Shake Shack has introduced a new BBQ Boneless Baby Back Rib Sandwich to its summer menu, drawing immediate comparisons to McDonald's iconic McRib. However, the chain insists there is a significant difference in quality and ingredients.
Premium Ingredients Set It Apart
While the McRib has long been criticized as a processed 'mystery meat' cult classic, Shake Shack's version is made with 100 percent baby back pork ribs, hand-deboned and slow-cooked for nine hours. Priced at $12.99, the sandwich is topped with American cheese, bacon, pickles, and crispy onions.
John Karangis, executive chef and vice president of culinary innovation at Shake Shack, explained that the inspiration came from classic backyard cookouts. 'From slow-cooked ribs to classic, comforting sides, we wanted to capture the full BBQ experience in a way that feels true to our approach to food,' he said.
Customer Reactions
Customers who have tried the new sandwich have praised it over the McRib. One Reddit user described it as 'pretty good, especially compared to mystery meat McRib.' Another wrote, 'First the Big Mac and now this. I'm not mad about it, but Shake Shack shouldn't have to mimic McDonald's because it is miles better and arguably the best fast casual burger.'
The McRib's History
McDonald's first introduced the McRib in the 1980s as a boneless pork patty sandwich with BBQ sauce, pickles, and onions. Due to fluctuating sales, it was removed from menus within a few years, only to reappear sporadically. In 2003, a mini version called the McRib Jr. was launched, and in 2022, the sandwich was part of a limited-time 'Farewell Tour.' The last appearance saw prices between $3.99 and $7.99.
Last year, McDonald's faced a class action lawsuit claiming the McRib contains lower-quality pork cuts, including pork shoulder, heart, tripe, and scalded stomach. The McRib is currently absent from McDonald's menu.
Shake Shack's Summer Menu Expansion
Alongside the rib sandwich, Shake Shack has introduced other BBQ-inspired items, including a BBQ chicken sandwich and spicy fries with ranch. The company stated, 'Whether you're a BBQ enthusiast or just looking for your new favorite summer meal, the Smoky BBQ menu has something for everyone.'
A new side dish, Mac & Cheese made with cheddar and American cheese sauce topped with toasted breadcrumbs, has also been added. Karangis noted that as a classic BBQ side, it felt like a 'natural extension' of the summer experience, helping to 'round out the meal in a way that feels comforting and indulgent.'
Shake Shack's Growth
Shake Shack began as a hot dog cart in New York City in 2001 and has since grown into one of the country's most beloved burger chains, with over 425 US locations. The menu now includes chicken sandwiches, grilled cheese, chicken bites, and other fast-casual staples, while still offering hot dogs.
