McDonald’s has confirmed the return of its cult-favorite McRib sandwich, but only in select U.S. cities this fall. Together with Christmas decorations, Mariah Carey, and eggnog, the McRib is now a seasonal tradition, and this year is no exception. The beloved barbecue sandwich made its comeback official on the company’s Menu Spotter page on November 11.
“Cue the fanfare – It’s that time of year again,” the chain wrote on the official announcement. “The iconic McRib is making its tasty comeback at select restaurants regionally.
What is McRib?
The McRib—a boneless pork patty shaped to look like a rack of ribs, drenched in barbecue sauce, and topped with pickles and onions on a toasted hoagie-style bun— first appeared in 1981, disappeared in 1985, and has been revived year after year ever since. It shows up on menus for a limited time, usually in the fall, and draws long-time fans whenever it returns.
“It is our most-mentioned limited-time product online, higher than other evergreen items.” McDonald’s senior marketing director Guillaume Huin wrote on X.
Where Can You Find The McRib?
The company said the iconic sandwich is back in select markets, including Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami, Cleveland, St. Louis, Seattle, and Atlanta, with more will be announced on November 17. The unofficial McRib Locator, which is already logging confirmed sightings, has prices ranging from $4.99 to $6.49, depending on region.
What Else Is New
Alongside the McRib, McDonald’s is rolling out its full slate of seasonal favorites, including the return of the Holiday Pie. McDonald’s confirmed the custard-filled dessert will roll out nationwide starting Friday, November 14. It’s the same version fans expect each year — a vanilla custard inside a sugar-glazed crust topped with rainbow sprinkles. Unlike the McRib, this one’s easier to find, with most U.S. locations expected to carry it through the holiday season.
Between the McRib’s limited comeback and the Holiday Pie’s sweet return, McDonald’s holiday menu is shaping up to satisfy both nostalgia and curiosity this season.
More Fast-Food Stories from Cheapism
- Meal Deals, Free Fries, and More Fast-Food Offers for November — A roundup of current fast-food deals and freebies you can use this month, from free fries to bundle meals.
- Taco Bell’s Baja Blast Pie Has Arrived — Don’t Let the Color Scare You Away — The neon-green dessert is finally here at Taco Bell, and we’ve got the scoop on availability and taste.
- Easily Feed a Crowd with These Fast-Food Meal Deals in November — A look at family-sized fast-food bundles that let you feed several people without breaking the budget.
