wish was on the menu today.
Double Down – KFC
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KFC's Double Down did exactly what its name suggests—it doubled down on meat. Launched in 2010, this sandwich used chicken fillets instead of buns stuffed with cheese, bacon, and sauce. It became a viral, albeit unhealthy, sensation. The Double Down was as outrageous as it was tasty, embodying the peak of fast food indulgence.
Whopperito – Burger King
Credit: flickr
The Whopperito was Burger King's bold fusion of a Whopper and a burrito. This innovative twist combined two fast food favorites into one. Though it didn't last long, the Whopperito left its mark by setting the stage for future culinary mashups, making it a memorable, ahead-of-its-time menu item that still sparks curiosity.
XXL Chalupa – Taco Bell
Credit: flickr
Ever heard of the XXL Chalupa? It took everything we love about Taco Bell's chalupas and supersized them. Introduced in 2010 and discontinued a year later, this jumbo-sized treat packed more beef, cheese, and toppings into an already beloved formula. Its brief stint left fans craving more of its hefty, satisfying goodness.
McRib – McDonald's
Credit: flickr
The McRib is fast food folklore, appearing sporadically to the delight of its fans. Launched in 1981, this barbecue-flavored, boneless pork sandwich gathers crowds whenever it returns, thanks to its cult-like following. Despite its popularity, McDonald’s keeps it as a fleeting pleasure, creating a perpetual longing among its devotees. It’s a true tease in the fast food world, making each appearance an event.
Szechuan Sauce – McDonald's
Credit: Reddit
The legend of McDonald's Szechuan Sauce transcends the typical fast food item, becoming a cultural phenomenon after its mention in "Rick & Morty." Originally released in 1998 for "Mulan," it saw a tumultuous return in 2017 when fans demanded its comeback, leading to chaotic scenes for a taste of this coveted sauce. Some even traded it for a car or sold it for thousands of dollars, proving its extraordinary appeal.