McDonald’s Serves Beer Overseas, Shocking Fans: Why Not in America?
American McDonald’s customers were surprised to learn that ordering beer at the chain is a common practice overseas. Many customers shared their experiences of enjoying a cold beer with their meal at McDonald’s locations in Europe and some parts of Asia.
While beer is not currently offered at McDonald’s in the United States and Canada, it is a cultural norm in 14 European countries. These countries include Italy, France, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Austria, Belgium, Lithuania, Serbia, the Netherlands, Greece, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, and Germany. Customers in these countries can enjoy popular beer brands like Budweiser, Heineken, Coors, and Stella Artois, as well as regional favorites.
In South Korea, McDonald’s started selling alcohol in 2016, offering drinks like Makgeoli alongside the classic burger options. Travel blogger Mark Harrison shared his experience of enjoying a Mahou beer at a McDonald’s in Spain, describing it as “frothy” and “normal tasting.”
While beer may not be a part of the American McDonald’s menu, fans can rejoice in the return of the McRib in the flagship nation on Tuesday, Dec. 3. As customers continue to express their surprise and curiosity about the availability of beer at McDonald’s abroad, it raises the question of whether this trend will ever make its way to the United States. Until then, international travelers can enjoy a unique experience of pairing their favorite beer with a classic McDonald’s meal.