The Best International Fast-Food Items You Can’t Get In The U.S.
From McDonald’s and KFC to Subway, Burger King, and many more, see the world’s best and wildest international fast-food items!
McSpicy Paneer – McDonald’s – India
McDonald’s
As we’ve covered, in India, many people are vegetarian or vegan for a variety of reasons, from health to religious. As such, Indian McDonald’s’ branches do not carry the classic McStaples from here in the States, instead replacing them with a variety of vegan and vegetarian options. Of the most popular Indian options, by far, is the McSpicy Paneer.
For those that don’t know, paneer is a firm and mild Indian cheese that is popular around the world. In the McSpicy Paneer, the cheese is breaded and deep-fried, as well as topped with spicy tandoori sauce.
Nutella “Burger” – McDonald’s – Italy
The biggest dilemma here is to figure out whether we are talking about an actual burger or just a dessert. Whatever the case may be, this Italian Nutella burger certainly looks like something that we would like to try. It is currently not available in the U.S., but perhaps one day we will see it here as well.
McDonald’s
When it comes to the Nutella filling, it has a sweet hazelnut taste and is a must for anyone who is into sweets and pastries. It seems that the Italian version of the franchise knew what they were doing with this one since it is one of those menu items which really tends to draw a crowd.
Red Bean Bagel Ball – Dunkin’ – South Korea
Dunkin’ is another one of those brands that genuinely tries to diversify its menu to meet the wants and desires of the local population. So, in South Korea, they created the Red Bean Bagel Ball, which features a bagel ball packed with red bean paste. For those who don’t know, red bean paste is a popular sweet paste throughout Asia. Fans say it reminds them of sweet potato, deep and earthy. There’s also a Red Bean Donut as well!
Dunkin’
In South Korea, Dunkins’ also feature green tea and tomato-filled bagel ball, as well as a kimchi-filled donut. They certainly sound delicious!
Bubur Ayam McD – McDonald’s – Malaysia
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of McDonald’s? Whatever it is, fries, burgers, McNuggets, whatever, it’s almost certainly not porridge. However, in Malaysia, McDonald’s serves its own version of the country’s popular dish Bubur Ayam, a white porridge mixed with chopped chicken, diced chilies, fried shallots, and shaved ginger.
McDonald’s
Called the Bubur Ayam McD, the dish has become a massive hit in Malaysia, as many view it as the ultimate comfort food. In fact, there are hundreds of copycat recipes online! Meanwhile, in Singapore, McDonald’s serves a similar dish, SingaPorridge.
Kuro Ninja Burger – Burger King – Japan
Burger King loves releasing special-edition food for special anniversaries. So, for the fifth anniversary of the first Burger King opening in Japan, the burger company decided to create a whole new type of ninja: a ninja burger!
Burger King
The Kuro Ninja Burger has to be one of the strangest-looking burgers of all time. First, it comes with a jet-black bun, colored with bamboo charcoal. However, even more, impressive is the massive bacon “tongue,” that hangs off the sides of the bun! But that’s not all! To round things out, the burger comes with a hashbrown patty, lettuce, onions, and both mayo and a Chaliapin marinade. That’s quite a burger!
McLobster – McDonald’s – Canada
Think that McLobster should be a New England staple? Well, you’re close – it’s actually available at Canadian McDonald’s locations! It’s exactly what it sounds like: “a lobster roll served in a hot dog bun with ‘lobster sauce’ and shredded lettuce.” For those wondering, lobster sauce is mayonnaise mixed with lemon juice and Old Bay seasoning.
McDonald’s
While the McLobster lives in Canada, it does make the rare appearance in Maine during the occasional summer, when lobster supply is at its highest. Unfortunately, in recent years, its appearance has lessened and lessened due to supply and profitability issues.
Birizza – Pizza Hut – India
Without a doubt, Birizza, available at Pizza Hut locations in India, looks like one of the most outstanding international fast food items of all time. The company launched its version of the classic Indiana dish biryani back in 2014. And, as you might have guessed, it’s a pizza-flavored take on the Indian favorite.
Pizza Hut
The Birizza is a layer of Pizza Hut’s classic dough on top of rice mixed with Indian spice, eggs, and mixed vegetables. We know what you’re thinking: where’s the cheese? Well, it comes with a spicy cheese gravy on the side! So, in reality, it’s really not that much of a pizza and more of a calzone – but we’re sure it tastes great!
Crab Croquette Burger – McDonald’s – Japan
When it comes to seafood-based, international fast-food items, no one holds a candle to Japan. One item that comes back from time to time at Japanese McDonald’s, similar to our McRib here in the States, is the Crab Croquette Burger. The deep-fried patty is made from a mix of snow crab and mushroom, and topped with lettuce and tomato jam, all on a ciabatta bun.
McDonald’s
Sadly, the croquette burger is not beloved by all Japanese fast-food fans. While some love it, others say it’s goopy and tasteless. However, the few bad reviews do not stop the Crab Croquette Burger from reappearing every of often.
Chocolate Croissant – McDonald’s – France, Brazil, Canada
Who doesn’t love a chocolate croissant? After all, they’re one of the most popular items at coffee shops and bakeries across the United States. So, it’s a little surprising that McDonald’s has not brought its Chocolate Croissant, available for breakfast, to America. Currently, you can buy one at McDonald’s’ throughout Brazil, France, and Canada.
McDonald’s
The delicious sweet treat is exactly what you expect: a croissant with chocolate inside. When warmed up, the chocolate becomes a melty, delicious mess. In France and Canada, it’s a mix of chocolate and hazelnut, while in Brazil, it’s just chocolate.
Pumpkin Burger – Burger King – Japan
We’ve heard of pumpkin seeds and pumpkin pie, but a pumpkin burger? Well, you better believe it! Though, Burger King was not entirely truthful when they released the burger in Japan. It’s actually not pumpkin on top of the patty, but kabocha squash.
Burger King
In addition to the squash, the burger comes with bacon, lettuce, and a “creamy nut spread,” made of sesame seeds, almonds, hazelnuts, and peanuts. The Burger King Japan Pumpkin Burger did so well that the company also released a second version which comes with “500% percent more pumpkin,” called the Pumpkin Bomb Burger.
Pig’s Blood and Century Eggs Pizza – Pizza Hut – Taiwan
This radical pizza just goes to show: companies will do anything to capture that online buzz. So be careful what you post online, because if you post it, international fast-food companies will whip it but.
Pizza Hut
Just take the Pig’s Blood and Century Eggs Pizza from Pizza Hut Taiwan, for instance. When the pizza company realized that a Taiwanese street food (Pig’s Blood Cakes) and preserved eggs had generated a ton of buzz online, they wasted no time at all putting both on this now-infamous pizza. Somehow, the incredible meme-stunt worked! Sales for this new pizza smashed records in Taiwan in 2019, with someone buying one every eight seconds. That’s right!
Foie Gras Burger – Wendy’s – Japan
It seems that Wendy’s does not mind courting controversy if it means selling more burgers in Japan! For those who don’t know, due to the animal cruelty involved with making it, foie gras is one of the most controversial foods in the world. However, that did not stop Wendy’s from launching the Foie Gras Burger in Japan a few years ago.
Wendy’s
The $16 burger comes with a duck liver pate-infused burger comes topped with foie gras, truffle mushrooms, gravy, and a truffle mayo. Its part of the expensive burgers line Wendy’s launched in Japan, which also includes an Avocado and Wasabi burger and a Mushroom and Chicken sandwich.
McRice Burger – McDonald’s – Philippines and Taiwan
As you probably already know, rice is one of the most popular ingredients in all of Asia. In fact, it’s so popular that McDonald’s decided to release a new sandwich that comes with rice patties instead of bread. At McDonald’s throughout both the Philippines and Taiwan, McD’s fans can pick up the McRice Burger with either beef or chicken inside. Both come with a garlic mayo, lettuce, and cabbage on top.
McDonald’s
While it was wild at the time, now, given the rise of ramen burgers here in the States, we might soon see an expansion of the McRice Burger!
Chili Cheese Nuggets – Burger King – Europe
No questions asked: we need these in the States as soon as possible! Don’t Chili Cheese Nuggets just sound like perfection? Sadly, if you want them right now, you’ll need to head to Europe and not just down the street. Burger King sells them throughout the continent, from the Northern Coast of the United Kingdom and as far south as the island of Cyprus.
Burger King
As you might have guessed, these jalapeno popper-esque nuggets are balls of melty, spicy cheese, and a diced jalapenos. It’s really a wonder the company hasn’t released these in America yet – they would do incredibly well here!
McArabia – McDonald’s – Middle East
Unlike many international fast-food items, the McArabia is sold under a variety of names all across the Middle East. In Israel, it’s known as the McKebab, while in McTuro in Turkey. However, no question asked, this has become McDonald’s flagship offering throughout the Middle East, even besting burgers in popularity!
McDonald’s
The McArabia can come with either chicken or lamb and beef meatballs, known as kofta, as well as lettuce, tomatoes, and a garlic sauce. However, throughout the year, McDonald’s also releases limited-time variations, including ingredients like eggplant, sujuk sausage, or halloumi cheese.
Dragon Twister – KFC – China
If you didn’t know, KFC was the first American fast-food company to ever open a branch in China, all the way back in 1987. As such, the fast-food company has become the biggest chain in the country. Today, they keep their top position by catering to regional tastes all throughout China, including items like seaweed rice bowls, sweet egg tarts, congee rice porridge, and “sushirittos.”
However, by far, one of the most popular Chinese KFC items is the Dragon Twister. The Twister features a thin, pancake-like wrap and comes filled with sweet bean sauce, spring onions, a stalk of asparagus, and “a Peking Duck-style chicken filet.”
Hot Dog Stuffed-Crust Pizza – Pizza Hut – U.K., Canada, and Australia
The Pizza Hut Hot Dog Stuffed-Crust Pizza, an American-inspired pizza, appeared in lots of countries around the world in 2012, including the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. As you might have guessed, this pizza comes with a hot dog baked right into the crust and a mustard drizzle to tie everything together.
Pizza Hut
The Hot Dog Stuffed-Crust Pizza must have sold well because, in 2015, Pizza Hut decided to bring the idea to the United States. However, instead of baking the hot dog into the crust, they used miniature wieners in a pretzel crust. Sadly, Americans did not take to the idea as well, with Pizza Hut pulling it the very next year.
McMollete – McDonald’s – Mexico
If you ever take a trip south of the border to Mexico, one of the international fast-food items you need to try are the McMolletes. Only available for breakfast, this is the fast-food giants take on the traditional Mexican breakfast of mollete.
McDonald’s
The McMolletes feature an English muffin smothered in refried beans, and topped with American cheese and pico de gallo salsa. Yes, they top it with American cheese instead of shredded Mexican or cotija cheese. Don’t ask us why! However, for those who prefer a savory breakfast, these are a must-try the next time you’re south of the border!
Dry Pork and Seaweed Donut – Dunkin’ – China
Over the years, Dunkin’ has had some real problems finding success in China. However, it’s certainly not for lack of effort, including everything from excessive commercials to a variety of new donuts. However, by far the most interesting has to be the Dry Pork and Seaweed Donut.
Dunkin’
A combination of two popular Chinese foods, “pork floss” and seaweed, this became one of the first savory donuts that Dunkin’ has ever released. In addition to the Dry Pork and Seaweed Donut, Dunkin has also released flavors like Almond Choco Crunch, White Chocolate, and “Death by Chocolate” to China only. Death by Chocolate would undoubtedly do well over here!
Beer and Wine – McDonald’s – Europe and South Korea
That’s right! While there are many international fast-food items that Americans wish they had, there’s probably none we envy more than beer and wine. Believe it or not, you can buy yourself a McCoolOne at the majority of McDonald’s throughout Europe and South Korea.
McDonald’s
Why can they carry it in those locations but not the United States? Well, for better or worse, alcohol carries both a larger legal and social stigma here in America. As a result, it’s not only harder to obtain an alcohol permit, but selling wine and beer would go against the family-friendly image that McDonald’s tries to promote here.
McCurry Pan – McDonald’s – India
Sometimes, McDonald’s names an item precisely what it is. The McChicken? A chicken sandwich. A McDouble? Well, that’s a double-cheeseburger, of course! So, you can probably guess what the McCurry Pan, available only in India, is.
McDonald’s
As one would expect, the McCurry Pan starts with a large, sub-sized pan of bread. Added to that is a delicious mix of vegetables and chicken, all covered in a tomato curry sauce. Meanwhile, they also serve a vegetarian option filled with even more options and a creamy garlic sauce. Without a doubt, this is an international fast-food item we would travel for!
Ebi Filet-O Shrimp Burger – McDonald’s – Japan
As you might imagine, the Japanese McDonald’s menu features a lot more seafood than other places. Most notably, in addition to the traditional Filet-O-Fish, in Japan, McDonald’s sells the Ebi Filet-O Shrimp Burger. What is it? A patty of Panko-battered shrimp, deep-fried, and topped with tempura sauce, mustard, and lettuce.
McDonald’s
If you’re wondering about the name, it comes from celebrity and model Yuri Ebihara, who helped promote the sandwich upon its release. Now, its become one of the most popular items on the Japanese menu! With an ingredients list like that, it’s easy to see why it became an instant hit.
Spicy Jollof Rice – KFC – South Africa, Nigeria, and West Africa
Most of the KFC items unique to the African continent are special to South Africa. However, one item that is available in almost all KFC locations across South Africa, Nigeria, and West Africa is a popular side dish throughout the continent, Spicy Jollof Rice.
KFC
For those who don’t know, spicy Jollof rice, an African classic, is a delicious mix of long-grain rice, onions, tomatoes, African spices (like ginger, garlic, and curry), and vegetables. Now, all over the continent can have an African classic served up right alongside an American classic: Kentucky Fried Chicken!
Chicken Tikka Sandwich – Subway – U.K.
This is another international fast food item we think would do incredibly well in the United States! However, if a Chicken Tikka Sandwich from Subway sounds good, you’ll need to head to the United Kingdom. Of course, that makes sense, given England’s enduring love of Indian food, as well as the country’s large Indian population.
Subway
In addition to offering Tikki masala-spiced chicken as a protein across the countries, Brits can also pick from sliced Spanish chorizo and a newly-debuted veggie parry made of corn, carrots, red peppers, and soy.
McCurry Wurst – McDonald’s – Germany
You’ve probably noticed that many of these international fast-food items are a take on local foods that people in that country adore. After all, that’s a surefire way of making sure that they sell well!
McDonald’s
Take the McCurry Wurst from McDonald’s Germany, for instance. Based on a popular German street food, the McCurry Wurst features chunks of steamed-then-grilled sausage covered in curry-spiced ketchup. While it might not be as extravagant as some other international fast-food items, its become one of the most popular sellers for McDonald’s Germany. And the sausage options don’t end there. German McDonald’s also sells the Nürnburger, yes that’s really the name, which features the curry sausage in a bun.
Veg Rice Bowl – KFC – India
While in America, fast-food companies have only recently started releasing vegetarian and vegan options, in India, they’ve been doing so for years! KFC, in particular, features vegetarian options on almost all of its menus.
KFC
Most notably, instead of the KFC Famous Bowl, one can pick up the KFC Veg Rice Bowl in India! The Veg Rice Bowl swaps out the Famous Bowl’s signature chicken with breaded, deep-fried vegetable patties made from a mix of corn, peas, potatoes, and carrots. Finally, instead of mashed potatoes and gravy, the patties come on top of curry rice.
McKroket – McDonald’s – The Netherlands
This is another dish that really captures the gastronomic soul of a particular country. The McKroket, only available from McDonald’s in the Netherlands, is the fast-food company’s take on what many call the “quintessential Dutch dish.” The market features a deep-fried patty of ground beef and cheese, topped between with a mustard sauce and placed between two buns.
McDonald’s
After reading about the McKroket, you might find it surprising that McDonald’s Netherlands actually has an abundance of healthy food as well. Dutch locations feature a wide array of both gluten-free and vegetarian sandwiches and side dishes!
Cheese Top Burger – KFC – Philippines
For most of us, when we think of KFC, we don’t exactly think “burger.” However, that’s not the case for the Philippines, which, without a doubt, has one of the most interesting international fast-food items of all time: the KFC Cheese Top Burger. Although, it’s really a chicken sandwich – in the Philippines, the word “burger” is used for most fast-food sandwiches.
KFC
For those unfamiliar with Filipino food, it might seem rather strange and inconvenient to place cheese on top of the bun instead of underneath it. However, the sandwich is made to remind Filipinos of ensaymadas, a popular street food of pastries topped with shredded cheese.
McSpicy Paneer – McDonald’s – India
As we’ve covered, in India, many people are vegetarian or vegan for a variety of reasons, from health to religious. As such, Indian McDonald’s’ branches do not carry the classic McStaples from here in the States, instead replacing them with a variety of vegan and vegetarian options. Of the most popular Indian options, by far, is the McSpicy Paneer.
McDonald’s
For those that don’t know, paneer is a firm and mild Indian cheese that is popular around the world. In the McSpicy Paneer, the cheese is breaded and deep-fried, as well as topped with spicy tandoori sauce.
Chicken McDo – McDonald’s – Philippines
Easily one of the most interesting international McDonald’s items has to be the Chicken McDo from the Philippines. As you can see, in the Philippines at least, McDonald’s has decided to make an entry into the fried chicken game. That’s because fried chicken is incredibly popular in the Philippines.
McDonald’s
Even more interesting, the McDo comes with a choice of two sides: garlic-flavored rice or spaghetti with red sauce. That’s right! Does anything sound better than fried chicken and spaghetti from McDonald’s? If you think so, you need to hop on the next plane to the Philippines!
X-tra Long Chili Cheeseburger – Burger King – Europe
Once again, Europe gets a fast-food item that would do incredibly well in the United States! At Burger King locations in Germany, the Netherlands, and Austria, burger fans can chow down on the enormous X-tra Long Chili Cheeseburger.
KFC
Yes, the X-tra Long Chili Cheeseburger is a sub-sized cheeseburger complete with three beef patties, spicy chili sauced, sliced jalapenos, and lots of melted cheddar cheese. Meanwhile, the BBQ version comes with BBQ sauce and fried onion rings. While the BBQ version has made its way to the United States, we’re still waiting on the Chili Cheese version – it sounds delicious!
Cheese Katsu Burger – McDonald’s – Japan
In case you didn’t know, chicken katsu is a Japanese fried chicken dish made with panko bread crumbs. So it makes sense that McDonald’s released the delicious-sounding Cheese Katsu Burger in Japan. However, instead of using chicken, the fast-food company decided to deep-fry a cheese-stuffed, breaded pork cutlet.
McDonald’s
The cutlet comes tome with sliced cabbage, rich brown sauce, and a sweet lemon sauce. Akin to the McRib here in the United States, McDonald’s only releases this sandwich for a few weeks, a couple of times a year. Though we’re sure that many Japanese fans would love to see this become a year-round staple!
Truffle Mayo & Parmesan Loaded Fries – McDonald’s – Australia
While fries stay pretty similar here in the United States, in Australia, McDonald’s – or Macca’s as they like to call it – has decided to really fancy up their fries. Most popular of all? Truffle Mayo & Parmesan Loaded Fries. As the name implies, these french fries come slathered in a truffle-infused mayo as well as large parmesan shavings. The fast-food company has also launched a line of “Gourmet Creations,” which also use the truffle mayo.
McDonald’s
Incredibly, the Australian McDonald’s has plenty of other fries options as well, including varieties covered in guacamole and salsa, sweet chili and sour cream, or cheese sauce and bacon.
Poutine – McDonald’s – Canada
Poutine is one of the most popular dishes in all of Canada. In case you’ve never had it before, the dish, from Quebec, is french fries, covered with cheese curds and brown gravy. Never one to let a trend go by, McDonald’s location in Canada have debuted their own version of the famous Canadian dish. Unlike many other international fast-food items, this is not a new take on an old favorite – it’s just poutine!
McDonald’s
Want to try McDonald’s without hopping the northern border? You can head to corporate McDonald’s HQ in Chicago, where they feature international menu items on a rotating basis.
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