Every fall, fast food fans prepare for the return of a certain seasonal classic — and no, it’s not a pumpkin spice latte.
McDonald’s is officially bringing back the iconic McRib sandwich this week on a limited regional basis starting Tuesday, October 27.
The spicy pork sandwich, which sparks both passionate fan loyalty and intense debate over its taste among diners, is making a comeback earlier than usual.
The McRib historically makes its annual appearance in late November, but some markets are getting a head start this year. McDonald’s removed this menu item in the early 2000s, turning it into a limited-time guest star rather than a permanent menu item.
McDonald’s has confirmed that the sandwich will only be available in designated regions, including major metropolitan areas such as Los Angeles and Chicago. The beloved burger chain hasn’t said how long the limited run will last.
According to fan-submitted tracking data on McRibLocator.com, customers have already reported sightings and purchases in over a dozen cities, including:
- Bakersfield, California
- Cedar Rapids, IA
- Corpus Christi, TX
- Grand Rapids, Michigan
- Hollywood, Florida
- Independence, Missouri
- Knoxville, Tennessee
- Mariette, Georgia
- Old Forge, Pennsylvania
- Portland, Oregon
- Richmond, Indiana
- San Antonio, TX
- San Diego, California
- Van Nuys, California
Fast food fans wanting to check if their local franchise is serving the legendary sandwich can check the McDonald’s app or monitor the crowdsourced database at McRibLocator.com for real-time updates.
The McRib is a pork sandwich with a pork patty shaped like a rack of boneless ribs. The patty is between a bun with barbecue sauce, pickles and onions. The sandwich debuted in 1981 in Kansas City after a chicken shortage.
The price of the sandwich depends on the location of the restaurant. McRibLocator.com reports price ranges by city, with the cheapest being $4.47 in Victoria, Texas, to $7.99 in Palmdale, California. The average price in the United States is $6.05.
Customers have a love-hate relationship with the McDonald’s McRib. Some anticipate its return all year round, while others say it’s “trash.”
One Reddit user rated it 3 out of 10 and said they would only eat it out of “pure necessity.”
“One person in my group couldn’t finish, and one person then ate pizza to cleanse their (palate),” they added. “If you then go and eat pizza to get rid of the taste of the McRib, that should tell you something.”
But others say they enjoy the barbecue sandwich when it returns.
“Who cares what all the elitists here say,” another Reddit user responded. “I’ve had it since I was in high school and I still love it every time it comes back. This sauce is damn good and part of the experience is putting it on your fingers and face.”
Gn bussni
