McDonald's has launched what it describes as its "biggest and boldest" burger ever, but early customers across the United States are already giving the new Big Arch a decidedly lukewarm reception. Many have taken to social media to brand the supersized offering as greasy, overpriced, and ultimately underwhelming.
Early Social Media Verdicts Pour In
Although the Big Arch was officially scheduled to hit US restaurants on March 3, some diners managed to try it early and quickly shared their verdicts online. One Reddit user from San Diego, who spent $14 on the burger, wrote: "Burger was greasy, which I've never experienced at this location. I thought the sauce was too sweet and oddly too thick. Almost like a melted cheese consistency."
Another disappointed customer commented: "There's just nothing special about it, which is depressing because they clearly tried to make it special and failed." A third added: "I didn't like it either. Not because of grease, but it just doesn't taste very good. The Big Mac has some tanginess with its sauce. The Quarter Pounder has some tanginess with the ketchup. The Big Arch sauce was extremely muted."
What's in the Big Arch Burger?
The supersized burger features two beef patties, three slices of white processed cheese, crispy and fresh onions, pickles, lettuce, and a brand-new tangy "Big Arch" sauce, all served in a sesame and poppy seed bun. McDonald's describes the new sauce as "tangy and creamy," with a mix of mustard, pickle, and sweet tomato flavors.
Nutritionally, the Big Arch is indeed the chain's largest burger ever, clocking in at 1,020 calories and 53 grams of protein in the US version. A complete Big Arch Meal, which includes a medium Coke and medium fries, totals 1,610 calories.
Global Testing Preceded US Launch
The burger was first tested in Canada, the UK, Portugal, Germany, and France over two years ago, where company executives say it proved a hit with customers. Jill McDonald, global chief restaurant experience officer, stated: "Customers are responding to this more satisfying burger that meets demand for something heartier while still feeling distinctly McDonald's."
If the Big Arch sells well in the US and proves profitable, it will likely become a permanent menu addition, as it has in the UK. The price varies by location, as with all McDonald's menu items, ranging from $9 to $10 before tax in New York. The original Reddit post mentioned a $14 price in San Diego, though that may have been for a complete meal.
Broader Context for McDonald's
The development of this larger burger comes after McDonald's fought to win customers back following 2024, when the company reported its first sales decline since COVID-19 lockdowns temporarily shuttered restaurants worldwide. McDonald's has tested bigger options before, including the Double Big Mac with four patties instead of two, which returned for a limited time in January 2023 at $7 and proved popular during its month-long availability.
Despite remaining one of the world's largest franchises, McDonald's was recently dethroned as the biggest by Chinese cafe chain Mixue Ice Cream & Tea. The Big Arch push also comes as McDonald's faces fresh scrutiny over other menu items, including a recent proposed class action lawsuit over the McRib, with four plaintiffs accusing the fast-food giant of misleading customers about the sandwich's actual contents.
As early reviews continue to surface, the consensus among many initial customers remains skeptical. As one Reddit user summarized: "At least it wasn't dry. But I don't think it's worth the price."
