When a long day leaves little energy for supermarket shopping or elaborate cooking, many of us find ourselves drawn to the familiar comfort of McDonald's for nuggets and fries. It turns out this temptation isn't limited to everyday diners – some of the United Kingdom's most celebrated chefs also occasionally surrender to the allure of the Golden Arches, with certain culinary experts making fortnightly visits to satisfy their cravings.
Marco Pierre White's Controversial Burger Post
Marco Pierre White, who made culinary history in 1995 as the youngest chef ever to receive three Michelin stars, recently sent social media into a frenzy by posting a video of himself enjoying a McDonald's burger with Heinz ketchup. The clip, which some observers noted bore artistic similarities to Andy Warhol's 1981 hamburger video, generated polarized reactions from White's followers. While some accused him of having 'sold his soul,' others declared the moment 'iconic' in its authenticity.
The chef responded to the commentary with a bold declaration, asserting that McDonald's 'serves better food than most restaurants in this world.' He further celebrated receiving a like from the fast food chain's official Instagram account, proclaiming this recognition was 'more important to me than winning three stars!!!'
London Chefs' Personal McDonald's Preferences
White isn't alone in his appreciation for the global fast food giant. Two additional London-based culinary professionals have openly shared their specific menu preferences at McDonald's UK locations, along with items they deliberately avoid.
Jack Godik's Classic Big Mac Feast
For Jack Godik, executive chef at London's acclaimed Argentinian restaurant Sucre, the choice is unequivocally the classic Big Mac. His standard order consists of a large Big Mac meal complemented by Chicken Selects with barbecue sauce and a chocolate milkshake to complete the experience.
'I always ask for extra Big Mac sauce on the side to dip my chips in, but they have never once said yes,' Godik reveals. When questioned about frequency, his official response is monthly indulgence, though he confesses the reality is more frequent: 'The real answer is every other week.'
The chef maintains certain boundaries, however, stating he would never order salad or fruit from the chain, as he believes these options 'completely defeat the purpose of eating at McDonald's.'
Eran Tibi's Creative Quarter Pounder Construction
Eran Tibi, founder and executive chef of Kapara and Bala Baya, describes McDonald's as a 'naughty' treat. His standard quick order involves a Fillet-O-Fish paired with a Cheeseburger, but when time permits, he engineers an off-menu specialty.
'I order three Quarter Pounders and assemble them into an off-menu Triple Pounder with cheese,' Tibi explains. 'I pick this because the patty in the Quarter Pounder is larger than the bun, which I love. Ketchup and mustard are essential sauces, and I complete the meal with chips and a banana milkshake – functioning as both beverage and dessert.'
Beyond the Food: Appreciation for McDonald's Ethos
Tibi's admiration extends beyond culinary considerations to encompass the company's operational philosophy. 'The food might feel like a naughty treat, but I believe their ethos for training team members, introducing McDonald's diplomas, apprenticeships, and other certifications, alongside generally providing opportunities for people from underprivileged backgrounds worldwide to progress in employment, is very positive,' he observes.
'In the fast food industry, where complete sustainability remains challenging, McDonald's pioneers change through their sustainability efforts, which I think should be celebrated.' Despite this appreciation, Tibi emphasizes he doesn't visit weekly, prioritizing healthy eating 'most of the time.' Yet like many travelers, he admits that during long drives, spotting the iconic yellow 'M' makes resisting a cheat meal 'hard to resist.'
McDonald's Latest Menu Innovations
This chef commentary coincides with McDonald's recent introduction of several new menu items in the UK. The chain has launched a special Friends Meal targeting nostalgic nineties enthusiasts, featuring Monica's Marinara sauce inspired by the beloved sitcom. Priced from £9.09, the meal includes a burger or McNuggets, fries, a beverage, sauce, and a limited-edition collectible toy.
Six miniature figurines representing all main Friends characters – Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Chandler, Joey, and Ross – are available exclusively through meal purchases. Additional new offerings include a Tikka Chicken Wrap, Pizza Mozzarella Dippers, a Doughnut Crumble Latte, and a Brownie Pie, expanding the chain's culinary repertoire while maintaining its comfort food foundation.
